Gloucester Area

Approximately two to three hours north of Sydney, the World Heritage listed Barrington Tops National Park is an extremely popular destination for those wishing to escape, relax and explore.

Covering some 120,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness it is a mecca for campers, bushwalkers, horse-riders, mountain-bikers, and four-wheel drivers. Its ancient beech forests and exceptionally tall eucalyptus protect more than 26 animal species many of them threatened.

For those looking for a more leisurely holiday, you can visit an array of farm gate producers selling local delicacies. From wine to lavender, perch to alpaca meat and cheeses, the visitor is spoilt for choice. These details are incorporated into Farm Trail maps available from Visitor Information Centres.

Nearby are such historic country towns as Paterson, Barrington, Clarence Town, Gresford, Vacy and Stroud where you can dine alfresco at charming cafes and restaurants and enjoy the delights of locally grown produce.

The townships of Gloucester and Dungog are the centre of a diverse range of outdoor activities. Gloucester and Dungog also provide easy access to canoeing, bushwalking, horse riding, fishing and skydiving as well as a number of local golf courses.

Dungog with its wide streets and heritage buildings is an excellent base for cycling. Every September, Dungog hosts Pedalfest where hundreds of cyclists of all ages and levels gather to ride around the Williams Valley. The Gloucester Mountain Man Tri-challenge and Spring Festival are held in September each year too. Gloucester hosts events such as the Shakespeare Festival, Mountain Man Triathlon, Snowfest, Country Music camps and community markets.

Accommodation in the Gloucester - Barrington Tops area ranges from luxury retreats, bed and breakfasts and self contained cottages to farmstays, units and bunkhouses and camping– in fact there is something for everyone.