Long-time Bicycling Australia journalist Peter Maniaty takes us on a ride back in time, through Mudgee and the NSW Mid West.
Back in the autumn of 2021, I was lucky enough to be an ambassador for the inaugural Mudgee Classic. Whilst Iâd been reasonably close to the area before, having ridden several times around places like Bathurst, Orange, Hill End and Dubbo over the years, it was my first time based in Mudgee itself. I absolutely loved my four-day stay and have since returned on two more occasions with bikes and friends in tow.
Yes, the riding in and around Mudgee is brilliant. But what really stuck with me on that first visit was the complete experience that comes with it. The food and the wine. The scenery. The history. The friendly and relaxed locals.
There are some places where you just tend to feel more welcome â and Mudgee is one of them. Nestled in Wiradjuri country along the Cudgegong River, itâs a truly fabulous part of regional Australia, brilliantly geared for cyclo-tourism. Not too big, but big enough. Not too far from Sydney, but far enough to feel a million miles away.
If youâre considering making the trip out to the third annual Mudgee Classic on the weekend of 4/5 May 2024, Iâd simply say: âWhat are you waiting for?â Grab your mates. Register your spots. Book your accommodation. You wonât regret it!
Riders set off at the start of the 2022 Mudgee Classic Gran Fondo. The â24 event is on Sunday May 5th, with a gravel event taking place on Saturday May 4th.
The Riding
Regional Australia is renowned for âdeadâ roads and the Central West of NSW is no exception. If youâre planning a long day in the saddle, be prepared for tired legs and, at times, inconsistent road surfaces. On my visits Iâve also experienced relatively little traffic and those vehicles I have come across have been generally accommodating, providing plenty of space. Donât forget to gaze upwards from time to time either, especially if youâre riding in the serenity of the early morning. You might see a hot air balloon or two floating gently above some of the many vineyards.
he town itself actually sits at the south-eastern tip of the popular Central West Cycle Trail, a 400km(ish) loop which passes through Gulgong, Dunedoo and Mendooran to the north and Wellington, Geurie and Dubbo to the west.
The Weather
Mudgee can get stinking hot in summer. But in the autumn months riders can expect crisp mornings, often with some fog or mist, which slowly give way to reasonably mild days.
In April, temperatures average between 9 degrees (low) and 23 (high) degrees, while the month typically sees just 3 days of wet weather.My time at the Mudgee Classic in 2021 was defined by clear blue skies stretching as far as the eye could see and very pleasant riding conditions. Just glorious.
The Region
An established wine producing region thatâs well used to welcoming tourists, Mudgee is 260km north-west of Sydney, roughly a 3hr 30min drive. Basically, you turn right when you see the power stations just past Lithgow, then follow the Castlereagh Highway all the way to Mudgee.
The vibrant wine, food and artisanal produce scene â including bustling pubs, first-class restaurants, cellar doors and numerous options for fresh coffee and pastries â is accompanied by super friendly locals and thereâs certainly no shortage of things to see and do, making it well worth allowing a few extra days before and/or after your weekendâs riding. Rest assured, non-cycling partners and family will have plenty to keep them occupied while youâre out on the road. (Oh, there are also a couple of bike shops in town should you require last-minute spares or supplies.)
This article originally appeared on www.bicyclingaustralia.com.au
