Bathurst for Art Aficionados

The Bathurst region has a long history with the Australian visual arts. The town of Hill End has been a beacon for artists since the late 1940s, with the town’s distinctive blend of landscapes, gold-mining history and architecture attracting generations of Australian artists. 

One of Australia’s most celebrated artists, Brett Whiteley, was even inspired to become an artist after discovering a Van Gogh book in a Bathurst church. John Olsen, Donald Friend and Russell Drysdale are among a stellar list of artists who also spent time in Hill End, with one of the most famous Australian paintings being Drysdale’s Sofala. The Hill End Artists in Residence program, run by the Bathurst Art Gallery, ensures this thriving art scene lives on today.

Saturday

9am – Breakfast at Legall Patisserie Café

10am – Bathurst Regional Art Gallery

Walk across the road from Legall’s to the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery. Home to an impressive permanent collection including works from well-known Australian artists such as John Olsen and Fred Williams, as well as one of the finest collections of Lloyd Rees’ artworks in the state, the gallery also features exhibits from local and international artists. You can easily spend a few hours in here, exploring the gallery at your own pace.

1pm – Lunch at The Parkview Restaurant

From the Gallery, wander to The Parkview Restaurant via Keppel Street, which is lined with cool vintage and boutique shops. In the warmer months, grab a table on the deck at The Parkview Restaurant for a bird’s eye view of the city overlooking Kings Parade, or in winter, cosy up by the indoor fireplace while you enjoy a meal off the seasonal menu such as the lamb rump with mushrooms, pea puree, sweet potato and mint pesto.

3pm – Visit t.arts Gallery

Be inspired by the creativity of Bathurst’s local artists just a short walk from The Parkview at t.arts Gallery. Local artists are often spotted hanging out in the gallery so you might be able to have a chat to them about their work which ranges from textiles, ceramics, photography, oils and jewellery. One creative artist even sells scrumptious lavender products that she creates from her own lavender farm. Don’t leave without popping next door to Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour (82/86 George St, 02 6331 8088) for a Sofala Gold or Bridle Track treat.

7pm – Dinner at Cobblestone Lane

Overnight - Stay at Stay at Loloma’s White Rock

Make yourself at home during your stay - check into Loloma’s White Rock in one of their boutique self-contained suites. Loloma's is just 10 minutes from the centre of Bathurst on a beautiful estate overlooking lush landscaped gardens.

Sunday