“That’ll cost you the price of a smile.”
— a local at the Murrurundi sausage sizzle, capturing the country spirit perfectly
The Magic of Slowing Down
Everybody dreams of village life — even city dwellers. Deep down, we all crave connection: that feeling of belonging where neighbours wave as you drive by, your barista knows your name, and someone notices when you’re not around.
That’s exactly what I discovered in Murrurundi, a picturesque town in the Upper Hunter Valley, nestled beneath the Liverpool Range and tracing the gentle bends of the Pages River. It’s a place where creativity thrives, kindness is the local currency, and time slows just enough to notice the beauty in every small moment.
Restoring a Piece of History
I first came to Murrurundi to be near my dear friend Emilia Archibald, who, with her late husband, lovingly restored Rosedale — a pink and white historic home steeped in heart and heritage. Her garden, brimming with lavender, flowering trees, and native blooms, is a lush sanctuary that feels like a living tribute to the past.
Inspired by Emilia’s vision, I took on my own restoration project — a 1910 weatherboard cottage. What began as a renovation challenge quickly became a journey of rediscovery. After months of sanding, painting, and reimagining, the cottage now welcomes guests from around the world as an Airbnb stay. Visitors fall in love, not just with the mountain views, but with the creative pulse and warm community spirit that define Murrurundi.
Where Art Meets Heart
Art and community go hand in hand here. Many visitors are drawn by the Michael Reid Gallery, which has put Murrurundi firmly on the map as a contemporary art hub. Others love browsing Ray’s Antiques on Haydon Street — a treasure trove of collectables and curios, where Ray himself (the town historian) often shares stories from his new book on Murrurundi’s past.
A perfect afternoon might include a stop at Bec’s antique shop, followed by a coffee at the welcoming Mayne Street Café, where conversations linger and friendships form easily.
A Triathlon, a Sausage Sizzle, and a Whole Lot of Heart
One of my most treasured memories was joining a mini-triathlon to raise funds for a new pool cover. Despite being far from athletic, I found myself swimming, cycling, and running through town — cheered on at every corner by locals handing out bottled water and smiles.
As I crossed the finish line (last, but beaming) with the two mums who orgnised the fund-raising event Jen and Dana, I was met with applause and laughter. Afterwards, I joined everyone for the traditional sausage sizzle. When I asked the man behind the BBQ what a sausage cost, he grinned and said, “That’ll be the price of a smile.”
That moment summed up Murrurundi perfectly — generous, kind, and full of heart.
Amanda Riordan from Destination Murrurundi understands the the pull of the jewell in the crown of the Upper Hunter only too well. Since moving here in 2011, she has lovingly restored a Methodist Church into an event’s venue, a white timber Sunday School into a thriving two bedroom AirBNB, and Chatsworth Place, a three bedroom house complete with a small self-contained cottage. All of these quaint homes can be booked here through Destination Murrurundi.
https://destinationmurrurundi.com.au/: The Joy of Village Life in Upper Hunter’s Murrurundi“The beauty of Murrurundi is it has this kinetic energy,” she says. “On approaching the town, you first come around the bend at Blandford, and then the road opens up and is suddenly flanked by Emerites horse stud and then you realise you are in this incredible valley. It’s totally captivating.
“Those people who come to stay often want to stay that little bit longer and some even stay and plant their roots because it’s a hard place to leave.”
Book your stay at the Sunday School in Murrurundi at Destination Murrurundi
Lessons in Kindness and Connection
The cottage renovations took longer than planned — don’t they always? — but I never had to look far for help. One morning at the pool, I met Norm and June, a couple in their late eighties. Norm, a retired painter, offered to help with the project. From start to finish, I feel we achieved this together and fondly remember him confidently climb onto the roof to paint the chimney like a youngster. Watching on, June smiled and said, “Don’t worry. He’s steadier up there than he is on the ground.”
Throughout the journey, the locals followed my progress — lending tools, sharing stories, and stopping by for tea. That’s the essence of village life: it’s not about how fast you go, but how connected you are along the way.
Locals Norm and June Richardson in a fun selfie with Robyn after brunch at Murrurundi Cottage
“People Here Have Time to Be Nicer”
As Emilia told me one day,
“I think people here have time to be nicer — and they want to be — because you’re not crammed in like corralled rats the way you can feel in the city. There’s space here — to breathe, to think, to share. And when you’re not overcrowded, you actually want to share what you have.”
Her words stayed with me. That’s the true magic of country life — not just the scenery or the slower pace, but the generosity of spirit that fills every interaction.
Murrurundi is a town with artistic soul. Between its galleries, gardens, historic pubs, and kind-hearted people, life here feels like a collection of small, meaningful moments stitched together by kindness.
Staying here reminds me of my own childhood in Mudgee — of open skies, neighbours who care, and days that unfold gently. Whether you’re in the city, suburbs, or countryside, we all want that same thing: to belong.
For me, I’ve rediscovered the many joys of village life.
🎥 Watch: Discover the Heart of Murrurundi
🌿 Plan Your Visit to Murrurundi
Where:
Murrurundi, Upper Hunter Shire, New South Wales — around 3.5 hours from Sydney via the New England Highway.
What to See & Do:
- Michael Reid Gallery Murrurundi – a renowned contemporary art space featuring national and local artists.
- Ray’s Antiques – a treasure trove of collectables and rustic charm.
- Mayne Street Café – a beloved spot for brunch, great coffee, and friendly conversation.
- Roseland (private residence) – Emilia Archibald’s lovingly restored convict-era home, soon available as an Airbnb stay.
- Local Walks & Views – drive to Haydon Hall or wander along the Pages River trails for sweeping mountain vistas.
- King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge – held annually on the last weekend of September. Don’t miss the hilarious goat races (watch the reel on Murrurundi Life’s Facebook page for a guaranteed laugh!).
When to Visit:
Year-round. Autumn and spring are especially stunning when the gardens and hillsides burst into colour.
Find out more information on Murrurundi Life Facebook Group, and check out Mandy Archibald’s magical photographs of the area and upcoming 2026 Calendar featuring the above hero image.
Stay:
Book a stay at my restored 1910 Airbnb cottage for a genuine taste of country hospitality — complete with mountain views, creative energy, and a front-row seat to Murrurundi’s community spirit.
