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Valley lookout

Natural Attractions

Valley lookout

There's no need to scramble over boulders or hike up cliffs to enjoy views of the Capertee Valley the world's second largest canyon. You can drive right up to Valley lookout, located inside the canyon within Capertee National Park, between Lithgow and Mudgee. Pack a picnic lunch and relax on the grassy area at the lookout, which looks south across the Capertee River Valley to Blacks Corner and Genowlan Point. Looming above from the rolling farmland and forested hills are the red sandstone cliffs and pagodas that make this area such a geological marvel. Keep your binoculars handy for birdwatching as there's no better place in the world to spot critically endangered regent honeyeaters. Painted honeyeaters, Lewin's honeyeaters and masked wood swallows are among the other birds seen here. The lookout is a 5km drive or mountain bike ride from historic Capertee Homestead and Woolshed ruins. Stay overnight at the homestead or at charming Capertee Cottage. For something a little more rustic, pitch your tent by the tranquil river at Capertee campground. It's a great base for a few days of 4WD touring, bushwalking, mountain biking and birdwatching in Capertee and nearby Wollemi, Turon...

Mount Marsden NSW

3.5 km away

Capertee Woolshed ruins

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Capertee Woolshed ruins

When spending time in Capertee National Park, remember to visit Capertee Woolshed ruins while you’re there. On the river flat below Capertee Homestead – ‘Port Macquarie’, these ruins are one of the surviving remnants of the area’s pastoral history. Try to imagine it back then, especially during shearing time, with the dusty air filled with the sounds of men’s voices and the bleating of sheep. Pack a picnic lunch, and take your family along in the car and make a day of it, because there are plenty of other things to do in this section of Capertee, such as swimming in the river or hiking along Capertee trail. If you want to extend your visit then you also have the option to stay overnight at Capertee campground. Enjoy seeing the resident kangaroos grazing in this area. There’s also abundant birdlife in the park, so bring your binoculars along and keep them handy for a spot of birdwatching.

Bogee NSW

3.8 km away

Capertee National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Capertee National Park

For a unique wilderness holiday, head to Capertee National Park. Located west of Blue Mountains, Capertee protects a range of wildlife and plants found nowhere else on earth. Independent campers and adventurous families enjoy walking and mountain biking through this unique region while discovering both Aboriginal and European heritage. Renowned for some of the best birdwatching in the state, the protected woodlands along the fertile river flats attract regent honeyeaters, woodland birds, and birdwatching enthusiasts alike. The park is also home to native Australian wildlife like kangaroos, wallaroos, wallabies and gliders. Choose from a night under the stars at the campground, or enjoy the heritage charms of Capertee Homestead. Capertee National Park is also a great stopover if car touring around neighbouring Turon National Park and Gardens of Stone National Park.

Bogee NSW

4.4 km away

Tyan Peak standing tall in the private amphitheatre — Image credit: Lyn Richardson - owner of the property

Natural Attractions

Canyon Country Camping

This natural sandstone amphitheatre is set within a 4000-acre freehold property in the heart of the widest canyon in the world, Capertee Valley. Camping with privacy, with kilometres of bush walking in the timberland surrounding the site, exploring into the Wollemi World Heritage National Park on the boundary of this location. Pets are allowed. The Tyan Peak stands close by, an ancient spiritual mountain that was where to Wiradjuri Nation would gather for ceremonies and child birthing, in this very location. The local mob visits and performs Welcome to Country ceremonies when events are hosted on the site. The location hosts various music and arts festivals throughout the year and also allows private bookings for functions and wellness retreats. Mobile service is limited; SMS only. No motor bikes, shooting or four-wheel driving permitted; the property carries cattle, sheep and horses, and they must not be disturbed by vehicular traffic, except for ingress and egress. A sound all-weather private road accesses the site across Eurella. Patrons to book in advance by phone or email to arrange access.

Upper Nile NSW

17 km away

Sofa table made from recycled timber — Image credit: Brett Nutting

Shopping and Markets

AdHoc Furniture showroom

This is a crafty local enterprise producing functional and elegant artisan furniture from a 'waste' product: salvaged timber. If you are interested in handmade objects and creative upcycling, while chatting about the town's industrial history, you will enjoy a visit to the AdHoc Furniture showroom. AdHoc Furniture showroom and workshop is located at the 'Paris End' of Angus Avenue -- the main street in Kandos. When you arrive in town head east towards the mountain. The shop was originally built as a wine bar in 1923, and if you have time Brett will give you a tour of the building. You might take home a small timber side table or a tall skinny cupboard made from recycled red cedar or Australian pine. Each piece is a one-off, inspired by the materials that come to hand.

Kandos NSW

19 km away

Kandos Museum street view — Image credit: Kandos Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Kandos Museum

Kandos is the town that made the cement that made your town. Established by the cement works in 1914, Kandos thrived as a modern 20th-century town in a spectacular rural setting. With the cement works closing in 2011, the Kandos Museum has a vital role in preserving the town's industrial and social history. The museum is home to stories, objects and photographs focused on industrial heritage. Kandos Museum occupies the former Kandos Methodist Church built from cement made at the newly established Kandos Cement Works in 1919. Its Spanish mission appearance belies its real inspiration - the factories of the then burgeoning American car industry. Surrounded by native gardens the museum is elevated above street level. Prominent at its entrance is a mural by descendants of the the Dabee Wiradjuri, the respected custodians of this land. On entering you see rare and fascinating equipment and relics of an industry, 20th century social history displays of military remembrance, school, sporting memorabilia, Scouting and Guiding, the Lady Bushranger, Post WW2 migration and music. Always showing are moving images on varied topics - the Sydney Harbour bridge, cement bag charity races to lectures on cement chemistry. In the grounds are large industrial artifacts - ball mill, rope way towers, buckets, coal loaders and loco. Kandos Museum operated by Kandos Museum Incorporated, a not-for-profit, New South Wales incorporated association.

Kandos NSW

19 km away

WAYOUT Artspace — Image credit: WAYOUT Artspace

Galleries, Museums and Collections

WAYOUT Artspace

WAYOUT Artspace is a regionally based artist-run gallery located in Kandos, NSW. WAYOUT gallery has 5-7 exhibitions per year showcasing diverse artistic outcomes. Each exhibition has opening nights and artist talks and the space is also used for related community programs. Check out what is happening on the WAYOUT website. The Cementa cafe is located in the gallery. Come and grab a coffee and cake and enjoy the exhibition (same hours as the gallery). In addition to the annual arts program, WAYOUT is the hub for the biennial Cementa arts festival; every two years in September. Make a day of it! WAYOUT Artspace is 5 minutes from the historic town Rylstone, 45 minutes from Mudgee, and half an hour from Ganguddy/Dunns Swamp in the Wollemi National Park.

Kandos NSW

19 km away

Pearsons Lookout and the Capertee Valley — Image credit: Lithgow City Council

Natural Attractions

Pearsons Lookout

Pearsons Lookout, just south of the village of Capertee affords one of the best views of the majestic Capertee Valley below. There are 180° views of the Valley, with Pantoneys Crown a prominent feature. The Capertee Valley is the second largest enclosed canyon in the world and to get a birds eye view there is no better or more easily accessible place than Pearsons Lookout.

Capertee NSW

19 km away

Turon National Park — Image credit: Photo: D.Noble

Natural Attractions

Turon National Park

Turon National Park is great for remote bushwalking and camping, trout fishing, birdwatching, swimming, mountain biking or canoeing. If you want to really feel like you’ve gotten away from it all with a remote and rugged bush camping experience, Turon National Park is a fantastic, accessible choice. Just 45 kilometres from Lithgow and 185 kilometres north of Sydney, you can explore remote bushwalking and camping in a spectacular setting that features incredibly diverse vegetation, from wide-open eucalypt forest to silver wattles and river oaks. The park has a fascinating history, both for its role in the Australian gold mining boom and its early Aboriginal occupation, which is believed to date back thousands of years. History buffs will be intrigued by the evidence of both that is still highly visible in the park. You’ll also encounter plenty of interesting birds and animals, such as powerful owls hooting away at night and red wallabies sunning themselves on the sandstone tops during the daytime before descending to the valley at dusk.

Capertee NSW

21 km away

Horseride through the river! — Image credit: Turon Gates

Natural Attractions

Horse riding at Turon Gates

Turon Gates has been offering horseriding experiences to their guests for over 50 years. Experience guided scenic trail riding along the Turon River in the Blue Mountains, cross rivers and enjoy the magic of the Australian bush with the experienced Turon Gates team. Small ride groups of up to four at a time can enjoy an hour or 1.5-hour trail ride. Trail rides are available to adults under 90kg and children aged 11 years and over. For Children 10 and under, Turon Gates offers 15-minute lead-around pony rides. They have gorgeous little Shetland ponies for the very little ones and ponies for the older kids. Helmets are provided. Wearing long pants is recommended, and closed-toe shoes are required. Please make sure you book your rides in advance before your arrival. Refunds are provided if it rains and riding is not possible. Note: this is for guests of Turon Gates only.

Capertee NSW

21 km away

Gardens of Stone National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Gardens of Stone National Park

To walk among the exquisite and varied rock pagoda formations, sandstone cliffs and canyons at Gardens of Stone National Park is a memorable experience. The extraordinary rock shapes, the stunning scenic views over the valleys and the mesa of Pantoneys Crown make this area of the Greater Blue Mountains Area World Heritage Property a must for photographers. This rugged territory is also a haven for adventurers, with excellent opportunities for canyoning, mountain-biking and serious bushwalking or hiking. There's plenty to see while enjoying a leisurely walk. Along the way, you can admire rare yellow pagoda daisies bursting from the rocks, blue tongue lizards, and wood geckos basking on the warm stone. You may even be lucky enough to spot a koala in the east of the park.. For a sense of the majesty of Gardens of Stone without the sore legs, why not take one of the wonderful driving tours? Find out more about the adjoining park, Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.

Glen Davis NSW

23 km away

Wollemi National Park — Image credit: Photo: Ingo Oeland

Natural Attractions

Wollemi National Park

World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park offers a dramatic setting for scenic walks, swimming, canoeing and camping, just a couple of hours north-west of Sydney. Discover the spectacular landscapes of Wollemi National Park, part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. From scenic canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers and serene forests, there are ample opportunities to be immersed in the beauty of the largest wilderness area in NSW. In the southeast of the park, pack a picnic and hike down to the beautiful Colo River for lunch to view one of the state’s most picturesque gorges. Set up camp by the Wolgan River and head out to explore the historic ruins at Newnes, once the site of an oil shale mining facility, or take the kids to marvel at the Glow Worm Tunnel, part of the old railway that once serviced the area. Bushwalkers and rock climbers will thrill at the hikes and climbing opportunities available in this striking, escarpment-bound valley. In the northwest of the park, Ganguddy (Dunns Swamp) offers a tranquil escape with remarkable pagoda rock formations.

Kelgoola NSW

23 km away

Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp

Natural Attractions

Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp

Just 25 kilometres east of Rylstone and Kandos is Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp, a popular camping and picnic area. Set on the banks of the Cudgegong River and nestled amongst the stunning sandstone pagoda rock formations. Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp enjoys an outstanding biodiversity of plant and animal communities with at least 107 bird species spotted in the area. A network of walking tracks surrounds the waterway, including one suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Opportunities for canoeing and swimming also make this a 'must-visit' destination. Camping fees apply. Take to the water by embarking on a guided kayak tour or by hiring a kayak or paddle board from Southern Cross Kayaking. They are based here during the warmer months from the end of Spring through to Autumn, during school holidays and long weekends.

Rylstone NSW

23 km away

Rylstone Heritage Walk — Image credit: Rylstone Kandos Business & Tourism Incorporated

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Rylstone Heritage Walk

Rylstone is a heritage village on the western edge of the Blue Mountains, 238 kilometres north-west of Sydney. The town acts as a gateway to the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park to the east and the scenic Capertee Valley to the south. Rylstone is noted for its lovely stone buildings. Not only are the administrative buildings along Louee Street and the four churches made from local sandstone, but also private homes and businesses. Most were constructed between 1865 and 1895.

Rylstone NSW

25 km away

Bring a friend — Image credit: Mudgee Tourism

Shopping and Markets

Convent and Chapel Wool Shop

Convent and Chapel Wool Shop is a well established iconic rural wool shop in Central West New South Wales providing luxury yarns to discerning knitters. The shop sells beautiful local and international yarns from independent dyers and small mills. This is a mecca for crafters worldwide. So much to see including stunning knitted displays. You'll love your visit. Hand knits are also on display and for sale created by local knitters.

Rylstone NSW

25 km away

Front of Tanks & Tailpipes Shop — Image credit: Tanks & Tailpipes

Shopping and Markets

Tanks and Tailpipes Rylstone

Tanks and Tailpipes is a unique automotive enthusiasts shop right in the heart of Historic Rylstone NSW. You'll be greeted at the front window by a beautiful rare and restored classic motorcycle worth visiting just to see in person. Run by passionate car and motorcycle enthusiasts, this boutique retail shop has unique, new and collector car and motorcycle accessories, apparel and gifts as well as locally made products - perfect for the hard-to-buy-for person. This is an essential waypoint go-to place for your next road trip to the Mudgee region on two, three or four wheels! Family and fur-friendly, visit to find something different, something cool.

Rylstone NSW

25 km away

Newnes Shale Oil Ruins — Image credit: Newnes

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Newnes Shale Oil Ruins

At the end of Wolgan Valley lies a reminder of the shale oil industry. The township, along with the shale oil mining complex, was established in 1906. The Newnes Oil Shale Mine produced low-grade oil. Set within beautiful mountain scenery, a collection of shanties, huts and buildings for the mining process were built. Today the ruins of the site are all that remains. Operational costs and the availability of lower-priced crude oil finally closed the works in 1932. The former hotel (now Newnes Kiosk) is the only reminder of a thriving community. To reach the ruins of the works, cross the river at the fjord by foot, or 4WD downstream from the hotel, and follow the well-defined path which was the original route of the railway line. This attraction is only currently available via a long walk in from the Old Coach Road on the Newnes Plateau or via the Pipeline Trail from Glen Davis. It is also available to guests staying at private accommodation in the Wolgan Valley. Please refer to the National Parks and Wildlife website for further information or contact us at the Seven Valleys Visitor Centre for more details.

Lithgow NSW

25 km away

Cottage Museum, Rylstone — Image credit: Destination NSW

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cottage Museum Rylstone

The Cottage Museum in Rylstone collects, assesses and preserves objects relative to the early history of the district. The museum is housed in a simple 1890s weatherboard home built for local blacksmith, James Nash. The house was saved from demolition by RDHS and moved from its original site at the Rylstone Showground to its present position in the Bridge View Inn Precinct in 1984. The museum displays focus on domestic and rural life. They include costume, rustic furniture, kitchen and small farming tools, schooling and musical instruments. Also on display are photographs of local pioneers, the town and district encompassed by the old Rylstone Shire boundary.

Rylstone NSW

25 km away

Our sought after rocky road range — Image credit: The Country Plate

Shopping and Markets

The Country Plate

Located in the historic town of Rylstone, The Country Plate specialises in small-batch locally made products. From the best-selling "Rylstone Road" to the sought-after Date and Almond Chutney, their products are an experience to be savoured and treasured. Take the detour today and discover that 'all roads lead to Rylstone' at their bricks and mortar store.

Rylstone NSW

25 km away

Baal Bone Gap picnic area

Natural Attractions

Baal Bone Gap picnic area

If you’re four-wheel driving, head out to Baal Bone Gap for a picnic and some of the finest views in the Blue Mountains. You’ll find huge examples of the rock pagodas that make this part of the mountains unique and see stunning sandstone cliffs and extensive views. Baal Bone Gap is a popular place to begin a bushwalking exploration of the western end of the park. Enjoy a picnic and head out among the distinctive grass trees for a truly rejuvenating experience, but remember that trails are unmarked and walking in Gardens of Stone is for experienced and well-prepared bushwalkers only.

Ben Bullen NSW

26 km away

Valley of the Waters lookout

Natural Attractions

Valley of the Waters lookout

Valley of the Waters lookout in Wentworth Falls is a fabulous spot for family and friends wanting to marvel at the spectacular landscape, a walk or lunch with a view. With plenty of active options and wheelchair-accessible facilities, it's a no-fuss day trip for all to love. From the lookout you can explore waterfalls and walking tracks along the cliff line or walk down into the Jamison Valley. The area is the main access point for the popular Empress Canyon. You might catch a glimpse of a lyrebird as you take in the view to Mountain Solitary from the viewing area. If you're feeling energetic, there's the heart-pumping tracks down into the valley. However, if a leisurely stroll is more your style, walk along the cliff top to Wentworth Falls lookout for sensational waterfall views.

Wollemi NSW

29 km away

The Newnes Plateau Cliffs

Natural Attractions

The Newnes Plateau Cliffs

This is the stuff adrenalin junkies’ dreams are made of. Whether your thing is bushwalking, canyoning, rock-climbing or mountain-biking, Newnes Plateau is an adventure wonderland. While you’re here, you’ll catch breathtaking views of the meandering Wolgan River, the high mesas of Pantoneys Crown and Donkey Mountain, and the stunning rock formations that Gardens of Stone is famous for. Deep in the bush you’ll see a wonderful variety of habitats including alpine grasses and dwarf heath, and the magnificent eucalypts recognised by the area’s World Heritage listing. You’ll also enjoy a fantastic array of birdlife as well as kangaroos, wallabies, and gliders moving through the bush around you.

Newnes Plateau NSW

35 km away

Twister and Rocky Creek canyons

Natural Attractions

Twister and Rocky Creek canyons

Come prepared for jumps, down-climbs, slides, scrambles and swims when you do Twister and Rock Creek canyons. If tackling both canyons, plan for an 8-hour trip with a total walk in and out of 4km. Twister Canyon, also known as Sheep Dip Canyon, is the smaller of the 2. Twister Canyon descends into Rocky Creek Canyon and is the starting point if you're doing both canyons. If only doing Twister Canyon, plan for a 3-hour trip and a total walk in and out of 2km. Twister Canyon features slides into cold pools and has many jumps that can also be down-climbed. After the last jump you'll need to descend a 5m waterfall. Be sure to bring your own rope for a hand-over-hand descent of the waterfall. Don't rely on others to leave a fixed line here. Rocky Creek Canyon is long and deep. If you're only doing Rocky Creek Canyon, plan for a 5-hour trip and total walk in and out of 3km. Rocky Creek Canyon features down-climbs, scrambles and swims, including a long swim near the end of the canyon. Warm summer days are the best...

Newnes Plateau NSW

37 km away

seating area at the lookout.

Natural Attractions

Buurree Walking Trail

Explore the history and rich ecosystems of the Wattle Flat Heritage lands on the Buurree Walking Trail. The Buurree Walking Trail is situated in the Wattle Flat Heritage Lands North. This is an area of open woodland bush close to the gold mining township of Wattle Flat. The trail is marked by a series of yellow triangles that denote the circular track. Going uphill to a ridgeline with lovely views towards Sofala and the Turon Valley. Leisurely walking will take approximately two hours at the most but it can be completed in an hour or so. This walk can appeal to children as they enjoy the challenge of spotting the yellow markers. The walk can be combined with a wander around the Wattle Flat township where some of the buildings date back to the 1860s. This trail is also a great spot to go bird watching with good quality Box Gum woodland and Yellow and White Box Trees providing habitat for native birds, and a small central dam that attracts various migratory species.

Wattle Flat NSW

38 km away

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