Located just outside of the Ebor village, the falls are a 115m drop formed by a columned basalt rock. It is a great spot for a picnic, with stunning views of the Guy Fawkes River and Gorge. There are toilets, barbecue facilities and running water with three viewing platforms. Make sure you spend some time exploring, so as not to miss the best outlook.
Point Lookout is the highest elevation in the region; at 1,564m above sea level. It has spectacular views of the escarpment and New England National Park. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific Ocean, which is over 60km away. Walking tracks through Gondwana rainforest surround the lookout. There are toilets and barbecue facilities.
Beech Lookout offers views of the Cunnawarra National Park. It looks over ancient Antarctic beech rainforest, including the tallest eucalypts in Australia. There are plenty of birdwatching opportunities. Wildlife is abundant, with such characters as kangaroos, possums, spotted-tail quoll, lyre birds, black glossy cockatoos and kookaburras.
At Wrights Lookout, the lush rainforest of New England National Park dissipates as you emerge from the canopy and are welcomed by panoramic views of the Bellinger River and surrounding mountains. This rocky plateau is an ancient trachyte remnant of Ebor Volcano. In spring the heathlands burst with a colourful display of wildflowers. Birdwatchers will want to stay alert for the honeyeaters, as they feed on the Banksias.
Weeping rock is aptly named, as water weeps from the towering cliffs all year round. Particularly in Winter, you will find spectacular icicles and frozen stalactite rock formations. To get there, walking tracks lead through Antarctic Beech forests, skirting the escarpment below Point Lookout. Immerse yourself in the cool air and vibrant green of this ancient, mossy world.
Wattle Flat is a great place for camping or a picnic, nestled by the lovely Styx River. Great to sit back, catch a fish and relax. Only 4WD and small camper trailers can access the area. There are plenty of fire pits, however no toilet facilities. The road can be slippery, so Wattle Flat may not be accessible in wet weather.
Since 1949, the trout hatchery has been raising and releasing about two million fish per year into inland streams and waterways. These include the New England area, as well as Bathurst, Orange, Oberon and Goulburn. They offer daily tours of the hatchery, including activities such as feeding. You are able to purchase some of the tastiest trout you will find anywhere. The area is globally renowned for its rainbow trout and fly-fishing.
Wollomombi Falls drop into the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. It is a huge, awe-inspiring gorge and the highest waterfall in NSW. After heavy rain the waterfall cascades 220m over the dramatic cliffs and the massive gorge fills with mist and the occasional rainbow. Walking tracks, picnic areas and campsites offer multiple alternatives for enjoying the scenic views.
Cathedral Rock National Park offers fantastic walks and breathtaking views (if you have the stomach to reach them). Scramble, rock-hop or simply hike to the summit of the Park’s main boulder piles – Woolpack Rocks and Cathedral Rock. From the top, enjoy the views of dry eucalypt forest and granite outcrops. For those less adventurous, a loop track around Cathedral Rock will have you back to the car in a couple of hours. Alternatively, brave the 10.4km Barokee to Native Dog Creek walk.
Fusspots is our local café in the Ebor village. A lovely place for a morning or afternoon tea break, particularly if you’re eager for some scones with jam and cream. Alternatively, there is a great range of choices on the lunch menu – and many interesting knick-knacks to remember your visit by.
The local pub has been in operation since 1973. It is full of life and caters a great menu. The bistro is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with wholesome country food, good coffee and many great specials. The pub is a good spot to relax between expeditions in the surrounding National Parks. They have a kids area so parents can relax and enjoy a meal with a beer or wine.
Day trips to Dorrigo or Bellingen are an easy drive, and a worthwhile adventure. There is a range of activities to choose from in both townships. Visit the Bellingen Brewery, the Old Butter Factory, the Yellow Shed or peruse community markets, shops and cafes. Canoeing the Bellinger River is a wonderful way to explore the area. Dorrigo Falls and Dorrigo National Park are popular destinations. If you are around in October, don’t miss the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival and check whether the ‘Made in Dorrigo Street Market’ is happening when you stay. At the very least, driving the Waterfall Way offers great variations in landscape – and is a worthwhile activity in and of itself.