Taree

History & culture  

Taree is a historic town on the banks of the beautiful Manning River. A great way to learn about the town and its history is the Taree Heritage Walk. This 5km self-guided route highlights built and natural items including the Manning River, Taree West Conservation Area, churches and public buildings. 

Take a tour of the Manning Regional Art Gallery, a cultural gem that hosts touring exhibitions and local artwork as well as hosting workshops, drawing classes and even yoga sessions. 

Taree Heritage Walk, Taree

Things to do

Taree is the major service town for the region, and you’ll find plenty of things to do here. The Manning Entertainment Centre has first-class facilities for performing arts, with a 505-seat theatre that attracts leading Australian talent. For a spot of exercise or relaxation, take a plunge in the modern Manning Aquatic Centre with indoor and outdoor swimming, or play some golf at one of five excellent golf courses. 

For a great overview of Taree, the river and the Manning Valley, head to Apex Lookout in Taree West; while for a bird’s-eye view of the valley, from the hinterland to the coast, Manning River Aero Club offers scenic flights. 

Scenic Flights Manning Valley, Taree - Credit: Destination Barrington Coast

Nearby natural beauty  

Just 9km north of Taree is Brimbin Nature Reserve, where you can kayak among mangrove-lined waterways and follow riverside trails to picnic areas. An hour’s drive north of Taree is the spectacular Ellenborough Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in NSW. 

Ellenborough Falls near Elands, Forster

Local produce

Founded on agriculture, the Manning Valley is renowned for its fresh produce, showcased in many of Taree’s restaurants, cafes and bars. Popular favourites include Cafe Giardino with its Italian menu; delicious curry at Jashan Lounge Indian Restaurant; and brunch and lunch classics at Café Thyme and Raw Sugar. Food lovers also make a beeline to the Secret Farmers Market held on Thursdays, featuring locally grown and created products. 

Cafe Giardino, Taree - Credit: The Sicilian

Where to stay

Taree has several motor inns and holiday rentals along with the Twilight Caravan Park and the Dawson River Tourist Park. In the surrounding countryside, you’ll find lodges and retreats including Mescals at Pampoolah Bed and Breakfast and Nundoobah Retreat.  

Mescals at Pampoolah Bed and Breakfast, Taree - Credit: Mescals at Pampoolah

Getting there  

Taree is three hours and 45 minutes north from Sydney, and one hour 45 and minutes from Newcastle Airport, which services all the major Australian cities. Coaches and trains also run from Sydney, via Newcastle. You can make this a memorable stop on a North Coast road trip.