Travel

Travel

So many reasons to spend Autumn in the Glen Innes Highlands!

Colours of the Highlands: An Autumn Wonderland In Glen Innes, autumn paints the landscape in breathtaking shades of amber, gold, and ruby. Crisp, frost-kissed mornings give way to warm fires and cosy gatherings, creating a picture-perfect escape for photographers, nature lovers, and adventurers. Wander through town as leaves crunch underfoot or experience the season’s magic at signature events like Minerama in March and the Australian Celtic Festival in May. The striking contrast of frost-dusted fields and fiery foliage invites exploration, while local firesides offer a welcoming retreat. From pop-up activities and hidden gems to stunning seasonal vistas, Glen Innes is autumn at its finest. Whether you’re chasing the perfect shot or simply soaking in the rustic charm, this is the place to embrace the beauty of the Highlands. Minerama: A Treasure Trove of Gems & Minerals The Minerama Gem, Jewellery & Fossicking Show brings the Highlands’ rich mining history to life, drawing traders from across Australia. This year’s redesigned Outside Traders area offers a seamless experience, featuring uncut rocks, opals, fossicking tools, fossils, and stunning jewellery. Inside, pavilions dazzle with crystals, elegant pieces, and rare specimens. The Centenary Pavilion will also highlight daily cabochon polishing, gem cutting, and faceting demos by the Glen Innes Mineral & Gem Club. Check the schedule on the day! The club also sells gem wash bags at their dedicated meeting area next to the Bourke Street entrance and host workshops and pre booked fossicking field trips. Kids can enjoy free arts and crafts in the Rockhound area, plus family-friendly fun like the UNE Discovery Voyager Crew, Climbing Wall and Jurassic Jack on Saturday. minerama.com.au Australian Celtic Festival: A Journey Through Heritage & Culture – May 1-4 Step into a world of tradition and celebration at the Australian Celtic Festival, where the spirit of the Celtic nations comes alive through music, dance, and storytelling. Set against the stunning backdrop of Glen Innes, this annual highlight invites visitors to experience the energy of pipers, reenactors, and performers, while artisan markets, craft workshops, and local delicacies offer a deeper connection to Celtic heritage. Beyond the festivities, food lovers can embark on the Australian Celtic Food Trail, where traditional flavours meet a modern Australian twist, enriching the region’s vibrant food scene. This fusion of culture, music, and cuisine unites communities, blending history with innovation for an unforgettable festival experience. More information australiancelticfestival.com Goodness Gravel Embrace the Ride – April 12 Prepare for the Goodness Gravel Cycle Event where cyclists unite for an exhilarating ride across champagne gravel roads throughout Glen Innes. With nature’s breathtaking beauty as a backdrop, participants will test their endurance and compete in a spirited community event. Celebrate the scenic landscapes of Glen Innes and gain new perspectives while being part of a wellness-driven cycling adventure that unites participants in camaraderie and healthy competition. Find more details and register for this unforgettable event by visiting goodnessgravel.com/glen-innes-rides Easter in Glen Innes: Celebrate the Season in Style Easter in Glen Innes is a time to slow down, soak in the crisp Highland air, and explore a region rich in history and culture. Wander through the Land of the Beardies History House or the Emmaville Mining Museum for a glimpse into the past or visit the Glen Innes Highlands Skywalk and iconic Australian Standing Stones, where Celtic heritage comes to life with flag-lowering ceremonies and Solstice celebrations. Enjoy peaceful accommodations, open green spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere and lively attractions that showcase the region’s unique history and endless charm. It’s a perfect getaway. gleninneshighlands.com/visit Challenge Yourself at the Australian Standing Stones Parkrun Australia’s Highest Altitude Parkrun Course Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Australia’s National Celtic Monument, Glen Innes’ Australian Standing Stones Parkrun takes your weekly run to new heights—literally! As Australia’s highest altitude Parkrun course, it offers a thrilling challenge with 5km of steep inclines and rugged terrain, rewarding every effort with sweeping panoramic views. But it’s more than just a run—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and achievement. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, enjoying a scenic walk, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, everyone is welcome. Walk it, jog it, dance it, or cheer from the sidelines—this is an event where every step is an experience. Join the friendly crowd each Saturday and embrace the spirit of the Highlands—where the views are as uplifting as the people. facebook.com/AustralianStandingStonesParkrun Glen Innes: Where Creativity Meets Nature Glen Innes is a vibrant hub of creativity and culture, where arts and craft workshops welcome both beginners and seasoned makers. From pottery and painting to traditional crafts, these hands-on experiences inspire and connect. Stroll through weekly and monthly markets or explore galleries showcasing contemporary and heritage art that celebrates local talent and history. Food lovers can savour farm-to-table dining, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients bringing the region’s flavours to life. Beyond the town, the World Heritage wilderness areas of Gibraltar and Washpool National Parks offers breathtaking escapes—hike through ancient rainforests, stargaze under pristine night skies, and immerse yourself in nature’s untouched beauty. With vibrant events year-round, Glen Innes blends art, food, and wilderness into an unforgettable experience. Stay updated on the latest happenings: Facebook: GlenInneshighlands, Instagram: gleninneshighland

Travel

Arakawa the destination for quality Japanese cuisine

Arakawa, which translates to ‘wild river’, is a modern Japanese restaurant at RACV Royal Pines Resort. Arakawa blends tradition and innovation seamlessly, transforming every visit into a meticulously curated culinary and beverage journey.  Prepare for an immersive experience the moment you walk through the door. Vibrant murals depict Japanese women in traditional attire, evoking a sense of grace and movement, bringing a small piece of Japanese customs to the Gold Coast. Dark flooring and accents throughout create the perfect contrast for the eye, enhancing the colours, unique shapes, textures, sauces, and delicate garnishes created by skillful chefs who don’t cut corners.   Dining at Arakawa is equal parts pleasure and adventure. Precision and technique underpin every element of freshly assembled, thoughtfully arranged plates. Every cut of sushi sashimi is purposeful, with a la carte dishes plated up like an art form. If you’d like to elevate your Arakawa experience, you can choose to dine at thrilling teppanyaki tables or more intimate tatami tables.   Arakawa is the destination for quality Japanese, and it’s also the perfect place for celebrations, or a casual, yet elegant meal. Your table awaits, whether you’re a longtime Gold Coast local or guest at RACV Royal Pines Resort.

Travel

Oceanside Bliss: A Stay at Rydges Port Macquarie

  Get It magazine travels to Port Macquarie for a luxurious stay at Rydges, where sun and sophistication create the perfect blend for an unforgettable holiday. Port Macquarie, or PMQ as I like to call it, is a jewel of the Mid North Coast, perfectly positioned between Brisbane and Sydney. Known for pristine beaches, lush hinterland, and a thriving café culture, this coastal haven offers something for everyone. And at the heart of it all is Rydges Port Macquarie—a stylish waterfront retreat where comfort meets coastal sophistication.  Nestled along the sun-kissed Hastings River, Rydges Port Macquarie blends laid-back luxury with modern charm. The prime waterfront location offers sweeping marina and town skyline views, making it an idyllic escape for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.  Just five hours from the Gold Coast, it’s a welcome sight for weary drivers. As the sea breeze greets us, we wonder why we haven’t visited sooner. The hotel’s recent refurbishment has elevated the guest experience, with tastefully redesigned rooms that blend contemporary elegance with coastal aesthetics – think Hamptons with an Aussie twist. Whether unwinding in beautifully appointed rooms, sipping cocktails at Zebu Bar & Grill, or lounging by the heated outdoor pool, the atmosphere is undeniably inviting.  From the moment we arrived, warm and attentive service set the tone for an unforgettable stay. The newly refurbished rooms feature plush Rydges Dream Beds, stylish furnishings, and modern comforts. After a long morning drive, it was the perfect place to relax before exploring. The cocktail bar and chilled-out deck proved too tempting to resist.  Thankfully, there’s no need to venture far. The hotel’s restaurant, Zebu Bar & Grill, is a culinary standout. Offering a menu bursting with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it celebrates the best of the region’s produce. Whether indulging in a hearty breakfast, a long lunch, or a sunset cocktail, every bite and sip is a delight. Our meal—featuring fresh seafood and creative dishes—was unforgettable.  The highlight thought? Waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over the Hastings River – nature’s own wake-up call. Rydges Port Macquarie isn’t just about indulgence; it’s also the perfect launchpad for exploring the town’s natural beauty. On the advice of Rydges’ General Manager, Ryan Crocker, we packed a picnic and headed to Lighthouse Beach for a lazy day under the sun. With golden sands stretching for miles, this beach is a local favourite and a perfect spot for a romantic sunset.  For an active adventure, the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is a must. Winding from the town centre to Tacking Point Lighthouse, the trail offers spectacular views and pristine beaches. We started at Town Beach, passing Flagstaff, Rocky Beach lookout, and Nobby’s Beach, before soaking in panoramic views at Harry’s Lookout. The final stop at Tacking Point Lighthouse left us eager to return to the hotel for a refreshing cocktail and dip in the pool. (Tip: Break the walk into shorter sections, especially with kids, as there are plenty of swimming and picnic spots along the way.)  Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or simply a refreshing escape, this waterfront haven promises relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury.  Getting There  Travelling to Port Macquarie from the Gold Coast is now easier than ever, a manageable  5.5- to 6-hour drive, with picturesque stops along the way. For bookings and more information, visit www.rydges.com.    Tags from the story australia, easter, easter holidays, Gold Coast, hamptons, luxury travel, new south wales, port macquarie, school holidays, travel