Clear skies & fine wines…
Venture past the Blue Mountains to the forested and artisanal heart of New South Wales on this eight-day Warrumbungles adventure. From Sydney, jump on the road with a group of like-minded solo travellers bound for regional delights including produce tastings, wilderness walks through verdant national parks, visits to The Dish observatory and the Three Sisters lookout, and enjoy the world-renowned Hunter Valley wineries. Passing through Broke, Woollobi, Mudgee and a whole host of local outposts, you’ll get a true sense of what regional Australia is all about—keeping it local and laidback.and rugged natural beauty.
Will you join us?
DAY 1 Thursday 15th Sep 2022
SYDNEY
Welcome to Sydney! A group arrival transfer is included today. No other services are included so on arrival in Sydney please enjoy free time.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 2 Friday 16th Sep 2022
SYDNEY (B/D)
Enjoy a half-day Sydney sights tour through the eyes of a local—we set off in the morning on a sightseeing tour that takes in all of the city’s most popular sights; visit the glamorous Bondi Beach, travel through The Rocks and Paddington, and take in the views from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point. Enjoy a free afternoon in the city before we meet back up for a wonderful sunset cruise on Sydney Harbour. You’ll have the opportunity to take some wonderful photo memories of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge while you enjoy a fantastic 3 course meal and drinks.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 3 Saturday 17th Sep 2022
BLUE MOUNTAINS – ORANGE (B)
After breakfast, leave the city behind, take a coffee stop en route, and begin breathing in the fresh air of the Blue Mountains. Your first stop is one of Australia’s most renowned vistas—the Three Sisters and Echo Point Lookout. Stretch your legs and have your camera handy for some amazing shots. Continue your journey west hugging the range, keeping your eyes peeled for kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles in and above the plains. Purchase some lunch and enjoy as you continue your drive towards Orange, arriving in the mid-afternoon. After a reasonable amount of driving today, it’s time to relax. Join the group as your friendly hosts provide an included array of local wines and produce to welcome you to regional NSW.
Accommodation: Your own room at Hotel Canobolas or similar
DAY 4 Sunday 18th Sep 2022
PARKES – WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. (B)
Treat yourself to a gourmet breakfast at an Orange cafe with your group, with sweet and savoury options, plus some great coffee. Continue towards Parkes—home of the mighty CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope. The Dish, made famous by the 2000 Australian film of the same name, has been crucial in receiving data from space exploration, including during the Apollo 11 mission. After exploring the site, continue to Warrumbungle National Park. Formed over millions of years, the Warrumbungle region is a bushwalker, birdwatcher and stargazer’s dream. This afternoon, hear from a local ranger the First Nations history of this area—the wildlife, nature, geography and cultural significance of this land. There’s time to ask questions and understand the importance of this region to traditional owners. Afterwards, retire to your nearby accommodation, nestled in a valley and flanked by the Castlereagh River. Tonight, head to Peter Starr’s Warrumbungle Observatory and experience an eye-opening 90-minute astronomy and stargazing presentation. Learn about how to navigate the night sky, see up to four telescopes in action, and get the chance to snap some incredible shots of the Milky Way. This area is home to Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, so no pollution or light will impede your view of the constellations on full display.
Accommodation: Your own room at Warrumbungle Mountain Motel or similar
DAY 5 Monday 19th Sep 2022
WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. (B)
Enjoy a hearty included breakfast, then head back to visit the Warrumbungle National Park another time on a leader-led walk. Depending on your group’s desires and fitness level, there is a range of walks in the national park that you can discuss at the visitor centre, including the Spirey View Track (approximately 2 hours) or to Whitegum Lookout (30 minutes). There may even be some better trails if you are all interested in a spot of birdwatching this morning. Later in the afternoon, you have plenty of time to explore the area at your own pace, or instead simply relax back at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Your own room at Warrumbungle Mountain Motel or similar
DAY 6 Tuesday 20th Sep 2022
WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. – MUDGEE (B)
After breakfast with your group surrounded by the mountains, set off on a drive towards the historical, cultural and epicurean highlights of the region. Make your way to the regional town of Gulgong, home to the Henry Lawson Museum—the revered Australian writer and bush poet. After soaking up some stanzas and Gulgong’s small-town feel, continue to Mudgee where you’ll enjoy some local wine and produce tastings. If you haven’t realised by now, regional NSW is renowned for its high quality and locally sourced produce, especially wines. While on holidays, it’s all the more reason to get a true taste of a place, so why not indulge yourself! Tonight, celebrate your regional NSW adventure with your group, perhaps with dinner in town. There are plenty of places within walking distance of your comfortable accommodation tonight, so feel free to ask your leader for their recommendations.
Accommodation: Your own room at Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee or similar
DAY 7 Wednesday 21st Sep 2022
HUNTER VALLEY – SYDNEY (B/D)
Continue to be impressed by regional NSW’s food scene with some breakfast at a local cafe, before joining the group in your private vehicle for a road trip back to Sydney via the back roads through Broke, Woollobi and the renowned Hunter Valley. Today is a relaxed day with plenty of stops along the way to stretch your legs, buy some food and appreciate the scenery at viewpoints. Plus in the afternoon, you’ll stop by a boutique winery in the Hunter Valley for a tasting, further reinforcing how good the region’s drop is. Arrive back in Sydney in the late afternoon and enjoy some free time before our group farewell dinner tonight.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 8 Thursday 22nd Sep 2022
SYDNEY (B)
Today, your adventure comes to an end and it’s time to say a fond farewell to our newfound friends. A group departure transfer to the airport is included.
TOUR DATES: 15TH – 22ND SEPTEMBER 2022
TOUR PRICING: A$4,826 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES
Macleay Hotel
The Macleay Hotel Potts Point has one of Sydney’s most coveted and stylish locations, with captivating views of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the city skyline.
You can stroll to Sydney’s most famous landmarks, walk to Circular Quay for a ferry ride, or be in the heart of the city in just five minutes. Just out our door are the restaurants, cafes, bars and gourmet food stores of vibrant Macleay Street.
Hotel Canobolas
The Hotel Canobolas is one of the Central Wests most iconic hotels. Situated in the heart of Orange NSW – a local institution “The Nobby” was built by Tooheys in 1938. The hotel offers guests a series of spaces for celebrating, socialising, drinking, dining and events as well as accommodation for all travellers in our hotel, motel and units.
Enjoy the front bar and sports bar for an outstanding range of craft or mainstream beers and ciders, local cool climate wines and a menu of moreish bar snacks.
Linger longer with friends over the tempting easy eating menu at the magnificently renovated steakhouse, wood fire pizza restaurant and bistro and garden bar. Enjoy the extensive range of wood fire pizza, tantalising pub style mains and “paddock to plate” Angus and Hereford steaks all finished with a contemporary flair.
Warrumbungle Mountain Motel
Nestled in a picturesque, quiet & peaceful valley, bounded on 3 sides by the Castlereagh River it is the closest accommodation to the Warrumbungle National Park & Peter Starr’s Warrumbungle Observatory. The perfect location for bush walkers, bird watchers, astronomers,car & bike clubs, churches and school groups & families. With 3 function areas we are able to cater for your every need from seminars, workshops and conferences to weddings, birthdays and reunions. The Pine Lodge can seat 50 people, the Brigalow room which is semi outdoor can seat 45 and the Warrumbungle function centre which is a marquee like structure with permanent roof and clear sides which has a capacity of around 150. Catering is available in all areas and it is licensed premises. There is front door/back door access to most rooms, gas barbecue facilities available behind each block of units and playground facilities provided as well as a salt water pool.
Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee
Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee offers a luxurious stay close to the heart of Mudgee on the edge of town. Offering a range of accommodation options from Luxe to homely that include pillow top beds, free Netflix and super speed Wi-Fi. Our on-site restaurant Palate Mudgee specialises in modern Australian cuisine. Let our kitchen team treat you to a seasonal meal while you enjoy our wide range of local wine and beer. Travellers call Mudgee ‘magical’ for a reason… you either won’t want to leave or you won’t be able to wait until you come back. Let us be your hosts for your accommodation in Mudgee and you won’t regret it.
Warrumbungle National Park
Warrumbungle National Park is a heritage listed national park located in the Orana region of New South Wales, Australia. The national park is located approximately 550 kilometres (340 mi) northwest of Sydney and contained within 23,311 hectares (57,600 acres). The park attracts approximately 35,000 visitors per annum.
The national park is based on the geographical Warrumbungle Mountain Range, sometimes shortened to the Warrumbungles, and thus the park name is often heard in the plural. The park lies within the Pilliga Important Bird Area, so identified by BirdLife International because of its importance for a range of woodland bird species, many of which are threatened.
Warrumbungle National Park was added to the Australian National Heritage List in December 2006.
On 4 July 2016, the park was the first within Australia to be certified as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association.
Tour Inclusions:
- Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
- 7 nights’ accommodation
- Solo room – always!
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
- All sightseeing, guided tours and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
Tour Exclusions:
- Travel Insurance
- International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
- Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs and phone calls
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
- Visa costs (if applicable)
- Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
- Gratuities (optional)
Clear skies & fine wines…
Venture past the Blue Mountains to the forested and artisanal heart of New South Wales on this eight-day Warrumbungles adventure. From Sydney, jump on the road with a group of like-minded solo travellers bound for regional delights including produce tastings, wilderness walks through verdant national parks, visits to The Dish observatory and the Three Sisters lookout, and enjoy the world-renowned Hunter Valley wineries. Passing through Broke, Woollobi, Mudgee and a whole host of local outposts, you’ll get a true sense of what regional Australia is all about—keeping it local and laidback.and rugged natural beauty.
Will you join us?
DAY 1 Thursday 15th Sep 2022
SYDNEY
Welcome to Sydney! A group arrival transfer is included today. No other services are included so on arrival in Sydney please enjoy free time.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 2 Friday 16th Sep 2022
SYDNEY (B/D)
Enjoy a half-day Sydney sights tour through the eyes of a local—we set off in the morning on a sightseeing tour that takes in all of the city’s most popular sights; visit the glamorous Bondi Beach, travel through The Rocks and Paddington, and take in the views from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point. Enjoy a free afternoon in the city before we meet back up for a wonderful sunset cruise on Sydney Harbour. You’ll have the opportunity to take some wonderful photo memories of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge while you enjoy a fantastic 3 course meal and drinks.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 3 Saturday 17th Sep 2022
BLUE MOUNTAINS – ORANGE (B)
After breakfast, leave the city behind, take a coffee stop en route, and begin breathing in the fresh air of the Blue Mountains. Your first stop is one of Australia’s most renowned vistas—the Three Sisters and Echo Point Lookout. Stretch your legs and have your camera handy for some amazing shots. Continue your journey west hugging the range, keeping your eyes peeled for kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles in and above the plains. Purchase some lunch and enjoy as you continue your drive towards Orange, arriving in the mid-afternoon. After a reasonable amount of driving today, it’s time to relax. Join the group as your friendly hosts provide an included array of local wines and produce to welcome you to regional NSW.
Accommodation: Your own room at Hotel Canobolas or similar
DAY 4 Sunday 18th Sep 2022
PARKES – WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. (B)
Treat yourself to a gourmet breakfast at an Orange cafe with your group, with sweet and savoury options, plus some great coffee. Continue towards Parkes—home of the mighty CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope. The Dish, made famous by the 2000 Australian film of the same name, has been crucial in receiving data from space exploration, including during the Apollo 11 mission. After exploring the site, continue to Warrumbungle National Park. Formed over millions of years, the Warrumbungle region is a bushwalker, birdwatcher and stargazer’s dream. This afternoon, hear from a local ranger the First Nations history of this area—the wildlife, nature, geography and cultural significance of this land. There’s time to ask questions and understand the importance of this region to traditional owners. Afterwards, retire to your nearby accommodation, nestled in a valley and flanked by the Castlereagh River. Tonight, head to Peter Starr’s Warrumbungle Observatory and experience an eye-opening 90-minute astronomy and stargazing presentation. Learn about how to navigate the night sky, see up to four telescopes in action, and get the chance to snap some incredible shots of the Milky Way. This area is home to Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, so no pollution or light will impede your view of the constellations on full display.
Accommodation: Your own room at Warrumbungle Mountain Motel or similar
DAY 5 Monday 19th Sep 2022
WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. (B)
Enjoy a hearty included breakfast, then head back to visit the Warrumbungle National Park another time on a leader-led walk. Depending on your group’s desires and fitness level, there is a range of walks in the national park that you can discuss at the visitor centre, including the Spirey View Track (approximately 2 hours) or to Whitegum Lookout (30 minutes). There may even be some better trails if you are all interested in a spot of birdwatching this morning. Later in the afternoon, you have plenty of time to explore the area at your own pace, or instead simply relax back at your accommodation.
Accommodation: Your own room at Warrumbungle Mountain Motel or similar
DAY 6 Tuesday 20th Sep 2022
WARRUMBUNGLE N.P. – MUDGEE (B)
After breakfast with your group surrounded by the mountains, set off on a drive towards the historical, cultural and epicurean highlights of the region. Make your way to the regional town of Gulgong, home to the Henry Lawson Museum—the revered Australian writer and bush poet. After soaking up some stanzas and Gulgong’s small-town feel, continue to Mudgee where you’ll enjoy some local wine and produce tastings. If you haven’t realised by now, regional NSW is renowned for its high quality and locally sourced produce, especially wines. While on holidays, it’s all the more reason to get a true taste of a place, so why not indulge yourself! Tonight, celebrate your regional NSW adventure with your group, perhaps with dinner in town. There are plenty of places within walking distance of your comfortable accommodation tonight, so feel free to ask your leader for their recommendations.
Accommodation: Your own room at Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee or similar
DAY 7 Wednesday 21st Sep 2022
HUNTER VALLEY – SYDNEY (B/D)
Continue to be impressed by regional NSW’s food scene with some breakfast at a local cafe, before joining the group in your private vehicle for a road trip back to Sydney via the back roads through Broke, Woollobi and the renowned Hunter Valley. Today is a relaxed day with plenty of stops along the way to stretch your legs, buy some food and appreciate the scenery at viewpoints. Plus in the afternoon, you’ll stop by a boutique winery in the Hunter Valley for a tasting, further reinforcing how good the region’s drop is. Arrive back in Sydney in the late afternoon and enjoy some free time before our group farewell dinner tonight.
Accommodation: Your own room at Macleay Hotel or similar
DAY 8 Thursday 22nd Sep 2022
SYDNEY (B)
Today, your adventure comes to an end and it’s time to say a fond farewell to our newfound friends. A group departure transfer to the airport is included.
TOUR DATES: 15TH – 22ND SEPTEMBER 2022
TOUR PRICING: A$4,826 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES
Macleay Hotel
The Macleay Hotel Potts Point has one of Sydney’s most coveted and stylish locations, with captivating views of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the city skyline.
You can stroll to Sydney’s most famous landmarks, walk to Circular Quay for a ferry ride, or be in the heart of the city in just five minutes. Just out our door are the restaurants, cafes, bars and gourmet food stores of vibrant Macleay Street.
Hotel Canobolas
The Hotel Canobolas is one of the Central Wests most iconic hotels. Situated in the heart of Orange NSW – a local institution “The Nobby” was built by Tooheys in 1938. The hotel offers guests a series of spaces for celebrating, socialising, drinking, dining and events as well as accommodation for all travellers in our hotel, motel and units.
Enjoy the front bar and sports bar for an outstanding range of craft or mainstream beers and ciders, local cool climate wines and a menu of moreish bar snacks.
Linger longer with friends over the tempting easy eating menu at the magnificently renovated steakhouse, wood fire pizza restaurant and bistro and garden bar. Enjoy the extensive range of wood fire pizza, tantalising pub style mains and “paddock to plate” Angus and Hereford steaks all finished with a contemporary flair.
Warrumbungle Mountain Motel
Nestled in a picturesque, quiet & peaceful valley, bounded on 3 sides by the Castlereagh River it is the closest accommodation to the Warrumbungle National Park & Peter Starr’s Warrumbungle Observatory. The perfect location for bush walkers, bird watchers, astronomers,car & bike clubs, churches and school groups & families. With 3 function areas we are able to cater for your every need from seminars, workshops and conferences to weddings, birthdays and reunions. The Pine Lodge can seat 50 people, the Brigalow room which is semi outdoor can seat 45 and the Warrumbungle function centre which is a marquee like structure with permanent roof and clear sides which has a capacity of around 150. Catering is available in all areas and it is licensed premises. There is front door/back door access to most rooms, gas barbecue facilities available behind each block of units and playground facilities provided as well as a salt water pool.
Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee
Comfort Inn Aden Mudgee offers a luxurious stay close to the heart of Mudgee on the edge of town. Offering a range of accommodation options from Luxe to homely that include pillow top beds, free Netflix and super speed Wi-Fi. Our on-site restaurant Palate Mudgee specialises in modern Australian cuisine. Let our kitchen team treat you to a seasonal meal while you enjoy our wide range of local wine and beer. Travellers call Mudgee ‘magical’ for a reason… you either won’t want to leave or you won’t be able to wait until you come back. Let us be your hosts for your accommodation in Mudgee and you won’t regret it.
Warrumbungle National Park
Warrumbungle National Park is a heritage listed national park located in the Orana region of New South Wales, Australia. The national park is located approximately 550 kilometres (340 mi) northwest of Sydney and contained within 23,311 hectares (57,600 acres). The park attracts approximately 35,000 visitors per annum.
The national park is based on the geographical Warrumbungle Mountain Range, sometimes shortened to the Warrumbungles, and thus the park name is often heard in the plural. The park lies within the Pilliga Important Bird Area, so identified by BirdLife International because of its importance for a range of woodland bird species, many of which are threatened.
Warrumbungle National Park was added to the Australian National Heritage List in December 2006.
On 4 July 2016, the park was the first within Australia to be certified as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association.
Tour Inclusions:
- Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
- 7 nights’ accommodation
- Solo room – always!
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
- All sightseeing, guided tours and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
Tour Exclusions:
- Travel Insurance
- International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
- Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs and phone calls
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
- Visa costs (if applicable)
- Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
- Gratuities (optional)