Sofala is 45km north of Bathurs and ‘Australia’s oldest surviving Gold Town’. The village was established in 1851 when gold was discovered on the Turon River. In the early days the township followed the Turon River for over 16kms and the population numbered tens of thousands. Over fifty hotels and other businesses catered for the gold seekers at this time. One of the richest finds was a one hundred and twenty ounce nugget found at Big Oakey Creek.
Present
Today Sofala encapsulates the picturesque historic village of the gold rush days. The unique narrow streets of the village are flanked by beautiful old two storey brick buildings. Visitors are offered accommodation, campground, cafes, general store, walks and tours.
What to do & see
A trip to Sofala would not be complete without trying your hand at gold fossicking in the Turon River. Gold Fossicking tours and fossicking information is available from the Sofala Souvenir shop. After fossicking for gold, wander down the street for a treat at the lolly shop.
Another great attraction is the Old Sofala Gaol which displays an array of colonial memorabilia, collectables and other Australian pieces. Accommodation and fine foods are available in the wonderful colonial setting.
Just up the road is the Turon Technology Museum, open from 10am to 4pm every weekend and public holidays (except Christmas day). Winner of a National Trust Heritage Award, The Turon Technology Museum is a great collection showing the development of the steam engine from the period 1850—1950.
Sofala offers an historic walking tour leading the visitor around the streets of the scenic township, running parallel to the Turon River. You may prefer to take the self-drive tour of Sofala, with both tours are available from the Bathurst Visitor Information Centre.
Facilities/Services
These include a general store, restaurant, souvenir shop, lolly shop, antique and craft shop, hotel, take away food and fuel. Accommodation style include a country resort, B&B and cabins in the area.
