Rylstone is a welcoming country town nestled at the western edge of the Blue Mountains, where colonial buildings complement award-winning cellar doors in the Mudgee wine region. The town is also a convenient gateway to the natural spoils of World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park.
Things to do in Rylstone
Immerse yourself in Rylstone’s surrounding nature starting with a scenic stroll along the Cudgegong River, which courses through the town. Afterwards, drive 25 kilometres out to Dunns Swamp, a sprawling expanse of sandstone pagoda rock formations and over 100 different species of native birds. You can also easily reach Ferntree Gully Reserve, home to enthralling walking trails that take you into the valleys and along the clifftops.
If you’re interested in Rystone’s Heritage-listed architecture, take the self-guided Rylstone Heritage Walk, which leads you past historic buildings, including Rylstone and Globe hotels and the 19th-century Court House and Gaol. The centre of Rystone also reveals a number of traditional wood-fire bakeries and the popular Cafe on Louee, known for its sweet treats and fresh coffee.
Introduce yourself to some of Australia’s best olive oils at the award-winning Rylstone Olive Press, before venturing out into the Mudgee region to visit renowned wineries. Stop in at Broombee Organic Wines to taste organic wine made from estate-grown grapes or visit the family-owned Moothi Estate for boutique wines and mesmerising countryside views.
Don’t miss the Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park, where some of Australia’s most beautiful nature can be explored by hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Rock climbers can find a number of challenging climb sites, while nature lovers can enjoy spotting glow worms, red-necked wallabies, honeyeaters and grey kangaroos.
Getting around Rylstone
Rylstone is about 3.5 hours’ drive from Sydney on the Great Western and Castlereagh highways or a five-hour train ride on two different lines. You can easily walk around the centre of town, but you’ll need your own vehicle to explore further.