There’s a sweet spot where adventure meets a touch of indulgence, and it lives on the road between the coast and the cool air of the New England High Country. Pack a picnic, gather a few favourite friends, and point the bonnet to the Gwydir Highway toward World Heritage wilderness, charming boutiques, and slow, soul-filling moments.
What you’ll experience:
A beautiful scenic drive through quaint country towns and delightful countryside, and its less than a five-hour drive from the Gold Coast.
Three Perfect Days in the New England High Country
Day One — Canopy, Creeks & Big-Sky Lookouts
As the highway climbs, the temperature falls and the air turns crisp. In Washpool National Park and Gibraltar Range, freshwater creeks thread through ferny gullies, and the canopy keeps the sun gentle. Slip off your shoes for a refreshing wade before a gentle stroll on the Coombadjha Walk, where birdsong and leaf-filtered light set the pace.
Continue to Gibraltar House and the Platypus Pool; linger quietly, and you might spot a whiskered ripple at the surface. Then it’s on to Raspberry Lookout, where the land rolls out in breath-catching layers. Pass the geological area of Demon Fault and turn for Boundary Falls; the cascade is a natural soundtrack for a late picnic and a toast to the day’s discoveries.
Evening—Country Chic in the CBD.
Drift into Glen Innes and wander the historic main street, where country boutiques are full of characters and unique finds. Check into your stay, perhaps a classic pub meal at the Great Central Hotel or the New England Motor Lodge for local charm and great specials or find a luxury hideaway where you can choose a chef-prepared dinner or a curated DIY dinner pack. A glass of sparkling shared on the verandah is the perfect bridge from bushwalk to evening glow.
Day Two — Stones, Coffee & Treasure Trails
Morning starts at The Crofters Cottage beside the Australian Standing Stones. Order excellent coffee and a homemade treat, then soak up the energy of the early risers at parkrun drifting by the granite sentinels. Nab a box of award-winning cakes and pies from Sweetie Pies, or have the team at The Coffee Incident pack a picnic platter; think local charcuterie and seasonal finds that turn any patch of grass into a grazing moment.
If you skipped it yesterday, detour to the Skywalk Lookout for that endless horizon shot, then sink into Glen Innes’ art and second-hand trail, part treasure hunt, part time travel. When the open road calls, cruise north for a leisurely loop through Emmaville and Deepwater. Pop into The Makers Shed (touch, talk, and take home), then settle at Deepwater Brewery for a tasting paddle and lunch, or venture to one of the pubs in Deepwater and Emmaville for a real local experience and watch the countryside unfurl in soft greens all the way home.
Day Three — Brunch, Browse & a Sweet Farewell
Sunday is for lingering. Brunch at The Local sets the tone: generous plates, good conversation, no rush. Cap it off with a scoop (or two) from The Furry Cow or the Strawberries and Cream at the Super Strawberry. If you’ve got time to spare, take a final browse of the parklands or a slow lap past through the Heritage Trail and visit the History House before heading home. Take some treats with you for another look at Boundary Falls; this time venture to the bottom of the stairs and work off some of that sweet indulgence.
Need more ideas or help shaping your own version of this escape? Contact the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre; the team’s local know-how will stitch your weekend together beautifully. P (02) 6730 2400
There are an array of events hosted in Glen Innes Highlands throughout the year. We have something for everyone.
Save the Date:
2026
13 – 15 February Glen Innes show & Gourmet Fiesta – Glen Innes Showgrounds
6, 7 & 8 March Minerama Fossicking Gem & Jewellery Show
7 March Goodness Gravel
30 April to 3 May Australian Celtic Festival – Book your accommodation ‘now’
