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‘Big Gems in Small Villages: Central NSW’

A trend is underway outside Orange NSW as a variety of new and unique accommodation has opened in the villages, or on the farm, perfect for a Winter getaway.

In the village of Molong, ‘Sona’ is a design lovers’ haven with new accommodation in a lovingly restored heritage bank; Lucknow’s ‘The Horned Cow’ is a luxury retreat immersed in nature on a hilltop; and outside Forbes’ ‘Top Paddock Silo Stay’ is a unique farm stay crafted from silo grains.

“People who love coming to the region have some new and very special places to stay that are real gems – we’re seeing farmers re-inventing their land and historic buildings being re-born.” said Jenny Bennett, Executive Officer of Central NSW Joint Organisation.

Central NSW Joint Organisation has identified a few of these gems in Molong and Manildra to Forbes and Cowra.

Sona, Molong – newly opened, this lovingly restored bank is now a design lovers boutique accommodation in the historic village of Molong near Orange. Owned by Pip Brett, of renowned retail store Jumbled Orange, Sona sleeps 10 and reflects the art deco Mediterranean style of the original building with luxurious, funky touches.

The village of Molong has a vibrant arts and crafts scene and Sona is a short stroll to nearby Molong Stores, the Summerhouse Store and Lime + Stone, while the Yarn Market sells local wine, produce and crafts.

The Horned Cow, Lucknow – in the quiet village of Lucknow, just 10 mins from Orange, the Horned Cow sleeps 10 and offers dramatic views from every room. The self-contained luxury house features an outdoor fire pit and huge entertaining spaces to cook up a storm using local food and wine.

The village of Lucknow now has the Jones & Smith Distillery with gin and whisky tastings, and there are new owners at Larder and Home which offers a café, providore, homewares and furniture store.

The Rockies, Manildra – on a working farm with gorgeous views from a unique outdoor hot tub, The Rockies cottage sleeps six and is the perfect place for a family to connect in nature with mountain biking and walking trails.

Manildra is on the banks of Mandagery Creek halfway between Orange and Parkes, see a movie at the 100-year-old Amusu Theatre with an adjoining Movie Museum in Tom’s Garage.

Top Paddock Silo Stay, near Forbes – new and crafted from two grain silos this unique rural retreat features three bedrooms. Soak up the sunsets from the outdoor spa and meet the friendly Angus cattle, kangaroos and wildlife that roam this family farm at the foot of Mt Tallabung.

Lachlan Vintage Village Cafe is a charming cafe located within the new Forbes Visitor Information Centre, a great place to start the Sculpture down the Lachlan outdoor art trail.

La Paloma Farm, near Cowra – this peaceful farm-stay offers luxury glamping or in the cooler months stay in The Pepper Tree Dome, a spacious geodesic glamping dome for couples with heating and awe-inspiring views of the Milky Way at night.

New offerings nearby include Bulla Creek Brewing Co, located on a fifth generation working farm, and Glencara Gardens, home of the rustic maze and a magical new garden attraction.

Also:

The Farm Kitchen, 15mins from Orange – this lovely, rustic, colourful farm-stay experience is run by Sophie Hanson (chef, author).
Glen Donald Estate, 20mins from Grenfell – a new farm-stay with alpacas, sheep, award-winning olive oils, fine produce and a farm experience the whole family can enjoy.

Central NSW begins just 2-hours drive from Sydney and includes Oberon, Bathurst, Orange, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Parkes, Grenfell, Lithgow and Lachlan.

Go to www.visitcentralnsw.com.au