Picton Travel Guide (Southern Highlands/New South Wales/Australia/Oceania)

Introduction to Picton

Picton is a small town located in the Southern Highlands region of New South Wales, Australia. It is known for its gorgeous natural scenery, quaint historic buildings, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Picton is an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and a chance to unwind in a tranquil environment.

List of Places to Visit in Picton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Picton Museum: Situated in the heart of the town, this museum showcases the area’s rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum: This museum provides insight into the region’s railway history with steam locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia.
Picton Botanic Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely stroll in these beautiful gardens that feature a diverse range of plant species, ponds, and sculptures. The garden is home to various events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Picton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pilot Wilderness Area: This area encompasses over 364,000 hectares of wilderness and is perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Thirlmere Lakes National Park: This park offers stunning scenery, fishing and birdwatching, and hiking trails.
Razorback Lookout: This lookout offers panoramic views of the nearby countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Picton

O’Hares Creek Lookout: This trail is approximately 2.5km and offers scenic views of the gorge.
Picton to Mittagong Walking and Cycling Track: This 10km path is perfect for hiking or cycling and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Mount Alexandra Reserve Walking Trail: This trail is approximately 2.5km and offers views of the surrounding bushland and small waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Picton: Activities and Tours

Skydive Picton: Experience the thrill of skydiving and take in the spectacular views of the region.
Picton Karting Track: Enjoy a day of karting with friends and family.
Wollondilly River Walk: This scenic walk offers picturesque views of the river and nearby wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Picton

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore Picton Botanic Gardens, Picton Museum, and have lunch at a local cafe
Day 2	Hike or cycle the Picton to Mittagong path and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Mittagong
Day 3	Visit the Thirlmere Lakes National Park and take a picnic lunch
Day 4	Go skydiving or karting in Picton
Day 5	Take the Mount Alexandra Reserve walking trail and relax in the afternoon with a visit to the Razorback Lookout
Day 6	Enjoy wildlife watching in the Pilot Wilderness Area
Day 7	Take a river walk along the Wollondilly River and have a picnic lunch

Food and Drink Scene of Picton

Must-Try Dishes

Pumpkin Soup: A starter dish available in many cafes and restaurants.
Meat Pie: A classic Australian dish available in many cafes and restaurants.
Fish and Chips: Freshly caught fish paired with crispy chips is a must-try.

Local Beverages

Shoalhaven Wines: A range of cellar doors in the area offer tastings.
Bargo River Farm: This local farm offers freshly made apple cider.

Where to Stay in Picton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Picton Valley Motel: This motel offers comfortable rooms and local knowledge of the area.
George IV Inn: A historic building that offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms
Poplars Inn: A quaint country homestead that offers unique rooms and a tranquil atmosphere.

What to Buy in Picton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Handmade Crafts and Artwork: Many local artisans sell their crafts, from pottery to paintings.
Local Produce: The region is known for its fresh fruit and vegetables, so be sure to bring some home.

Local Culture and Customs of Picton

The locals are very friendly and helpful, and visitors can experience the laid-back Australian lifestyle. Remember to be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Picton

The best time to visit Picton is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the countryside is blooming with flowers and fresh produce.

Do’s and Don’ts of Picton

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Be friendly and approachable.
Take in the beautiful natural scenery.

Don’t:

Litter in public spaces.
Disrespect the natural environment.
Disrespect other people’s property or belongings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Picton

Picton is a very safe and friendly town, but visitors should still take precautions such as locking doors and windows when leaving accommodations and being aware of surroundings.

Health in Picton

There are several medical facilities in Picton, including a hospital and medical center.

Getting to Picton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Picton

The closest major airport to Picton is Sydney Airport, approximately an hour and a half away.

Bus Stations Near Picton

Picton has a bus station that services several regional routes.

Other Options

Car rental is also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in Picton

The best way to get around Picton is by car, but there are also several taxis and buses that service the area.

Where to Go Next from Picton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bowral: This nearby town is known for its cafes, wineries, and pristine gardens.
Kangaroo Valley: A scenic valley with wineries, natural attractions, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Picton is a charming town filled with natural beauty and exciting outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the local cultural and historical attractions, taste delicious food and drinks, and unwind in a tranquil environment. Plan your trip to Picton, and experience everything this stunning region has to offer.

Picton Image Gallery

The historic railway viaduct is still in use