From relaxing hot springs and cosy cellar doors to delicious long lunches and spectacular sunsets, NSW’s rolling New England region is the perfect long weekend destination. Reinvigorate the senses and renew a sense of adventure as you embrace the season in the cool-climate vineyards, delicious food and natural attractions that adorn this gorgeous countryside halfway between Sydney and Brisbane.
Armidale
Known for its rich heritage, fresh produce and awe-inspiring national parks, Armidale delivers some of its best during the winter months. Explore the incredible region and sample some of the superb drops of the vineyards and breweries putting Armidale on the map.
Sip a New England wine
Renowned for cool-climate tempranillo, pinot noir and chardonnay, this region is home to innovative winemakers and cosy vineyards with breathtaking country views. Enjoy a tasting in front of the fire at Petersons. You’ll discover more local flavours at the Armidale Farmers Market.
Marvel at nature
Winter is a magical time to discover some of New England’s natural wonders, and Armidale takes a front seat. Take a scenic drive through New England National Park, enjoy a beautiful sunrise at Cathedral Rock and witness the dramatic waterfalls of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
Explore incredible artworks
Make the most of your trip by experiencing some of the region’s outstanding art exhibits. The New England Regional Art Museum is home to collections that include works by famous artists such as Arthur Streeton and Tom Roberts, and you’ll find inspiring Indigenous art at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place.
Where to stay
Nestled in the heart of Armidale, The Comfort Inn City Centre Armidale is the perfect base to explore the region’s stunning attractions.
Tamworth
Tucked into a gorgeous Art Deco heritage building in Peel Street, the DECO Wine Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place for a cosy dinner and cocktail. One of the first pubs in the New England Region, The Pig and Tinder Box delivers winter-inspired European and Asian dishes in a welcoming heritage-listed venue.
Sample a taste of Tamworth
Tamworth may be famous for its 12-metre golden guitar and the largest country music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, but this iconic country town also retains a big reputation for hospitality, culture and acclaimed food and wine. A winter’s stay here will reward you with plenty of warm memories.
Take a scenic Winter drive
Take a tour of the nearby historic goldrush villages, including Nundle, Uralla and Gunnedah. Continue your taste excursion at Uralla’s Merilba Estate, a cosy and historic rustic cellar north of Tamworth and open for wine tastings and lunch on the weekends, with stunning views over the Honeysuckle Range.
Explore galleries and exhibits
Tamworth is known for its arts and culture. Check out the Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre for notable music memorabilia from local and touring international musicians. The Tamworth Regional Gallery is also home to a rotating program of art exhibitions, alongside curated works by regional artists.
Where to stay
From the CH Boutique Hotel – home to the renowned DECO Wine Bar – to the colonial-style Quality Inn Ashby House. Stay at the Econo lodge Savannah Park where this down-to-earth, country hotel is known for its unusual yet iconic swimming pool – shaped like a guitar, branded Aussie, and was originally opened by country music legend Slim Dusty. You’ll truly feel at one with the region’s musical heritage after going for a refreshing dip in this pool.
Your Next Adventure: Midweek regional NSW getaways
Moree
The home of Artesian hot springs, Moree is a place to relax and enjoy mineral-rich waters, unforgettable art trails and great seasonal food and wine. Situated on the NSW and Queensland border, this classic country town is packed with surprises.
Soak in the hot springs
Tucked into the beautiful Gwydir Valley, Moree boasts a wealth of naturally sourced and mineral-rich waters that spring from the Great Artesian Basin – the deepest artesian basin in the world. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of this natural wonder at the Moree Plains Artesian Pools.
Follow amazing art trails
Lined with beautiful heritage buildings, Moree is also home to fantastic outdoor artworks and murals. Experience the town’s unique work on the Moree Mural Art Trail. Yaama Ganu also features works from artists of the local Kamilaroi Nation, as well as art from Aboriginal-owned and managed art centres around Australia.
Enjoy local food and wine
Moree’s rich soils yield a bounty of seasonal delights and acclaimed produce. Sample some of the region’s talent at the Maslina Bar & Grill, helmed by Executive Consulting Chef Nick Whitehouse – a Michelin-star trained chef who once cooked for Princess Diana in London.
Where to stay
Econo Lodge Moree Spa Motor Inn is an inviting option for short or long stay travellers – it’s also home to the renowned Maslina Bar & Grill.
