Explore one of Australia’s youngest wine regions and stay in art deco style in NSW’s New England High Country. Gripped by drought, there’s never been a more important time to visit regional towns and show your support.
Venture to Armidale and Uralla where you’ll find cool cafes, welcoming wineries and a bunch of breweries for a weekend eatinerary that’s oozing country charm.
FRIDAY
Kick off the weekend in the most unexpected of ways at Dobson’s Distillery, a unique and quirky distillery with a fantastical bar that feels straight out of le Moulin Rouge. Pick up a bottle of the good stuff and continue to Sunhill Dairy for some goat’s cheese goodness as you add to your bounty.
Make your way into Uralla and browse the high street, marvelling at quite possibly the cutest country town you ever did see! Embrace the #buyfromthebush spirit and spend in some of the stunning homeware stores including Melrose, Highland Living and Little Birdie.
Quench your thirst at New England Brewing Company a brilliant craft brewery smack-bang in the centre of town. You can drop by the brewery for a tour, grab a tasting paddle or simply settle in for a few pints. Head next door to The Top Pub for a hearty country pub meal. The extensive menu features house specialties, Thai-influenced cuisine and local favourites such as crumbed New England lamb cutlets served with creamy mash and gravy.
Settle in for the night at Aurelia’s Farm, just two minutes’ drive from the centre of town. Offering a cosy private room for two, the Gostwyck Room is a comfortable spot for a short stay, or The Cottage is a fully self-contained two-bedroom abode if you’re travelling in a group.
SATURDAY
Head to The Alternate Root for the ultimate breakfast of champions and the best coffee in town. Housed in a beautifully restored former general store, the rustic space features soaring pressed metal ceilings and a massive stone fireplace.
Once you’re ready to kick off the day, explore one of Australia’s youngest wine regions with a wine tasting tour in New England High Country. At Merilba Estate Wines, taste some of the most stunning chardonnay going around. Nearby, stop by Whyworry Wines for cellar door tastings of more superb cool-climate wines.
Continue on to Peterson’s Armidale outpost to taste award-winning wines in the rustic cellar door and enjoy a cheese board or antipasto platter in the English-inspired gardens (or fireside in the great hall during the cooler months).
Finish the afternoon at The Welder’s Dog, a local bar serving their own range of craft brews and unique spirits. Try the pea blossom lemonade, a hard lemonade that’s beautifully coloured and outrageously delicious.
Retire to the stunningly refurbished Tattersalls Hotel, an art deco beauty in the heart of Armidale. Enjoy first-class dining in the on-site restaurant, or casual eats in the outdoor pizza garden.
SUNDAY
Time to say farewell! Before departing, indulge your sweet tooth with breakfast at Café Patisserie, who are renowned for their authentic French crêpes and freshly baked pastries.
Head home knowing you’ve supported those in the bush all while enjoying a weekend of eating and drinking in glorious New England High Country!
By Sally Scott of Alluxia. This writer was a guest of Destination NSW.
