Canberra to Mudgee road trip: Distance, drive time & best stops

Canberra to Mudgee drive: Sofala Road

The quickest route from Bathurst to Mudgee leaves along Sofala Road.

Sofala is the best stop on the Bathurst to Mudgee leg of a Canberra to Mudgee road trio. On the Turon River, this former gold rush village is remarkably well-preserved. The gold rush started here in 1851, and gold deposits are still found in the Turon River. You can try your luck panning for gold if you wish.

Otherwise, there’s a downloadable self-guided walking tour route that you can use to navigate around the heritage buildings.

Canberra to Mudgee road trip: Castlereagh Highway

The Canberra to Mudgee road trip joins the Castlereagh Highway at Ilford, then continues north towards Mudgee.

On the way, it passes Lake Windamere, a lake caused by the Windamere Dam. There’s a pretty picnic area next to the dam, and the lake is a popular fishing spot.

As you get close to Mudgee, you’ll start passing several Mudgee region wineries. Logan Wines, Skimstone and Woolshed Wine are amongst those with cellar doors offering tastings.

Things to do in Mudgee include opal-polishing workshops, horse-riding and wine-tasting combos, plus wine tours in a classic car.

Mudgee accommodation picks include the very highly-reviewed Horatio Suites and Motel, the handily central Cobb & Co Court Boutique Hotel and the more upmarket Parkview Hotel.