{"id":222059,"date":"2021-03-24T13:05:49","date_gmt":"2021-03-24T02:05:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/?p=222059"},"modified":"2023-02-13T14:46:01","modified_gmt":"2023-02-13T03:46:01","slug":"the-great-road-trips-of-nsw-waterfall-way","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/the-great-road-trips-of-nsw-waterfall-way\/","title":{"rendered":"The great road trips of NSW: Waterfall Way itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"<h5>Wind your way slowly from the ocean to Australia\u2019s highest city along the spectacular Waterfall Way to truly appreciate the bounty of natural, cultural and heritage treasures it packs into its short and scenic midst.<\/h5>\n<p>While the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/things-to-do\/drives-and-road-trips\/waterfall-way\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Waterfall Way<\/a> flies under the radar of NSW\u2019s most iconic drives, it surely can\u2019t be rivalled in the sheer diversity of spectacular natural landscapes it packs into just 200 short kilometres. And not to mention the cultural interludes, heritage wonders and good coffee it offers en route to boot.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Watch the video below for a taste of what awaits you along the Waterfall Way\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p><iframe title=\"Great Road Trips of NSW: Waterfall Way\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l0kYA9AhGoM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n<p>From the Mid North Coast gem of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour\/\">Coffs Harbour<\/a> to the bohemian town of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/bellingen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bellingen<\/a> via Dorrigo to the graceful city of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/country-nsw\/armidale-area\/armidale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Armidale<\/a> high on the New England Tablelands via Gondwana rainforest, rugged gorge country and, of course, spectacular waterfalls (including NSW\u2019s highest), this is a road trip that can be driven in a day, but is best savoured over several.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222241\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222241\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222241 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109.jpg\" alt=\"Coffs Coast Emerald Beach\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Emerald-Beach174930-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222241\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Spot the wildlife at Emerald Beach on the Coffs Coast. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Coffs Harbour: go with the flow in coastal capital\u00a0<\/a><\/h2>\n<p>About halfway along the Legendary Pacific Coast drive, and with its beautiful unspoilt <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour\/best-beaches-coffs-harbour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">beaches<\/a> and memorable attractions including <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dolphinmarineconservation.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dolphin encounters,<\/a> a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.butterflyhouse.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">butterfly house<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.treetops.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tree-top adventure park,<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Coffs Harbour<\/a> is a much-loved <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/family-holidays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">family holiday<\/a> destination for good reason. And while a selfie with the iconic \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour\/the-big-banana\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Australia\u2019s original \u2018big thing\u2019<\/a> \u2013 is practically a prerequisite for anyone who visits, there\u2019s plenty more to this coastal city besides. A thriving cafe culture, breezy beachside accommodation and the buzzing Harbourside Markets on Sundays are just the beginning.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222242\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222242\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222242 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109.jpg\" alt=\"Jetty Beach Coffs Harbour\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Coffs-Jetty-Beach-174246-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222242\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Make use of Coffs Harbour&#8217;s unspoilt beaches. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_222249\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222249\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222249 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109.jpg\" alt=\"Dolphin Marine Conservation Park\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dolphin-Marine-Conservation-Park-Coffs-Harbour149210-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222249\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Prepare for a dolphin encounter at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>You might choose to start your journey from the unique perspective of a SUPing adventure through Solitary Islands Marine Park with direct descendants of the \u201cworld\u2019s first stand-up paddleboarders\u201d, as the Gumbaynggirr owner-operators of <a href=\"https:\/\/wajaanayaam.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr<\/a> describe themselves. Or perhaps 15 metres above the forest floor at Coffs Harbour&#8217;s first eco-certified tourism attraction, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/coffs-harbour\/attractions\/sealy-lookout-niigi-niigi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Niigi Niigi (Sealy Lookout)<\/a> in Orara East State Forest. This Gumbaynggirr cultural site offers panoramic views for days from its famous Forest Sky Pier.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222258\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222258\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222258 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109.jpg\" alt=\"Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Wajaana-Yaam-Gumbaynggirr-Adventure-Tours-155323-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222258\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Go stand-up paddle boarding with Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And don\u2019t leave Coffs Harbour without visiting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/visit-a-park\/parks\/muttonbird-island-nature-reserve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve,<\/a> or Giidany Miirlarl, another site of great cultural significance complete with an award-winning outdoor learning space and guided tours run by Gumbaynggirr owners. The island, also an important seabird rookery and prime whale-watching spot between May and November, is a short walk along the break wall from Coffs Harbour Marina and offers up sensational views of the Coffs Coast and into the hinterland \u2013 where you\u2019re headed next.<\/p>\n<h2>Bellingen: it\u2019s all boho vibes in Bello<\/h2>\n<p>It takes 30 minutes to get to the bohemian town of Bellingen from Coffs Harbour, first driving south out of the city through Bongil Bongil National Park then heading west at the Bellinger River to join the official start of the Waterfall Way.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222246\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222246\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222246 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-174038-109.jpg\" alt=\"bohemian town of Bellingen\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-174038-109.jpg 450w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-174038-109-140x187.jpg 140w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-174038-109-285x380.jpg 285w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222246\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Wander the bohemian town of Bellingen. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This tiny tranquil river town with its attractive heritage streetscape and counterculture community invites you to stop and stay awhile. You could happily spend a lazy couple of days soaking up its charms, from sipping coffee and browsing the curated selection of homewares and fashion at hip hangout HYDE Bellingen to perusing the town\u2019s popular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bellingenmarkets.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">markets<\/a> that showcase the creativity of the region. From tasting a taco or two at funky new cantina Tish Faco to working your way through the rainbow of flavours at The Bellingen Gelato Bar. And from sampling craft beer in the industrial-chic <a href=\"https:\/\/bellingenbrewing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bellingen Brewery &amp; Co<\/a>. to dining in a 112-year-old converted church at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cedarbar.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cedar Bar &amp; Kitchen.<\/a><\/p>\n\n<p>But the star attraction here is really the Bellinger River, which cuts a lovely wide swathe through town. One of the best ways to experience it is with <a href=\"https:\/\/canoeadventures.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bellingen Canoe Adventures,<\/a> which offers both canoe hire and guided tours that take in swimming holes and provide plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities: keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, koalas, egrets, eagles, jumping fish and even swimming cows.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222245\" style=\"width: 460px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222245\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222245 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-Canoe-Adventures-Fernmount-174016-109.jpg\" alt=\"Bellingen Canoe Adventures\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-Canoe-Adventures-Fernmount-174016-109.jpg 450w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-Canoe-Adventures-Fernmount-174016-109-140x187.jpg 140w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Bellingen-Canoe-Adventures-Fernmount-174016-109-285x380.jpg 285w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222245\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Get out on the Bellinger RIver with Bellingen Canoe Adventures. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>From tucked-away cabins to the charming and funky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/bellingen\/accommodation\/bellingen-yha-the-belfry-guesthouse\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Belfry Guesthouse<\/a> overlooking the river in the centre of town, there are plenty of accommodation options in and around Bellingen to choose from. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/bellingen\/accommodation\/studio22-bellingen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Studio 22 Bellingen<\/a> is a cleverly converted garage space a stone\u2019s throw from the main street that encapsulates the character of Bellingen, while the villa at <a href=\"https:\/\/lombokonwaterfall.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lombok on Waterfall<\/a> between Bellingen and Dorrigo just off Waterfall Way itself offers majestic views over one of the region\u2019s most beautiful valleys from its huge verandah.<\/p>\n<h2>Dorrigo National Park: explore ancient rainforest<\/h2>\n<p>The landscape takes on a different and altogether more dramatic cadence as you start the ascent up out of Bellingen along 30 kilometres of winding road that follows the river and scales the Great Eastern Escarpment. Here, Waterfall Way starts to inhabit its name as two falls tumble down the cliffside right beside the road. Turn off at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/dorrigo\/attractions\/dorrigo-national-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dorrigo National Park<\/a> before you reach the lofty Northern Tablelands town of Dorrigo to explore some of Australia\u2019s most spellbinding rainforest \u2013 part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia \u2013 and its stash of stunning waterfalls hidden within.<\/p>\n\n<p>Orient yourself at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/dorrigo\/attractions\/dorrigo-rainforest-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dorrigo Rainforest Centre<\/a>, with its tasteful gift shop, environmentally minded <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/things-to-do\/cafes-and-kiosks\/canopy-cafe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Canopy Cafe<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/things-to-do\/lookouts\/skywalk-lookout\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Skywalk Lookout:<\/a> a 70-metre boardwalk stroll that leads to unparalleled views of the national park around you, Bellinger Valley and \u2013 on a clear day \u2013 the coast you\u2019ve come from. On an overcast day, swirls of low-hanging mist help set the tone for the primeval landscape.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222256\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222256\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222256 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109.jpg\" alt=\"Skywalk Lookout Dorrigo \" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Skywalk-Lookout-Dorrigo-155164-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222256\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Take a 70-metre boardwalk stroll on Skywalk Lookout for views of Bellinger Valley. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>A range of well-marked trails radiate out from the centre and descend into the forest canopy, including the 3.5-kilometre return <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/things-to-do\/walking-tracks\/crystal-shower-falls-walk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Crystal Shower Falls<\/a> walk. This short but sweet walk provides a captivating snapshot of the world around you: 600-year-old trees tower above you while birds call out in an atmospheric rainforest chorus. You\u2019ll hear Crystal Shower Falls before you see it as you arrive at a suspension bridge; walk across it and follow a path around the side of the falls to step right behind it. From here, turn back to join the road or continue your walk along the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/things-to-do\/walking-tracks\/wonga-walk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wonga Trail<\/a> to Tristania Falls.<\/p>\n<h2>Detour to Dorrigo and Dangar Falls<\/h2>\n<p>The air is cooler up here in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/dorrigo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dorrigo,<\/a> sitting pretty as it does among dairy farmland 731 metres above sea level. Make a pit stop here to fuel up \u2013 the car and your stomach. Components Cafe is a hidden gem serving good coffee and innovative food; take a seat in its rambling garden if the weather\u2019s fine. And don\u2019t miss the chance to browse the clutch of clothing, gifts and homeware stores that have sprung up here in recent years such as Red Cedar and Miss Wink.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222250\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222250\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222250 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109.jpg\" alt=\"Dangar Falls in Dorrigo\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Dorrigo-Dangar-Falls-174054-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222250\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Check out the picturesque 30-metre Dangar Falls in Dorrigo. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Drive north of Dorrigo for two kilometres, a quick detour off Waterfall Way, to check out the picturesque 30-metre <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/north-coast\/coffs-harbour-area\/dorrigo\/attractions\/dangar-falls\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dangar Falls<\/a>. View it from the lookout not far from the road or stretch your legs on the path that leads to the river in 10 to 15 minutes.<\/p>\n<h2>The Northern Tablelands: for awe-inspiring lookout points<\/h2>\n<p>As you edge further into the Northern Tablelands from here the landscape changes proportions again. The seemingly gentle pastoral land you\u2019re winding through falls away to reveal a series of rugged national parks harbouring granite outcrops, dramatic gorgeous, wildernesses that seem to stretch on forever and, naturally, more waterfalls.<\/p>\n\n<p>Further along Waterfall Way from here is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/visit-a-park\/parks\/cathedral-rock-national-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cathedral Rock National Park<\/a> with its striking granite tors, or boulder piles, ripe for hiking and scrambling. This is also a great place to pitch a tent for the night, with two campgrounds offering secluded spots among the banksias, eucalypts, myrtle tea trees and lemon bottlebrush. Note: The park is accessible, but there are closures to walking tracks due to bushfire damage.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222247\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222247\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222247 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109.jpg\" alt=\"Point Lookout in New England National Park\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-Point-Lookout-New-England-National-Park174862-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222247\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The views from Point Lookout in New England National Park. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The scenic spots come thick and fast on this stretch of road. No sooner have you rejoined Waterfall Way, then you\u2019ll make another diversion into <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/country-nsw\/armidale-area\/armidale\/attractions\/new-england-national-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New England National Park<\/a> for one of Australia\u2019s most spectacular lookout points. Point Lookout allows a panorama of unspoilt wilderness, with views back across to the Bellinger Valley. Also within this World Heritage-listed park, protected for its ancient Gondwana rainforest, is a choice of accommodation options: from camping to cosying up in the one-bedroom cabin, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/camping-and-accommodation\/accommodation\/the-chalet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Chalet<\/a>, or three-bedroom cottage, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/camping-and-accommodation\/accommodation\/the-residence\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Residence<\/a>, right next to the lookout, to the rustic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/camping-and-accommodation\/accommodation\/toms-cabin\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tom&#8217;s Cabin<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au\/camping-and-accommodation\/campgrounds\/thungutti-campground\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thungutti campground<\/a> among the trees.<\/p>\n<h2>Wollomombi Falls: for wilderness and waterfalls<\/h2>\n<p>Thirty kilometres further along is <a href=\"http:\/\/visitnsw.com\/destinations\/country-nsw\/armidale-area\/armidale\/attractions\/wollomombi-falls\">Wollomombi Falls<\/a> within <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitnsw.com\/destinations\/country-nsw\/armidale-area\/walcha\/attractions\/oxley-wild-rivers-national-park\">Oxley Wild Rivers National Park<\/a>. Plunging 220 metres into the valley, this is NSW\u2019s highest waterfall and the second highest in Australia. Stretch your legs on the Wollomombi walking track, an easy four-kilometre return walk around the rim of Wollomombi Gorge for optimum waterfall and wilderness views or challenge yourself on the short but steep descent into the valley on the Chandler walking track.<\/p>\n<h2>Armidale: for the art lovers<\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s 30 minutes from Wollomombi Falls until you hit Armidale \u2013 Australia\u2019s highest city \u2013 where, after all that fresh air and wilderness, it\u2019s time for some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/new-england\/high-country-hospitality-in-armidale\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wining, dining<\/a> and culture. This graceful university town famed for its grand architecture and four-season climate offers a slice of buzzing cosmopolitan life in a picturesque rural setting. Check into the recently refurbished and gorgeously Art Deco Tattersalls Hotel Armidale or the impeccably styled <a href=\"https:\/\/lolomabandb.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Loloma Luxury Bed &amp; Breakfast<\/a> in one of the city\u2019s finest residences before checking out all the city has to offer.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222248\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222248\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222248 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109.jpg\" alt=\"Armidale \" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Armidale-167200-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222248\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Soak up the culture in Armidale. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theweldersdog.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Welder&#8217;s Dog<\/a> is an inviting bar that serves craft beer made from locally sourced barley alongside drops from other independent brewers and local wineries. The hip Goldfish Bowl Bakery and Charlie&#8217;s Last Stand, where creative cocktails are in tune with the seasons, are two other names to add to your hit list.<\/p>\n\n<p>The jewel in Armidale\u2019s crown is the excellent New England Regional Art Museum <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neram.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">(NERAM),<\/a> which boasts the most comprehensive overview of Australian art history in regional Australia. At the core of this is the Howard Hinton Collection, which NERAM was purpose-built to house in 1983, with more than 1000 significant works by artists including Arthur Streeton, Margaret Preston and Brett Whiteley. While you\u2019re here, pop <a href=\"http:\/\/www.acckp.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">next door<\/a> to the Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place, a community-based centre that showcases a diverse range of Australian Indigenous arts and culture through its gallery, history room and artists\u2019 boutique.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222252\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222252\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222252 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109.jpg\" alt=\"New England Regional Art Museum\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/New-England-Regional-Art-Museum-166135-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222252\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The jewel in Armidale\u2019s crown is the excellent New England Regional Art Museum. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And don\u2019t miss a guided tour of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationaltrust.org.au\/places\/saumarez-homestead\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Saumarez Homestead,<\/a> a 30-room Edwardian mansion complete with its original furnishings and attractive gardens, which tells of the settler history of the region.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_222254\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-222254\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-222254 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109.jpg\" alt=\"Saumarez Homestead\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109-249x187.jpg 249w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109-507x380.jpg 507w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109-240x180.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Saumarez-Homestead-Armidale-166130-109-315x236.jpg 315w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-222254\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Don\u2019t miss a guided tour of Saumarez Homestead. (Image: DNSW)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Now that you\u2019ve reached the end of the Waterfall Way, it would be remiss of you not to make one final waterfall stop. Dangars Falls \u2013 not to be confused with Dangar Falls, though both were named after the same 19<sup>th<\/sup>-century pastoralist \u2013 is another beauty hidden within the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, 20 minutes\u2019 drive south of town. Or finish your road trip in style by swapping wheels for a helicopter and taking a scenic flight over the falls and spectacular gorge country with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fleetadventures.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fleet Adventures;<\/a> you\u2019ll retrace your footsteps by air as you fly out over the New England Plateau to Wollomombi Falls and back again.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Download our beautifully-illustrated map of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/NSW_poster_map_Online.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NSW\u2019s best road trips<\/a> (pictured below) or find the giant wall map inside issue 90 of <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.australiantraveller.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Australian Traveller magazine.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_223675\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-223675\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-223675 img-responsive\" src=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/NSW_poster_map_600x470.jpg\" alt=\"Map of the best road trips in NSW\" width=\"600\" height=\"470\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/NSW_poster_map_600x470.jpg 600w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/NSW_poster_map_600x470-239x187.jpg 239w, https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/NSW_poster_map_600x470-485x380.jpg 485w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-223675\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Illustration: Mike Rossi<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wind your way slowly from the ocean to Australia\u2019s highest city along the spectacular Waterfall Way to truly appreciate the bounty of natural, cultural and heritage treasures it packs into its short and scenic midst. While the Waterfall Way flies under the radar of NSW\u2019s most iconic drives, it surely can\u2019t be rivalled in the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":73,"featured_media":222239,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"article.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_expiration-date-status":"","_expiration-date":0,"_expiration-date-type":"","_expiration-date-categories":[],"_expiration-date-options":[]},"categories":[857],"tags":[1513,4773,4394,5514,4628,5911],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Waterfall Way Road Trip Itinerary | Australian Traveller<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Have you been dreaming of a road trip along Waterfall Way? 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