Hidden gems: country day trips
NSW’s Central Coast is rapidly turning into a fashionable and popular destination. While locals have known about the many hidden gems on the Central Coast for years, visitors to the area may be pleasantly surprised. Located within easy reach for day trips from Sydney, the Central Coast offers some beautiful country and coastal day trip options.
Here we share some of our favourite scenic drives in the Central Coast, NSW, taking in the countryside in the best possible way.
A country drive
If beautiful scenery is something you appreciate, you’ll love this stunning route. This scenic journey takes in a 66km stretch of road, with about an hour’s drive time – but it makes an ideal day trip, as there are plenty of experiences to be had along the way.
First stop: Somersby
Starting on Wisemans Ferry Road, head towards Somersby Falls, a beautiful National Park area where you will find yourself surrounded by lush rainforest and waterfalls. This is the ideal spot for a picnic – we recommend stopping next to Floods Creek for some truly stunning scenery.
A visit to Somersby would not be complete without calling in at the Australian Reptile Park. This is one of the Central Coast’s best-known attractions and a firm favourite with families and animal lovers of all ages! Located on the Pacific Highway, the park is home to Australian animals and reptiles from around the world. You can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours and exhibitions, and learn about the important conservation work being carried out here.
Second stop: Peats Ridge
Heading north on Wisemans Ferry Road, take the left turn onto Peats Ridge Road. This route takes you past the Kulnara orchards, where you can stop for fresh fruit at the side of the road. Alternatively, if you would like to spend more time in this beautiful part of the world, you can take a tour of the farm at Eastcoast Beverages, one of Australia’s best-loved producers of fresh citrus fruit juices.
If by this time you’re thinking about food, there are a number of options here to suit your tastes. The Springs on Peats Ridge Road is an upmarket venue where you can enjoy lunch and a cocktail before taking in a round of golf if you’re feeling active. Or, if you prefer a more rustic ambience, call into The Harvest Kitchen for a coffee and a delicious slice of cake.
Those wanting more activity and adventure should head south on Peats Ridge Road to Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures. A popular destination for celebrity families including the Beckhams, this delightful venue gives you the opportunity to enjoy horse riding and quad biking, as well as a glamping experience if you want an overnight stay.
Third stop: Saddles or Walkabout Wildlife Park
If you follow the old Pacific Highway south, this will eventually lead you to Saddles at Mt White. Recently voted one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world by Conde Nast, the afternoon tea here is rapidly becoming legendary.
On the way here, you can also pay a visit to Walkabout Wildlife Park at Calga, a quintessentially Australian experience where you can come face to face with a wide variety of native animals in a bush setting. This is a great day out for families, and the park also offers overnight stays. A great place to end a rewarding day.
