If you enjoy traditional Hot Christmas dinners, this is probably the best time of the year to enyoy such a feast. The Hawkesbury Paddlewheeler is offering festive food during the month of July.

Less than an hours drive from Sydney, the Hawkesbury region offers a wide range of activities and facilities. The orchards at Bilpin are selling their produce and there is nothing nicer than a freshly picked crisp sweet mountain apple. The cooler weather is also conducive to bushwalking or visiting the cool climate Botanic Gardens at Mount Tomah.

What better time of the year to appreciate the natural beauty of the Hawkesbury region and learn about our colonial past with activites available by visiting the historic House at Rouse Hill Farm or the Museum in Windsor?

From the mountain atmosphere of Kurrajong, Bilpin and Mount Tomah in the west to the many villages and towns along the river flats in the Hawkesbury Valley to Wisemans Ferry. There are many hidden gems and secret places to get away from the bussle of city living and all within an easy drive from Sydney's suburban west.

The area is alive with its many historic, man made and natural attractions. The year 2010 promises to be one filled with activities as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the naming of the Macquarie towns by the 5th Governor of the colony of NSW, Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the man who started the Australian value of the "Fair Go".

After exploring our history, your appetite can be satisfied at one of the excellent local restaurants which offer a wide range of cuisines. So Bon Apetit! We hope you enjoy your time in the Hawkesbury.

The Hawkesbury Guide booklet includes lots of general tourist information as well as being a resource for local residents.