Roadtrip Sydney to Mudgee – Exploring NSW’s Wine Country

Get set for an unforgettable Roadtrip Sydney to Mudgee, NSW, beginning in a bustling city and traversing stunning landscape to the serene wine region. It promises scenic vistas, through NSW’s Top Wine Country, and delectable wines at the other end, in laid-back countryside you’ll really enjoy. Join us as we uncover the top stops and experiences from Sydney to Mudgee, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for wine lovers and roadtrippers! Looking to stay in this area? Explore our Central West NSW accommodation. 

Stop 1 -Sydney to Katoomba

• Distance: Approx 110 km
• Time: 1.5 hrs
• Welcome to Katoomba – Kick off your journey with jaw-dropping views at Blue Mountains National Park. Stop at Echo Point for a selfie with the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and thrill-seekers, don’t miss Scenic World’s wild rides and the heart-pounding steepest railway in the world! But Katoomba is more than that and the art and community culture is worth seeing!  Katoomba boasts a vibrant art scene so take a look into local galleries like the Lost Bear Gallery, showcasing both established and emerging local artists.
• If you have more time, don’t miss workshops at Platform Gallery where you can engage with cool, local artisans and learn about their inspo. Feel like a bite? There’s diverse dining options here. The Carrington Hotel’s Old City Bank Bar & Brasserie offers historic charm and hearty pub fare, while Solitary Restaurant provides fine dining with panoramic valley views. Katoomba promises more than natural beauty—it’s a place where adventure, artistic exploration, and community culture converge. It’s definitely worth the time.

Stop 2 – Katoomba to Lithgow

• Distance: Approx 40 km
• Time: 40 min
• Welcome to Lithgow -Soak in the beauty of the Blue Mountains, with a ride on the historic Zig Zag Railway, where you’ll chug through the mountains and step back in time. Don’t forget to snap some panoramic pics at Hassans Walls Lookout. When you’re ready to explore the main town, check out spots like Hassans Walls Gallery. They have a good mix of local and international art and swing by Lithgow Valley Plaza for some shopping for artisanal goods. There’s great designers and crafts people here. Lithgow hosts a range of festivals and gatherings if you have the time. Keep an eye out for the Ironfest, celebrating all things metalwork and historical re-enactments, or the Lithgow Halloween Zombie Walk, where locals and visitors dress up for a spooky parade through the streets.
• For a taste of local food, head to Secret Creek Café & Restaurant with delicious dishes or Piccolo Deli Cafe with popular coffee, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a light meal or homemade treats. Lithgow’s not just about sights—it’s about soaking up history, enjoying local art, participating in community events, and savouring delicious meals. So grab your camera, bring your hunger, and get ready for an awesome adventure in the Blue Mountains!
  

Lithgow Glow Worm-Tunnel, Travellarks-Roadtrip, NSW.

Stop 3 – Lithgow to Bathurst

• Distance: Approx 55 km
• Time: 1 hour
• Welcome to Bathurst – Bathurst tourism is big! Rev up your engines at Bathurst’s famous Mount Panorama Racing Circuit, where legends are made during the Bathurst 1000. Dive deep into geological wonders at the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum—it’s like stepping into a real-life Jurassic Park! When hunger strikes, Bathurst offers a variety of dining spots to satisfy every taste. Grab a bite at Church Bar + Woodfired Pizza for delicious pizzas and hearty meals in a historic setting, or try Cobblestone Lane. Wrap up your day with a stroll through Machattie Park or a visit to Abercrombie House, where history and heritage blend beautifully.
• . For major events like the Bathurst 1000 at Mount Panorama Racing Circuit, it’s advisable to pre-purchase tickets to secure entry and potentially get better seating. This helps avoid long queues and ensures a smoother experience on the day of the event. Check the circuit’s official website or the event organizer for details and ticket availability.

Stop 4 – Bathurst to Orange

• Distance: Approx 55 km
• Time: 1 hour
• Welcome to Orange – Experience the good life in Orange, celebrated for its cool-climate wines and stunning landscapes. Explore the vibrant blooms of Cook Park and Orange Botanic Gardens, central to Orange’s tourism appeal. Indulge in the region’s renowned wineries, where each glass tells a story of the area’s rich terroir. For a taste of local flavours, The Agrestic Grocer is a popular spot offering organic meals and artisanal products. Drive up to Mount Canobolas for panoramic views and scenic walks, or unwind at local wineries such as Philip Shaw Wines. If you’re into shopping, check out Keppel Street for specialty stores offering local crafts, gifts, and gourmet food products. The Bathurst Farmers’ Markets, held on weekends, are also a great place to  shop – find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies. Yummo!

Stop 5 – Orange to Wellington

• Distance: Approx. 50 km
• Time: 45 minutes
• Welcome to Wellington – Wellington attractions is so varied. Descend into the ancient underworld of Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine—imagine stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient fossils! Absorb the tranquility at Bell River Estate, where wine tasting meets panoramic vineyard views. Afterward, immerse yourself in Wellington’s rich history by wandering through its quaint streets of colonial architecture. For dining, don’t miss The Crossing Cafe, offering delicious meals in a relaxed setting, or visit the award-winning Montrose House for fine dining with a focus on local produce and wines. Wellington combines natural wonders, wine tasting, and historical charm you’ll love. For a chilled time, visit the Osawano Japanese Gardens with its peaceful ponds, bridges, and lush greenery in a traditional Japanese style. Nearby, Lake Burrendong is perfect for fun outdoor picnic or just hanging out for a while.

Stop 6 – Wellington to Mudgee

• Distance: Approx 100 km
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Welcome to Mudgee: Wrap up your epic journey in Mudgee, a hidden gem in the Cudgegong Valley with plenty of Mudgee attractions and dining options with a focus on local produce and wines. Pipeclay Pumphouse at Robert Stein Winery offers modern Australian cuisine with vineyard views, while Zin House at Lowe Wines provides a farm-to-table experience using ingredients from their garden. The Wineglass is celebrated for its diverse menu and relaxed ambiance, ideal for enjoying contemporary Australian dishes. Muse Restaurant, located at Robert Oatley Vineyards, offers fine dining with a seasonal menu showcasing regional produce. For a lively atmosphere, try Eltons Eating + Drinking serves up a variety of dishes paired with local wines and craft beers, making Mudgee a delightful destination for food enthusiasts exploring New South Wales’ wine country. After indulging in the flavours of boutique wineries and cellar doors, offering everything from bold reds to crisp whites, head to watch the sunset from Flirtation Hill Lookout—it’s the perfect backdrop for toasting to a great roadtrip!

As you reach the end of your road trip from Sydney to Mudgee, you’ve soaked up a wonderful region in NSW’s wine country. From cruising through the stunning Blue Mountains to kicking back in Mudgee vineyards, each stop has been a real gem of its own. Whether you’ve been tasting top-notch wines, exploring country towns and perhaps meeting some great locals, this journey’s been a blast of relaxation and discovery. As you head home, take those memories of scenic drives, great wines, great people, and the awesome vibes of regional NSW. Here’s to more adventures and stories along the road ahead!

For more roadtrip inspiration, head to Travellarks Australian Roadtrips.

If you think Mudgee sounds like an amazing holiday destination, check out our Stays with a WOW accommodation.