The Best Country Towns in NSW
Australia is full of unique country towns, we all have our favourites. Every time I drive into a new country town, I can’t help but feel one of two ways. A sense of hope and prosperity or a sense of struggle and abandonment. Interestingly, you generally know as soon as you start to drive through the main street, what sort of town it will be. Let us take a trip to the best country towns in NSW.
There are many fabulous country towns that have come with progressive local councils and community where they truly thrive. These places are a credit to the locals. The towns tend to have several things in common. They provide true authentic Australian experiences – a sense of what we as city folk try to capture in a fleeting snapshot, passing through.
The locals are friendly, they tell you about ‘their secret spot’ and the pub serves a steak that covers your plate.
OK, so with this list, I will be slightly self-indulgent and mention the ones I have been to. I have covered NSW extensively with a bit of Victoria, your job is to fill out the rest. Here are my top country towns in NSW, not in any particular order. And they could change…
1. Broken Hill – actually, I think this is officially my favourite of country towns in NSW. The old mining town has a brilliant mix of history, art, surrounding national parks and local characters.
2. Tilpa – Located halfway between Bourke and Broken Hill. I think I had one of the funniest nights of my life here in the local pub.
3. Lightening Ridge – Wierd vibe, but fascinating. People come here when they don’t want to be found.
4. Gundagai – The song, the true country look of the town and the gorgeous main street.
5. Wagga Wagga – A bit of city in the bush. For the ladies, great shoe shops.
6. Glen Innes – The agricultural industry gives it a real sense of properity. Combined with Celtic history, you will find many reasons to stay a few nights in this country town in NSW.
7. Yamba – The pub with the best view in Australia.
8. Quirindi – Some of the best agricultural land in the world…get there before the Coal Seam Gas miners get their grubby hands on this absolutely beautiful town with surrounding plains and rich soil. World class bird watching.
9. Mudgee – Good wine, great pubs and make it to the Mudgee Cup one day if you can.
10. Bourke – The backdrop of the Darling River gives it a truly romantic feel. You can imagine what it would have been like with a paddle steamer gracefully making its way down the river.
11. White Cliffs – The opal mining town offers a great experience with a pub that is at the centre of the community. Try P.J’s underground Bed and Breakfast.
I guess for me, the further away from the city the better.
So, what is your favourite country town in Australia?
