Address: 99 George Street, Windsor
Phone: 02 4577 2206

Ask locals about heritage and they immediately talk to you about "the Macquarie". In January 1811, Governor Lachlan Macquarie, a visionary leader as well as a thrifty Scotsman, set in motion the construction of the Macquarie Arms without use of government funds. The inn was much needed as there was no house of public reception in Windsor (reported in the Sydney Gazette) (Bowd, 1969, p. 145). He did this by granting a large allotment (of land) in the Square to Richard Fitzgerald on the condition that he immediately build a two-storey 'large and commodious inn of brick or stone'. (Fitzgerald was a convict who rose above his humble beginnings to hold many responsible positions.)

"Immediately" seems to have been a relative term to Fitzgerald as the inn did not become a reality for another four years. In July 1815, the opening ceremony was performed by Governor Macquarie.

The proximity of the Macquarie Arms to Thompson Square is perhaps no mistaken circumstance. Punishment for a crime was more likely meted out in Thompson Square - a serious crime drew flogging at the whipping post in Thompson Square - for drunkenness, a public punishment of four hours in the stocks (Bowd, 1969). It is rumoured that the good citizens of Windsor would rush into the Macquarie for a shot of rum after witnessing one of the frequent hangings in the square! NOTE: a small plaque on the exterior wall marks the 1867 flood of the Hawkesbury when the river rose to the incredible height of 19.3 metres.

Address: 8 Baker Street
Phone: 02 4560 4655
Hours: Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat & Sun 10am-3pm, Closed Mon & Tues.
From July: Open 10am-4pm - Closed Tuesdays

We highly recommend this amazing new museum. The layout, including a small film space, has been so well planned that the size of the building is misleading. From exhibition to exhibition, the flow is seamless. Each piece of the permanent exhibition is artistically and beautifully displayed - and the collection of superior artefacts is equal to that of a major historical museum. A chair, a stool, the hull of an old boat, a musical instrument - items from of our past often resemble objects of art. Exhibitions related to the Hawksbury's history with Governor Lachlan Macquarie, will be on display throughout 2010. Make time in your visit to Windsor to spend an hour or so at the Regional Museum.

Address: Deerubbin Centre (1st Floor) - 300 George Street, off Christie Street
Phone: 02 4560 4441
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm (closed Tuesdays and public holidays) Sat-Sun 10am-3pm

The Deerubbin Centre which houses the Hawkesbury Regional Gallery is an architectural attraction of Windsor and is situated adjacent to the old convict barracks (converted later to a hospital), which has undergone renovation. The prominent steel exterior of Deerubbin stands in marked contrast to the ornate balustrade verandah of the old barracks, a juxtaposition of old and new Windsor. Yet when seen from Macquarie Street, the two adjoining buildings share an architectural strength of straightforward simple lines.

Getting to the Centre is reminiscent of driving in the medieval hill towns of Italy, where land is at a premium. You must drive through a small alley off Christie Street to arrive at the underground parking.

Public art at the Deerubbin is not to be overlooked. The plaque in the main pedestrian entry commemorates the first meeting between Yarramundi, the Indigenous leader and Governor Arthur Phillip. In the courtyard near the café, Hospital Beds is simultaneously extraordinary and eerie. This public artwork will delight children with its frequent bursts of cool mist. The Hawkesbury Regional Gallery has become a gathering place for changing art exhibitions, literary events, film and workshops for children. Disability ramps and lifts from the car park to the gallery level ease entry into its many exhibitions.

Address: 519 Tizzana Road, Ebenezer
Phone: 02 4579 0740
Hours: Tastings, Sat and Sun 12-5pm
Call for alternate times and bookings

A contemporary cellar door in a historic vineyard has joined the Hawkesbury wine community. A few steps from Tizzana Winery across Tizzana Road, Vintner Ray Hayek has lovingly restored the vineyards, buildings and grounds of a five-acre paddock that Dr Thomas Fiaschi (1887) called his Jubilee Vineyard. Fiaschi's property, Tizzana Vineyards, grew to 54 acres under vine and in production until 1963. The vineyards were destroyed by bushfires in the 1960s.

Located next to a languid lagoon and the Jubilee Vineyard Creek, the cellar is in a marvellous rural setting. We called for an appointment and on a drizzly March afternoon saw the remarkable renovation of the newly renovated1960s buildings and toured the beautiful grounds. In 2007, Dr and Mrs Hayek purchased the paddock and immediately began renovation of the entire property. Today, Jubilee Vineyard bottles a Chambourcin Rose, Chambourcin Red and Sauvignon Blanc.

Address: 518 Tizzana Road, Ebenezer
Phone: 02 4579 1150
Hours: Tastings, Sat-Sun and public holidays 12noon-6pm
Call for Bookings

On the road to Tizzana Winery, a soft November rain falls covering vineyards, waterlily lagoons and surrounding farmlands with a delicate mist. Some 20 minutes from historic Windsor, the country road bends and weaves. Without warning, on the damp hillside above the road, an imposing sandstone structure comes into view; you have been inexplicably transported into the Tuscan region of Italy.

In 1887, the vineyards at Tizzana were planted with imported French and Italian vine cuttings by Italian immigrant Thomas Fiaschi. A physician, Fiaschi had a practice on Thompson Square. The Fiaschi family continued the wine business after Dr Fiaschi's death in 1927, until 1949. Some years later, the abandoned three-storey building was set on fire by vandals. All that remained was a stone shell.

In 1969, restoration was begun by Peter and Carolyn Auld and once again, wine-tasting continues in this beautiful building. Today at Tizzana, you'll find 2008 Ambrose (Altico Rose), 2007 Kirwan's Retreat (a light dry red from Petit Verdot grapes) and 2006 Clarissa, (a dry red blend, aged for 18 months) On-site group luncheons (hot or cold) or dinner functions can be arranged. From 20 to 50 can be accommodated.

For a description of the Tizzana 5-star bed and breakfast, refer to the Hawkesbury Accommodation section. This is one setting you won't want to miss.

Address: Wilberforce Road, Wilberforce
Phone: 02 4575 1955 or 4575 1265
15% DISCOUNT (see ad on right)

Butterflies' antennae are (a) feathery, or (b) have little knobs on the end? True or false: male butterflies are usually smaller and prettier than the females?

After a visit to the natural history and insect museum just up the road from Windsor in Wilberforce, you'll have the answers to these and other butterfly trivia. The extensive collection of moths, butterflies and insects is the creation of the late Russell Hodgskin who, in his heyday, was often spotted in pith helmet and armed with a butterfly net. Hodgskin, an unconventional and beloved local, gathered from across the world tropical specimens with iridescent greens and blues that are incredibly beautiful. We are surprised by the similarity in shape and form of species from across different continents. However, if your primary interest is Australian species, you won't be disappointed.

Today, the museum, set in the Butterfly Farm and Ski Gardens, is managed by Hodgskin's sons and daughter-in-law, who share their father's passion for the region. The rustic indoor-outdoor pavilion along the Hawkesbury River has a capacity for 400, and is often the setting for company picnics, family reunions and church gatherings. A kiosk serving snacks and beverages, large covered picnic areas, a swimming pool, ski gardens and boat ramp are among the recreational amenities offered on the grounds in the Hawkesbury.

Address: Oakville
Phone: 02 4573 6181; mobile 0408 973 267
Email: info@goodazgoldtours.com.au (Fully Insured and Accredited)

The list of custom-made tours for large groups and clubs offered by Ryan Thomson's company seems infinite. If you can design it, Good AZ Gold will deliver: boutique wineries, historic, iconic Hawkesbury, FarmGate Trail, garden and gallery, and eco-tours to name just a few. Large, deluxe air-conditioned coaches also make for a great experience of shopping or antique hunting around the Hawkesbury region.

Ryan has several new coaches, seating 24 and up to 68 passengers. They also do general bus charters, parties, race days and corporate transfers. No need to worry about designated drivers. Caution: Make your reservations early - the Good AZ Gold office literally buzzes with activity. Faxes and phones ring constantly - everyday! Call for fees and specialised tour schedules.

Winner - Best Hotel Day-Spa 2009
Address: 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor
Phone: 02 4577 1254

Villa Thalgo Day Spa should be at the top of every woman's (or man's) list for a special day off. This is an "over the top" spa - one of the major spas in NSW. So, let's talk about the setting. Stunning! Luxurious! Calming!

Let's talk about indulgence and health. You can choose from an extensive array of therapies: whole body wraps, hot stone therapy, hydrotherapy and massage. A hydrotherapy treatment will bring a natural blush to your skin, even in winter, and on a chilly day, the indoor pool is perfect for a bit of a workout. For pure indulgence choose a treatment of soothing emulsions and essential oils. With thick white towels and dressing gowns - you live the life of the rich and famous, if only for a day! Of course, beauty treatments and facials are available and, for your convenience, Villa Thalgo Hawkesbury offers half and full-day splurges.

Address: 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way
Phone: 02 4577 6600

Adjacent to the Sebel Resort, the Rum Corps Barracks Golf offers an easy-walking nine-hole course of beautiful greens. Of course, a number of holes may test your patience and your temper!

Social players are welcome at all times and the pros hold ladies' and kids' clinics each Sunday morning. The Barracks is family-friendly, and Alison and her staff are proof of that.

Check out the pro shop's sports clothing and accessories. It is stocked to overflowing and you won't beat its prices anywhere. If you arrive without your gear, the pro shop can outfit you with rental equipment at a reasonable price. Motorised buggies make for a more relaxing game, if not a faster one, and once you return, a cool drink on the Barracks' covered terrace eases you back into reality before you join the afternoon traffic.

Address: Wilberforce Road, Wilberforce
Phone: 02 4575 1265
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm

The roar of an engine, a blast of wind in your face, a racing heart and a rush of adrenalin — this is the Indy 800. Just minutes from Windsor across the Hawkesbury River Bridge, you'll find the Indy 800-metre course, well designed and maintained. If you have your own go-kart, it's welcomed, too.

Back to the course: top speed on the straight runs and the stack of S-bends keep you on edge. You clench your jaw in the hairpin turn. A few sweeping turns, you cross the finish line. Demanding? Yes! Exhilarating? You bet!

The Indy 800 is open to children aged 12 and over, with a minimum height restriction of 150 centimetres. Single and double karts are available and priced incrementally for racing from 10 to 60 minutes.