Perched on the Great Dividing Range, the rural town of Crookwell offers scenic vistas, colonial heritage sites and country gardens. From lavender, alpaca and solar farms to sock factories and art galleries, there are plenty of eclectic attractions in this pastoral community of the Southern Tablelands.
Things to do in Crookwell
Crookwell is home to alpaca farms where families can visit for tours and participate in animal feedings and seasonal shearings. Kids get hands-on with the furry creatures and leave as honorary "Australian Alpaca Ambassadors”. Other enjoyable outdoor activities in Crookwell include fossicking, cycling and trout fishing.
Stop by Crookwell Art Gallery and the Tea House Gallery to browse contemporary and traditional Australian art. Don't miss touring the Lindner Sock Factory, where you can get an education in sock-making and purchase cosy alpaca socks.
Crystal Brook Gardens and Lavender Farm is home to more than 60 lavender varieties in nine themed gardens. They’re open from October to May, but you can also visit by appointment year-round for events and high tea at the on-site Paris Café. Learn the ins-and-outs of renewable energy at Crookwell Energy Farm or Gullen Range Wind and Solar Farm.
Drive about an hour to the historic village of Goulburn for wine tasting and then on to Taralga, a picturesque gateway town, for the Wombeyan Caves. These underground limestone passages twist and curve through streams and caverns, offering options for guided or self-guided tours.
Getting around Crookwell
Crookwell is a three-hour drive from Sydney and 90 minutes from Canberra. Rental cars are the most convenient way to get around, or you can take a bus to Crookwell. Taxis and private shuttles offer transportation in town and to nearby attractions.