Chi. Explores
Some of the best places aren't the ones you'll find at the top of a Google search.
Chi. Explores is where we share the cafés, restaurants, walks, shops, experiences and hidden gems worth knowing about across the Central West – recommended by the women who know the region best.
The places you'd tell a friend about.
Share the story behind your work
Help locals connect with the human side of what you do – the why, the people, the heart. It’s simple, free while Chi. Connects grows, and designed to help locals discover the meaning and intention behind your business.
The Road to the Kingdom of Stars
From winery country to gold-rush streets and giant silo art, the journey north is worth taking slowly.
Café VIVA, Bathurst
Part café, part community hub. Café VIVA is creating a space where people feel seen, supported and welcome.
O'Connell Hotel, O'Connell
A 160-year-old village pub on the Oberon-to-Bathurst road, freshly restored, with a beer garden built for staying all afternoon.
Lavish Nutrition, Bathurst
Known for its colourful loaded teas and smoothies, Lavish Nutrition has become a go-to for Bathurst locals.
Mount Arthur Reserve, Wellington
A Crown reserve with its own rules around Mount Arthur – terrain, trails and the view at the top, from one woman who took them on...
Meringue & Magic, Bathurst
Small-batch macarons, piped by hand and full of flavour. Meet the magic behind Meringue & Magic.
Castle Rocks Walk, Munghorn Gap Nature Reserve
Soft sand, sandstone pagodas and a view worth the climb near Mudgee. Read one woman's take on the track, the climb and the view at the top.
Rustic Nature, Neville
Quirky décor, thoughtful details and full of personality. Hear more from owners Sarah and Aaron.
Sofala Village, Sofala
Sofala has that scruffy, gold-rush charm that feels different the moment you roll in. It’s warm, a bit weird, and perfect for a slow Sunday.
El Guapo Cantina, Bathurst
Eclectic, colourful, and full of that cosy, authentic Mexican‑leaning energy. Hear more from hosts Kerry and Michael, who are a huge part of the El Guapo Cantina magic.
The Corner Store Gallery, Orange
The Corner Store Gallery is warm, beautifully curated and deeply connected to the Orange community.
Provence Boulangerie, Orange
A French‑leaning bakery with a steady local following and a window full of pastries that stop you in your tracks.
Winter nights out: 4 cosy Bathurst dinner spots for your next catch-up
While we’re busy uncovering more hidden corners across the Central West, these four dinner favourites are exactly where you’ll find us settling in this month.
Bathurst River Café, Bathurst
The space has a great, relaxed garden party vibe that makes you want to slow down and stay a while.
Lake Canobolas, Orange
An easy local spot for a slow lap, a sit by the water or a simple drive‑in break. Close to Orange, calm, and great for when you just need some quiet.
The Ashen Elm, Bathurst
A Bathurst floral studio known for beautiful arrangements delivered with care. Hear more from the real Ashen Elm…
Coffee that fuelled our July: 6 Bathurst spots we love
As the morning winter fog rolls across our towns, these 5 local cafes are keeping us warm, connected, and completely fueled.
Church Bar, Bathurst
There’s something about sharing pizza in a church that just works – the warmth from the oven, the echo of conversation, the way the building wraps around you.
Know somewhere we should explore?
A café that gets the coffee right. A restaurant you keep returning to. A local favourite that's somehow stayed under the radar.
Tell us about it. We’d love to explore it.