Holiday houses in Hill End

A former mining town, Hill End holds a unique combination of outdoor activities, historical sites, and art attractions. In the 1870s, gold was discovered in this region of New South Wales, leading to one of the biggest gold rushes in Australia’s history, setting off a frenzy that resulted in the largest single piece of gold ever unearthed. Eventually, the gold ran out, and the town began to develop a reputation as a haven for eclectics and artists, at one point establishing itself as a full-fledged artists’ colony.

Today, the area continues to attract not just artists but outdoor enthusiasts and recreational travelers alike with its nearby Ball Hill walking track and Mullions Range State Forest. A dedicated group of locals keep the various shops, museums, and attractions open year-round so visitors can enjoy sites like the Hill End Heritage Centre and the Cornish Quartz roasting pits. Folks come here to stroll the dusty streets, pan for gold, hike, visit art galleries, and observe the 19th-century architecture represented in the town's original post office and stables, and the frontier-era saloons and hotels kept in near original condition.

For pleasant temperatures and limited rainfall, you’ll want to visit Hill End between the months of November and March. During this time, you will be able to take full advantage of the breadth of activities the town has to offer. Should you choose to visit in the shoulder seasons, consider booking your Hill End accommodation in April during The End Festival, which hosts games, food stalls, and walking tours of the town. Many of the immaculately preserved buildings generally closed to the public are open during this time to give attendees a peek at what life was like in an 1800s mining town. Be sure to check road conditions if you decide to visit in the winter months as the dirt road leading into town can often be closed due to inclement weather.

Panning for Gold

Hill End’s reputation as a gold mining town holds firm to this day. While there may not be any commercial mining activity, the area still attracts its fair share of hobbyists. Several local tour operators offer gold and gemstone panning excursions throughout the region, its many creeks, and authorized fossicking sites. At the end of the day, you’re almost guaranteed to find a hard-won souvenir to take home.

The Golden Gully Walking Track

This beautiful and easy walk provides a view into the geology of the region and its connection to mining. Areas of erosion along dried creek beds have exposed the labyrinth of now-defunct mines lining the ancient waterways. Follow the mostly flat trail and you will eventually reach the famous Golden Gully Arch that soars directly overhead.

History Hill Museum

The History Hill Museum is unique in the sense that many of the exhibits and attractions lie underneath the museum building in now defunct mineshafts. This open-air museum extends over 485 hectares, encompassing kilometres of old mine shafts, quarries, and underground rail lines. In addition, roughly 175 metres of an underground mine are open for public exploration. Experienced guides are also available on-site to provide lectures and explanations of the more than 10,000 gold rush era artifacts that include old mining equipment, steam engines, uranium glass, and a blacksmithing shop.