Using Gloucester as a base, the Barrington Coast offers so much to visitors and residents alike. In this article, I can’t talk about everything that makes this place so special. Instead, I’ve picked a few hinterland favourites.
What areas does the Barrington Coast cover?
Good question. The name ‘Barrington Coast’ is relatively recent and comprises what used to be the three separate districts of Great Lakes, Manning and Gloucester. The region runs from Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest in the south to Diamond Head to the north and to Barrington Tops in the west. See the map.
Top five activities for the Barrington Coast hinterland
With so many activities to choose from including the magnificent Barrington Tops and the Barrington National Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice. I thought we’d look at the top five activities for the Barrington Coast hinterland.
1.Mountain biking
For thrills and hopefully not too many spills, pack up your mountain bike and head to the Barrington Bike Park, a 30-minute drive from Gloucester. Downhill trails run through and under rainforest, giving you more bush for your buck. Tracks are graded from easy to difficult and if you’ve made it down to the river unscathed, you’ll find a camping ground. To avoid crowds on these trails, you must book in advance as park authorities keep numbers limited.
2. Waterfalls and swimming
Be warned that these spots are not patrolled by any lifeguards so all swimmers need to take care.
Our waterfalls tend to be in out-of-the-way spots and you’ll need sturdy legs to get to most of them. Some close to us in Gloucester include the stunning Gloucester Falls, just over an hour from Gloucester. To get to the falls, make your way down the track to the first level of the falls. It isn’t an easy route so wear good shoes. To get to the bottom of the falls, you’ll need to hike further to the rock pool where you can swim right underneath the waterfall.
If you prefer to swim where the platypus play, the best swimming holes are close to Gloucester, with spots designated along the Gloucester River, Barrington River at the Barrington Reserve and Rocky Crossing or head out to the Manning River, Bretti Reserve, where the Barnard River joins the Manning River.
3. Camping and kayaking
Enjoy camping the way we used to at The Steps Barrington Campground. Located right on the rapids of the Barrington River, this camping site boasts a brand-new amenities block with hot showers, flushing toilets, disabled access and filtered river water for drinking. Surrounded by the bush, you’ll feel you’re a million miles from civilisation.
If you’re after a challenging white-water experience, the Barrington River is the place to hit for kayaking. The Barrington is rated Grade 3 in the upper areas, Grade 2 around the Steps and Grade 1 below Rocky Crossing. Or if you want to try something completely different, the guys at The Steps have a new fleet of river sleds; float along the ponds or chance some white-water excitement on the rapids.
4. Scenic drives
We have a Morgan car, so we love driving and the short scenic drives around Gloucester are fabulous. If you’re into motorbikes, Thunderbolts Way is a biker’s dream, a beautiful drive with spectacular stops like Carson’s Pioneer Lookout. And if you are after the best coffee in the region, drive to Walcha.
5. Stays in peaceful retreats
We have some great accommodation options, from top camping spots to charming Airbnb properties. Enjoy the peace of a riverside cabin, indulge in a high-end farm stay or hike into the wild and camp under the stars.
PS. Did you know Barrington Coast recently won double Golds at the 2022 NSW Tourism Awards?
Need help choosing a Hinterland Barrington Coast activity?
As a proud local, and supporting our community, I’m here to help, whether you want suggestions on outdoor activities, you’re looking to buy in our region or selling your property in the Gloucester region, I’d love to talk to you.