Okay, this Central NSW road trip is shaping up to be legendary. It’s not just about the food (though that’s a HUGE part of it); it’s about exploring this diverse region, meeting interesting people, and experiencing things you can’t do anywhere else. Think rolling hills, historic towns, and a thriving food and drink scene. Forget the coast; this is where the real Aussie character lives. Here’s the expanded plan:
First Stop: Mushroom Mania near Oberon & Lithgow – Into the Woods We Go!
Oberon and Lithgow are calling all fungi fanatics (and even those who just like eating them!). These pine forests are a mushroom paradise. I’m picturing myself joining a ‘Mushroom Foraging Tour’ – like a real-life treasure hunt for edible gold (March to May). Diego Bonetto, the mushroom guru, is apparently running some of these tours, and I’d love to learn from the best. We’re talking Saffron milkcaps, Slippery Jacks… who knew there were so many types of mushrooms? The tour isn’t just about finding them; it’s about learning about the ecosystem, the different varieties, and how to identify the good ones from the not-so-good ones. And the best part? Cooking up our foraged finds afterwards! Plus, the Field to Forest Festival is on around the same time (1-31 March). This isn’t just a food festival; it’s a celebration of the whole region. Think truffle hunts (yes, actual truffles!), farm-to-table dinners, and markets overflowing with local produce. I’m already drooling. Accommodation-wise, I’ll need to book something cozy in either Oberon or Lithgow – maybe a cute B&B or a rustic cabin.
Next Up: Orange – Trikes, Tucker, and Tales of the Land
Orange is more than just a fruit; it’s a vibrant city with a cool vibe. Forget the car for a bit; I’m hopping on a Mustang Trike with Orange Trike Tours. This isn’t your average tour; it’s a cultural experience. Cruising around with an Aboriginal elder, learning about the Indigenous history of the area, and discovering bush tucker secrets… that’s what I’m talking about. They visit an Indigenous garden, point out native plants, and share stories that have been passed down for generations. It’s a chance to connect with the land and its people on a deeper level. And yes, there’s a brewery stop involved! Orange FOOD Week (28 March – 6 April) is also happening, so I’m hoping to catch some of the events. Think wine tastings, cooking demos, and maybe even a long lunch in a vineyard. Orange is known for its cool-climate wines, so I’m definitely going to be doing some sampling.
Bathurst: Wine Time, History, and a Touch of Class
Bathurst is a historic town with a surprisingly vibrant food and drink scene. I’m leaving the driving to Bathurst Tours for a wine and spirits tour. I’m keen to explore the local wineries and distilleries, sample some award-winning drops, and learn about the winemaking process. Apparently, they’re doing some interesting things with Italian grape varieties around here. And Bathurst Grange Distillery… I’ve heard whispers of their amazing gins and whiskeys. I’m also hoping to check out the Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail if it’s on (12-13 April). It’s a chance to see local artisans at work, learn about traditional crafts, and maybe pick up a unique souvenir. Bathurst is also home to Mount Panorama, the famous racetrack, so maybe I’ll even sneak in a quick peek.
The Grand Finale: Ballooning over Canowindra – A Bird’s-Eye View
Canowindra is the perfect place to end this epic road trip. A hot air balloon ride with Balloon Joy Flights is the ultimate way to see the region. Imagine floating silently above the fields at sunrise, watching the world wake up below. It’s a bucket-list experience for sure. And the champagne breakfast afterwards? Yes, please! I’m also trying to time my trip with the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge (26 April – 4 May). Seeing all those hot air balloons in the sky… it’s going to be a photographer’s dream. The Cabonne Community Glow, where the balloons light up at night to music, sounds particularly magical.
This road trip is more than just a holiday; it’s an adventure. It’s about connecting with the land, the people, and the food that makes Central NSW so special. I can’t wait to hit the road!
