Oxley Highway
Tous les Drives
New South Wales / Mid-North Coast to New Englandmoderate

Oxley Highway

One of Australia's finest driving roads — 653 km from the coast through forests, farmland, and the New England High Country.

2-3 Days 405 Miles 5 Rally Points Mar - Nov
L'Itinéraire

Oxley Highway

The Oxley Highway is one of Australia's great driving roads — a 653-kilometre route that runs from Port Macquarie on the mid-north coast of New South Wales through the Great Dividing Range to the western plains. The mountain section between Wauchope and Walcha is the highlight — 150 kilometres of flowing curves through eucalyptus forest, with virtually no traffic and a road surface that has been significantly improved in recent years.

The road climbs from the coastal hinterland through increasingly dramatic forest, crossing several ridgelines before reaching the New England Tablelands at around 1,000 metres elevation. The character changes constantly — tight, technical sections through dense forest give way to open, flowing sweepers across cleared farmland, then back into forest again.

The New England High Country is one of Australia's most underappreciated regions — a landscape of rolling green hills, heritage towns, and a climate more reminiscent of England than the Australian stereotype. Walcha, the first town on the Tablelands, is a charming country town with excellent pubs and a growing food scene. Tamworth, further west, is Australia's country music capital.

This is a road that rewards a weekend trip — drive the mountain section on Saturday, stay in Walcha or Armidale, and return via a different route (the Thunderbolts Way or the Waterfall Way) on Sunday. The combination of coastal start, mountain crossing, and high-country finish makes it one of the most varied driving experiences in Australia.

""The Oxley Highway is one of Australia's great driving roads — 150 km of mountain curves through empty forest. It's the road that Sydney motorcyclists dream about." — Australian Motorcycle News"

The Stable

En Bref

Durée
2-3 Days
Distance Totale
405 Miles
Rally Points
5 Segments
Difficulté
moderate
Meilleure Saison
Mar - Nov
Type de Route
Forest & Plains
From $9.95/mo
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Oxley Highway atmosphere
405
Miles
5
Rally Points
20
Arrêts Sélectionnés
L'Itinéraire

405 Miles, 5 Rally Points

Une expérience de conduite soigneusement sélectionnée à travers les plus belles routes de la région.

Oxley Highway route region

Découvrez l'itinéraire Oxley Highway

Ce pack comprend 5 points de rallye soigneusement sélectionnés sur 405 miles de routes spectaculaires. Devenez membre pour débloquer la carte interactive complète et les notes de conduite détaillées.

5 Rally Points
20 Arrêts Sélectionnés
Route Preview

See What's Inside

Explore a sample of the Oxley Highway route pack. The first 2 Rally Points are fully visible — become a member to unlock all 7 segments plus insider tips for every stop.

7
Rally Points
Curated driving segments
13
Food & Wine
Restaurants & wineries
7
Places to Stay
Handpicked accommodation
405 mi
2-3 Days of driving

What You Get

7 curated Rally Points with detailed driving notes
Suggested timing and pacing for each segment
Road character details — surface, curves, and conditions
Restaurant picks with what to order and parking tips
Winery & tasting room recommendations
Handpicked hotels with insider valet & check-in tips
Link Hub — tap-to-navigate from your phone
Downloadable PDF roadbook for offline use
Lifetime updates as routes evolve
Before You Go

Trip Planning Essentials

Route-specific logistics to help you plan ahead. Fuel stops, cell coverage, reservation requirements, and recommended apps for this drive.

Previewing 2 of 7 Rally Points5 more with membership
1Day 1

Port Macquarie

Coastal Start

Preview

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. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm. Visitors can explore various attractions, engage in outdoor activities, and immerse themselves in the local culture. The scenery is breathtaking, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation. Local cuisine and hospitality add to the overall experience, making it a memorable stop on any journey. The historical significance of the area, combined with its modern amenities, creates a rich tapestry for travelers to discover. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this spot caters to a wide range of interests, ensuring a fulfilling visit for all. The vibrant community and stunning landscapes make it a true highlight of the region, inviting exploration and appreciation of its unique character. The rich history and vibrant culture of the area provide a deep connection to the past, while the modern amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The natural beauty of the surroundings, from lush forests to pristine waterways, offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and serene contemplation. Local artisans and producers showcase their talents, providing unique souvenirs and culinary delights. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals make every visitor feel at home, creating lasting memories of a truly special place. This destination is a testament to the diverse beauty and rich heritage of the region, a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.

Suggested Timing

Morning — 9:00am

Road Character

Town roads heading west. The Oxley Highway begins as a standard rural highway through farmland before the mountains begin.

0 mi Start
2Day 1

Wauchope to Gingers Creek

Into the Forest

Preview

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. Gingers Creek marks the transition to the more intense mountain section. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm. Visitors can explore various attractions, engage in outdoor activities, and immerse themselves in the local culture. The scenery is breathtaking, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation. Local cuisine and hospitality add to the overall experience, making it a memorable stop on any journey. The historical significance of the area, combined with its modern amenities, creates a rich tapestry for travelers to discover. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this spot caters to a wide range of interests, ensuring a fulfilling visit for all. The vibrant community and stunning landscapes make it a true highlight of the region, inviting exploration and appreciation of its unique character. The rich history and vibrant culture of the area provide a deep connection to the past, while the modern amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The natural beauty of the surroundings, from lush forests to pristine waterways, offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and serene contemplation. Local artisans and producers showcase their talents, providing unique souvenirs and culinary delights. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals make every visitor feel at home, creating lasting memories of a truly special place. This destination is a testament to the diverse beauty and rich heritage of the region, a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.

Suggested Timing

Morning — 9:00am

Road Character

Mountain road through forest. Good surface, flowing curves. Moderate gradients. Light traffic. The rhythm builds gradually.

50 mi 1.5 hrs
Segment 3

Route Segment Locked

Detailed driving directions included

This segment includes curated driving notes, suggested timing, road character details, and pacing guidance for the best experience.

Included Included
Rally Point 3 — Membership required
Segment 4

Route Segment Locked

Detailed driving directions included

This segment includes curated driving notes, suggested timing, road character details, and pacing guidance for the best experience.

Included Included
Rally Point 4 — Membership required
Segment 5

Route Segment Locked

Detailed driving directions included

This segment includes curated driving notes, suggested timing, road character details, and pacing guidance for the best experience.

Included Included
Rally Point 5 — Membership required
Segment 6

Route Segment Locked

Detailed driving directions included

This segment includes curated driving notes, suggested timing, road character details, and pacing guidance for the best experience.

Included Included
Rally Point 6 — Membership required
Segment 7

Route Segment Locked

Detailed driving directions included

This segment includes curated driving notes, suggested timing, road character details, and pacing guidance for the best experience.

Included Included
Rally Point 7 — Membership required
What's Included

Unlock the Complete Oxley Highway

Get the full route pack with all 7 Rally Points, detailed driving notes, plus 20 curated stops with insider tips, parking notes, and reservation guidance.

7 Rally PointsGPS FilesRestaurant picksHotel suggestionsWinery accessLink Hub accessLifetime updates
$9.95/mo
membership access
Curated Stops

Food, Wine & Experiences

Previewing 1 of 13 stops12 more with membership
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

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Bakery & Café

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Cafe, Beachfront

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Seafood, Modern Australian

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Modern Australian, Riverfront

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Cafe, Country

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Historic Pub, Australian

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Coffee Roastery, Cafe

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Pub, Restaurant

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Cafe, Restaurant

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Brewery, Taproom

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Cafe, General Store

Curated Stop

Location included in route pack

Insider tips, what to order, parking notes, and reservation guidance included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Where to Stay

Accommodation

Previewing 1 of 7 stays6 more with membership
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

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Winery Stay

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Hotel, Resort

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Apartment Hotel

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Guesthouse, Heritage

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required
Winery Stay, Boutique

Handpicked Stay

Location included in route pack

Parking details, insider tips, and booking recommendations included in the full route pack.

Membership required

Unlock the full Oxley Highway

$9.95/mo
Retours des Conducteurs

Avis & Notes

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Ce Que Vous Obtenez

Tout Ce Dont Vous Avez Besoin

Roadbook Téléchargeable

PDF hors ligne avec notes d'itinéraire, cartes et arrêts sélectionnés pour une utilisation sans signal.

Accès Link Hub

Navigation mobile avec Rally Points tactiles, conçue pour l'utilisation en voiture.

Recommandations de Restaurants

Sélection gastronomique avec notes de stationnement, conseils de réservation et suggestions.

Suggestions d'Hôtels

Hébergements adaptés aux voitures avec voiturier, parking sécurisé et caractère.

Accès Vignobles & Expériences

Détails des salles de dégustation avec guide de rendez-vous et notes de stationnement.

Ongoing Updates

Routes are continuously updated with new stops, seasonal tips, and community feedback.

Membership
$9.95/mo
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Founders Rate Available

$99/year for Global access — only 100 of 100 spots left

Pre-Drive Checklist

Get your car, gear, and documents ready with a checklist tailored to this route.

View Checklist

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Oxley Highway landscape

""The Oxley Highway is one of Australia's great driving roads — 150 km of mountain curves through empty forest. It's the road that Sydney motorcyclists dream about." — Australian Motorcycle News"

The Stable