Broken Hill Travel Guide

Broken Hill is one of the largest outback cities in New South Wales and is renowned for its history, mining culture, and heritage buildings. Here is a comprehensive guide to Broken Hill, including the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Broken Hill, NSW: A Comprehensive Travel and Tourism Guide

Broken Hill is one of the largest outback cities in New South Wales, situated in the Far West region of the state. It has been dubbed as the Silver City, as the city has a rich mining history. The town is renowned for its heritage buildings, museums, and galleries along with natural attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. There are plenty of things to see and do in Broken Hill. This comprehensive travel guide will give you all the information you need to help plan your visit and make the most of your time in the town.

Introduction to Broken Hill

Broken Hill is a vibrant and rich outback town that is teeming with history, culture, and art. It is located approximately 1,160 kilometers west of Sydney and is accessible by air, road, or train. The city’s first claims of mineral deposits occurred in 1883 and from there the mining boom commenced which made the city wealthy and prosperous and still remains one of the world’s richest mineral deposits. Over the years, Broken Hill has become popular for its museums, galleries, heritage buildings, and natural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Broken Hill

Broken Hill is home to different natural and cultural attractions. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Living Desert Sculptures: The Living Desert Sculptures are a must-see for any art lover in town. These impressive sculptures were created by artists from around the world and are situated in a desert parkland on the edge of town.
  • Broken Hill Art Gallery: For art lovers, the Broken Hill Art Gallery is a must-visit. The Gallery is home to an extensive collection of Australian art dating back to the 1800s as well as featuring many contemporary exhibitions of local artists.
  • Silver City Mint and Art Centre: For a unique experience, head to the Silver City Mint and Art Centre. You can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the mining process, or simply check out some of the amazing artworks and souvenirs produced in-house.

Natural Attractions of Broken Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Mundi Mundi Plains: Located approximately 30 kilometers away from Broken Hill, the Mundi Mundi Plains offers visitors stunning 360-degree views of the landscape.
  • The Day Dream Mine: The Day Dream Mine is an excellent attraction for history buffs visiting Broken Hill. This mine was operational between 1882 and 1914 and was one of the richest mines in the region.
  • Sturt National Park: Sturt National Park is another must-see attraction in the area and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including bird watching, hiking, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Broken Hill

Broken Hill boasts a landscape that is perfect for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore.

  • The Miner’s Track: This six-kilometer track captures the mining history of the town and takes you through scenic views.
  • The Sundown Walk: This 4.5 km walk takes you through an area of unique flora and remnants of past mining activities. It is recommended for those who love taking pictures of nature at its best.

Best Things to Do in Broken Hill: Activities and Tours

  • Country and Outback Experience: Enjoy a day tour across the region to remote places like Silverton and the Mundi Mundi plains.
  • Broken Hill Heritage Walk Tour: For history lovers, the Broken Hill Heritage Walk tour takes you through Broad and Argent Street to explore the heritage-listed buildings like Trades Hall and Sturt Park.
  • Silverton Outback Dinner and Gallery Tour: Explore the historic town of Silverton and enjoy dinner surrounded by the beautiful artworks on display.

Week-Long Itinerary for Broken Hill

Here is a week-long itinerary for Broken Hill that covers the best attractions and activities:

  • Day 1: Explore the town’s history and architecture by taking a self-guided tour of the heritage buildings.
  • Day 2: Visit one of the regional wine cellars and enjoy some locally-made cheese.
  • Day 3: Head to the Miner’s Track for a six-kilometer walk and take in the town’s landscape.
  • Day 4: Enjoy a tour of the town’s art galleries and museums.
  • Day 5: Take an outback tour to sites like Mundi Mundi Plains and Silverton.
  • Day 6: Explore the Day Dream Mine.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy a drink or two at the local pubs and bars in the neighborhood.

Food and Drink Scene of Broken Hill

The town offers visitors a range of local cuisine and drinks to enjoy. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Outback Pastie: A beautiful hand held pastry filled with savory meats and vegetable curries.
  • Roast Pork: This carved pork is cooked and smoked to perfection and served with locally grown vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • The famous Broken Heel Beer: This locally brewed beer is a refreshing beverage that you should try.
  • Lirlpa Wine: This wine is locally made and is a great accompaniment to any meal or as an end-of-day thirst-quencher.

Where to Stay in Broken Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Broken Hill, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Royal Exchange Hotel: Located in the city’s heart, the Royal Exchange Hotel is a boutique hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • The Silver Haven Motor Inn: A budget-friendly motel located outside the town, this is a popular option for travelers on a budget.
  • The Tourist Lodge Hostel: This hostel is a fantastic option for backpackers who want to take advantage of budget-friendly accommodations.

What to Buy in Broken Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home something special as a souvenir from your trip to Broken Hill, check out some of these local products and souvenirs:

  • Silver City Minerals: You can purchase a piece of history by taking home a mineral specimen from one of the town’s many mines.
  • Art: Broken Hill is known for its unique artwork and, as such, purchasing a piece of artwork to take home is a great souvenir.
  • Coffee from the Desert Olive Farm: Take a sip of locally roasted coffee beans from the Desert Olive Farm.

Local Culture and Customs of Broken Hill

The region’s cultural diversity is exceptional and reflects in Broken Hill’s food, customs, and people. The town’s mining heritage has contributed to its hard work ethos, a trait evident in the residents’ welcoming, friendly attitude to visitors.

Best Time to Visit Broken Hill

The town is packed with visitors throughout the year, and the right time to visit is subjective to your preferences. If you prefer warm weather, the best time to visit is from September to April. During this period, the weather is excellent for outdoor activities like hiking, bushwalking, and exploring the town sites.

Do’s and Don’ts of Broken Hill

Do:

  • Respect the locals’ privacy and adhere to guidelines on safety.
  • Take advantage of the town’s recycling facilities to maintain local sites’ cleanliness and protect the environment.

Don’t:

  • Avoid exploring local mines without permission or guidance as they can be dangerous.
  • Littering in public spaces is prohibited. Avoid dumping waste in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Broken Hill is a safe destination for travelers. Here is a guide to staying safe while in the town:

Safety in Broken Hill

The city’s crime rate is low, and most areas are safe for visitors. Some areas to avoid include the outskirts of the town that are less frequented by visitors.

Health in Broken Hill

While most health issues require minor treatment, there are a few recommended precautions before traveling to Broken Hill due to the high temperatures and limited medical facilities in the region. Ensure you drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

Getting to Broken Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Broken Hill is accessible through various transport modes, including air, road, and rail.

  • Air: The closest major airport is Dubbo Regional Airport in New South Wales, and the flight takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to Broken Hill Airport, which is closer to town and connects with major cities in Australia.
  • Bus: Several long-distance bus services connect the town to major cities like Sydney or Adelaide.
  • Rail: Broken Hill is served by the Indian Pacific train that runs between Sydney and Perth.

Airports Near Broken Hill

  • Broken Hill Airport: Located approximately 6 km from town, this airport is serviced by Qantaslink and Regional Express Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Broken Hill

  • Broken Hill Coach Terminal: Located at the Argent Street Station, this terminal is the main bus station in town and is serviced by various bus services.

Other Options

Self-driving or driving services are other options to consider. Major car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar have their operations in Broken Hill.

How to Get Around in Broken Hill

The primary way to get around is by car hire, taxi, or bus. Additionally, the town is also small enough to be explored on foot if you prefer to experience the local culture and attractions at a slower pace.

Where to Go Next from Broken Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of New South Wales or anywhere else in Australia, here are some recommendations:

  • Silverton: Known for its rugged landscape, Silverton is a historic town that offers visitors a real taste of the Australian bush.
  • Mungo National Park: Located approximately 150 km from Broken Hill, this park boasts unique landscapes and a rich Aboriginal history.
  • Woomera: Located approximately 420 kilometers away, this town is home to an extensive range of military memorabilia

Conclusion

Broken Hill is a unique and fascinating destination in the outback of New South Wales. It offers visitors a unique mix of history, culture, art, and natural attractions that will keep you engaged during your stay. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or an outdoor adventurer, there is something for everyone in Broken Hill. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has been helpful in planning your next visit to the town. Safe travels.

Broken Hill streets are often named after elements of the periodic table Broken Hill streets are often named after elements of the periodic table Miner's memorial and the cafe (on the right). Miner's memorial and the cafe (on the right).