Beyond the Beach: What's New in Port Macquarie in 2014

Greater Port Macquarie Tourism has released a list of ‘new must-dos’ for travellers in 2014. Many of the attractions are beyond the beach, tempting people to explore the hinterland’s wilderness, food from farms and picturesque drives in one of Australia’s favourite holiday spots.

A new 4WD adventure goes off the beaten track to have breakfast with the birds, go horse-riding through the vineyards, and enjoy high-tea in a hip hinterland café. Stay in new glamping style tents at Bonny Hills, in the refurbished Mid Pacific Motel or on a 3,000-acre farm in the hinterland. Also, new regular events at an organic farm allow people to participate in farm activities with a paddock to plate lunch.

Port Macquarie’s stunning natural attractions are closer than ever, just four hours’ drive from Sydney on the newly upgraded Pacific Highway.

Greater Port Macquarie Tourism’s list of new must-do’s in 2014 includes:

• Bago Birdcall Breakfast’ new 4WD tour: A new tour goes off the beaten track to see the stunning flora and fauna of Bago Bluff National Park in the Port Macquarie hinterland. Cost $75pp for four hours www.portmacquarietraveltours.com.au
• The Port Macquarie Horse-riding Centre opens at Cassegrain Wines: a new horse-riding centre has opened at Port Macquarie’s largest winery taking trail rides through the vines, picnic grounds, bushland and manicured gardens. The one-hour trail ($50) is ideal for learners or the two hour ($90) ride is for experienced riders. www.portmacquariehorseriding.com.au
• A hip, hinterland café Miss Nellies has opened in Kendall. With its retro pink décor, fun vibe and tempting menu, Miss Nellies is a welcome treat in the gorgeous township of Kendall. Try local produce including Lorne Valley macadamias and Comboyne cheese and lovely gifts such as jams and relishes to take home. 33 River Street, Kendall. www.missnelliescafe.com.au
• Learn about organics at Sundays at Near River Produce: A renowned organic farm in the hinterland is holding Sundays at Near River Produce, a regular event for people to participate in farm activities and enjoy a paddock to plate lunch. Events held twice a month, 10am-2pm, bookings essential, $40pp includes lunch. www.farmgate.nearriverproduce.com
• Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail: In September 2014, Port Macquarie will become home to a bold and imaginative new sculpture project, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, featuring 50 uniquely hand-painted and decorated fibreglass koalas. The project is a celebration of Port Macquarie’s status as the koala capital of Australia, home to the world’s only Koala Hospital and one of the largest coastal koala populations. www.hellokoalas.com