Oxley Highway
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Australia drives

Oxley Highway

Australia · Mid-North Coast to New England

Six verified stages from Port Macquarie to the New England High Country.

261 miles · 2-3 Days · 7 rally points

Guide statusPublished and available
Editorial updateAugust 12, 2026
Road conditionsVerify locally

The route

This verified journey climbs from Port Macquarie through Gingers Creek and the Oxley mountain section to Apsley Falls and Walcha, then continues to Armidale and Dorrigo. The inherited stop order has been corrected to follow the road.

The mountain section is long, technical and vulnerable to slips, fire and storm damage. Fuel early and do not treat the published distance as a performance target.

Autumn and spring are usually the most comfortable seasons. Check Live Traffic NSW and national-park alerts before every stage.

“The Oxley changes character with altitude, from coastal forest to open tableland.”

The whole Drive Pack, not just a line on a map.

This complete edition includes the practical tools, considered places and editorial context listed below.

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Route

Exact route map

The complete route, every rally point and sequential navigation links ready to open in Google Maps.

Itinerary

Full rally-point itinerary

A day-by-day sequence with distances, driving time and the stops that shape the journey.

Field notes

Road character & timing

Surface notes, corner character, suggested departure windows and the stretches that demand attention.

PDF

Downloadable roadbook

A premium PDF edition of the complete Drive Pack, designed for print and reliable offline use.

Web + PDF

Pre-drive checklist

Interactive and printable checks for the car, fuel, bookings, weather and offline navigation.

Live tools

Live departure desk

Official road-condition links and practical departure checks gathered in one place.

Curated

Stops, stays & tables

Curated accommodation, restaurants, wineries and worthwhile pauses matched to the route.

Route map

See the territory. Keep the discovery.

The shaded area shows the landscape of the drive. Members receive the verified road, sequence and navigation.

Explore the route region
  1. 01

    Day 1 , Morning

    Port Macquarie

    74.1 miles · 2.1 hours driving, plus stops
  2. 02

    Day 1 , Morning

    Wauchope and Gingers Creek

    74.1 miles · 2.1 hours driving, plus stops

  3. Days 2–3 · Member Drive Pack

    The rest of the journey

    5 further rally points with verified routing, timings and road notes

Day by day

The drive, unfolded.

Port Macquarie01

Day 1 , Morning

Port Macquarie

Coastal Start

Port Macquarie is a relaxed coastal town with excellent beaches, a koala hospital (the world's first, open to visitors), and a growing food and wine scene. The town sits at the mouth of the Hastings River, and the coastal walk from Town Beach to Lighthouse Beach is a beautiful way to start the day. Head west on the Oxley Highway toward the mountains.

Distance
74.1 miles
Drive time
2.1 hours driving, plus stops
Wauchope and Gingers Creek02

Day 1 , Morning

Wauchope and Gingers Creek

Into the Forest

The mountain section begins west of Wauchope, where the road enters dense eucalyptus forest and begins climbing. The first 50 km are a warm-up , flowing curves through forest with occasional glimpses of the valleys below. The road surface has been significantly improved in recent years, and the combination of smooth bitumen and empty road is deeply satisfying.

Distance
74.1 miles
Drive time
2.1 hours driving, plus stops

Complete Drive Pack

5 more rally points await.

The complete itinerary includes exact timings, road character, every stop and the downloadable roadbook.

Public preview · 2 of 7 rally points
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Beyond the road

Worth stopping for.

Places selected because they belong to the journey, not because they happened to be nearby.

Food & wine

10 more curated picks
Modern Australian

The Stunned Mullet

Port Macquarie

One of the best regional restaurants in NSW. Fresh seafood, local produce, and a wine list focused on Hunter Valley and New England wines. The ocean views are a bonus.

Country Pub

Commercial Hotel

Walcha

A classic Australian country pub serving excellent counter meals — steak, lamb, and the best chips in the High Country. Cold beer, warm fire, and genuine country hospitality.

Bakery & Café

Goldfish Bowl Bakery

Armidale

Armidale's best bakery — sourdough, pies, and pastries. The coffee is excellent and the pies are the real deal. A perfect fuel stop.

View all 13 food & wine recommendations
Cafe, Beachfront$$

Little Shack

Port Macquarie

A casual, vibrant beachfront cafe known for its excellent coffee, fresh juices, and delicious breakfast and lunch options. Enjoy the ocean breeze and stunning views while savoring a smashed avocado with feta or a fresh seafood salad. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, perfect for a post-swim bite. They also do great burgers and fish and chips.

Seafood, Modern Australian$$$

Bills Fishhouse + Bar

Port Macquarie

An upscale dining experience focusing on sustainably sourced local seafood. The menu changes seasonally, but expect beautifully presented dishes like pan-seared scallops, fresh oysters, and whole baked fish. The wine list complements the seafood perfectly, and the ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming. Ideal for a special dinner.

Modern Australian, Riverfront$$$

The Waterline Restaurant

Port Macquarie

Located right on the Hastings River, The Waterline offers stunning views and a contemporary menu. Known for its creative use of local produce and fresh ingredients. Try their slow-cooked lamb shoulder or the prawn and chorizo pasta. Excellent for a romantic dinner or a relaxed lunch with a view. The cocktail menu is also impressive.

Cafe, Country$$

The Beechwood Cafe & Bar

Beechwood (near Wauchope)

A charming country cafe in the small village of Beechwood, offering hearty homemade meals and delicious baked goods. Famous for its generous portions and friendly service. Stop here for a classic Australian meat pie, a fresh sandwich, or a slice of their legendary carrot cake. It's a true taste of rural hospitality, a perfect stop before heading into the mountains.

Historic Pub, Australian$$

The Pub With No Beer

Taylors Arm (near Macksville, slight detour)

Immortalized in song, this iconic Australian pub is a must-visit for its history and unique atmosphere. While it now serves beer, it retains its rustic charm. Enjoy a classic pub meal like a schnitzel or a burger, and soak in the true-blue Aussie vibe. It's a bit of a detour but well worth it for the experience and the stories it holds. Live music often on weekends.

Coffee Roastery, Cafe$

Altitude Coffee Roastery

Armidale

Armidale's premier coffee destination, roasting their own beans on-site. Expect expertly made espresso, pour-overs, and a selection of single-origin coffees. They also offer light breakfast and lunch options, including pastries and sandwiches. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the air, making it a perfect stop for coffee aficionados. Grab a bag of beans to take home.

Pub, Restaurant$$$

Tattersalls Hotel Armidale

Armidale

A beautifully restored heritage hotel offering both casual pub dining and a more formal restaurant experience. The pub bistro serves classic dishes with a modern twist, while the restaurant focuses on fine dining with local produce. Great selection of craft beers and a comprehensive wine list. A central and stylish spot for a meal.

Cafe, Restaurant$$

The Old Bank Cafe & Bar

Walcha

Housed in a historic bank building, this charming cafe and bar offers a delightful dining experience in Walcha. Known for its fresh, seasonal menu, including gourmet sandwiches, salads, and delicious homemade cakes. They also serve excellent coffee and have a selection of local wines. A cozy and inviting atmosphere for breakfast or lunch.

Brewery, Taproom$$

New England Brewing Co.

Uralla (near Armidale)

A popular craft brewery located in the nearby town of Uralla, offering a range of award-winning beers. Visit the taproom for a tasting paddle, brewery tours, and casual food options like pizzas and burgers. It's a great spot to experience the burgeoning craft beer scene of the New England region. Lively atmosphere, often with live music.

Cafe, General Store$

The Hilltop Store

Ebor (on Waterfall Way)

A quaint general store and cafe in the small village of Ebor, a perfect stop on the Waterfall Way. They serve simple but delicious food, including homemade pies, sandwiches, and good coffee. It's a chance to grab a snack, refuel, and chat with locals while enjoying the peaceful rural setting. A true country gem.

Where to stay

4 more curated picks
Boutique$$

Rydal Mount Boutique Accommodation

Port Macquarie

A stylish boutique hotel in Port Macquarie with garden rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. Close to the beach and the town centre.

Country Cottage$$

Dogtrap Cottage

Walcha

A beautifully restored heritage cottage on a working cattle station. Open fires, country views, and genuine New England hospitality. The perfect overnight stop.

Winery Stay$$

Peterson's Armidale Winery & Guesthouse

Armidale

Stay at a working winery on the New England Tablelands. Taste cool-climate wines, walk the vineyard, and enjoy the quiet of the High Country.

View all 7 where to stay recommendations
Hotel, Resort$$$

Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges

Port Macquarie

A stylish waterfront resort offering modern rooms, many with private balconies overlooking the marina or pool. Features a heated pool, spa, and the Boathouse Bar & Restaurant. Close to town center and beaches. Ideal for a comfortable and luxurious stay with excellent amenities. Ask for a marina view room.

Apartment Hotel$$$

The Observatory Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie

Self-contained luxury apartments with ocean views, perfect for longer stays or families. Features a heated pool, gym, and direct beach access. Each apartment has a full kitchen and laundry facilities. Enjoy the spaciousness and independence of apartment living with hotel services. Great for whale watching in season.

Guesthouse, Heritage$

Country Women's Association (CWA) Cottage

Walcha

A charming and affordable heritage cottage run by the local CWA, offering a unique stay in Walcha. Simple, clean, and comfortable rooms with a communal kitchen and lounge area. Experience genuine country hospitality and support a local community initiative. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic experience. Book well in advance as it's popular.

Winery Stay, Boutique$$$

Petersons Guesthouse & Winery

Armidale

Stay at a beautiful historic guesthouse nestled within a working vineyard just outside Armidale. Enjoy elegant rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and wine tastings at the cellar door. The tranquil setting and picturesque gardens make it a perfect escape. Many rooms feature fireplaces and antique furnishings. Ideal for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.

Before departure

Know before you go.

Fuel Stops

Ensure you fill up in Port Macquarie or Wauchope. Fuel is limited between Wauchope and Walcha (approx. 150 km).

Mobile Coverage

Expect intermittent or no mobile phone signal in the remote mountain sections of the Oxley Highway. Coverage improves significantly in towns like Walcha and Armidale, and along the coastal stretches. Consider downloading offline maps and communicating plans in advance.

Accommodation & Dining

During peak seasons or weekends, it is highly recommended to book accommodation and popular dining experiences in Port Macquarie, Walcha, and Armidale in advance. Many smaller establishments may have limited hours or require reservations, especially for dinner.

Recommended Apps

Download offline maps (e. g. , Google Maps, HERE WeGo) for navigation, especially where mobile signal is poor.

Wildlife & Road Conditions

Be vigilant for wildlife, especially kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats, particularly at dawn and dusk on rural roads. The mountain sections of the Oxley Highway can be winding and sometimes wet; drive to conditions. Logging trucks operate on weekdays, so be aware of larger vehicles.

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