TRAILS
Our Hilltops Region offers a host of experiences to soothe after a busy working week, or stimulate the senses and the appetite. Explore this page to plan where you'll go and what to do as you explore our beautiful Hilltops Region.
With accommodation, food and wine to comfort and cosset, we're a convenient and welcoming destination for those wanting fresh local produce, to explore history, to exercise, to enjoy the natural world or just to unwind. Treat yourself to the Hilltops food experience on the Hilltops Food and Wine Trail. Find a treasure on the Heritage and Antiques trail. Fill your lungs and stretch your legs and explore Waterfalls, Panoramic Views and River Walks. on the Nature and Outdoors trail. As the seasons change so do the landscapes. All three trails take you through rolling agricultural scenery. During Spring time our region is framed by brilliant bright yellow canola landscapes. Whichever season you choose you'll be truly blown away by our beautiful scenery.
Waterfalls, Panoramic Views and River Walks.
KOORAWATHA
This trail commences in the northern part of the region. The Small village of Koorawatha is your gateway to the Koorawatha Falls and Koorawatha Nature Reserve - located on the Illunie Range. The area is favoured for bird watching and family picnics. The waterfalls are at their best after rainfall- diminishing to a trickle after prolonged dry periods. Note, access to the Falls parking area is by 4-wheel drive vehicles only. Study footwear is recommended for your trek to the falls.
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IANDRA CASTLE
The trail continues via the nearby village of Greenethorpe and onward to Iandra Castle, open to the public on well publicised days throughout the year. Built between 1908 and 1910 in the Federation Romanesque style by the pioneering engineer Edward Giles Stone. The homestead, with the surrounding agricultural property is a rare example in Australia of the manorial system, "the likes of which may not exist elsewhere in the state or nation"
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THE RUSTIC MAZE
Step back in time at The Rustic Maze and Country Garden. Set on a working farm dating back to the 1850’s, a visit to The Rustic Maze and Country Garden is like stepping back in time. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this area, explore their unique maze with its hidden treasures, wander through their beautifully maintained garden and enjoy a great coffee at the café.
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TOUT'S LOOKOUT
Tout’s Lookout is an ideal vantage point to view the scenery along a dramatic rift valley. Morning sunrise can be particularly spectacular - especially during Canola season when the surrounding landscape is a patchwork of brilliant yellow paddocks.
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MURRINGO
Located between Young, Boorowa and Cowra, Murringo is small but perfectly formed with heritage buildings and a vibrant village community. A remnant of a bygone era, Murringo was once home…
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BOOROWA
Once in Boorowa enjoy a walking trail along the Boorowa River. Keep an eye out for duckbilled platypus and Boorowa's iconic Superb Parrot. Venture south towards Jugiong and the mighty Murrumbidgee via MacMahon's Reef and beautiful rolling Countryside
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JUGIONG
Once in Jugiong enjoy seasonal Murray Cod and Trout fishing opportunities - ask a local for favoured fishing spots!
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Tantalise your tastebuds through the food, wine and local produce offerings.
JUGIONG
Set on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, Jugiong is a popular rest stop for thousands of Sydney - Melbourne travellers; visit the country style Long Track Pantry, stock up on local wines at the Jugiong Wine Cellar or call into the recently restored, historic Sir George
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HARDEN - MURRUMBURRAH
The journey north from Jugiong towards Harden takes in rolling countryside. Once in Harden find a local pub serving counter lunches or call into the popular Jackson's Bakery for one of their homemade pies or the Green Ivy Cafe. In historic Murrumburrah be sure to stop by the Terracotta or the Light Horse Hotel.
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WOMBAT
Moving north towards Young, you'll drive past orchards and wineries. The Wombat area is home to many pick-your-own cherry orchards and farm gate stall; complete with honesty boxes. These run north to the town limits of Young. Don't forget to pick up a delicious handmade cherry pie at a local orchard or bakery.
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YOUNG
No trip to Young is complete without sampling award winning coffee from Art of Espresso, winners of THREE gold medals at the Royal Sydney Fine Food Show. Other popular cafes include Kettle & Grain housed in the old school house serving beautifully presented breakfast and lunches; and Wilkies Cafe and Pantry located opposite the majestic Young Town Hall. Don't leave town without a visit to Poppa's Fudge & Jam Factory.
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BOOROWA
For a classic country, culinary experience Boorowa offers a range of traditional favourites including a Devonshire tea (with local berry jams) at the Visitor Information Centre, Walsh's Country Kitchen pickles and preserves at local cafes, fish & Chips and of course the classic Chinese, Bakery and Pub Experience. Whilst stopping to smell the roses take in the opportunity to experience the history, old wares and local handmade craft stores.
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From country towns to small villages, history surrounds your antiquing adventure.
BOOROWA
The town of Boorowa is home to several antique and hand craft stores which can be found in the historic main street. You can learn more about Boorowa's fascinating Irish history on the Town's Shamrock Trail heritage walk. Pick up a map at the Visitor Centre.
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MURRINGO
Take the road west towards Young and stop off half way at the historic village of Murringo. Home to Coronation Collectables - a treat for antique enthusiasts and the Taubman & Webb Trading Post - a museum and tribute centre to the late bushman and whip maker, Syd Bayliss, and to Richard Taubman who has kept his trades and stories alive for over 30 years.
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KOORAWATHA
Take the Murringo Gap Road through the range of hills to Koorawatha at the northern edge of the region. The village was the site of a notable 1860's gun battle between Ben Hall's gang of bushrangers and the police at the Bang Bang Hotel. Close to the railway crossing you'll find 'Forgotten Times' a small antiques business open on weekends and public holidays.
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YOUNG
Follow the Olympic Highway south to Young. Young was founded during the gold rush pf the 1860's when it was known as Lambing Flat. Enjoy several craft shops along Boorowa Street and some fine examples of 19th and early 20th century architecture. You can explore Young's heritage on several town heritage walks which shine a light on the town and wider region's history.
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WOMBAT
South of Young on the Olympic Highway is the village of Wombat - have a meal at the local pub, NSW's oldest continually licensed premises - and then explore the Wombat 2nds and Salvage for bric-a-brac and other treasures.
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HARDEN MURRUMBURRAH
Follow the road through Wombat village and south towards the twin towns of Harden Murrumburrah. Distinctive church spires and towers give a dramatic silhouette to the twin towns. Drop by the Gold Trail Experience and learn about the gold mining heritage of the region.
Harden’s main retail precinct centres on its beautifully restored main street; stop by Harden Antiques on Neill Street and the gorgeous Botanica Romantica, fun vintage, garden and gift boutique open 7 days!
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GALONG
Galong is located in pretty farming country between Harden and Boorowa. It is home to the fascinating St Clement's Retreat and the historic Cemetery.
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