Road Trip - Central West

DRAFT - NOT RELEASED YET The Central West of NSW offers a vibrant blend of nature, heritage, and adventure—making it a must-visit for travellers seeking authentic country experiences and scenic breaks from city life. Just beyond the western edge of the Blue Mountains lies the spectacular 7 Valleys region, where dramatic valleys, rivers, and historic towns invite exploration and relaxation. 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 With its close proximity, the greater 7 Valleys region is perfect for a day trip, offering easy access by car from the heart of the Blue Mountains. Visitors can discover iconic attractions like the Zig Zag Railway, Hassans Walls Lookout, Lithgow, Gardens of Stone, the Glow Worm Tunnel, Lake Wallace, Lake Lyell, Hartley, Tarana, Oberon, Portland and Rydal, all surrounded by natural beauty and friendly local hospitality. Experiences and Attractions Be inspired by bushwalking, birdwatching, and creative arts in Lithgow and the valleys. Enjoy regional flavours with markets, family-run wineries, and local produce tours. Relax with a spa retreat, go horse riding, glamping, farm experiences or simply unwind beside a crackling fire in one of the area’s cosy cabins or hotels.

Newnes Plateau

Glow Worm Tunnel

The Glow Worm Tunnel is a unique natural attraction located in the Wollemi National Park. It is famous for its population of glow worms that illuminate the tunnel, creating a magical experience for visitors. The tunnel is accessible via a scenic walking track, making it a popular spot for

Clarence

Zig Zag Railway

The Zig Zag Railway is a historic railway located in the Blue Mountains, offering scenic rides through beautiful landscapes. It features a unique zig-zag track that allows trains to navigate the steep terrain, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Hartley

Alchemy Woodfired Pizza

Alchemy Woodfired Pizza is a popular eatery known for its delicious woodfired pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of toppings to choose from, making it a great spot for families and friends to enjoy a meal together.

Collits Inn

Collits Inn is a historic inn located in Hartley, known for its charming atmosphere and rich history. It offers accommodation and dining options, making it a great stop for travelers looking to experience the heritage of the area while enjoying a meal or a stay in a unique setting.Collits Inn is a historic inn located in Hartley, known for its charming atmosphere and rich history. It offers accommodation and dining options, making it a great stop for travelers looking to experience the heritage of the area while enjoying a meal or a stay in a unique setting.

Gold Rush Antiques Hartley

Gold Rush Antiques Hartley is a charming antique shop that offers a wide range of vintage items and collectibles. Visitors can explore unique treasures from the past, making it a great stop for antique enthusiasts and those looking for distinctive home decor.

Hartley Courthouse

Hartley Courthouse was designed by colonial architect Mortimer Lewis in the Greek Revival style. This imposing building was constructed of locally quarried sandstone in 1837 and remains largely intact. You’ll feel immersed in its past with re-enactments of the court process through audio tracks and holograms. You can even step into a prison cell that kept many notorious bushrangers and cattle thieves. Inside the cells, with their bars and bolts still in position, you can imagine the thoughts of men used to roaming the country locked up tight in this remote prison. In 1887 the Hartley Court of Petty Sessions was officially closed. It was reserved for public recreation in 1914 and became a popular rest stop for people travelling to Jenolan Caves. Today the building stands as a reminder of the past and the development of the colony. https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/historic-buildings-places/hartley-courthouse

Hartley Fresh

Hartley Fresh is a local farm shop that offers fresh produce and gourmet products sourced from the surrounding area. It provides visitors with a taste of the region's agricultural bounty, making it a great stop for those looking to enjoy local flavours.

Hartley Vale

Hartley Vale is a small rural village in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, located about 150 kilometres west of Sydney and 12 kilometres south-east of Lithgow, within the City of Lithgow local government area. The area is noted for its open countryside and historical importance as a centre of oil shale mining and refining between 1865 and 1910, primarily under the New South Wales Shale & Oil Company. Hartley Vale is home to several heritage sites, including the Comet Inn (built in 1879) and Collits Inn (dating to 1823), and historic walking tracks like Lawson’s Long Alley and Lockyers Road connect the village with surrounding areas. Remnants of the village’s mining era, scenic views, and proximity to the main Western Railway and river valleys make it a point of local interest for bushwalkers and history enthusiasts.

Hartley Historic Site Office

Hartley Historic Site Office serves as the visitor center for the historic Hartley area. It provides information about the local history, attractions, and events. Visitors can learn more about the heritage of Hartley and its significance in the region, making it a great starting point for exploring the area.

Hartley Vale Cemetery

Hartley Cemetery is one of the earliest cemeteries west of the Blue Mountains. On the Hartley Plain just below the escarpment at Victoria Pass, it contains memorials from as early as 1847 and many of the district's pioneers were buried there in the second half of the 19th century. Yet, remarkably, it remains a working cemetery to this day. There is a wide variety of beautiful sandstone monuments that are a tribute to those early masons. The engravings are mostly clear and easier to read than many of the modern headstones. A feature of the cemetery is a pair of modern vaults, but no details are provided of these interred therein. The site is preserved in excellent condition by the Lithgow City Council who, we are informed, only recently pressure-cleaned the old stones. We found the grounds neat and tidy and the lawns mown while rabbit holes and broken glass were totally absent. https://www.facebook.com/AskRozBlueMountains/posts/historic-snapshot-discover-the-hidden-stories-of-hartley-vale-cemeterya-fascinat/1200116828809078/

Hartley Vale Garlic Farm Stay

Built on the site of the old Hartley Vale oil shale works that closed in 1916, 'The Refinery" was re-established in 2018 as an organic garlic farm now owned by James and Michelle and their two children. The farm features a hempcrete building named 'The Stinking Rose' used for drying and curing garlic that also acts as a big room for garlic feasts during planting (March, April and May each year). The building also houses toilet and shower facilities for guests when camping on site. On some evenings, the sky puts on a real show of golden sun rays with pink, purple and blue clouds while swallows flit across the garden beds catching moths. Our guests like to sit around their campfires watching the spectacular show while kids and dogs run around without the burden of leashes or noise of city traffic. https://www.atdw.com.au/marketplace/63b82b1404965c036fab00ff Hartley Vale Garlic Farm is a local farm specializing in garlic production. Visitors can explore the farm, learn about garlic cultivation, and purchase fresh garlic and related products. It's a great stop for food enthusiasts and those interested in local agriculture.

Hartley Valley Holiday Farm

Hartley Valley Holiday Farm is a family-friendly farm stay that offers interact with animals, and explore the beautiful surroundings. It's a great place for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors while learning about farm life.

Hyde Park Reserve Hartley

Hyde Park Reserve is a scenic park located in Hartley, offering green spaces, walking paths, and picnic areas. It's a great spot for families and nature lovers to enjoy outdoor activities and relax in a tranquil environment.

Kew-Y-Ahn Tor

Kew-Y-Ahn Tor is a prominent rock formation located in the Kanangra-Boyd National Park. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The area is rich in biodiversity and provides opportunities for birdwatch

Lollybug Hartley

Lollybug Hartley is a charming local shop known for its wide selection of sweets and treats. It offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, featuring a variety of candies, chocolates, and unique gifts. It's a perfect stop for those looking to indulge their sweet tooth while exploring the Hartley.

Maple Springs Nursery

Maple Springs Nursery is a delightful plant nursery offering a wide variety of plants, flowers, and gardening supplies. It provides a peaceful environment for gardening enthusiasts and those looking to beautify their homes with quality plants. Visitors can find expert advice and a selection of native and exotic species.

Postmistress Cafe

Postmistress Cafe is a cozy cafe located in Hartley, known for its delicious coffee and homemade treats. It offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break while exploring the area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of breakfast and lunch options, as well as sweet treats.

Rowsons River Walk

This walk is a HIDDEN SURPRISE. This is a short surprising walk. The boardwalk follows the river for about 200m to the old remains of the Rawson Huts. You can also walk down to the river and ENJOY A PICNIC at the beach. Keep an eye out for Platypus as the river is a known habitat. DOGS: Even though it is a NPWS track, it is dog-on-leash friendly. START: The track begins near a building called Corneys Garage which will be on your right and pass the Court House at the end as you enter the village. KEY POINTS • Distance: About 1.4km return • Time: 40 minutes browsing time • Best time of the day: Any time • Kid-safe: Yes • Dogs on-leash: Yes • Steps: Some • Accessible: No • Heights: No • Must do rating out of 10: 9 ACCESS: Park here: www.w3w.co/recovery.rears.forged and follow the signs. More info: www.askroz.news/Rowsons-River-Walk https://www.facebook.com/AskRozBlueMountains/posts/pfbid036M8mVRcEb51DL22Yzg26Yv5Y1Jn8Hhi53t2ppHdtmQpUgW81CzUidnnZmjivvAw7l

Saint John's Anglican Church Hartley

Saint John's Anglican Church is a historic church located in Hartley, known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It serves as a place of worship and community gatherings, and visitors can appreciate its

Talisman Gallery

Talisman Gallery is an art gallery located in Hartley, showcasing a diverse range of artworks from local and regional artists. The gallery features various exhibitions and offers a unique opportunity to appreciate and purchase original art pieces. It's a great stop for art enthusiasts and those looking to explore the creative side of the region.

Venice Caravan Park

Venice Caravan Park is a family-friendly caravan park located in Hartley, offering a range of accommodation options for travelers. It provides a peaceful setting with access to nature, making it a great place for families and individuals looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. https://campermate.com/en/location/australia/nsw/blue-mountains/paid-campground/venice-caravan-park/e1892de7-29e4-11ef-9f68-ea2248528a63Venice Caravan Park is a family-friendly caravan park located in Hartley, offering a range of accommodation options for travelers. It provides a peaceful setting with access to nature, making it a great place for families and individuals looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Lithgow

Bowenfels Gun Emplacements

Bowenfels Gun Emplacements are historical military sites located in Bowenfels, offering insight into the region's defense history. Visitors can explore the remnants of these emplacements and learn about their significance during various conflicts. It's a great stop for history enthusiasts and those interested in military heritage. Bowenfels Gun Emplacements are historical military sites located in Bowenfels, offering insight into the region's defense history. Visitors can explore the remnants of these emplacements and learn about their significance during various conflicts. It's a great stop for history enthusiasts and those interested in military heritage.

Eskbank House Museum

Eskbank House Museum is a historic house museum located in Lithgow, showcasing the region's history and heritage. The museum features period furnishings, exhibits, and guided tours that provide insight into the lives of early settlers and the development of the area. https://eskbank.lithgow.com

Gang Gang Farmers Market

Gang Gang Farmers Market is a vibrant market located in Lithgow, offering a variety of fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal products. It's a great place for visitors to experience the region's agricultural offerings and support local farmers and artisans. Open Thursdays 12-4pm https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554128662831

Gang Gang Gallery

Gang Gang Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in Lithgow, showcasing a variety of artworks from local and regional artists. The gallery hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events, making it a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts and the community. https://gggallery.com.auGang Gang Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in Lithgow, showcasing a variety of artworks from local and regional artists. The gallery hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events, making it a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts

Lake Lyell Camping

Lake Lyell Camping is a scenic camping area located near Lithgow, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, and hiking, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts. https://www.facebook.com/LakeLyellRecreationPark

Lithgow Anti-Aircraft Guns

The Lithgow Anti Aircraft Gun Stations and Dummy Station have state significance as the only known inland heavy anti aircraft gun stations of their type in NSW. The emplacements were introduced as an important part of the network of defence sites established at Lithgow during the latter half of World War Two. The defences were introduced to protect Lithgow's important mining, manufacturing and transport industries and the Lithgow Small Arms Factory. The construction of these defence facilities together with those at the Small Arms Factory represents a changing national defence policy in response to the entry of Japan into World War Two, and an increased perception of the vulnerability of inland areas brought about by improvements in aircraft technology. This is further demonstrated by the construction of the dummy batteries to ensure local defence facilities were not easily targeted during an enemy attack. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithgow_Heavy_Anti_Aircraft_Gun_Stations_and_Dummy_Station

Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park

Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park is a historical site that showcases the region's coal mining history. Visitors can explore the preserved buildings, machinery, and exhibits that tell the story of the coal mining industry in Lithgow. It's a great place for history buffs and families to learn about the area's industrial heritage. https://mgnsw.org.au/organisations/lithgow-state-mine-heritage-park/Lithgow State Mine Heritage Park is a historical site that showcases the region's coal mining history. Visitors can explore the preserved buildings, machinery, and exhibits that tell the story of the coal mining industry in LithgowLithgow State Mine Heritage Park is a historical site that showcases the region's coal mining history. Visitors can explore the preserved buildings, machinery, and exhibits that tell the story of the coal mining industry in Lithgow. It's a great place for history buffs and families to learn about the area's industrial heritage.

Lithgow Visitor Information Centre

Lithgow Visitor Information Centre is a helpful resource for travelers, providing information on local attractions, events,, and friendly staff ready to assist with planning their visit to the Lithgow area and beyond.

Lithgow Workies Club

The Lithgow & District Workmen’s Club has been providing excellence in entertainment and leisure for over a century. Fondly known as the “Workies”, it is the oldest registered club in New South Wales. It was founded in 1887, growing to over 10,000 members today. The club also caters for the many visitors who come from across the state and the country to enjoy our excellent facilities. We are the leaders in quality entertainment, dining and function facilities in Lithgow. The club has a strong and ongoing commitment to our local community, with our many subgroups, support and activities being the backbone of the club today. https://www.workies.com.au

Secret Creek Sanctuary

Conserving ecosystems and culture through education, restoration, research and community. The only native wildlife sanctuary in the Blue Mountains. Home to some of the most unique species of this area. Secret Creek Sanctuary is home to Eastern Quolls, Dingos, Koalas, Mountain Pygmy Possums, Tasmanian Devils, Long-nosed Potoroos, Rufous Bettongs, Spotted-tailed Quolls, Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies, Cream-striped Red-necked Pademelons, Swamp Wallaby, Emus, Brush Turkeys, Cape Barron Geese and a range of other native birds. Secret Creek is situated in one of the most beautiful and unique areas on this side of the Blue Mountains. Although only 5 minutes from the centre of Lithgow, Secret Creek is tucked up in a tranquil and secluded gully, surrounded by natural bushland. https://www.secretcreek.au https://www.secretcreek.au/secret-creek-sanctuary

Tarana

Evans Crown Nature Reserve

Mumma Snow's Country Kitchen & General Store

Mumma Snow's Country Kitchen & General Store is a charming eatery and general store located in Tarana. It offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious homemade meals, baked goods, and a selection of local products. It's a great stop for travelers looking to enjoy a hearty meal and shop

Tarana Community Farmers Market

Tarana Hotel

Oberon District

Oberon Visitor Information Centre

Oberon Visitor Information Centre is a valuable resource for visitors, offering information on local attractions, events, and services in the Oberon area. The friendly staff can assist with planning your visit and provide maps and brochures to help you explore the region.Oberon Visitor Information Centre is a valuable resource for visitors, offering information on local attractions, events, and services in the Oberon area. The friendly staff can assist with planning your visit and provide maps and brochures to help you explore the region

High Country Trail Rides and Farm Stay

Mayfield Garden

Mayfield Garden is a stunning 65-acre garden located in Oberon, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and a variety of plant species. It offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the gardens, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting. https://mayfieldgarden.com.au/

Oberon Farmers Market

Oberon Farmers Market is a vibrant market that showcases local produce, handmade goods, and artisanal products. It provides a great opportunity for visitors to experience the region's agricultural offerings and support local farmers and artisans. The market is held regularly and is a popular gathering place for the community.

Kanangra Boyd National Park

Kanangra Wall

Kanangra Wall is a stunning cliff formation located in the Kanangra-Boyd National Park. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The area is known for its dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges and rugged mountains, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Jenolan

Jenolan Caves

CURRENTLY CLOSED Jenolan Caves is a spectacular limestone cave system located in the Blue Mountains. It features stunning formations, guided tours, and a rich history, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure. https://www.facebook.com/JenolanCaves

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