Mudgee’s best produce and picking trail..
Mudgee is celebrated for its exquisite wines and diverse produce, offering abundant opportunities for seasonal orchard fruit picking. Mudgee boasts exceptional picking experiences and local products in and around the region.
Mudgee is not only known for our beautiful wine but renowned for its fantastic produce and opportunities for picking various seasonal orchard fruits, flowers and truffles. While the specific availability of produce for picking can vary depending on the season, there are many well-known places to explore in and around Mudgee for excellent picking and produce tasting experiences.
OakShade Truffles : Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Mudgee, OakShade Truffles is a family-owned haven housing over 5000 Oak Trees, where the finest Black Périgord Truffles have thrived since 2017. Founded by a father and son with a shared love for good food, OakShade Truffles emerged from a dream sparked during family dinners, leading them to relocate rurally and become a part of the local community. The discovery of a picturesque property in Mudgee, complete with workable farmland and 36 acres of truffle-producing oak trees, felt serendipitous. The legacy of an immaculate Truffery, crafted by Wendy, Andrew, and Rob, has now been entrusted to OakShade Truffles, promising a commitment to surpassing each harvest's excellence. On Saturday’s and Sundays OakShade Truffles offer bookings on Truffle Hunting & Tasting
High Valley Cheese Co : In the heart of Mudgee, High Valley Cheese Co embarks on an artisanal cheese journey, seamlessly blending a rich farming heritage with a commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mudgee, this boutique cheese factory stands out for its hands-on approach, ensuring that each individually crafted artisan cheese reflects the skill and passion invested in its creation. High Valley Cheese sources its milk from local partners like the Little Big Dairy Co in Dubbo, NSW, showcasing a dedication to quality and sustainability. The 135m2 cheese plant, designed for visitor engagement, allows enthusiasts to witness the entire cheese-making process, from pasteurising the milk to delicate brining. Beyond creating exceptional cheese, the company fosters a haven for connoisseurs of outstanding food and wine, employing locals who share their passion.
Desire a cheese tasting? Head over to their pop-up stall at 137 Ulan Road
🕙 Operating Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, 7 days a week
🧀 Cheese Selections include: Fetta, marinated Fetta, Brie, Rouge, Caerphilly, Stefan Blue, Colly Blue, and Smoked Cheddar.
Mudgee Sunflowers : Immerse yourself in the enchanting experience of Mudgee Sunflowers at The Old School House 1883, tucked away between Mudgee and Gulgong. This hidden treasure trove showcases a diverse collection of locally crafted goodies, ranging from timber and metal to acrylic home, gift, and garden wares. However, the real magic unfolds in February and March when the paddock around The Old School House 1883 transforms into a dazzling sea of sunflowers. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates on the bloom status, as this sunflower spectacle is a seasonal delight not to be missed. Whether you're a flower enthusiast, a photography lover, or just in need of a mood boost, the sunflower fields provide an idyllic escape and a celebration of nature's brilliance in regional Australia. So, mark your calendar, grab your camera, and embark on a journey to immerse yourself in the golden beauty of Mudgee Sunflowers at The Old School House 1883. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU NORMALLY PICK SUNFLOWERS AND HOW MUCH IS IT¿
Roth Family Orchard : cherry picking expected to be in December
Roth Family Orchard in Mudgee provides a delightful cherry-picking experience, inviting visitors to enjoy the freshest, top-quality cherries in a family-friendly setting. The orchard opens its gates for pick-your-own cherries, requiring advance bookings due to the seasonal nature of cherry ripening. The farm sells meticulously sorted freshly picked cherries. Stay updated on orchard activities, cherry availability, and opening days by subscribing to their Cherry Chatter newsletter or following their social media channels. Nestled in the Eurunderee region, the orchard carries historical significance dating back to the Roth family's initial agricultural ventures in Mudgee.
Aril Estate, a diverse agricultural haven in Mudgee, offers a range of fresh farm products. Starting with 1500 olive trees in 2007-2008, the estate now specializes in Greek-style fermented green, color-turning, and black table olives, employing cold-pressing techniques with their olive press since 2018. This has attracted olive growers seeking quality oil extraction. Initially exploring garlic cultivation, the farm is now gearing up to introduce farm-grown garlic-infused olive oils and marinated olives with garlic and herbs in 2022. With over 3500 pomegranate trees, Aril Estate sells spray-free, naturally ripened fruit exclusively from their farm gate, producing various pomegranate syrups and jams with unique flavors for culinary use. They also offer limited batches of apricot and plum jams with rich, intense fruity tastes at the start of summer, showcasing their dedication to high-quality, farm-fresh produce.
Mudgee Honey Haven offers a delightful selection of honey-based products, showcasing the finest quality and variety. From jars of pure, raw honey to artisanal honey spreads, beeswax candles, and beauty products, the store is a treasure trove for honey enthusiasts. With an array of locally harvested honey and handcrafted items, each product exudes the distinct essence of the region. The warm and welcoming atmosphere invites visitors to explore the shelves lined with an assortment of honey-based delights, perfect for gifting or savouring at home. Whether you're a honey connoisseur or simply seeking unique, high-quality products, Mudgee Honey Haven's store will impress.
Rylstone Olive Press : a prominent contributor to Australia's global reputation for top-quality food, prides itself on swiftly pressing olives from the Central Tablelands within six hours of harvest, ensuring the utmost freshness and robust flavor in every drop of their extra virgin olive oil. Beyond being a product, Rylstone Olive Press embodies a commitment to simplicity and convenience with their award-winning oils, featuring user-friendly 'pop up' pourers for easy use. This 100% Australian-owned family company prioritises local community support and collaboration with Australian growers. Their oils, more than mere condiments, symbolise both quality and Australian pride. Available in select stores or directly through their cellar door, Rylstone Olive Press offers a direct connection to the essence of Australian excellence.
10'S Estate Orchard, nestled adjacent to the vineyard, is a treasure trove of sustainably grown, organic Mudgee produce. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the magic of nature, surrounded by the fragrant freshness of tree-ripened cherries, figs, and citrus fruits, with a promise of more organically grown varieties to come. The orchard offers an enchanting "pick-your-own" experience, making it a beloved destination for the entire family. While the availability of pick-your-own fruits depends on the season, you can typically indulge in cherry picking from mid-November to mid-December. However, it's essential to secure your spot with a booking. The orchard's cherries are not only organic but also pristine, allowing you to enjoy them straight from the tree, without the need for washing, for a truly delightful and wholesome experience. Cherish the joy of picking your own fresh, organic fruits amidst the stunning landscape of Mudgee.
Mudgee's best fine dining experiences
Mudgee, known for its rich wine heritage and beautiful countryside, offers a range of exceptional fine dining experiences. Here are ideal dining experiences at some of its best establishments.
Mudgee, known for its rich wine heritage and beautiful countryside, offers a range of exceptional fine dining experiences. Here are ideal dining experiences at some of its best establishments..
The Zin House - Indulge in Mudgee's Finest
Welcome to the heart of Mudgee's regional dining oasis - The Zin House. Nestled amid the organic and biodynamic Lowe vineyard, this restaurant offers a unique, immersive experience for food enthusiasts. Opening its doors to the stunning vistas of the farm, the Zin House entices patrons with a charming blend of local charm and culinary excellence.
A Culinary Haven
Operating from Thursday to Monday, The Zin House is a testament to the region's finest dining. Owners, Kim Currie and the Zin team, have crafted a dining journey that's a celebration of local, seasonal, and slow food. Their approach emphasizes authenticity, generosity, and quality, consistently earning them accolades like the coveted One Hat in the SMH Good Food Guide Awards since 2015.
Experience and Opening Times
Lunch at Zin: From 12 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. With a six-course set menu, guests can meander through the gardens, relish the open-kitchen ambiance, and delight in each course at their own pace. The experience is heightened by optional wine pairings or a beverage of choice.
Evening Dining: From 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The evening dining experience is a leisurely affair with a full-course menu. For the summer months, guests can relish a pre-dinner cocktail hour from 5 to 6 PM, savoring the sunset views from the outdoor hearth.
The Culinary Artistry
At Zin House, the menu is a tribute to their farm-to-table philosophy. The journey starts in their gardens, reflecting the best of the seasonal produce. Each course, presented over six exquisite servings, showcases the collaboration between the kitchen and garden teams, bringing the whole cycle to the table.
The Wine Pairing Experience
To complement the flavors of each course, Zin offers optional wine pairings curated by David Lowe. These selections highlight small Australian producers dedicated to organics and biodynamics, honoring the quality and essence of the local region.
Book Your Seat
Given the limited numbers and the immersive dining experience, bookings are essential. The Zin House invites guests to revel in an unrushed, indulgent dining journey, a celebration of the region's produce, warmth, and culinary finesse.
In conclusion, The Zin House is not just a restaurant; it's an experience. It's an opportunity to be immersed in the heart of Mudgee's culinary soul, hosted by locals who are passionate about their craft and the land they call home. To embark on this unique culinary journey, secure your booking and allow at least three hours to relish every moment of the Zin House's regional dining experience.
Pipeclay Pump House - Mudgee's Premier Fine Dining Gem
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Robert Stein Vineyard, Pipeclay Pumphouse stands as a beacon of sophisticated dining in the heart of Mudgee. This elegantly rustic restaurant offers more than just a meal; it's an immersive experience, where every bite tells a story of the region's rich flavors and culinary finesse.
Savor the Views, Delight in the Flavors
As you step into Pipeclay Pumphouse, prepare to be enchanted by the panoramic views of the sprawling Robert Stein Vineyard. It's not just a meal; it's an experience where nature's beauty meets culinary artistry. Whether you're seeking a leisurely lunch with friends, marking a special occasion, or aiming for a romantic evening, Pipeclay Pumphouse offers the perfect ambiance and menu to suit your desires.
Seasonal Indulgence, Fresh Flavors
At the heart of the dining experience is the ever-evolving casual degustation menu that changes with the passing seasons. The philosophy behind the culinary creations is simple: accentuate the freshness and flavors of the local produce. Every dish is crafted with meticulous care, inviting guests to connect with the very essence of the region through the palate.
Opening Hours
For your convenience, Pipeclay Pumphouse opens its doors at the following times:
Lunch: Friday to Sunday from 12 noon
Dinner: Thursday to Saturday from 6pm
Meet the Local Maestro: Chef Sean
Sean, the culinary virtuoso behind the flavors at Pipeclay Pumphouse, is a true son of Mudgee. Being a part of the Pipeclay team for over 8 years, his deep-rooted connection to the region and its produce shines through in every dish. As the Head Chef since early 2022, Sean continues the tradition of casual fine dining while infusing his own creative flair into the menu. His passion and commitment to showcasing the best of Mudgee's culinary heritage are evident in each carefully crafted plate.
Reservations Essential
To ensure you secure a spot at this sought-after dining destination, reservations are essential. The demand for a taste of Mudgee's finest flavors often keeps Pipeclay Pumphouse abuzz, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead to guarantee a seat at this culinary haven.
At Pipeclay Pumphouse, it's not just a meal; it's an experience. An experience where local flavors meet culinary mastery in a setting that's both elegant and welcoming. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this fine dining gem promises an unforgettable journey through the exquisite tastes of Mudgee.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to delight your senses and treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pipeclay Pumphouse.
The Barn at Blue Wren - Fine Dining at The Barn - Where Local Ingredients Meet Culinary Excellence
Nestled within the heart of Mudgee, The Barn at Blue Wren Farm stands as a culinary haven, celebrating the region's finest offerings in a relaxed, yet refined dining atmosphere.
The culinary ethos at The Barn is a celebration of simplicity and authenticity. Embracing the philosophy of seasonal eating, the menu is a testament to their dedication.
Accompanying the exquisite dishes is a thoughtfully curated wine list, a celebration of the remarkable wines Mudgee and the surrounding regions produce. Complemented by an assortment of boutique beers and other beverages, each sip is an invitation to explore the region's diverse libations.
The ambiance at The Barn is designed for a leisurely dining experience. Whether you seek a hearty meal or a few delectable snacks paired with a fine glass of wine, the setting is perfect for either occasion. The outdoor pergola offers a charming atmosphere, weather permitting, providing an idyllic backdrop for savoring your culinary journey.
To ensure an exceptional dining experience, reservations are essential. The Barn graciously accommodates patrons at indoor and courtyard tables, reserving the serene outdoor seating under the pergola for those who wish to soak in the Mudgee ambiance.
Opening its doors to guests on specific days and hours, The Barn invites you to experience its magic:
Monday: 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 12:00pm to 8:00pm (kitchen closure from 3:00pm to 5:30pm)
Friday & Saturday: 12:00pm to 9:00pm (kitchen closure from 3:00pm to 5:30pm)
Sunday: 12:00pm to 5:00pm
The Barn at Blue Wren Farm is more than a dining establishment; it's a celebration of the region’s flavors, a commitment to sustainability, and a haven for those seeking an authentic culinary experience. Embark on a journey through Mudgee's finest with every bite and sip at The Barn.
Each of these establishments provides a unique and exceptional dining experience, reflecting the best of Mudgee's local produce, culinary artistry, and regional charm. Whether it's the farm-fresh offerings of The Zin House, the modern cuisine at Pipeclay Pump House, or the rustic elegance of The Barn at Blue Wren, Mudgee offers a delightful array of fine dining experiences for the discerning food enthusiast.
Mudgee Dog-Friendly Wine Region
Are you a proud pet parent looking for a getaway that both you and your furry friend can enjoy? Look no further than Mudgee, NSW. This charming town offers a wide array of dog-friendly activities, accommodation, and dining options that will make your visit truly memorable.
Are you a proud pet parent looking for a getaway that both you and your furry friend can enjoy? Look no further than Mudgee, NSW. This charming town offers a wide array of dog-friendly activities, accommodation, and dining options that will make your visit truly memorable.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Mudgee welcomes four-legged guests with open arms, offering a variety of pet-friendly accommodations, including cozy cottages and luxury homes. Here are our top choices:
Cavalo - Whether you're travelling with friends or taking a family holiday, this spacious, four-bedroom pet friendly-home has all you need for a comfortable and convenient stay in Mudgee. Just moments from restaurants, wineries and other local attractions, you will enjoy returning to this charming, single-level retreat, featuring a spacious garden where your dog can run and play.
Maggie’s Place - Whether you’re taking a holiday with friends or just craving country-style living while working remotely, this property offers all the creature comforts of home and a secure backyard for the family dog. Enjoy a comfortable stay without leaving your furry friend behind.
Fairbairn - Experience the best of country-living with friends and family combined with the convenience of being a two-minute drive to town. The cottage offers four bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, generous dining and living areas both indoor and out as well as a BBQ and a fire pit within an expansive pet-friendly backyard. and also features a spacious garden where your dog can run and play.
Charlie’s - Explore this renowned wine region from the comfort of your own elegantly furnished, three-bedroom cottage, perfectly situated within walking distance to Mudgee cafes, shops and amenities and a short drive to the surrounding vineyards and attractions. With a fully fenced yard, you’ll be at peace knowing your dog is safe and secure while they enjoy the freedom to roam, play, and explore to their heart's content.
Check out all of our Pet-Friendly Properties
Scenic Walks, Hikes & Parks
Mudgee boasts an abundance of natural beauty, and there's no better way to soak it all in than by exploring the many dog-friendly walking and hiking trails. Lawson Park Sculpture Walk, Mudgee Common State forest, and the Putta Bucca Wetlands are just a few examples of great spots to take your pup for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. Mudgee offers a sole off-leash dog exercise facility known as the Jennie Blackman Dog Park. Situated at the Glen Willow Sporting Complex on Pitts Lane, a short distance north of the town center, and also has several smaller parks and reserves scattered throughout the town. These can be great spots for a quick walk or a game of fetch with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Wineries
Mudgee is renowned for its vineyards and wineries, and many of them are happy to accommodate your canine companion. Some of the pet-friendly wineries we recommend include Logan Wines, Lowe, Small Batch Brewery and Hop farm, and Robert Stein Wines. While you enjoy a wine tasting, your dog can relax in the serene vineyard surroundings.
Pet-friendly wineries and cellar doors in Mudgee : Rosby, Skimstone Wines, Slowfox, Cellar Door by Gilbert, ThumbPrint, Vinifera Wines, Walter Wines, 10s Estate, 791 Estate, Bunnamagoo, Burrundulla Wines, di Lusso Estate, Elephant Mountain Wines, First Ridge, Goree Park, Heslop, Huntington Estate, Lazy Oak Wines, Mansfield Wines, Martins Hill Organic Wines, Naked Lady Wines, Petersons, & Peter Van Gent
Local Dog Friendly Events ‘Pups at The Pav’
Sunday mornings at The Pavilion, Lowe Winery, for a few hours of play with your furry friends. Dogs, owners, and dog lovers are all welcome. This free community event will be on the last Sunday of the month throughout the year.
Pet-Friendly Dining
After a day of exploring, you and your furry friend will undoubtedly work up an appetite. Fortunately, Mudgee offers many dog-friendly dining options. Here are a couple of places to consider:
Coffee House on Parkview: Located in the heart of Mudgee, The Coffee House on Parkview offers a selection fun fresh culinary ideas all year round, that steer away from the cafe norms and cater for most dietary requirements.. They have outdoor seating where your dog can join you.
Cade Kitchen & Bar: This popular restaurant in Mudgee offers contemporary Australian cuisine and has an outdoor area where well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.
Three Tails Brewery and Smokehouse, offers 18 beer taps and a BBQ menu, perfect for enjoying with your dog in their courtyard. Dogs are welcome indoors too.
Alby & Esthers boasts a charming cobblestone courtyard. It functions as a daytime cafe with an all-day menu, artisan coffee, and housemade chai. Seasonally, during evenings, it transforms into a delightful wine bar on occasion.
Pet-friendly dining options to check out : Bushmans Table at The Paragon, Mudgee Brewing Co, Our Chow, Pipeclay Pumphouse, The Zin House, 29 Nine 99 Yum Cha & Tea House.
Dog-Friendly Cafe’s to check out : Alby & Esters, Althea by Zin Coffee, Mudgee Corner Store, & Coffee House at Parkview.
Pet sitting Contacts
Bronte - 0459976535
Leanne - 0475057795
Amanda - 0448720179
Dog-friendly Farmers Markets
the Mudgee Farmers' Market, which takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm in Robertson Park, extends a warm welcome to well-behaved, on-leash dogs, making it a pet-friendly outing for the whole family.
Pet Services
Should you need any pet-related services during your stay, Mudgee has you covered. There are local veterinarians, grooming salons, and pet supply stores to cater to your dog's needs.
7. Doggie-Daycare Services
Mudgee Dog-A-Cise Centre is such a great service for everything your dog needs in the one centre. Fun, Fitness, Doggy Daycare, Bathing, Grooming, Obedience Training and offer half or full day care packages. They are located at 859 Castlereagh Hwy, Mudgee, and contacted by phone on (02) 6373 1423
Mudgee, NSW, is a hidden gem for pet owners seeking a memorable getaway with their four-legged friends. With a wide range of dog-friendly accommodations, scenic walks, vineyards, dining options, and events, you and your dog are sure to have a wonderful time exploring this charming region.
Family Friendly Mudgee
Mudgee NSW is an emerging popular holiday destination for families. With lots of activities for kids on offer, parents can enjoy the fruitful wine region while children can immerse themselves in nature and wonderful experiences.
Thinking of visiting Mudgee with the kids? Who wouldn’t love to escape to our country town famous for its wine and food and beautiful outdoor spaces with plenty of room to run around and explore? When planning a holiday away with the family, it’s important to make the experience enjoyable for both the kids and parents. That’s why we are dishing out the best itinerary to cater to a crowd of all ages!
Only 3.5 hours drive from Sydney, across the scenic Blue Mountains, it’s a child friendly travelling distance to hit the road to the Central West town of Mudgee NSW.
Book Your Stay
Crowned Top Tourism Town in NSW and Australia two years running, Mudgee is a very popular weekend and school holiday destination. Securing the perfect Bliss Stays property for your families needs is important. We have just added a ‘Perfect for Families’ category to our website with our top recommendations for you to enjoy a home away from home while exploring our wonderful region!
Get Back to Nature
Nature is the ultimate playground and the Mudgee Region is packed with awesome adventure spots for explorers big and small!
Family Friendly Cellar Doors
Famous for our wine, the Mudgee Region is the proud home of 35 boutique cellar doors and vineyards. Of course this is a great activity for parents, but there are some fantastic family friendly wineries the kids will enjoy too! Here is our list.
Family Dining
Mudgee is renowned for its fine dining and gourmet produce. The long lunch at Zin House, a six course degustation and Pipeclay Pumphouse or lunch or dinner at The Barn at Blue Wren Farm are the perfect parents date locations (ask Bliss Stays for our baby sitting recommendations!) However when it comes to dining with the fam, these are our top picks! Bookings always recommended.
Family Fun
Mudgee offers plenty of fun activities for kids, whether it be a weekend trip or an extended stay for school holidays. Here are some exciting things for kids and families to do in Mudgee:
Mudgee in March
March is a very popular time to visit the Mudgee Region. As autumn begins and the temperature starts to cool, there are so many fantastic events and experiences to enjoy in Mudgee. We’ve selected a few so you can plan your March in Mudgee.
Goodbye summer - and hello autumn! Before we know it, the leaves will change colour, the sting of the summer heat will pass and the Mudgee wine vines will be harvested. Autumn is the perfect time of year to escape to country NSW and enjoy all things Mudgee.
Here’s your guide to What’s On in the Mudgee Region this March 2023 so you can plan your ultimate getaway itinerary!
Let’s kick off with the first weekend in March. Sure, Mudgee is famous for its wine. But did you know we have some phenomenal emerging craft breweries as well? Try some new drops on Saturday, March 4, at the Mudgee Craft Beer & Cider Festival. Grab some mates and spend an afternoon meeting the brewers behind some of Mudgee’s most popular craft breweries. From 12pm to 5pm, relax on the lawn, enjoy beer tastings, live music and tasty food. Tickets start from $20, which includes a complimentary tasting glass. And even better, a courtesy bus will be operating and can offer pick-ups and drop-offs to and from your Mudgee accommodation with Bliss Stays.
If you can’t manage to make it to Mudgee for the festival, fear not! You can always sample local craft beer at Three Tails Brewery and Smokehouse, Mudgee Brewing Co and Small Batch Brew.
If you’re a wine & food lover, the Mudgee Region Food + Drink Trail is a must-attend. The trail spans across Saturday, March 18 and Sunday, March 19 2023. Embark on a culinary adventure across the Mudgee region, sampling expertly crafted local cuisine and a perfectly matched wine tasting across multiple fabulous cellar doors. Purchase a $55 trail pass and choose your own Mudgee adventure - select from the participating venues below to experience the perfect Mudgee food and wine match.
Click here for the Food + Drink Trail Map and Menu.
The monthly Mudgee Makers’ Market is held on Saturday 25th March at Robertson Park. Wander and browse through 60 stalls, showcasing the best producers of food, wine and art in the Mudgee region. From 8:30am to 12:30pm, the markets are a great way to start the morning before heading off to explore the wineries and Mudgee countryside.
Brunch and bubbles are two words that are just meant to go together. That’s why the Cellar by Gilbert has chosen to host a relaxing Sunday event on March 26 in their picturesque courtyard & cellar door. Kick start your Sunday with a glass of Mudgee wine and enjoy a seasonal fruit platter and brunch while enjoying live music. After brunch, why not head next door to High Valley Cheese Co? All of their cheeses are delicious – we love the marinated pesto fetta; it’s a solid 10/10.
March is also a very popular month for Mudgee weddings. Many Bliss Stays’ properties are already starting to fill with bridal parties, wedding guests and newlyweds! We’re looking forward to hosting these guests, and the many visitors who choose to book their Mudgee accommodation with us when visiting our wonderful region.