A drive along the coast, in a southerly direction towards Sydney, will introduce you to some of the country’s most beautiful places. The mid-north coast of New South Wales boasts many of these and perhaps none are more beautiful than the Taree and Manning Valley regions. Situated just 3 hours north of Sydney and an even closer 2 hours from Newcastle, this stunning region is home to some remarkably quaint little towns that all enjoy a backyard of the stunning Manning Valley.
Taree may be the highlight of this region but you will probably be surprised to find that there is actually so much more. The Manning Valley is generously scattered with scores of villages and townships that are just begging to be explored. The stunning coastal towns are home to glowing lagoons, lakes and glorious stretches where the river meets the sea. Discover ancient rainforests that are hidden in the rolling green hills of the valley near the riverside town of Wingham. Journey further into the valley and you will be transported into an entirely different world of farms that roll over the river and surrounding hills. The atmosphere is truly magical.
As mentioned before, the cultural centre of the region is the town of Taree. This town is a major service centre for the Manning region and is where most of the excitement occurs. Taree is nestled on the banks of the Manning River and is a pleasant little township that is thriving with activity and some amazing sights. Enjoy a picnic at one of the tranquil riverside parks, or get out on a boat and partake in some fishing and boating, which are other popular past times here. Be sure to take a stroll down to the Manning Quays, where you will find a revamped jetty that is just buzzing with activity.
If culture and the arts is more your style, be sure to pop into the Manning Regional Art Gallery. This gallery is housed in a cottages style building and boasts a constantly changing array of visiting and regional exhibitions. To further your artistic adventure, also pay a visit to the Taree Craft Centre or the Craft Cottage. These establishments pride themselves on their fantastic arts and crafts displays, while encouraging you to join in on the fun as well.
The small township of Cundletown is equally as delightful as Taree and is a pleasant place to visit if you are after historic old buildings and English style squares. You can further your experience of the area’s history by taking a stroll along the Heritage Walk, which offers a unique insight into the town’s history. Finish your day off by dining at one of the area’s finest restaurants, where you will be able to enjoy a wide range of national and international cuisine.
To further your historical exploration of the Manning Valley, spend a day or two in the historic town of Wingham. This town was established in 1853 and its heritage continues to shine through in its National Trust listed federation and Victorian buildings. Pay a visit to the Manning Valley Historical Museum and you will come across the most extensive collection of historical memorabilia on the NSW north coast.
Head out into nature for a bit and take a look at the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve, which is another of the area’s major attractions. This rainforest remnant is part of the last remaining ten hectares of floodplain forest in New South Wales and is definitely worth a look.
When stuck for what to do next, you will be pleased to find a whole wealth of amazing places to see and things to do, all within an extremely close proximity to each other. Black Head Beach is popular with both locals and tourists as it is known as one of the friendliest beaches in Australia. There is a multitude of things to see and do here including bushwalking, fishing, hiking up to the lookouts, picnicking in the numerous picnic grounds, exploring the rock pools or catching a glimpse of the passing whales and dolphins.
For those who are keen on doing some snorkeling, bird watching and surfing, head up to Diamond Head Beach and Crowdy Bay National Park. Take a nature tour of the park and discover the interesting wildlife that frequent this area. Be sure to bring your camera as you will want to remember these moments forever.
Taree and the Manning Region are among Australia’s best kept secrets when it comes to great places to stay and explore. Discover the wonder and intrigue of the region yourself when you holiday here. You will not leave disappointed.
Christine Barton is a Content Writer for Discovery Car Hire Sydney, Australia’s travel focused online car hire company. She frequently writes information about Car Hire Sydney and travel information relating to Australia.
