Experiences Near Turon Gates

Discover what lies beyond our gates — from world heritage wilderness and glow worm caves to local vineyards, markets and country towns worth exploring.

Explore the best of the region

It’s easy to spend your whole visit camped (glamped, lodged or cabined) on our huge expanse of river, mountain and bush. But there’s always something interesting happening beyond our gates. You’ll find seasonal shows, local vineyards and distilleries, cute cafés and a host of history within an hour’s drive of Turon Gates. Check local media or ask your hosts for the latest on what’s on.

Wollemi National Park

This world heritage listed park approximately 1 hour drive from Turon Gates offers a dramatic setting for wildlife viewing, walks, kayaking and canoeing.

Glow Worm Tunnels

Just a 1.5-hour drive from Turon Gates, the Glow Worm Tunnels offer a magical walk through a disused railway tunnel lit up by thousands of bioluminescent glow worms.

Mudgee Wineries

Just 45 minutes from Turon Gates, Mudgee wineries are famed for award-winning Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, these boutique cellar doors offer great wines, views, and local food. As Mudgee accommodation near the wineries, Turon Gates is the ideal base to explore the region.

Sofala Historic Village

Sofala is considered to be Australia’s oldest surviving gold rush town, after gold was discovered there in 1851, it’s now home to just over 200 people. A 1 hr drive from Turon Gates, it has a quiet, almost ghost town atmosphere. It still has some active businesses like cafes and galleries and much of its charm lies in its preserved historic buildings and tranquil, slow-paced vibe – making it feel like a step back in time.

Gardens of Stone National Park

Another World Heritage Listed Park nearby, located about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. This park is renowned for its stunning sandstone pagoda formations, cliffs, breathtaking views and canyons.

The Zig Zag Railway

Just over 1 hour’s drive from Turon Gates, offers a nostalgic steam train journey through the spectacular Blue Mountains escarpment, with the full experience taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Capertee Valley

A scenic 1-hour drive away, the Capertee Valley is the world’s second-largest canyon and a renowned birdwatching and photography destination. Plan to spend 2–4 hours soaking in the views and exploring walking trails.

Capertee Valley Helicopter Ride

Departing just 30 mins drive from Turon Gates, a helicopter tour of the Capertee Valley offers breathtaking aerial views of this geological wonder.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo (Dubbo)

Located around 2.5 hours away, this open-range zoo is perfect for a full-day adventure (4–6 hours) among free-roaming animals from around the globe.

Jenolan Caves

About a 2 hour drive away, these spectacular limestone caves are among the oldest in the world and offer a variety of guided tours and walks; allow 2–3 hours for your visit and book in advance.