Sponsored by Visit Penrith.
Don’t be surprised if Penrith becomes your next unexpected weekend fave.
To really make the most of all Penrith has to offer, arrive early and begin with a stroll along the Nepean River Walk, a flat 6km loop that winds through parkland along the water’s edge on both sides of the river. Popular with walkers, cyclists and families, it’s an easy place to slow down and slip into a relaxed weekend rhythm.
Along the way you’ll pass plenty of places to stop for coffee, along with grassy picnic spots and riverside playgrounds with views of the Blue Mountains rising in the distance. Tench Reserve is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors on weekends. The laid-back waterside atmosphere makes it easy to see why this stretch of the Nepean has become the social heart of Penrith.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Laughin’ Boy on the riverfront. Its all-day breakfast menu and easygoing vibe have made it a local favourite.
If you’re craving something sweet on your weekend away in Penrith, stop by Zokoko. The café at the front of the Zokoko chocolate factory is the perfect place to indulge in its famous chocolate crackles or rich brownies alongside a hot chocolate or coffee.
From there, head to Penrith Regional Gallery, home to a rotating program of contemporary exhibitions. Until 14 June, the gallery hosts Biennale of Sydney: Rememory, a thought-provoking exhibition that explores how memory and history intersect.
The exhibition features 12 artists, including Wendy Hubert, a respected Yindjibarndi Elder and cultural custodian; Irish-Palestinian artist Nora Adwan, whose work weaves together poetry, fiction and documentary; and Taiwanese artist Chang Wen-Hsuan, whose work explores the intersection of contemporary art, history and education.
Relax and unwind
If some downtime is in order that afternoon, book in for an oxygen or float therapy session at Elements Float Wellness Centre, where sensory deprivation tanks and relaxation treatments offer a deeply restorative escape. You can also try an oxygen therapy session in a specialised chamber designed to boost circulation, support recovery and leave you feeling refreshed for the rest of the weekend.
For accommodation, Astina Suites offers a boutique aparthotel experience within easy walking distance of some of Penrith’s best eateries, and its rooftop pool makes for a perfect lazy afternoon. If you’re staying at the five-star Pullman Sydney Penrith, a sleek new luxury hotel, reward a light gym workout with time in the cedar wood sauna. Quest Penrith, meanwhile, offers comfortable, affordable serviced apartments ideal for families and longer stays.
When evening arrives, settle in for dinner at Sinclair’s at the Log Cabin, a hatted riverside restaurant where seasonal produce and elegant dishes make for a memorable first night out. Head chef Scott Mills champions local producers while elevating dishes with premium ingredients bursting with flavour. The steaks are a real standout.
Rise and shine
The next morning is all about the river and you’ll find there’s no place you’d rather be. This time, hire a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard from Horizon Line and enjoy a peaceful paddle on the calm water while you reconnect with nature. If you’re quiet, you might just spot some wildlife, even a platypus.
Afterwards, refuel with brunch at Henri Marc, which serves hearty café fare in an industrial-chic setting. Expect generous plates, excellent coffee and a menu that ranges from classic eggs and sourdough to more indulgent treats like Strawberry Cheesecake Toast or the Focaccia Sambo featuring pork and beef kofta.
With your energy restored, head to Narrow Escape Rooms, a fast-paced indoor adventure for all ages. With teams ranging from two to over 20 players tackling puzzles, clues and obstacles in three different rooms. Expect everything from lasers and puzzles to climbing, crawling and tactical thinking at speed.
After an active afternoon, wind down with drinks and dinner at Mr Watkins, which is a café by day and bar/restaurant by night. Dishes are designed for sharing, whether you’re tucking into a selection of small plates (pulled lamb croquettes, salmon tacos, Korean fried chicken wings) or sharing hearty mains and sides – sticky pork hock with a side of potato bravas, perhaps? The bravas come with Bloody Mary mayo.
Or head to Checho’s for lively cocktails and tacos served with plenty of personality. The vibrant Mexican restaurant is popular for its colourful interiors and bold flavours. Pair your meal with a margarita or two and soak up the festive atmosphere before calling it a night. By the time your weekend away in Penrith ends, you’ll be planning your next visit.
Find your own way to unwind for a weekend away in Penrith at visitpenrith.com.au
(Cover Image Credit Yandhai Nepean Crossing: Destination NSW)
