Sheep station and shearing shed buildings.

Central West

The Central West is also known as Heart of Country.

Nestled in the middle of the East Coast of Australia lies a hidden gem—the Central West region of New South Wales. This area has so much to offer, from its vast wildlife parks and breathtaking scenery to its bustling towns and villages. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, this is certainly the place for you.

The Central West includes two cities, Bathurst and Orange; three large towns Cowra, Parkes and Lithgow and other smaller centres which include Oberon, Mudgee, and Forbes, and other small towns and villages such as Cudal, Molong, Grenfell, West Wyalong, Condobolin and Eugowra.

If you're looking for outdoor adventure during your visit to Central West New South Wales, then you won't be disappointed! This region is home to some truly breathtaking natural wonders, including Jenolan Caves - a network of limestone caves that are over 340 million years old - as well as Yarrangobilly Caves and Blue Mountains National Park. The Central West area was originally inhabited by the Wiradjuri people. 

Whether you're into hiking, camping or just relaxing in nature, there's something here for everyone!


Wildlife Parks & Nature Reserves

The Central West region is home to some stunning wildlife parks and nature reserves. Orange Wildlife Park houses numerous native Australian animals on over 30 acres of land and provides visitors with the chance to meet kangaroos, wallabies, emus, dingoes, and more up close! Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo is also a must-visit spot; here you can admire giraffes, elephants, rhinos, zebras and various other species in their large open-range enclosures. If you’re looking to explore a bit further afield, why not embark on an epic road trip through the Blue Mountains? This World Heritage Site really showcases nature at its finest!

Cultural Attractions & Events

Central West NSW has plenty of cultural attractions on offer too. From Mudgee’s art galleries to Bathurst’s museums and historical sites, there is something here for everyone. These include the historical Hill End Goldrush Village which offers an insight into life during Australia’s gold rush era; Mudgee Town Hall which hosts live performances throughout the year; and Mudgee Heritage Walk which takes you on a journey through time exploring some of Mudgee’s oldest buildings. The region also hosts numerous exciting events throughout the year; music festivals such as Parkes Elvis Festival draw in big crowds while foodie festivals like Orange F.O.O.D Week are great for sampling some delicious local produce!

Accommodation & Activities

The Central West also boasts a wide range of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to camping grounds - whatever your budget or preference may be! And if you’re looking for something fun to do during your stay then look no further; there are plenty of activities here including bushwalking, horse riding, fishing trips and hot air balloon rides – so why not take full advantage?

The Central West region of New South Wales is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by intrepid explorers. Central West New South Wales offers something for everyone; from stunning natural wonders to charming towns and villages, there's no shortage of things to do here! Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or cultural attractions, this region has it all. From its fascinating wildlife parks and nature reserves to its cultural attractions and events – it won’t disappoint! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful part of Australia!!

THINGS TO SEE

MORE ABOUT NSW

MAJOR TOWNS & CITIES

In the Central West you'll find ghost towns from the gold rush days.

An Aboriginal man from the region named Bungaree accompanied explorer Matthew Flinders in circumnavigating Australia. Matthew Flinders named Australia.

TAKE ME THERE ...

  • Cranky Rock
    Cranky Rock
    The Cranky Rock Recreation Reserve in New South Wales offers a range of activities for all ages
  • Explore Nobby’s Beach
    Explore Nobby’s Beach
    Nobby’s Beach is full of activities and fun for the whole family
  • Parkes' (Murriyang) Role in Space
    Parkes' (Murriyang) Role in Space
    Parkes Observatory is a radio telescope observatory is owned and operated by Australia’s national science agency – CSIRO.
  • A Taste of Orange without Oranges
    A Taste of Orange without Oranges
    The city of Orange sits at the foot of an extinct volcano, and is located in the Central West region of New South Wales, four hour’s drive west of Sydney.
  • Bathurst - King of the Mountain
    Bathurst - King of the Mountain
    Bathurst is the oldest inland settlement in Australia, often referred to as the Gold Country and home to Mount Panorama racetrack.
Broken Hill - A Movie Favourite
Broken Hill - A Movie Favourite

Despite its humble size, Broken Hill has played a significant role in the movie industry over the past decades.

The Monte Cristo Homestead
The Monte Cristo Homestead

Visitors to the Monte Cristo Homestead report seeing eerie lights at the homestead or weird feelings where murders have occurred.

Celebrating the Sydney Opera House's 50th Birthday
Sydney Opera House's 50th Birthday

The Sydney Opera House is an iconic architectural masterpiece that celebrates 50 years of history and a promising future.

The Sapphire Coast
The Sapphire Coast

The Sapphire Coast stretches from Bermagui to the north in New South Wales to the Victorian border in the south.

Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is situated on western outskirts of the Sydney CBD with activities and things to do for most tastes and people.

Cranky Rock
Cranky Rock

The Cranky Rock Recreation Reserve in New South Wales offers a range of activities for all ages

New South Wales - Overview
About New South Wales

New South Wales, the first frontier! It from here that the rest of Australia began its journey. So not only do you get to enjoy all it has to offer, but you also get to witness a bit of history also.

A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse
A Brief History of the Tacking Point Lighthouse

Built in 1879, Tacking Point Lighthouse has been a beacon for sailors and coastal explorers.

Exploring the Outback - Lightning Ridge
Exploring the Outback - Lightning Ridge

With plenty to see and do - from gem fossicking to bushwalking - Lightning Ridge is well worth a visit!

Kiama Coast Walk
Kiama Coast Walk

A 90 minute drive south of Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive is Kiama, where you’ll discover uncrowded beaches, marine and national parks.


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