Discover a taste of winter in these NSW’s country towns

As winter sets in and the coast cools down, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the charm of some of NSW’s country towns. 

From cosy cafes and boutique shops to rolling vineyards and heritage-rich villages, these country towns are made for weekend wandering. Here’s our go-to guide to the best places worth a winter road trip from Newcastle.

Berry 

Just under a four-hour drive from Newcastle, Berry offers a picturesque winter escape. This South Coast village blends country charm with polished hospitality, making it ideal for a relaxed weekend getaway. 

Start your day with breakfast at The Garden, a warm and inviting cafe known for its wholesome seasonal menu. Explore the buzzing main street, home to artisan boutiques like Haven & Space, and don’t miss the famous Berry Donut Van. 

Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Spend your afternoon browning the Berry Farmers Market (Thursday afternoons), explore the nearby Seven Mile Beach National Park for a scenic walk and settle in for dinner at South on Albany, a cosy spot known for its focus on regional food and wine.

Time from Newcastle: 3hr 46min

Bowral & Berrima

The Southern Highlands deliver in all seasons, but winter is where the area truly shines. Think open fires, antique stores, and steaming cups of tea as the mist rolls in. 

In Bowral, check out Dirty Janes, a sprawling antique emporium, followed by a coffee at The Press Shop. For those looking to explore the countryside, choose from a range of great vineyards including Centennial Vineyards, Tertini Wines, and Bendooley Estate (that comes complete with an on-site book barn).

Ten minutes down the road, Berrima is a time capsule of colonial heritage. Drop by Gumnut Patisserie to load up some on pastry goods, swing into the Tractorless Vineyard for a cheeky wine tasting, walk it off on the Berrima River Walk, then finish the day with a whisky by the fire at the Surveyor General Inn, the oldest continuously licensed inn in Australia. 

Time from Newcastle: 3hr 11min

Dubbo 

Whilst it’s mostly known for the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo is more than just a pit stop for families and animal lovers. It’s a regional hub with cultural depth and a growing food scene. 

Head to Press Cafe for coffee and brunch and drop by Down The Lane for relaxed modern Italian eats in a garden party setting. 

For a unique winter experience, book a stay at Zoofari Lodge and watch giraffes wander past your outdoor deck at sunrise. Round out your weekend with a wine tasting at Red Earth Estate, Dubbo’s own local vineyard, or swing by Devil’s Hollow brewery for a craft beer. 

Time from Newcastle: 4hr 40min

Millthorpe & Carcoar

These two Central West spots are as charming as they are stunning – perfect for slowing down. Just a 20-minute drive from one another, and a bit out of town from Orange, the two spots are as country town as they come. 

Millthorpe is a heritage-listed town with cobbled laneways and historic buildings that now house cafes, cellar doors, and boutique shops. Stop in at Millthorpe Providore for local cheeses and small goods, then drop into Angullong Wines for a tasting in their restored bluestone stables. 

Head over to Carcoar, one of NSW’s best-preserved 19th-century villages. Have lunch at The Village Grocer and drop into Tomolly Homewares and gift store for a bit of shopping. It’s quiet, it’s quaint, and it feels like stepping back in time.

Time from Newcastle: 5hr 6min

Mudgee

Mudgee’s reputation as a food and wine destination continues to grow – and for good reason. This sophisticated country town is packed with award-winning wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and boutique stays. 

Spend your morning wandering the Mudgee Farmers’ Market (third Saturday of each month) or browsing the indie stores along the main streets. Enjoy a long lunch at The Zin House on-site at Lowe Family Wine Co, overlooking the rolling hills while feasting on a seasonal tasting menu. 

Image courtesy of Destination NSW

For the wine lovers, you’re spoiled for choice. Don’t miss Lowe Family Wine Co., Logan Wines, and Bunnamagoo (HUNTERhunter favourites), all offering dramatic views and exceptional drops. 

Image courtesy of Destination NSW

In the evening, catch live music and great pub fare at Kelly’s Irish Pub, cosy up with a good meal at Gigi’s, or enjoy a wine bar experience at Roth’s Wine Bar & Cellar.

Time from Newcastle: 3hr 35min

Orange

With its renowned wine region, buzzing food scene, and stylishing boutiques, Orange is fast becoming one of NSW’s top winter destinations. 

Start your day at Byng St Local Store, then head to Cook Park for a misty morning walk through 19th-century gardens. From there, it’s time to wine. Our picks are Phillip Shaw, Heifer Station, and Swinging Bridge – all offering top-notch experiences. 

Orange’s boutique shopping scene is not to be missed. Browse locally curated fashion, homewares, and gifts at stores like The White Place, Jumbled, and Hawkes General Store.

For dinner, Lucetta Dining is a standout for Italian eats, or try Mr Lim for an inventive Korean-Chinese feast. 

Time from Newcastle: 5hr 12min

Uralla

Just 20 minutes from Armidale lies the unassuming town of Uralla, full of historic buildings and hidden gems.

Step back in time at McCrossin’s Mill Museum, then take yourself on a self-guided heritage walk through town, where heritage architecture and quirky storefronts create a charming atmosphere. 

Warm up with coffee at The Alternate Route, a stylish cafe and wine bar serving seasonal fare, or drop by the recently refurbished The Bolt Inn for a hearty and modern pub lunch.

If you’re up for it, take a short 10-minute drive to the nearby village of Kentucky, home to the iconic Dobson’s Distillery. Tucked away in the hills, this atmospheric destination offers handcrafted spirits, a moody speakeasy-style bar, and the kind of old-world charm that feels straight out of a novel.

Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Wrap up your visit with a brisk walk along the Thunderbolt’s Way lookout trail, taking in sweeping views of New England’s high country. 

Time from Newcastle: 4hr 38min

Winter is the ideal season to slow down and soak up the heart and soul of NSW’s regional towns. Whether you’re sipping shiraz by the fire, wandering historic streets, or exploring cultural landmarks, these towns invite you to pack your coat, hit the road, and make the most of the chilly winter season.