The Hawkesbury region has long been a favourite of mine for a scenic road trip, especially during autumn months where the leaves put on a magical display of colours and the apple orchards are plentiful with pink ladies and sundowners.
I cannot count the number of times I have trekked up and down the Bells Line of Road, and to finally have the opportunity stay and make a weekend in the region, I was excited, to say the least.
Come along for the journey as I take you on a weekend away in Bilpin, with a guide on where to explore, stay, dine and get a real taste of the region.
Wollemi Wilderness Cabins
There are some places you remember forever, and The Dream Cabin at Wollemi Wilderness Cabins is exactly one of those places. There are several cabins to choose from, each bringing their own style and unique way to stay, like the Love Tee Pee and Treehouse.
The views and tranquillity of The Dream Cabin are everything you could wish for in a wilderness escape. Spacious and designed with a creative edge, think secret staircases behind a sandstone wall, walls adorned with classic art and even a feature ceiling that flashes with fairy lights at night.
What better way to bask in the pristine surrounds than in the outdoor spa hut. The cosy custom built space features foldable windows that let the outside in, the perfect way to kick back and watch a stunning sunset across the mountains.
If you're feeling super keen, there's an outdoor bath which is ideal for chilling out during those warmer months.
With the colder weather inching in closer each day, the grand stone crafted open fireplace is a very welcome addition to the cabin. There is something therapeutic about stacking, stoking and feeling the direct heat of a roaring fireplace that you just can't get from an electric heater.
The kitchen has all the basics that you need, with a gas stove top and microwave available as well as an outdoor BBQ. However, if you don't feel like cooking why not treat yourself to one of the many dining destinations in the area?
Where to dine
Lochiel House
Take a step back in time and explore the heritage listed Lochiel House, established back in 1825, almost 200 years ago.
Full of character and Hawkesbury hospitality, Lochiel House offers a menu of modern and seasonal dishes infused with a contemporary Asian flair.
Bookings are recommended as this Bells of Line road gem is popular with the locals and hungry travellers.
1259 Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Heights, 2758
02 45677754
Bilpin Cider
Picnic hampers, ciders and rolling green lawns an all-round winning combination for a casual dining feast to be had at Bilpin Cider.
Make sure you enjoy a sampling of the freshly pressed delights featuring the classic apple cider and mead made from local honey.
The picnic hampers feature anything from a roast chicken with rolls and salad to an antipasto grazing board. On the third Sunday of every month be sure to pop by and feast on spit roast pork rolls with the soundtrack of live music playing in the background.
2369 Bells Line of Rd, Bilpin NSW 2758
Get outdoors
Wildwood Gardens
Take a turn off the Bells Line of Road to find the stunning grounds and nursery of Wildwood Gardens.
Open during certain seasons of the year (check their website for full details), Wildwood Gardens is a testimony to exceptional landscape design.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic scape of one of the many grassy lawns or a spot under a maple tree or enjoy the onsite cafe.
Entry is $10 for adults.
29 Powells Rd, Bilpin NSW 2758
Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens
Free to enter and abundant with natural beauty, The Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens are a must stop for those with a green thumb (and those who wish they had one).
Gorgeous any time of the year, the gardens are a playground of rainforest walks, succulent gardens, maples and seasonal bloomers.
Dining options are also available at the gardens.
Bells Line of Rd, Mount Tomah NSW 2758
If you're after an escape from the city that isn't hours away and gets you back in touch with nature, then head to the hills and up the Bells Line of Road and treat the senses.
For more information about any of the locations featured in this article please get in touch hello@clovarcreative.com