Make this Father’s Day perfect for Dad!

Father’s Day this year is Sunday the 6th of September and now is the time to find the perfect gift for Dad! Whilst a handmade card, socks and undies are always appreciated, we think there’s something even better for Dad right here in The Hawkesbury. As a gift, why not plan him a special weekend, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, away from the couch and the monotony of the TV. It will be an experience Dad will remember for a long time.

September is a perfect time to visit the Hawkesbury and we’ve created a sample itinerary to help you plan the perfect Father’s Day weekend. It’s an easy 90 min drive from Sydney. Dad could finish work at 5pm on Friday and still arrive in The Hawkesbury in time for dinner or he could make an early start on Saturday morning. Either option is a great way to begin a perfect weekend.

Picture a cosy B&B, peaceful cottage, luxury retreat …there’s plenty to choose from. Check out the Hawkesbury's  accommodation options and make him feel like a real king with an overnight stay.

Here’s our suggested itinerary to help you plan Dad’s weekend in the Hawkesbury.  If the itinerary isn't the perfect fit, our discover page should give you even more great ideas to swap in to celebrate Dad's day.  Check out our What’s On page for even more events over the weekend.

Day 1

Morning

Awaken bright and early and kick off the weekend at the Richmond Good Food Markets in Richmond Park. Grab a hot coffee and home baked treat from one of the local stallholders, wander through the vibrant markets and take in that beautiful fresh Hawkesbury air.

Enjoy brunch at the Lil Miss Colins Café, a short walk around the corner from the markets, in Windsor Street. The café is a unique park like oasis in the centre of Richmond where Dad can enjoy the peace of the outside seating under the mature trees.

Afternoon

Spend an exciting afternoon at the Wild Cat Conservation Centre. This is a truly unique and a once in a lifetime experience where Dad can visit the largest cheetah habitat in Australia and see wild cats closer than you can imagine. Seize the opportunity to take a walk on the wild side joining experienced staff on the savanna to observe the wildcats showing off their natural behaviour only metres away. Advance bookings are essential and gift vouchers are also available.

Evening

Enjoy dinner at Cricca in Windsor Mall, offering an Italian menu like no other! Described as the traditional and the not so, there’s a set menu to tickle the tastebuds or Dad can choose for himself off the main menu. Check out their menu here.

Another special spot to dine is Lochiel House, a 200 year old cottage in Kurrajong Heights, offering a unique and cosy fine dining experience. Dad will enjoy the heritage style space serving delicious, humble food and drinks. Book your table here.

The Hawkesbury has many other special occasion dining options. Find them here and make the perfect choice for Dad.

Finish off the day with a nightcap at Ori’s Bar, Luxe Cocktails Bar or the Church Bar in Windsor. A lovely way to wind down after a delicious dinner and think about the delights of the day and what’s yet to come on Dad’s Hawkesbury weekend.

Day 2

Morning

Start the day with a late breakfast at The Village Kitchen, a charming café/restaurant in the beautiful township of Kurrajong, only 15 minutes from the Visitor Centre.

After brekky, take a look around Kurrajong Village, enjoy its quirky shops and grab a grazing box or sweet treat for later at The Deli La Na.

The Hawkesbury abounds with beautiful parks and gardens, so perhaps a picnic or a bushwalk is what Dad prefers? Then lace up the hiking boots and take a bushwalk at the Vale of Avoca where Dad can gaze out at the wilderness and leave all his cares behind. Or try the Colo River Lookout and Morans Rock, an easy walk just off The Putty Road. Track notes for these walks can be found on our website.

If Dad is the type that seeks adrenal and excitement, book an experience with Off Road Rush Sydney for the thrills and spills of off-road racing. He can drive a turbo rally car, Yamaha YXZ or a V8 buggy (the most extreme race car on dirt). Dad will be telling tales for weeks after. You will need to book this in advance.

Afternoon

Spend a lazy afternoon in the Ebenezer/Sackville area sampling delectable Hawkesbury wines. This gorgeous area is home to Tizzana, Jubilee Estate and Bull Ridge Wineries. All have cellar doors to enjoy tastings and most importantly Dad can purchase his favourites to enjoy later.

Evening

Finish the day and the weekend with a relaxing dinner at The Royal Richmond Hotel in Windsor Street, Richmond, offering a delicious menu highlighting incredible produce from the local Hawkesbury Region.  Dad can sit back in this iconic local favourite and reflect on his perfect Father’s Day weekend. He’ll be surely thinking of his next visit to the Hawkesbury, and maybe, just maybe, he might let you come too.

So, don’t delay, treat Dad to his perfect weekend getaway in the beautiful Hawkesbury.

We are here at the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre ready to help you plan it all, just give us a call or pop in and see us.