8 minute read.
The Bathurst region, situated in Wiradjuri Country, is a treasure trove of hidden gems this summer. Outdoor experiences, foodie finds, culture and adventure. Uncover it all here.
Strike gold
Visit the northern villages of Hill End and Sofala to fossick in the Turon River and Tambaroora Creek. Yep, you can still find tiny flakes of gold in these hills. Novice fossickers are encouraged to take a tour to learn the tricks of the trade and to make sure you’re fossicking on approved public land. Gold panning tours and demonstrations with all the equipment you need are provided by Jhob’s Gold Panning Tours at Hill End, or The Sofala Collective.
Pick a pearler of a day for a swim
Head to Chifley Dam for the opening of the Bathurst Aqua Park. A fully patrolled, giant inflatable obstacle course just off the bank with a shaded viewing area. The dam is full of fresh water after lots of recent rainfall. On a hot day, it’s the best place to cool off in the sparkling water. Enjoy a day on the boat with two ramps to launch into all your favourite water sports. Make sure to check the opening status and hours of the dam before you visit.
Indulge in rich flavours
Bathurst is quite the foodie destination. Local wineries, distilleries and breweries can all be discovered, along with some of the region’s most talked about emerging restaurants. Some of our top favourites to try out this summer are Reckless Brewing Co, Church Bar + Woodfired Pizza, Vine and Tap, Renzaglia Wines, Antica Australis, The Rockley Pub and Bathurst Grange Distillery. Take home some local produce from the Bathurst Farmer’s Market on the fourth Saturday of each month at the Bathurst Showground, or Rockley Artisans Market on the second Saturday of each month at the Rockley sports ground.
Open doors to the region’s prize possessions
Historic homes, gardens and museums provide treasure hunters with a bounty of fun. Abercrombie House, Miss Traill’s House and Garden, Mayfield Garden and the Museums of Bathurst all offer a unique and fascinating view into the window of regional Australia. Discover the best kept secrets of these places while wandering through enchanting spaces. Step back in time inside immaculately preserved historic homes, admire trains, automobiles and dinosaurs, and explore palatial gardens. You will feel like royalty.
Wander among precious stones
Ancient granite boulders perch atop the rolling hills of Tarana valley at Evans Crown Nature Reserve. Climb to the top where a free form track allows you to explore all the nooks and crannies created by the rocks. Reward yourself with lunch at Tarana Pub on the way back.
Jenolan Caves and Abercrombie Caves boast amazing underground limestone formations that have inspired awe for generations. Although unfortunately, the recent wild weather has impacted access to these sites, so always check the website or contact Bathurst Visitor Information Centre before you plan to visit.
Take home some treasures of your own
Beautiful quality clothes, shoes and accessories, children’s items, decor and home wares, and locally produced items. All can be found dotted around the region in beautiful retail spaces. We recommend The Olive Robin in Rockley, Dejorja, Gorgeousness Home, Bake, Table and Tea and Mooi Plants where you’re sure to find a Bathurst region keepsake.
