Glen Innes Out of Town Adventures

The New England Region is home to some of the most celebrated bushland, rainforest and rugged wilderness in Australia… where the view around every corner is even more stunning than the last. Throw on a backpack to discover the endless ways to experience the great outdoors - bushwalk, plunge into a crystal-clear stream, camp, fish, mountain bike, rock hop, or just sit on a picnic rug and listen to the lyrebird’s call.

After a big working week, you are in the perfect spot to enjoy some quality R&R - jump in the car, pump up the radio and follow winding, tree-lined roads through our region’s towns and villages, all with their own unique character, history and attractions… experience the warmest of country hospitality for yourself!

Below are a few ideas to help you plan your very own unforgettable out-of-town adventure, starting with the Country Drives through the Highland itinerary and map.

Regional Art Trail – New England North West

Explore over 70 of the region’s wonderful cultural experiences - visit artist studios, galleries, museums and public art sites, discover a rich and diverse artistic landscape right on our doorstep. Follow one of the suggested Country Art Escapes tours or create your own art trail. Plan a day trip or create a longer tour of the region and take the opportunity to sprinkle your cultural tour with fabulous food, wine and accommodation and eclectic local festivals. Visit www.artsnwconnect.com.au and www.artsnw.com.au/event-calendar to create your own art trail adventure!

Little Llangothlin Nature Reserve

A pristine natural haven encompassing approx. 640 acres of diverse landscapes and ecosystems including picturesque Little Llangothlin Lagoon, one of the few remaining high altitude freshwater lagoons on the New England Tablelands. The reserve's unique blend of wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands provides an ideal habitat for vulnerable and rare bird species such as the Australasian bittern, comb-crested jacana and blue-billed duck. Look up to spot raptors like brown falcons, nankeen kestrels and white-breasted sea eagles gliding overhead. Little Llangothlin was originally home to the Banbai Aboriginal people, who camped by the lagoons seasonally for their water and food resources such as waterfowl, eels, tortoises and grey kangaroos. Today, Aboriginal stories, scar trees and artefacts remind us of the significant Aboriginal heritage of this area, both past and present. With many tranquil places to picnic, a viewing platform and walking track, the reserve is a wonderful family day trip.

Bagot Rd, Tubbamurra

Emmaville

Historic tin and gem mining hamlet with many original buildings, including the Emmaville Mining Museum, which houses an extensive collection of gems and minerals plus hundreds of photographs, military memorabilia, an original woodfire bakery and general store, machinery display and much more. As one of the world’s richest mineral belts, many people are drawn to the area to try their luck and fossick for gemstones - ask the Museum volunteers for the inside word on the best local sites.

Torrington

This historic mining village is situated on a plateau known as the Mole Tableland near the QLD border and features an unearthly landscape of huge boulders and rocky outcrops. It’s also a popular area for bushwalking and fossicking –try your luck at finding topaz, beryl or quartz in the creek near Blatherarm campground. When you arrive, purchase the local mud maps to discover the local mining sites of Curnows, Dutchman, Scrubby Gully and Five Head Stamper.

Close by is Torrington State Conservation area, with more than 30,000ha of dry forests, woodlands, boulders, gorges, creeks and waterfalls to explore. The land, waterways, wildlife and plants of the area are significant for the Ngoorabul, Marbul, Bigambul and Jucumbul people – the traditional owners. Thunderbolt’s Lookout offers dramatic 360° views of the surrounding tablelands and both the Mystery Face and the Ugly Corner Falls walking tracks are the ideal way to experience the unique plants and animals of Torrington.

The area is also home to 2 Wild Souls Meadery cellar door, where you can sample unique sparkling honey mead (by appointment). 41 Gilligons Lane, Torrington.

Glencoe

Picturesque farming village named by early European settlers to reflect its likeness to the landscape of Glencoe, Scotland. Stop in for a beverage and a counter meal in front of the fire at the Red Lion Tavern (a wonderful old English-style pub), fossick for sapphires at the Mann River Bridge or enjoy the great bird watching opportunities at Glencoe Sports Ground.

Located north of Glencoe is the Stonehenge Recreational Reserve and Balancing Rock – this gigantic granite boulder rests precariously on a 30cm point amongst other rock formations, an extraordinary sight!

Armidale

Australia’s highest city and known for streets ablaze with gold and flaming red foliage in the autumn months. Home to the University of New England, Armidale blends impressive heritage architecture with a cosmopolitan character, a vibrant arts scene and a culturally diverse population. The surrounding wilderness along the escarpment of the Great Dividing Range includes 20 national parks - towering gorges, thundering waterfalls, monolithic outcrops and dense, ancient Gondwana Rainforests just waiting to be discovered. www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/armidale-area/armidale Highlights include:

• NERAM - New England Regional Art Museum - the New England Regional Art Museum is home to one of the most significant collections outside a metropolitan area. The gallery features historical, modern and contemporary Australian art, artist’s studio, regular exhibitions, workshops and live music, gift shop and the popular Six Counties Restaurant and Café.

• Helicopter and warbird flights - enjoy a breathtaking birds-eye view of this spectacular region!

• Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place - a community-based centre highlighting the diversity of Australian Indigenous arts and culture - includes gallery, café, plus regular exhibitions and workshops. 96-104 Kentucky St (next to NERAM), Armidale

• Armidale Art Gallery - permanent and changing exhibitions including sculpture, pottery, textiles and jewellery. 168 Beardy St Mall, Armidale

• University of New England Museum of Antiquities + Natural History Museum - two fantastic museums with significant, diverse and fascinating collections. University of New England Elm Ave, Armidale

• Saumarez Homestead - beautiful, National Trust-listed, Edwardian property - enjoy a wander around the picturesque heritage gardens and time-capsule, 30-room mansion. 230 Saumarez Road, Armidale

• Peterson’s Cool Climate Winery and Cellar Door - award-winning guesthouse and cellar door set in beautifully restored heritage-listed stables and lovely gardens. 345 Dangarsleigh Rd, Armidale

Uralla

Picturesque, colonial gold rush town with retail gems, artisanal food and a vibrant arts and culture scene - fabulous day trip. Highlights include Top Pub, New England Brewing Co., McCrossin's Mill Museum, Alternate Root Café, Little Birdie, Melrose and Highland Living. Uralla is also the location for many of the adventures of Captain Thunderbolt - “the gentleman bushranger”, last of the NSW bushrangers. Travel 15 minutes down the road to see the beautiful Gostwyck Chapel – covered in Virginia Creeper vines, it’s a photographer’s dream, particularly in Autumn.

Walcha

Set amongst strikingly beautiful countryside, the charming, historic town of Walcha is best known for its’ Open Air Gallery, which features a permanent display of over 50 sculptures by renowned local, national and international artists. In addition, the Walcha Art Gallery, antique shops, boutique and gift stores and cosy cafés make Walcha the ideal day trip adventure. Just down the road is Apsley Falls – with two walking tracks and eight lookouts, you will be sure to find the perfect view of the dramatic gorge and thundering falls.

Inverell

Nestled in a scenic valley at the foot of the Great Dividing Range and on the banks of the beautiful Macintyre River, Inverell is a historic and picturesque town renowned for its vibrant, supportive community and the spectacular Inverell sapphire. Known in the region as a fabulous daytrip destination for retail therapy, Inverell is a thriving tourist, commercial, service and agricultural centre. The surrounding area features swathes of national park wilderness, tranquil, wandering waterways, outstanding recreational areas and highly productive cropping, grazing, mixed farming and mining land. The rich, volcanic soil has provided the perfect environment for gems and minerals and the area is popular with fossickers who regularly unearth not only sapphires, but topaz, diamonds, emeralds, quartz, garnets, citrine, rhodonite and tourmaline.

• Topper’s Mountain Vineyard - lovely winery in secluded, peaceful surrounds with lovely panoramic views of the vineyard and forest beyond. Cellar door and tastings. 13420 Guyra Rd, Tingha

• Dobson’s Distillery - unique and entertaining foodie adventure with award winning gin and whiskey, speakeasy jazz and blues bar, relaxed dining featuring local, seasonal produce. Call 0412068243 for hours and bookings. 298 Kentucky Rd, Kentucky

• Green Valley Farm - one-of-a-kind family-owned fun park with zoo, waterslide, various rides, putt putt golf and quirky curiosities museum. Kiosk, BBQs, picnic tables, camping and holiday cabins. 161 Jones Rd, Tingha

Moree

Located on the banks of the Mehi River, in the centre of vast black-soil plains, the town is rich in culture, history, agricultural and natural assets, highlights include:

• Bank Art Museum - housed in one of the town’s iconic heritage buildings, BAAM is home to Moree’s public art collection plus an ever-changing program of outstanding exhibitions from local artists and travelling shows. It also holds the most significant collection of Aboriginal paintings in regional NSW and hosts regular workshops, art classes and special events.25 Frome Street, Moree

• Yaama Ganu Gallery - a not-for-profit Aboriginal art gallery and home to the popular Café Gali. The Gallery proudly supports and exhibits consigned works from artists of the local Kamilaroi Nation and Aboriginal managed Art Centres from communities around the country. 211 Balo St, Moree

• Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre - this modern facility draws bathers from all over Australia and the world to experience the reputed healing properties of the mineral rich artesian waters, pumped from the depths and naturally heated to 41°C. The centre is also home to a well-equipped gym with personal training and a variety of classes, plus adult swimming lessons and café. You’ll never have a better sleep than after a relaxing dip in the hot pools – it’s an absolute must! 20 Anne St, Moree

• The award winning Moree Visitor Information Centre is the ideal place to discover the town and surrounds with many self-guided brochure options to get you started, including motoring tours, CBD Art Trails and wonderful Heritage and Art Deco Walks highlighting historic sites and examples of Moree’s unique architecture. The friendly staff at the Centre can also book you a spot on a tour to a local cotton or pecan farm. 67 Alice Street, Moree

• Moree Water Park - three purpose-built recreational lakes ideal for water skiing, rowing, dragon and power boat racing, jet skiing, wakeboard, canoeing and kayaking. Check Facebook for regular events. Toilets, BBQ and picnic table. Tapscott Rd, Moree

• Pally Pub (30min drive from Moree) - this venue has quickly become a must-do for locals and visitors alike, pop out for a delicious lunch or dinner at the Golden Grain Bistro, with regular weekend live music and events. 59 Bingara St, Pallamallawa

Narrabri

Nestled at the base of the Nandewar Ranges, the Narrabri region has stunning national parks, expansive agricultural landscapes and big sky vistas. Highlights of this welcoming town include:

• The Crossing Theatre – home to the Narrabri Civic Art Collection, two cinemas, café and regular live performances. 17 Tibbereena St, Narrabri

• CSIRO Australia Telescope Compact Array - the largest telescope of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Paul Wild Observatory, 1828 Yarrie Lake Road, Narrabr

• Yarrie Lake - thought to be formed by a falling meteor, a peaceful place for a dip and to escape a hot day.

• Mount Kaputar National Park – whether you’re a thrill seeker or seeking blissful solitude, take the time to discover this rugged island of wilderness left behind by ancient volcanic eruptions between 17 and 21 million years ago. The Nandewar Ranges rise dramatically from the flat agricultural plains below, the elevation resulting in a great variety of vegetation, landscape and temperature. The park is home to rare and threatened fauna, including bats, birds, koalas, quolls and wallabies. Keep an eye out for the distinctive native pink slug, which is unique to the area! Camping, bushwalking, mountain biking, rock-climbing, swimming, horse riding…the options for adventure are endless. Don’t miss the Mount Kaputar Summit lookout (panoramic, 360- degree views taking in an extraordinary 10% of the state), Waa Gorge Walking Track and Sawn Rocks (soaring, 40m tall pillars reminiscent of church organ pipes).
  

Gunnedah

A vibrant country town combining a picturesque position on the banks of the Namoi River with local attractions and retail therapy. Due to the abundant variety of favoured eucalyptus and freedom from disease, Gunnedah has had a steady koala population living in and around town and scattered throughout the Shire. Locals and visitors alike feel privileged to have access to these endangered Australian icons. A 30min drive from Gunnedah is Lake Keepit - the lake is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour and is a popular destination for water sports and fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, campers and picnickers. For a thrilling yet wonderfully peaceful experience and a glorious view, hop into a sailplane with Lake Keepit Soaring Club.

Dumaresq Valley road trip

Head north from Glen Innes towards Mingoola, a small but vibrant farming town located near the Queensland border. Marvel at the beautiful waterways, spectacular mountain ranges, historic tobacco sheds, and agricultural lands. Go hiking, swimming, fishing or just enjoy a drive through spectacular landscapes. Highlights include:

• Glenlyon Dam - popular for swimming, fishing and water sports (boats for hire from the Glenlyon Dam Tourist Park), the tourist park offers cabins, powered and unpowered sites, plus toilets, showers, picnic tables, BBQs, playground and kiosk.

• Sundown National Park - outdoor adventurers will be in heaven amongst the dramatic landscapes of sheer-drop gorges, sharp tree-lined ridges and peaks rising 1,000m above them. The network of hiking, mountain bike, cycling and 4WD trails lead to an endless variety of views, or you can take to the water on the Severn River and The Broadwater to rock hop, fish, swim or explore via kayak or canoe. Visit the thundering Nundubbermere Falls, admire the visa from Rats Castle, Red Rock Gorge Lookout, or the western circuit ridge and discover the relics and abandoned mines from the 1870s mining boom.

• Reedy Creek Estate - since the 1960’s, locals and travellers alike have been enjoying the superb countryside views at Reedy Creek Estate’s cellar door, where you can taste your way through wines and digestifs or grab a bottle of their Prosecco or Old Vine Shiraz to go. Morning and afternoon tea, antipasto plates and Italian pasta lunches. Check website for opening hours and bookings. 6617 Bruxner Way, Mingoola

Bingara

Delightful, picturesque town nestled in the hills alongside the meandering Gwydir River, highlights include:

• The Roxy Theatre and Greek Café - built by three Greek partners from the island of Kythera as a magnificent art deco cinema with an adjoining café, the theatre operated until 1958, after which it was closed and left untouched for forty years. Beautifully and faithfully restored to its former glory in 2004 and now open to the public as a cinema, performing arts venue and multi-purpose function centre. The Café operated as a Chinese restaurant until 2011, when it also underwent a transformation back to its Greek café heritage and is a wonderful 1930’s time capsule. 74 Maitland St, Bingara

• Wade Horses Bingara - trail rides for all ages and ability levels along the glorious Gwydir River. "Garrawilla", Keera St, Bingara

• Myall Creek Massacre Memorial - one of Australia’s most important reconciliation sites commemorating the unprovoked massacre of twenty-eight Wirrayaraay women, children and old men by a group of stockmen in 1838. This is the only massacre for which Europeans were charged, found guilty and punished, with seven men hanged as a result. An annual Friends of Myall Creek Memorial Service attracts people from all over Australia and is held every June long weekend at the Myall Creek Memorial monument. Join in the story with a highly produced audio walk, which was produced in collaboration with local community - download the free Soundtrails App then open Myall Creek. Whitlow Rd, Myall Creek

• The Rocky Creek Glacial Area – over 290 million years of weathering and erosion of the original glacial landscape has created many different sizes and types of boulders, all cemented together in the creek bed with finer gravels, sand and clay. This makes it the perfect spot to picnic alongside the tumbling water, rock hop or cool off in a crystal clear rockpool. Camping and bush toilets. Killarney Gap Road, Bingara

• Horton Falls National Park - tucked away in the rugged foothills of the Nandewar Range is this patch of relatively undisturbed old growth forest, where nature lovers can explore the waterfalls, swimming holes and gorges of Horton Falls National Park. Make the short 100m stroll to Horton Falls lookout which is the ideal vantage point to see Horton River thunder into the deep valley below. If you fancy an invigorating dip, head past the Upper Falls picnic area and follow the scenic track to the most perfect little swimming hole. Picnic tables, BBQ facilities and toilets.

Old Glen Innes to Grafton Road & Dalmorton Tunnel

The Old Glen Innes to Grafton Road is a wonderful day trip offering peaceful camping, historic sites, big river views and rolling green mountains. Constructed using civilian labour and opened in 1867, the 180km scenic route was originally the only ‘highway’ linking the New England region to the coast. One highlight is just a few kilometres west of Dalmorton village - a short tunnel carved out of solid rock, with graffiti dating from the 1880’s scrawled on the ceiling.