Central West Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally stunning Central West in New South Wales, Australia, through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Central West

Located in New South Wales, Australia, Central West boasts of some of the most stunning scenery and culturally rich attractions. Comprising of some of the most famous towns in the region, like Bathurst, Orange, and Dubbo, Central West has a lot to offer to all kinds of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Central West

If you’re planning a trip to Central West, make sure to visit the following places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bathurst Heritage Trail: This 5-kilometer trail takes you through 36 of Bathurst’s most important heritage sights.

  • Orange Regional Museum: Learn about the rich history of Orange and its surrounding areas in this modern and interactive museum.

  • Old Dubbo Gaol: Experience life inside a 19th-century prison in this well-preserved heritage site.

Natural Attractions of Central West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Warrumbungle National Park: Go for a hike or witness the stunning starry sky in this UNESCO-recognized dark sky park.

  • Mount Canobolas: This dormant volcano offers breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for hiking.

  • Goulburn River National Park: Go camping, fishing, or kayaking in this beautiful park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central West

Central West is home to some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in Australia. Make sure to check out the following:

  • Goulburn River National Park: Walk along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views in this national park.

  • Mount Canobolas: This dormant volcano offers a challenging hiking trail and is popular among bikers as well.

  • Belubula River Walk: Follow the path along the Belubula River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Central West: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Get a bird’s-eye view of Central West with a hot air balloon ride.

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Experience the rich wine culture of Central West with wine tasting tours in famous vineyards.

  • Taronga Western Plains Zoo: Visit the largest animal park in New South Wales and witness a variety of wildlife from around the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central West

Day 1: Arrival in Bathurst Day 2-3: Explore Bathurst Heritage Trail, Mount Panorama Circuit, and Abercrombie House. Day 4-5: Orange Regional Museum, wine tasting tours, and visit town markets Day 6: Dubbo and Old Dubbo Gaol Day 7: Lazier River Picnic Grounds and Macquarie River

Food and Drink Scene of Central West

Central West is well-known for its culinary scene and wine culture. Make sure to try out the following:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb Shank: A slow-cooked lamb shank served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

  • Mouth-Watering Orange: A sweet, candy-like dessert made from boiling oranges.

  • Egg and Bacon Roll: A popular breakfast item in the area.

Local Beverages

  • Cool Climate Wines: Central West is famous for its cool climate wines, especially chardonnay and pinot noir.

  • Orange Apple Juice: This refreshing juice is made from locally grown apples and is a must-try.

Where to Stay in Central West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central West has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Make sure to check out the following:

  • Rydges Mount Panorama: A luxury hotel located in Bathurst with scenic views of Mount Panorama.

  • The Oriana: A budget-friendly hotel located in Orange, ideal for families and large groups.

  • Cattlemans Country Motor Inn: A cozy guesthouse located in Dubbo, perfect for those looking for a quiet getaway.

What to Buy in Central West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine: Take home a bottle of the famous Central West wine.

  • Handcrafted Soap: Purchase natural soaps made from locally sourced ingredients.

  • Art and Crafts: Browse through a variety of art and crafts made by local designers and artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Central West

Central West is known for its friendly locals and slow-paced lifestyle. Respect the local culture and interact with the locals to learn more about their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Central West

Central West can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the fall and spring months (March-May and September-November). This time of year offers pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central West

Do:

  • Respect the local culture: Learn about the local customs and act accordingly.

  • Explore the outdoors: Central West is full of natural attractions, so make sure to get out and enjoy them.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the environment clean by disposing of trash properly.

  • Underestimate the weather: Make sure to pack accordingly as the weather can change quickly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central West

Central West is a safe place to visit, but it’s always recommended to take basic safety precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.

Health in Central West

Make sure to bring any necessary medication with you, as medical facilities may be limited in some areas. The tap water in Central West is safe to drink.

Getting to Central West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central West

  • Bathurst Airport
  • Orange Airport
  • Dubbo City Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Central West

  • Bathurst Bus Station
  • Orange Bus Station
  • Dubbo Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car Hire: Renting a car is a great way to explore Central West at your own pace.

  • Train: Trains run between Sydney and Bathurst or Orange.

How to Get Around in Central West

Central West is easily navigated by car or public transportation. Taxis are also available in all major towns.

Where to Go Next from Central West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Blue Mountains National Park: Only a few hours’ drive from Central West, Blue Mountains is a World Heritage site that offers stunning scenery and adventure activities.

  • Mudgee: Known for its gourmet food and wine, Mudgee is a popular destination for foodies.

  • Canberra: Australia’s capital city, Canberra, is only a few hours’ drive from Central West and offers a variety of attractions for tourists.

Conclusion

Central West in New South Wales is a true gem that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, it offers an unforgettable experience to all visitors. So why wait? Book your tickets to Central West today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Cowra Japanese Gardens Cowra Japanese Gardens


    Abercrombie River National Park
    Bathurst
    Coolah Tops National Park
    Coonabarabran
    Dubbo
    Forbes
    Goobang National Park
    Grenfell
    Hill End
    Lake Cargelligo
    Mudgee
    Narromine
    Warrumbungle National Park
    Weddin Mountains National Park
    West Wyalong