Australia is a land of diverse landscapes, from golden beaches to arid outback regions. If you’re looking for a unique road trip experience that showcases the beauty of the country’s inland, then a journey west from Sydney is the perfect adventure for you.
This road trip will take you through some of the most picturesque areas of New South Wales, with rolling hills, quaint towns, and stunning natural scenery at every turn. As you leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind, you’ll find yourself immersed in a landscape that is both rugged and beautiful, with plenty of opportunities to explore historic towns, taste delicious local produce, and discover the fascinating history of this region.
Transport from Sydney to Country Towns
Organising a Sydney motorhome rental is an excellent way to explore the beauty of inland New South Wales while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a fully equipped home on wheels. With a motorhome hire, you have the freedom to travel at your own pace and stop wherever and whenever you want, whether it’s to take in a scenic view, try out a new restaurant, or visit a local attraction.
Motorhomes are also a fantastic option for families or groups of friends traveling together, as they offer plenty of space to relax and socialize while on the road. You’ll have a kitchen to prepare meals, a bathroom for convenience, and a comfortable sleeping area to rest after a long day of exploring. Plus, a motorhome rental can save you money on accommodation, as you won’t have to book separate hotel rooms along the way.
To get you ready to hit the road, here is a list of some unmissable country towns to visit from Sydney.
Lithgow
Lithgow is a small, historic town located in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, approximately 150 kilometres west of Sydney. Founded in the early 1800s, Lithgow has a rich industrial history, with coal mining and steel production being the main sources of employment for much of the town’s existence. Today, the town is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Wollemi National Park and the Lithgow Valley.
Another must-see attraction in Lithgow is the Small Arms Factory Museum, which tells the story of the town’s industrial history. The museum is housed in an old factory building and showcases a range of machinery and equipment that was used in the production of guns and ammunition. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the town’s past.
For those who love the great outdoors, Lithgow is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby Wollemi National Park. The park is home to some of the oldest and most diverse plant species in the world, as well as a range of native wildlife, including wallabies and echidnas. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks that take you deep into the heart of the park.
Bathurst
Bathurst is a charming regional city that offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern conveniences. One of the city’s biggest drawcards is the Mount Panorama Circuit, a world-famous racing track that hosts the Bathurst 1000, one of Australia’s premier motor racing events.
In addition to the racing track, Bathurst is also home to a range of cultural attractions, including the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary Australian art. The gallery also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for the latest events.
For those who love food and wine, Bathurst has plenty to offer as well. The city is surrounded by some of the region’s best wineries, including Vale Creek Wines, which is known for its award-winning Shiraz and Chardonnay. The winery offers tastings and tours, as well as a range of delicious snacks and light meals.
When it comes to dining out, Bathurst has no shortage of excellent options. For a taste of modern Australian cuisine, head to the Church Bar & Woodfired Pizza, which is located in an old church and serves up delicious woodfired pizzas and craft beer. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something a little more traditional, try the Abercrombie House Café, which offers high tea and other English-style treats in a historic setting.
Finally, no visit to Bathurst is complete without exploring the natural beauty of the region. Head to the Abercrombie Caves, a series of underground caves and limestone formations that are over 400 million years old. Alternatively, take a hike in the nearby Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Orange
Known for its gourmet food and wine scene, as well as its stunning natural beauty, Orange is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
One of the highlights of Orange is the Orange Farmers Market, which is held on the second Saturday of every month. The market features a wide range of fresh produce, including locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, handmade chocolates, and much more. Visitors can also sample a range of delicious food and wine, as well as browse handmade crafts and other unique items.
When it comes to dining out, Orange has plenty of excellent options. For a taste of the region’s best produce, head to Racine Restaurant, which offers a menu that is based entirely on local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is located in a historic cottage and has a warm, inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Alternatively, try Lolli Redini, which is known for its innovative take on Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that are inspired by traditional Italian recipes, but with a modern twist. Be sure to try the signature dish of roasted lamb loin with beetroot and mushroom ragout.
For wine lovers, Orange is a paradise, with over 80 wineries and vineyards in the surrounding region. Some of the best wineries to visit include Philip Shaw Wines, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and Angullong Wines, which is known for its award-winning sparkling wine.
Cowra
Cowra is a charming town located approximately 310 kilometres west of Sydney, and is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The town is situated on the banks of the Lachlan River and is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
One of the highlights of Cowra is the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, which is a stunning tribute to Japanese culture and tradition. The garden features beautiful ponds, waterfalls, and bridges, as well as a traditional tea house where visitors can enjoy a cup of green tea and a Japanese sweet.
For history buffs, the Cowra Prisoner of War Campsite is a must-visit destination. The site is a reminder of the tragic events that took place during World War II, when over 1,000 Japanese prisoners of war attempted to escape the camp. Visitors can explore the site, which includes a museum and a number of memorials, and learn about the events that took place.
For wine lovers, Cowra has a number of excellent wineries to explore, including the Cowra Estate Winery, which is known for its award-winning Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Visitors can take a tour of the winery, sample a range of wines, and learn about the winemaking process.
Parkes
Parkes is famous for its iconic dish, the “Parkes Dish” or the CSIRO Parkes Observatory, which played a crucial role in the Apollo 11 moon landing. One of the highlights of the Observatory, which is one of the world’s leading radio astronomy observatories, is taking a tour of the observatory and learning about its role in space exploration.
Another must-visit destination in Parkes is the Henry Parkes Centre, which is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Henry Parkes, who is known as the “Father of Federation” for his role in the creation of the Australian federation. The museum features a range of exhibits and artifacts that showcase Parkes’ life and career, as well as the history of the region.
For nature lovers, Parkes has plenty of excellent attractions to explore. Take a scenic drive to the Goobang National Park, which offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, head to the nearby Bushmans Hill Reserve, which is a popular spot for picnicking and birdwatching.
Dubbo
Dubbo is a bustling regional city located approximately 400 kilometres west of Sydney, and is known for its excellent dining scene, as well as its range of family-friendly attractions.
One of the must-visit attractions in Dubbo is the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which is home to over 4,000 animals across 300 hectares of grasslands. The zoo offers a range of experiences, from up-close encounters with animals to guided tours and even overnight stays. Visitors can see a range of animals, from lions and tigers to giraffes and zebras, and learn about the important conservation work being done at the zoo.
Another popular destination in Dubbo is the Old Dubbo Gaol, which is a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Visitors can explore the gaol, which dates back to the 1800s, and learn about the lives of the prisoners who were once housed there.
Mudgee .
One of the highlights of Mudgee is the region’s many vineyards and wineries, which offer some of the best wines in the country. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the region’s best wines. Popular vineyards to visit include Robert Stein Winery & Vineyard, Huntington Estate Wines, and Lowe Wines.
Another must-visit destination in Mudgee is the town’s historic centre, which is filled with beautiful old buildings and architecture. Take a stroll down Market Street and admire the elegant Georgian and Victorian-era buildings, including the Town Hall and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
When it comes to dining out, Mudgee has plenty of excellent options to choose from. For a taste of the region’s best produce, head to the Zin House, which offers a range of delicious contemporary Australian cuisine, as well as a selection of local wines. Alternatively, try the Pipeclay Pumphouse, which offers modern Australian cuisine in a stylish and relaxed setting.
