Bathurst

Bathurst is the oldest inland settlement in Australia, situated in the picturesque state of New South Wales. Famous for its racing heritage and gold rush era architecture, this city attracts travellers wishing to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the true Australian outback. You can get here in various ways: by direct flight, scenic train, or by car along high-quality regional highways.

The fastest way to reach the region is to take a flight to the local Bathurst (BHS) airport, which receives regular planes, primarily from Sydney. The terminal is located just a few kilometres from the centre, allowing tourists to be in the city almost immediately after landing.

An alternative option is flying to the neighbouring city of Orange (OAG), located approximately 48 kilometres away. You can also consider airports in Mudgee or Parkes if you are planning a more extensive journey around the region using a rental vehicle.

Rail connections to the city of Bathurst are excellently developed: the historic station in the city centre welcomes passengers daily. The popular Bathurst Bullet express and NSW TrainLink regional network trains connect the city with Sydney, offering a comfortable journey through the scenic Blue Mountains.

If direct tickets are sold out, you can take a train to the station in the city of Orange, and then take a short transfer. Travelling by rail is considered one of the most relaxing ways to get to the destination, allowing you to enjoy views of the Australian landscapes without the need to focus on driving.

Bus services connect Bathurst with neighbouring regional centres, providing a budget-friendly travel option. The shortest route runs from the city of Orange: covering a distance of about 62 km will take approximately 1.5 hours.

Travellers departing from Parkes should expect a trip lasting about 4 hours. The route from Mudgee is longer and may take more than 6 hours due to schedules and stops, so it is chosen by those who have sufficient time available.

A trip by car offers maximum freedom and allows you to plan stops in picturesque places yourself. The road from neighbouring Orange will take less than an hour — about 50 minutes to cover 58 km along a quality highway.

The journey from Mudgee will require approximately 1.5 hours of driving, and the trip from Parkes (about 155 km) will take just under 2 hours. Taxi services are also available in the region, but for intercity travel, tourists more often prefer renting a private vehicle.

To ensure your journey to Bathurst goes smoothly, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. This region combines historical charm and wild nature, which requires some preparation.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate here can be changeable; it can be particularly cool at night. It is recommended to dress in layers and ensure you have comfortable shoes for walking around the historical centre.
2. Transport: Although the city centre is compact, it is best to rent a car to visit the surroundings and the racing circuit. Please remember that traffic moves on the left side of the road.
3. Finance: The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are accepted everywhere, but a small amount of cash will be useful for markets or souvenir shops.
4. Sun Protection: Even in cloudy weather, UV levels in Australia are very high. Always use sunscreen with SPF 50+, wear a hat and sunglasses.
5. Language and Communication: The official language is English. Locals are friendly and open but may use specific slang; a simple "G'day" will help establish contact.
6. Road Safety: Avoid driving on highways at dusk and dawn when kangaroos and other animals are most active and may run onto the road.
7. Emergency Services: The single number for police, ambulance, or fire services is 000. Medical care is high quality but expensive, so travel insurance is essential.
8. Special Recommendation: Be sure to drive or walk along the famous Mount Panorama track. When there are no races, it is a regular public road with stunning views of the city.

Following these simple recommendations will help you enjoy the atmosphere of the country's oldest settlement without unnecessary worries or surprises.