Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bundaberg, QLD to South West Rocks, NSW

Australia is a beautiful country to explore, and driving is one of the best ways to take in all the sights and scenery. A trip from Bundaberg, Queensland to South West Rocks, New South Wales offers breathtaking views of the coastline and quaint towns that are worth a stop. The journey takes approximately seven hours, excluding any breaks you might take along the way. In this article, we will explore five unexpected places to stop on this drive that will make your journey even more memorable.

Halfway Point: Ashmore, QLD

Before we delve into the unexpected stops, let us take a moment to highlight the halfway point of the trip, Ashmore, QLD. It's an excellent place to take a break and stretch your legs after driving for more than three hours. Ashmore is famous for being home to one of the largest shopping centers, the Ashmore City Shopping Centre. You can indulge in some retail therapy, grab some food at the food court or even watch a movie at the cinema.

1. Bundjalung National Park, NSW

Approximately four hours into the trip, you'll come across Bundjalung National Park, situated on the northern coast of New South Wales. It is a beautiful national park featuring rainforests, lagoons, and pristine beaches that never seem to end. Visitors can indulge in a range of activities such as swimming, fishing, surfing, and even kayaking. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including kangaroos and wallabies. A must-visit location within the park is Woody Head Campground, where you can camp, hike, and explore the nearby beach.

Food to try: Grab a picnic basket and feast on some gourmet sandwiches and wraps from Iluka Bakery.

2. Red Rock, NSW

Red Rock is a small coastal town situated in the Coffs Coast region of New South Wales. As the name suggests, the town is famous for its stunning red-colored cliffs that line the beach. The town was once home to a thriving fishing industry, and you can explore this history at the Red Rock Museum. Visitors can indulge in a range of activities such as fishing, swimming, and surfing. The estuary at the mouth of the Corindi River is the perfect spot for families with young children to have a splash.

Food to try: Head to the Red Rock General Store for a comforting bowl of creamy potato and leek soup.

3. Dorrigo National Park, NSW

Located in the New England region of New South Wales, Dorrigo National Park is a rainforest paradise that is well worth a visit. The park is famous for its towering waterfalls, ancient trees, and stunning scenic walks. Visitors can trek through the various walking tracks, including the Skywalk, where you can walk above the rainforest canopy. The park is also home to many species of birds and animals, including the threatened Spotted-tailed Quoll.

Food to try: Stop at the Dorrigo Heritage Hotel for a hearty pub meal, such as a juicy steak and fries.

4. Bellingen, NSW

Bellingen is a charming little town situated in the beautiful Bellinger Valley. The town is famous for its creative, bohemian vibe with various artisan shops, galleries, and cafes. Visitors can stroll through the town, admire the historic architecture, and pop into the various stores. The town plays hosts to several festivals throughout the year, including the Bellingen Fine Music Festival and the Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival.

Food to try: Grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a homemade pastry from the Black Bear Cafe.

5. Nambucca Heads, NSW

Nambucca Heads is a quaint fishing village situated on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. The town boasts stunning views of the Nambucca River, mouth-watering seafood, and a thriving arts community. Visitors can stroll along the River Boardwalk, where you may spot dolphins playing, pelican feeding or fishermen casting their lines. The town is also home to an array of galleries showcasing local artwork.

Food to try: Treat yourself to a scrumptious fish and chips from Murray's Seafood Shack.

Convincing You to Take this Trip

It's not every day that one gets to take in the beauty of the Australian coast. The drive from Bundaberg to South West Rocks offers the perfect opportunity to explore the region and uncover its hidden gems. From the stunning rainforests and pristine beaches to charming towns and villages, the journey provides something for everyone. The five unexpected places to stop explored in this article should serve as inspiration for your next road trip, and who knows, you might even discover a few other hidden gems along the way.