Emily McDonagh
As the cold air breezes in and the leaves fall, escaping to a country paradise for an Autumn retreat sounds especially appealing. There’s an array of adventures to be had amongst the vivid landscape of inland NSW, as you travel in any direction. Pack up the kids and take on the country together or run wild along the exquisite rural food wine trail, on an adults only adventure. Whether you’re in for a short drive or the long haul, exploring Regional NSW will have you warmly welcoming the cooler months in scenic style.
Seasoned road trippers should make the journey across the New England countryside, with the Autumn foliage illuminating the scenery and igniting its country charm. Spend a cool morning as the fog rolls out admiring Gostwyck Chapel, Urulla, a church completely entwined in Virginia Creeper that glows red and gold in the Autumn months. Drive on to Armidale for a breakfast stop and roam the rustic tree lined streets, before touring the waterfalls the region has to offer. Waterfall Way allows access to three stunning waterfalls as you step along, but the winding drive through the landscape to get there is almost as enjoyable! Make sure to stay in one of the local guest houses to situate yourself in the heart of town; Petersons Guesthouse & Winery, Armidale is particularly picturesque.
Foodie fare and vibrant colour fill the streets of Orange, for the 10 day Orange F.O.O.D week in April. Take a seat at the 100-Mile dinner for a delicious locally sourced meal and wonderfully matched wine, and experience what Orange is known for. Walk amongst the vineyards and taste along the way, FORAGE, lets you roam the expansive grounds and taste all Orange has to offer along the way. With local producers showcasing their distinctive offering, gain a little insight into how the produce makes it from paddock to plate. For an indulgent taste adventure, Central NSW in Autumn is overflowing with flavours!
If you’re trying to escape the chill journey to Bellingen, a hidden gem along the North Coast of NSW. Get acquainted with the locals along the Bellingen river, by visiting the adorable flying foxes as they hang about Bellingen Island. Savour the freshly baked bread aroma and taste their organic local offerings at Hearthfire Bakery, warming you up on crisp Autumn day! After a snack wander the lush greenery of Dorrigo National Park, the board walk extends through waterfalls and dense rainforest as wildlife fleet about. Stop for a dip at Crystal Shower Falls, before a well deserved picnic lunch.
Escape the confines of Sydney busyness and savour Autumn as you wander and taste the sensational NSW countryside!
