The Mid-Western region is being sold as an escape to beat “coastal congestion” this holiday season.

Mudgee Region Tourism Inc. CEO Lucy White said the region had plenty of greenery to admire, many museums to visit and an abundance of adventure experiences.

“For instance Mudgee has become a popular destination for cyclists and their families,” she said.

“You can cycle your way around the vineyards or other areas and not have to worry about coastal traffic.”

Ms White said recent success among the wineries was a major drawcard this summer, including having 12 wines named in NSW’s Top 100.

“This is a great accolade for the individual winemakers but also the Mudgee region as a whole as it helps to further cement the region’s reputation as a premium wine and food destination,” she said.

“With nine in 10 people going to a cellar door when they visit the Mudgee this is a confirmation from one of the most respected voices in the wine industry that quality is assured. Someone of James Halliday’s profile and calibre gives a valuable assurance to travellers.

“The result will help drive business through wine trade and retail, in key source markets such as Sydney, which helps ‘brand’ awareness and conversion to travel.”

The CEO also said the region was not just a place for wine experiences.

“We have to beautiful national parks including Goulburn River National Park and Wollemi National Park,” she said.

“There are plenty of places for picnics and to wander or cycle.

“We have plenty of museums and places that are great for day trips such as Hill End.”

Events like the Gulgong Folk Festival are also set to draw large numbers in the New Year.

As school holidays, Christmas, and the New Year period near, Mudgee Region Tourism Inc. is expecting visitor numbers to be strong this quarter.

MRTI presented their September quarter report to Mid-Western Regional Council last month. Visitor numbers were up 24.5 percent for the same period in 2010.

The local tourism body also reported success with Facebook, Twitter and iPhone app initiatives.

Darren Snyder, Mudgee Guardian