Kandos

Kandos is a small historic town on the western edge of the Hunter Valley, cradled by the rugged sandstone escarpments of the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone national parks. Once a bustling cement-manufacturing hub, Kandos today offers a quiet, off-the-beaten-path escape with surprising creative energy, a growing food scene, and immediate access to some of New South Wales' most dramatic wilderness. It's the perfect base for travellers who want to combine the Hunter's famous wine country with raw, uncrowded nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Gardens of Stone National Park – Just south of town, this park is a wonderland of pagoda-like rock formations, deep canyons and ancient pagoda forests. Don't miss the Glow Worm Tunnel walk and the breathtaking views from Balancing Rock.
• Kandos Museum – Housed in the old railway station, this local museum tells the story of the town's industrial past and the region's Indigenous heritage, with a fascinating collection of photographs and artefacts.
• The Cementa Contemporary Arts Festival – Even in non-festival years, Kandos has a vibrant arts scene. Look for the Kandos School of Cultural Adaptation (KSCA) and its public art installations scattered around town.
• Bylong Valley Way scenic drive – A spectacular route through the valley, passing historic farmsteads, vineyards and dramatic cliffs. Stop at the Bylong Valley Lookout for panoramic views.
• Local produce and cafés – The town's Kandos Farmers Market (held monthly) is a treat, and the Kandos Café serves excellent coffee and homemade baked goods. For a proper meal, try the Royal Hotel for classic pub fare with a local twist.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kandos itself can be explored in a couple of hours, but the surrounding national parks warrant at least a full day. For a relaxed itinerary, plan two nights: one day to explore the town and nearby Gardens of Stone highlights (like the Glow Worm Tunnel), and a second day for a longer hike or a scenic drive through the Bylong Valley. If you're combining Kandos with the Hunter Valley wine region, allow an extra day to make the most of both areas.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mudgee – A charming gold-rush town with a thriving wine and food scene, about a 45-minute drive west.
• Rylstone – Just 10 minutes north, Rylstone has a beautiful heritage main street and is the gateway to the Wollemi National Park.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – The world-famous vineyards around Pokolbin and Cessnock are about a 1.5-hour drive east, perfect for a day trip or a multi-day wine tour.
• Capertree Valley – A lush, secluded valley with excellent bushwalking and swimming holes, located just south of Kandos.
• Dunns Swamp (Ganguddy) – A stunning waterhole within Wollemi National Park, ideal for kayaking, canoeing and camping, about 30 minutes northwest.

Please check official sources for current details.