Mudgee Road Trip: Wine, Food, and Scenic Drives
Luxury Road Trip to Mudgee – In the Mazda CX-70
About Mudgee:
Nestled in the Central West of New South Wales, Mudgee was established in the early 1800s and flourished during the gold rush era of the 1850s. But while gold built the town, it’s the grapes that put Mudgee on the modern map. With a winemaking history spanning over 150 years, Mudgee has become one of Australia’s premier boutique wine regions. Today, it’s known for its award-winning wineries, paddock-to-plate dining, historic streetscapes, and relaxed country charm—a perfect mix of heritage and hospitality that draws foodies, wine lovers, and weekenders from all over.
If there’s one destination in NSW that delivers on wine, food and slow country charm—it’s Mudgee. Just 3.5 hours from Sydney, this Central West gem is the perfect road trip for those looking to unwind, indulge, and explore.
We took the brand-new Mazda CX-70 Azami on its first big weekend away, and wow—comfort, tech and luxury all rolled into one made the drive a breeze. The panoramic sunroof let us soak in the countryside as we cruised through the Blue Mountains and into wine country.
Where We Stayed:
Bowmar Estate – Country Comfort with Character
Tucked away on the outskirts of Mudgee, Bowmar Estate offers the kind of quiet country luxury that makes you instantly exhale. The property is set on a spacious block with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. Think modern country style—neutral tones, natural textures, and just the right amount of rustic charm. What makes Bowmar truly special though are the thoughtful details: the outdoor cast iron tub under fairy lights is perfect for a sunset soak with a local red in hand, and the firepit area is ideal for cool evenings with a glass of wine and a yarn. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with mates, Bowmar Estate is the kind of place you’ll want to return to—again and again.
Bowmar Estate: https://www.bowmarestate.com/
Where We Ate & Drank:
- Logan Wines: One of Mudgee’s most iconic cellar doors. The view is stunning, but the wines—especially the Shiraz and Pinot Gris—are even better.
- The Zin House: This place is special. A multi-course paddock-to-plate experience surrounded by the chef’s own garden, where every bite tells a seasonal story.
- Old Wheels Grind: Not your average coffee stop. Think rich espresso and arguably the best donuts you’ll find west of the Blue Mountains.
- High Valley Cheese Co: One of the nicest cheese tastings I have experienced to date.
Logans Wines
Logan Wines – Elevated Wine with a View
As you arrive at Logan Wines, you’re greeted by panoramic views that stretch across the rolling vineyard and valley below. The architecture of the cellar door is striking—modern, minimal, and glass-walled so the outside flows in. It’s the perfect setting to explore their impressive range of wines. Known for cool-climate varietals like Shiraz, Pinot Gris, and Tempranillo, Logan focuses on elegance, structure, and terroir-driven character. The tasting experience is relaxed and approachable, and the team is more than happy to talk you through each pour without the snobbery. Pair a tasting with a charcuterie board, settle into a corner seat, and just soak it all in.
Zin House
The Zin House – A True Destination Dining Experience
Dining at The Zin House isn’t just about eating—it’s about connecting with place, produce, and passion. Located on the organic Lowe Family Wine Co. farm, this beautiful farmhouse restaurant is run by chef Kim Currie, who champions sustainability and seasonality. Much of what ends up on your plate is grown just metres away in the kitchen garden or sourced locally from Mudgee producers. The degustation menu is ever-changing, but always thoughtful—expect six to seven courses that take you on a journey through the land and the season. From handmade pasta with garden greens to slow-roasted meats infused with native herbs, every dish is a love letter to regional NSW. The setting, the service, and the slow food philosophy make it a must-visit.
Old Wheels Grind
Old Wheels Grind – Coffee and Donuts with a Side of Character
Housed in in a paddock 10 mins out of Mudgee, Old Wheels Grind brings big flavour to a quirky, vintage setting. It’s part café, part hangout, part donut heaven. The espresso is top-tier—bold, smooth and served by people who take their coffee seriously. But the real showstopper? The donuts. Fresh, fluffy with an outer crunch and perfectly coated in Cinnamon Sugar, they’re worth the drive alone and melts in your mouth. There’s outdoor seating under the trees, retro land rovers on the everywhere, and just a laid-back vibe that fits Mudgee perfectly. It’s a local favourite and now, a Fuel to Feast essential.
High Valley Cheese Co
High Valley Cheese Co: A creamy slice of heaven just minutes from Mudgee’s main strip. This boutique dairy is famous for its small-batch, hand-crafted cheeses made using time-honoured European techniques. The tasting experience here is rustic, warm and full of flavour. You’ll sample a variety of cheeses, from their silky marinated feta to the creamy brie and the punchy, aromatic washed rind. Their blue cheese is a standout—rich and perfectly balanced—and pairs beautifully with a local Mudgee shiraz. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and love sharing their passion for cheesemaking. Grab a bunch of chesses, head back to your accommodation , and enjoy one of the most delicious and authentic artisan tastings in the region.
What We Did:
Between vineyard visits and food stops, we explored Mudgee’s charming town centre, checked out some local markets, and kicked back by the firepit with a glass in hand. It’s the kind of trip that reminds you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Final Thoughts:
Great car, great eats, and great memories. Huge thanks to Mazda Australia for making this road trip possible. If you're craving a luxury escape with soul, put Mudgee at the top of your list.
Stay tuned for more road trips, foodie finds, and laid-back adventures from Fuel to Feast. Cheers to the road ahead!
