Mount Panorama, Bathurst

Home to Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit

Hosting the Annual Bathurst 1000 Motor Race

Mount Panorama (Wahluu) looms over the town of Bathurst, on the banks of the Macquarie River in the Central Tablelands of NSW. The legendary Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit is the home of Australian motor racing. Every year Mount Panorama hosts the annual Bathurst 1000, four days of unparalleled racing action where thousands of motorsport enthusiasts gather to cheer on their teams.

The iconic Mount Panorama Circuit is an interesting place to visit any time of the year. It’s one of the few places in Australia where you can drive a racing circuit (at normal road speeds) while taking in the views from the mountain. For a slower lap of Mount Panorama, try the six-kilometre Mount Panorama Boardwalk loop, offering stunning views along the way.

Visit the Iconic Mount Panorama on Your Next Holiday

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An Historic Stretch of Australian Road

Mount Panorama’s history dates back to 1938, when it was first used as a public road. In the 1930s, Mayor Griffin and his local council had a vision of a premier motor racing circuit. Funding was eventually secured for development of a ‘scenic drive’ which was soon transformed into a racetrack. The first races were held in 1938 and have been run every year since.

The Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit is renowned for its challenging layout, with a combination of sharp corners, steep climbs, and descents that make it both thrilling and technically demanding for drivers.

The Bathurst 1000, also known as ‘The Great Race’ is part of the V8 Supercars series, Australia's top racing championship. The 1,000-kilometre touring car race consists of 161 laps around the 6.213-kilometre Mount Panorama circuit with two drivers in each of the 26 cars competing for the coveted Peter Brock Trophy.

Home to Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit
Aerial view of the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales, showing the pit straight, grandstands, and surrounding rural landscape.

There’s More Beyond the Racetrack

Mount Panorama is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a drive around the circuit, experiencing firsthand the challenging turns and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

To the Traditional Owners, the Wiradjuri people, the name for Mount Panorama is ‘Wahluu’ meaning to watch over. The mountain is significant to their people as it was from vantage points on Wahluu that young Wiradjuri men would watch over their land and spot people moving in and out of the valley.

In 2020 the two million dollar Mount Panorama Scenic Boardwalk and Lookout was built, providing visitors with the same opportunity to look out over the spectacular views of Bathurst and surrounds. Near the track is the fascinating National Motor Racing Museum that celebrates Australia’s rich Motorsport history.

With its blend of motorsport heritage, stunning scenery, and accessibility, Mount Panorama is a must-visit location for racing fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Mount Panorama track so famous?

Since opening in the 1930s, the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit has evolved into a symbol of Australian motorsport, attracting racing enthusiasts from around the world. The Bathurst 1000, held annually in October, draws thousands of spectators to witness the high-speed drama and intense competition on the mountain.

How long is a lap of Mount Panorama?

The Mt Panorama circuit is 6.213 kilometres in length and reaches a height of 862 metres above sea level.

Can you drive up Mount Panorama?

Yes! Visitors are often surprised to find that the motor racing circuit they’ve seen on television every year is also a scenic drive accessible to all.

How far is Mount Panorama from Sydney?

Bathurst and Mount Panorama are around 205 kilometres from Sydney. The trip by road takes approximately 3 hours travelling via the M4 and Great Western Highway.

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