Taralga

A small historic village in the Southern Tablelands of NSW, Taralga is known for its fine collection of nineteenth century buildings, emerging foodie scene and the famous Taralga Australia Day Rodeo. The town is also on the way to the spectacular Wombeyan Caves.

Taralga Hotel at Taralga in Goulburn, Country NSW

Taralga Hotel, Taralga

Heritage & history

Built on land donated by the son of wool pioneer John Macarthur, Taralga was cleared and developed by convicts in the mid-1800s. Explore the history on a self-guided Taralga Heritage Walking Tour which takes you past the heritage-listed Poundkeeper’s Residence, the town’s oldest surviving building.

Jacarandas lining a street with stone houses in Taralga, NSW

Stone houses,Taralga - Credit: Upper Lachlan Shire Council

Find out more about Taralga’s heritage at the Taralga Historical Society Museum. This museum is home to a settlers’ cottage, shearing shed, blacksmith complex, all complete with colonial style fittings and furnishings.

 

Delicious local produce

The Argyle Inn, built in 1875, is the oldest trading hotel in Taralga, now lovingly restored and serving fresh produce from local farms in its restaurant, a Good Food Guide hat winner. Nearby, the historic Taralga Hotel is a classic country pub with hearty meals.

The Argyle Inn: Restaurant and Bar at Taralga in Goulburn

The Argyle Inn: Restaurant and Bar, Taralga - Credit: Upper Lachlan Shire Council

The area’s rich soil and pastures produce fine wool, prime lamb and beef, and luscious berries. Pick up gourmet treats at the Taralga Lions Market, on the first Sunday of the month.

 

The great outdoors & family events

Held each year over the Australia Day long weekend, the Taralga Rodeo and Campdrafts a great day out for the family with cattle and yard dog trials, thrilling junior and senior rodeo events, a variety of stalls and live music. Roll out a picnic rug in the shade and enjoy the festivities. Camping is also available.

Mares Forest Creek Walking Track - Credit: National Parks & Wildlife Service

Mares Forest Creek Walking Track - Credit: National Parks & Wildlife Service

Only 40 mins from Taralga, the spectacular Wombeyan Caves are 430-million-year-old natural wonders. Explore the caves and Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve attractions, including the incredible Dennings Labyrinth cave tour. Enjoy a picnic at Wombeyan picnic area, with walking tracks nearby.

 

Getting there

Taralga is less than three hours’ drive from Sydney and an easy 90-min drive from Canberra. Places to stay include historic country pubs, motels, cottages, holiday homes and campgrounds close to Wombeyan Caves.

 

Highlights

Plan your trip

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