McPhillamy Park Lookout - Image 1
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McPhillamy Park Lookout

4.6
·344 reviews·Mount Panorama, Australia

Iconic lookout atop Mount Panorama offering breathtaking panoramic views of the circuit and surrounding region, perfect for picnics and stargazing.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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McPhillamy Park Lookout - Image 1

McPhillamy Park Lookout

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic lookout atop Mount Panorama offering breathtaking panoramic views of the circuit and surrounding region, perfect for picnics and stargazing.

4.6
(344 reviews)

"Best panoramic views in the region, gorgeous natural atmosphere. Perfect spot for quiet reflection."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy the gorgeous views with a meal. BBQ facilities are available! :picnic_table:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your view of the circuit and distant landscapes. :binoculars:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 344 reviews

Type

Campground

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Top of Mount Panorama

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the surrounding region and the iconic Mount Panorama circuit.

Stargazing Spot

Stargazing Spot

Open areas of the park

Away from city lights, it's an ideal location for observing the night sky and constellations.

Family Picnic Area

Family Picnic Area

Designated picnic spots with BBQ facilities

Enjoy a meal with a view, complete with BBQ huts and nearby toilets for convenience.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

While McPhillamy Park Lookout offers stunning panoramic views year-round, consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Weekends can be busier with families and race fans, so weekdays offer a more tranquil experience.

Picnic & Play Area Etiquette

This scenic spot is popular for picnics and has a playground. Be mindful of families enjoying the space, especially during events. Some visitors have noted that car club events can sometimes overlap with the playground area, so check local schedules if this is a concern.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Bathurst specialists! Help me find some pace.

I've been struggling with Mount Panorama for a long time. I'm finally feeling it come together, but I think I'm still leaving quite a bit of pace on the table. If you can spot some glaring mistakes or areas of improvement in my lap, I'd appreciate it a lot!

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy the gorgeous views with a meal. BBQ facilities are available! :picnic_table:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your view of the circuit and distant landscapes. :binoculars:

reddit.com

How to go faster around Mt Panorama guys? This is my best effort to date and only a 2:03.3. Any tips and criticism are welcomed, thanks in advance!

I don’t think you’re fundamentally doing too much wrong here. The following are just suggestions: - T1, I brake a bit later and look for a later apex so I can get on the power as soon as I can. Carrying that all the way down the straight. - forest elbow you could maybe carry a…

reddit.com

Lap Around Bathurst (Honda) Help Needed

HelloI was wondering if anyone could give me a hand with my lap as I am struggling to improve and don't know where i'm losing time. I need help especially in the last few corners. The best lap ive done is a 2:05.4 in a Honda. I'm only 14 and really haven't got much knowledge of…

Check Local Event Schedules

Avoid potential conflicts with car club events or race fan camping. 📅

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the lookout points and surrounding areas with ease. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

What are your guys times around Mt panorama

Just curious to see how much of an alien some of you are😁

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy the gorgeous views with a meal. BBQ facilities are available! :picnic_table:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your view of the circuit and distant landscapes. :binoculars:

Check Local Event Schedules

Avoid potential conflicts with car club events or race fan camping. 📅

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the lookout points and surrounding areas with ease. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(344 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from McPhillamy Park Lookout, calling it the 'best panoramic views in the region' and a 'beautiful place on the top of Mt panorama.' It's praised as a perfect spot for quiet reflection, family picnics, and even stargazing. However, some have noted that event camping or car club activities can sometimes impact the family-friendly atmosphere near the playground.

"Be good if small track events kept their pits and camp away from the kids playground. We had no idea the light car club would dominate that area."

Ben Fulton

"Great view from the top of Mt Panorama."

W Quinn

"Best panoramic views in the region, gorgeous natural atmosphere. Perfect spot for quiet reflection, or a family picnic. BBQ huts, toilets nearby."

Rachel Bowker

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Great for picnics
Ideal for stargazing

What People Dislike

Event camping proximity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McPhillamy Park Lookout is located at the top of Mount Panorama. You can drive directly to the lookout point. It's easily accessible by car from Bathurst, with clear signage directing you to Mount Panorama and then to the lookout.

Yes, there is ample parking available at McPhillamy Park Lookout, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. The parking areas are situated to provide easy access to the viewing platforms.

Public transport options directly to McPhillamy Park Lookout are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Local taxis or ride-sharing services from Bathurst can also be an option.

Yes, the access roads and parking areas are generally suitable for RVs and larger vehicles. However, it's always wise to drive cautiously, especially during peak times or events.

From Bathurst, follow the signs for Mount Panorama. The road winds up the mountain, and McPhillamy Park Lookout is situated at a prominent point along this circuit, offering expansive views.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to McPhillamy Park Lookout is free. It is a public park and viewing area, so no tickets or admission fees are required.

McPhillamy Park Lookout is generally accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor public space. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best views and safety.

While generally open, access may be restricted during major events held at Mount Panorama, such as the Bathurst 1000. It's recommended to check the Mount Panorama circuit's schedule for any event-related closures.

The playground area within McPhillamy Park is free to use for all visitors. There are no charges associated with accessing the playground facilities.

McPhillamy Park is known to host camping spots for race fans during major events. For general visits outside of these events, it's primarily a day-use area, though overnight stays might be permitted during specific times. Check local council information for details.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The lookout offers BBQ huts, toilets, and picnic areas. It's well-equipped for a comfortable day out with family and friends. 🚽 :barbecue:

Absolutely! The panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, make it a fantastic spot for photography. Capture the vast landscapes and the iconic Mount Panorama circuit. :camerawithflash:

You'll get stunning panoramic views of the Bathurst region, the surrounding countryside, and the entirety of the Mount Panorama racing circuit. It's a truly expansive vista.

While not extensive dedicated trails, you can walk around the lookout area and along parts of the Mount Panorama circuit. The terrain is generally easy to navigate for casual strolls. 🚶

Yes, it's an excellent spot for a family picnic. With BBQ facilities and a playground nearby, it offers a great combination of scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no on-site restaurants or cafes directly at McPhillamy Park Lookout. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. :sandwich:

Yes, there are BBQ huts available for public use, making it a perfect spot for a barbecue lunch or dinner with a view. :grill:

Bathurst town centre, a short drive away, offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. 🍴

It's best to purchase food and drinks in Bathurst before heading up to the lookout, as amenities are limited at the park itself. :shopping_cart:

Bring your favorite picnic foods, drinks, plates, cutlery, and any picnic blankets or chairs for comfort. Don't forget rubbish bags to keep the area clean. :baguette_bread:

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views of the circuit. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details of the Mount Panorama circuit. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions like sunrise/sunset. 📷

The main viewing platform offers the most iconic panoramic shots. Explore different angles along the railing for unique perspectives of the circuit and the valley below.

Yes, you can get excellent views and photos of large sections of the Mount Panorama circuit from McPhillamy Park Lookout, especially with a zoom lens.

Focus on the sweeping landscapes, the winding Mount Panorama circuit, the Bathurst township in the distance, and the sky, especially during golden hour. ⛰️

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