Local Guide Book
Dorrigo Rainforest Walk
A wonderful day trip from the Cottage, there is great parking, many options for easy circuit walking with breathtaking surrounds including the ‘Walk with the birds boardwalk’ The discovery centre is informative and has a cafe for food and drinks. There are a number of lookouts with spectacular photography opportunities.
The Gladstone Hub
Situated in the heart of the historical village of Gladstone, you can stop off at the ‘Steam and Cedar’ cafe to grab a coffee while you peruse a network of local businesses offering handmade items, art, Jewellery, Health Foods and Fair Trade shopping. They also offer Sound Energy Healing and Yoga.
Be sure to stop in at the very popular Gladstone Hotel for a meal while there.
Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery
The not for profit Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery is located in parkland in South Kempsey at the complex including the Historical Museum and Tourist Information Centre and supports local established and emerging Aboriginal artists.
They have several exhibitions each year showcasing some stunning works for sale and they also have a great gift shop for a take home treasure.
Hat Head Beach and Surrounds
A natural paradise in the National Park and our absolute favourite local beach. Where the Tea Trees meet the sea, the water is magnificent!
There are loads of walking tracks to choose from - Smoky Cape is unmissable, excellent fishing, whale and bird watching are also accessible in this hidden gem.
Eungai Creek Buffalo Farm
The perfect stop for Halloumi and cheese lovers. The fact that it is ethically and sustainably produced and straight from the Biodynamic farm is even better. It is a resounding yes for quality, fresh, locally sourced food.
There is a cafe on the farm, looking gout over the lush green paddocks that are home to the healthy herd of Buffalo.
Crescent Head
Surfers from around the world travel just 30 minutes from the Cottage to experience the local breaks. Crescent head is not just for seasoned surfers though, there is a surf school for those wanting to try their sea legs safely.
Prepare to be happily surprised by Crescent’s
enjoyable rainforest walks, cute boutique shopping, great cafe’s a Day Spa for some
spoiling also, don't miss Barnetts Bakery on the way home for take home treats.
Cycling, Golfing & 4WD’ing
Local Guidebook
Kalateenee Mountain Bike trails are popular for their cross country and enduro style tracks, with 30km’s of well maintained trails which are easily accessed from the Kempsey Golf Club carpark.
For a fully immersive country golfing experience you can’t go past our local - Frederickton Golf Club (book on 6566 8261). Also nearby we have Crescent Head Country Club, South West Rocks Golf Club and Kempsey Golf Club.
From outback offloading to 4WD beach driving, get off the beaten track and explore the Macleay Valley Coast in 4WD. Beach permits and track
suggestions can be found: here.
Frederickton
The nearest village to the cottage is worthy of a day visit to tick of all the things, grab a coffee and view local Dunghutti man, Jason Ridgeway’s collection of inspired collection of everything from fashion to furnishings. If wanting to pick up something for your home fo for a wander around the Old Cheese Factory to view Najasi’s collection of furniture.
Have a hit of golf at the Frederickton golf Club, Grab a crocodile pie at the famous Fredo’s Pies and Cafe, stop in for a beer and great bistro feed at the riverfront Macleay River Hotel (Fredo Pub) where you and your pet will be welcome.
The Macleay Valley Farm Store and Post Office has all convenience items you may need. They also stock small gifts and locally made pasta, black garlic, honey, chai tea and chocolate.
South West Rocks
Boasting jaw-dropping beaches, world-class fishing and a host of hiking trails, South West Rocks is a haven for nature-lovers. It’s also home to the Trial Bay Gaol, a unique attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. One day is simply not enough to explore the wonders of this sun-soaked village, but it’s a great place to begin.
For something different the South West Rocks Dive Centre has been conducting daily charter dives to Fish Rock since 1980. Catering to all
levels of experience, friendly staff will ensure your visit to South West Rocks is relaxing and enjoyable.
Yarriabini Lookout
A trip to see the magnificent coastal views from the lookout is a worthy one with a scenic drive up to the summit of Mount Yarrahapinni, lined with patches of orange in late winter when the banksias are in flower.
From the top, the views stretch south-east over lush macadamia farms to the Macleay River estuary and Trial Bay. On a clear day, the coastline near Smoky Cape in Hat Head National Park
makes a dramatic backdrop to the towns of South
West Rocks and Arakoon.
A WArm Welcome
Everybody is welcome here. Any religion, gender and race around the world. We are working to improve accessibility, please talk to us about what you need to feel comfortable and welcome in our space. We welcome visitors to Collombatti, a place we acknowledge the Dunghutti People. We pay our respects to all Elders past, present and emerging and acknowledge their deep and ongoing connection and cultural responsibilities to this land.