The Capertee Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the beauty and richness of Australia's natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Capertee Valley has something for everyone.
Enjoy, Rich
Probably one of the Sydney region’s best kept secrets in the wonderful Capertee Valley. The world’s second largest canyon (Capertee is wider and longer than the Grand Canyon in the US) is surrounded by the marvels of the UNESCO listed Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Wilderness which includes the Wollemi, Capertee and Garden of Stone National Park.
71844 Capertee Valley Farm
Capertee Valley is located approximately 200 km northwest of Sydney. The quickest way to reach the valley from Sydney is to drive via the Great Western Highway and it takes around 2.5 hours to reach the valley by car. There are also buses and trains that run from Sydney to nearby towns, making it an accessible destination for visitors.
The valley is a haven for native flora and fauna and is an important sanctuary for over 230 species of birds, many rare and endangered. The region is recognised internationally as one of the top 50 birdwatching places in the world.
Pantoneys Crown
71842 Pantoneys Crown
Driving through the valley floor you’re surrounded by stunning sandstone escarpments punctuated with monoliths rising from the valley floor. The most pronounced of these buttes (volcanic plug) is Pantoneys Crown. At a height of 1020 metres, rising 300m above its surrounding, it’s a popular destination for the hardier trekker. Walkers are rewarded with stunning 360-degree views across the valley.
Glen Davis
Set in the south-eastern corner of the stunning Capertee Valley, Glen Davis was once a hub of activity as a centre for Shale Oil production in the region. Established in 1937 the town sprung up around the petroleum works. Most of the old building still stand today as a reminder of a town that once housed almost 2,000 people. Access to the ruins of the old works is restricted to weekend tours. Check out Glen Davis activities for more details.
71839 Glen Davis Shale Mining Ruins
71835 Glen Davis Valley
More remnants of Glen Davis’ mining past can be seen by following the pipeline track to Newnes. The track follows the route taken by the oil pipeline than was installed to transport oil to the waiting trains in the Wolgan Valley. About hallway up, the track ascends to the Pagoda Lookout which offers amazing views over the Newnes Valley and the Wolgan River Trail. The deep chasm carved by millions of years of erosion is simply breathtaking.
Highlights for Visitors
- Pantoney Crown rock formation
- Shale mining history at Glen Davis
- Scenic drives and picnic areas
- Bird watching and wildlife
- Local museums and cultural centres
- Hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities