Discover The Hawkesbury

Saturday

9am Arrive at the Visitor Information Centre to collect maps and Hawkesbury information. Head through historic Richmond and start the day driving the historic Bells Line of Road that climbs to the fruit-growing areas of Bilpin.

10am Delicious fresh produce is plentiful–  take the opportunity to get out in the orchards and ‘pick your own’ at one of our local farms (seasonal) which offer a bounty of fruit and vegetables and a great farm experience.  Meet the friendly locals – especially the ones that cluck, bark and bleat! Some farms may require online bookings and fees apply.

Lunch time! Decisions decisions!! If delicious home cooked delights and local produce sound tempting make sure to follow ‘Bilpin’s Apple Pie Trail’ – it brings together all that we love about this area – from hot apple pie and coffee at quirky cafes to award winning ciders at our cider cellar doors – you will be spoilt for choice!!  Ensure you visit our cider sheds - Bilpin Cider and Hillbilly Cider both offer you delicious local ciders and yummy eats in a country environment – take home your favourite sips to enjoy later.

1.00pm It’s time to burn off the calories from lunch time at the beautiful Blue Mountains Botanical Gardens - Mt Tomah –an incredible vista awaits you. There is so much space to explore - 69 acres in total! The botanic garden is one of a kind, it is the only botanic garden anywhere in the world located within a United Nations World Heritage Area. Entry is FREE!

2.45pm Have you ever been up close and personal with an alpaca?  The friendly folk at Madison’s Mountain Retreat provide the opportunity to meet and greet their friendly crias (babies) and hembras (females). Alpaca feeding is held daily and BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL. Enjoy hand feeding the animals at the farm and during this exclusive activity learn some interesting facts too.

4pm Stop in at Bellbird Lookout, this spot is well-known for its expansive and panoramic views over the Grose Valley and the surrounding wilderness of the Blue Mountains National Park. On a clear day, visitors can see dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and lush, dense forests stretching for miles. The lookout is named for the bellbirds that often inhabit the area, adding a peaceful and distinct natural soundtrack to the surroundings.  It's location just off the Bells Line of Road, makes it an accessible stop for those driving along this scenic route. It’s an excellent place to pause, take in the views, and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

What a day! Whew… time to get a good night’s rest. The choice is yours – choose from luxury accommodation, comfortable motels, houseboats, caravan parks, character filled B&Bs or tent sites - we have it all.  Whatever your budget you will find accommodation in the Hawkesbury that's right for you.  See our comprehensive accommodation list here.