Lachlan Valley Way

The Lachlan Valley Way is a scenic driving route that winds through the heart of New South Wales, offering a quintessential Australian road-trip experience. This route takes you through historic towns, past lush vineyards, and along the banks of the Lachlan River, providing a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage and natural beauty. It's a perfect escape for those seeking to explore the countryside, with opportunities for wine tasting, heritage walks, and riverside picnics.

Highlights & What to See

• Historic Town of Forbes: Wander through this gold-rush-era town with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, including the Forbes Town Hall and the historic courthouse.
• Lachlan River: Enjoy a peaceful stroll or picnic along the riverbanks, especially at the Forbes River Walk, which offers scenic views and birdwatching.
• Wine Tasting in Cowra: The Cowra region is known for its cool-climate wines, particularly chardonnay and shiraz. Visit local cellar doors for tastings.
• Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, Cowra: A serene garden built as a symbol of peace, featuring traditional Japanese design, a tea house, and cherry blossoms in spring.
• Grenfell: The birthplace of poet Henry Lawson, with a museum dedicated to his life and works, plus charming heritage streetscapes.
• Weddin Mountains National Park: For nature lovers, this park offers bushwalking trails, Aboriginal rock art sites, and panoramic views from the summit.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully appreciate the Lachlan Valley Way, plan for at least two to three days. This allows time to explore the main towns, enjoy wine tastings, and take a couple of short walks. If you're keen on hiking in Weddin Mountains or spending more time in the gardens, consider extending to four days. The route is easily broken into manageable daily drives, with plenty of accommodation options in towns like Forbes, Cowra, and Grenfell.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Orange: A vibrant food and wine region with excellent restaurants, cool-climate vineyards, and a lively farmers' market.
• Canowindra: Known for its ballooning festival and the Age of Fishes Museum, featuring Devonian-era fossils.
• Parkes: Home to the iconic Dish (radio telescope) and the Elvis Festival, with a fascinating space museum.
• Kiama: While a bit farther, it's worth a detour for its stunning coastline, blowholes, and seaside charm.
• Blue Mountains National Park: Combine with the way for a longer road trip, featuring dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and bushwalks.

Please check official sources for current details.