Plan Your Mudgee Getaway

For a weekend away encompassing cosy fireplaces and copious amounts of wine, look no further than the countryside of Mudgee.

Mudgee, a three and a half hours’ drive north-west of Sydney, is home to 65 vineyards and more than 40 cellar doors. But you can leave your fancy wine vocab at home, because Mudgee isn’t your typical wine region. This laid-back country town ignores the rules of your usual cellar door tasting experiences and invites you to simply enjoy a good drop with good company by an open fireplace.

But first, coffee!

Pull up to Mudgee’s Alby and Esthers; a little cobblestoned corner tucked away at the end of an inviting alleyway. Enjoy an artisan coffee beneath the grapevine shaded courtyard or step inside the eclectic interior for something off their seasonal menu designed around fresh, local produce.

Now for the wine…

Move on to the charming family-run vineyard, Rosby, a 15-minute drive north of the town centre. Pop in for a tasting of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon or rosé in Kay and Gerry’s Norton-Knight’s garden.

Established in 1968, Burnbrae is somewhat of a Mudgee icon known for its multitude of award winning wines, historic Winemaker’s Cottage, old peppertree backdrop and warm cellar door experience. A visit is a must for those in appreciation of exceptional handcrafted wines which offer both personality and regionality.

Then, if you’re keen to try a range of local wines without having to leave your bar stool, head into town for an afternoon at Roth’s Wine Bar. There are more than 100 regional drops to choose from under the roof of this historic converted terrace. Aside from wine, sample local Baker Williams gin (better yet visit the cellar door on Henry Lawson Drive for the full range of spirits including the surprisingly delicious lemon-myrtle liqueur). Roth’s Wine Bar is also the place to be to enjoy live music in the ‘shed’ out the back on Friday and Saturday nights.

There’s more live music at Mudgee Brewery, as well as six signature beers, a range of seasonal brews and a fireplace. The food’s good!

Retire for the night in your resort room at the Parklands Resort, set on the grounds of 30 acres of beautifully manicured gardens with a serene outlook from your private balcony.  The Vine Bar and Restaurant on-site is open daily for breakfast and dinner offering a great array of cuisine utilising the great fresh product of the Mudgee region. Unwind on the alfresco desk with a glass of local wine and watch the sunset over the fields to finish a day of play in Mudgee.

With great facilities on the beautiful resort grounds, wake up on your own leisurely accord and enjoy full access to the indoor swimming pool, gym, spa and sauna or play a round of tennis on the professional-size courts. Allow the Resort staff to pack a picnic lunch for you, hire a bike and begin your journey along Mudgee’s famous wine trail through the region.

The afternoon calls for more cheese, more wine and one last fireplace, this time at the highly Instagram-able Cellar by Gilbert, before continuing to dinner at Pipeclay Pumphouse.

Where to stay?

Book a night away at the Parklands Resort, Mudgee situated at the gateway to the Mudgee Wine Trail.