The big day is approaching and now it's time to go out with your leading ladies (or men) to celebrate.
If the thought of visiting an, ahem, adult entertainment venue for your hens or bucks do has you cringing with embarrassment then it’s time to ditch the phallic straws and opt for an activity where your mum won’t have to cover her eyes. Instead, choose from one of Mudgee’s parent-friendly offerings like a sky-high sojourn in a hot-air balloon or an oh-so-grown up winery tour.
Take to the skies at sunrise in a brightly coloured hot-air balloon. Pop a bottle of champagne (it’s never to early for bubbles on your wedding weekend) as you float over vineyard-dotted pastures, national parks and far-flung townships.
Dune buggying
Get your gears going with a guided dune buggy tour. The trips explore 3000 acres of bushland, venturing over creek crossings and historic timber-getters trails. Tours can be organised to suit beginners through to advanced adventurers; extras including breakfast, bush barbecues and afternoon tea are available.
Remember to point your little finger as you sip a cup of tea or a glass of Craigmoor sparkling wine. This is a posh do, after all. High teas at Wild Oats Cafe offer a selection of ribbon sandwiches and savoury snacks, lemonade scones with locally made jam and bite-sized petit fours.
This one is for the dreamers. Mudgee Observatory has a star-lit planetarium - perfect for contemplating the universe or your soon-to-be married life - and telescopes, which can be used during an evening visit.
Pamper session
Not one for the outdoors? Retreat to the tranquil treatment rooms at Ultimate Care Skin and Body Centre, where therapists are ready to buff, bronze and beautify. A treatment menu includes facials, wraps and hot stone massages. The bespoke bridal package sees brides indulge with a mani-pedi, eyelash tint and body polish.
Avoid squabbles over designated drivers by booking a minibus and prepare to be shuttled between a collection of Mudgee’s award-winning cellar doors. Options for full day or half-day tours are available; sightseeing jaunts are also on offer.