Central Tablelands Wine Region

Perched high above the coastal fog, the Central Tablelands Wine Region offers a refreshingly cool-climate escape where crisp rieslings and elegant chardonnays thrive in the granite-rich soils. This emerging wine destination, centred around the historic towns of Orange, Mudgee and Bathurst, combines vineyard-hopping with gold-rush heritage and national park adventures. With a landscape of rolling hills and volcanic peaks, it's a region that rewards those who take the time to explore its cellar doors and artisan producers.

Highlights & What to See

• Orange wine trail – Taste standout riesling, pinot noir and chardonnay at cellar doors such as Philip Shaw, Rowlee Wines and Swinging Bridge; many offer vineyard views and seasonal produce pairings.
• Mudgee's historic charm – Wander the heritage streets of Mudgee, then visit family-run wineries like Lowe Wines and Robert Oatley Vineyard; don't miss the weekly farmers market for local cheeses and olives.
• Mount Canobolas – Hike to the summit of this extinct volcano for 360-degree views over the wine region; the summit trail is a 4.5 km return walk through snow gum woodlands.
• Bathurst's gold-rush legacy – Explore the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, then drive the Mount Panorama racing circuit – but save time for a tasting at Carrington Cellars or the nearby Vale Creek Wines.
• Mayfield Garden – Australia's largest privately owned cool-climate garden, with structured hedges, water features and a seasonal maze; it's a serene afternoon detour between wineries.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two full days to properly explore the Central Tablelands Wine Region – one day to focus on the Orange trail and Mount Canobolas, and a second to cover Mudgee and Bathurst. If you're a dedicated wine lover, a three-day itinerary allows for deeper tasting sessions and leisurely lunches at vineyard restaurants. The region is best visited from late spring to autumn (November–April) when the vines are lush and cellar doors are buzzing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – A coastal counterpoint with beaches and koala hospital, just a 2.5-hour drive east.
• Blue Mountains – Iconic sandstone cliffs and bushwalks, a 2-hour drive south-east from Bathurst.
• Hunter Valley – Australia's oldest wine region, 3 hours north-east; combine for a comprehensive NSW wine tour.
• Jenolan Caves – Limestone caverns with guided tours, a 1.5-hour drive from Bathurst.
• Katoomba & the Three Sisters – Dramatic lookout and Aboriginal heritage, en route to the Blue Mountains.

Please check official sources for current details.