Manning Valley

Day 1

Brisbane - Wingham
Your tour begins with your transfer to Brisbane Airport where our Cross Country Tours staff will assist with your check in. After your flight to Sydney, you will be met by your Coach Captain and Hostess before travelling to Gosford for lunch. Travel through Heatherbrae and Bulahdelah, with a backdrop of soaring forested hills and the major commercial centre of the Manning Valley - Taree, located on the Manning River. Continue on to Heritage-listed Wingham, the oldest town in the Manning Valley, which boasts many National Trust listed federation buildings that surround the enchanting town common, based on a traditional English square. Settle in for the next 3 nights at the Golf Club Motor Inn Wingham. This unique complex is nestled between the first and third fairways, so wake up each morning to enticing views overlooking the golf course.

Day 2

Wingham Touring incl Local Guide
Waking with views across the golf course fairway, today we spend a full day exploring Wingham accompanied by a local historian who will introduce us to the local history and sites of interest. Telling stories of the hardship and determination of the early settlers of the Manning Valley, we'll enjoy morning tea at Bent on Food, a specialty store featuring local and selected regional foods and great coffee as well! At the Manning Valley Historical Museum, uncover a treasure trove of early Australiana. Following lunch, visit tiny Tinonee, one of the earliest settlements in Manning Valley. Visit the Tinonee Museum and the town's original 'lock up' before admiring 'Artisans on the Hill' - set on five acres overlooking the picturesque Manning River and lush green dairy country. Witness the creativity first hand with a demonstration before browsing the unique craft gallery.

Day 3

Dolphin Cruise - Art and Craft Centre
After breakfast, travel to the twin towns of Forster and Tuncurry for a morning dolphin watching cruise. There are approximately 250-300 resident inshore Bottle-Nosed Dolphins inhabiting the waters and today we will learn more about the residents of these waters. Following a catered lunch visit the Forster Arts & Crafts, the largest working craft centre in New South Wales.

Day 4

Wingham - Coffs Harbour
This morning it's time to farewell the Manning Valley. Visit Timbertown, set amongst 87 acres of natural forest, and recreated to demonstrate the struggles and achievements of our pioneers. The horse and carriage still runs, timber is still sawn and the bullock team still hauls its heavy load. Following lunch, take time to stroll through the streets and admire the cottage crafts, art gallery and general store; and don't forget Vicker's fudge! We continue onto our overnight stay in Coffs Harbour.

Day 5

Coffs Harbour - Brisbane
After breakfast, our journey is homeward bound. Travel through the subtropical landscape of northern New South Wales to the coastal community of Kingscliff. Enjoy lunch before crossing the border back into Queensland. As we arrive back into Brisbane, your crew will have your transfers arranged.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner