Country NSW Archives - LIFE OUT & ABOUT

Millthorpe Historic Village

In Springtime

In October 2020 we headed west on a NSW country road trip. One of our favourite stops was the historic village of Millthorpe, a heritage listed village in the Central West and part of the Orange Wine Region. Cherry blossoms and flowering gardens lined the streets and the surrounding hills were blanketed in yellow canola and brilliant purple. Paterson’s curse never looked so beautiful! Many of Millthorpe’s historic buildings have been lovingly restored so there are plenty of photo opportunities for those who love quaint villages. Millthorpe has good accommodation options, wonderful cafes and the very popular Tonic Restaurant. This tiny village has reinvented itself as a tourist destination, and I only wish we’d stayed a couple of nights!

Red Cow Farm

Romantic Rustic Garden

The Red Cow Farm Garden is hidden in Sutton Forest behind a quaint historic cottage and picket fence. This expansive 2.5 hectare garden has over 20 beautifully designed garden spaces to explore!

Everglades Garden Leura Village

Charming European Style Garden

Everglades will charm with its grace, beauty and intimate garden spaces. Set on 13 acres of steeply sloping land and perched on the edge of a ridge, the garden enjoys expansive views over the Jamison Valley.

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Wentworth Falls Village

Arts & Eats… Indulge Yourself

Art galleries, eateries, waterfalls and an abundance of magnificent hiking trails surround the charming village of Wentworth Falls. With plenty of mountain retreat accommodation it’s easy to justify a weekend away here, yet also very accessible for a day trip from Sydney. Continue reading “Wentworth Falls Village”

Wentworth Falls National Pass

Descend into a Cool Oasis

Carved into the side of a spectacular cliff face, the Wentworth Falls National Pass trail offers expansive views over the Jamison Valley, and also boasts a number of beautiful waterfalls. This iconic walking track was originally constructed in 1906-1907 using shovels, crowbars and dynamite. In 2002 it underwent major restoration works. Heritage stonemasons were employed to repair the steps that had been eroded over the years, while helicopters were deployed to place large sandstone blocks along the trail.

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Southern Highlands Country Life

Villages & Rolling Hills

Connecting the historic towns and villages of the Southern Highlands is a network of quiet country roads. Rolling hills, tree lined farms and boutique wineries make the Highlands an idyllic place to explore by car, bike… or on foot! Also, with an impressive selection of fine dining restaurants and quality accommodation it’s easy to appreciate why many Sydneysiders find the Highlands a perfect destination for a weekend or day trip getaway, only 90 minutes drive south west of Sydney. Continue reading “Southern Highlands Country Life”

Creatives of the Southern Highlands

Antiques Arts Crafts & Homewares

90 minute drive south west of Sydney takes you to the heart of the picturesque Southern Highlands, home to a number of superb contemporary art and craft galleries, quirky antique shops and excellent eateries. There is also a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. It’s certainly easy to justify a weekend escape or day trip here!

Whether you plan a romantic weekend away, or a day trip with friends, you will be sure to enjoy this beautiful part of NSW.

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Leuralla Toys Trains & Amphitheatre

Down Memory Lane

Sadly this wonderful museum and garden closed in October 2022. I am leaving this blog active for those who have visited and would like a little reminder of just how special a place this was!

On our last trip to the Blue Mountains we were delighted to visit the historic Leuralla Toy and Train Museum. Housed in a two storey mansion is one of the largest collections of 20th century toys and model trains in the Southern Hemisphere! Surrounding the home are 12 acres of mountain gardens… filled with old train station memorabilia from Sydney and surrounds. Then just across the road is an impressive stone amphitheatre, with spectacular views over the Jamison Valley. Continue reading “Leuralla Toys Trains & Amphitheatre”

Leura Village Charm

The Garden Village

Leura village is often referred to as The Jewel in the Mountains Crown. With a garden village atmosphere and an abundance of boutique accommodation, speciality shops, galleries and eateries, it is easy to understand why it attracts such attention. Beyond the busy mall you will find mountain vistas, inspiring bushwalks and historic gardens and homes.