Albury to Port Macquarie road trip: Best stops, distance & drive time

Inland route from Albury to Port Macquarie

The inland route is quicker but less enticing. You can stop for walking trails and Aboriginal heritage and walking trails at Bulahdelah Mountain or native wildlife at the O’Sullivans Gap Picnic Area in Myall Lakes National Park.

Other potential journey-breakers are the Great Lakes Paddocks winery and the National Motorcycle Museum in Nabiac.

Turn off along Manning River drive for Taree, another feasible overnight stop.

Taree attractions include the walking trail along the Dawson River and scenic flights from Taree Airport.

Best Taree accommodation

Taree accommodation is available for from $105 per night. But the best choices are…

For central location: In Town Motor Inn.
For good value and a pool: Caravilla Motor Inn.
For charm and warmth: Birches B&B.
For distinctive character: A Railway Lodge.

The leg from Taree to Port Macquarie brings the Cattai Wetlands near Coopernook, although veering coastward again for Crowdy Bay National Park is more rewarding. The Diamond Head campground is a famously good place for seeing kangaroos.

Meanwhile, near the Pacific Highway, you can see the enormous Bird Tree in Middle Brother National Park, drive past Queens Lake and maybe pay a visit to Lake Cathie a visit.

Turn east at the junction with the Oxley Highway to go into Port Macquarie.

Things to do in Port Macquarie include the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, riding camels on Lighthouse Beach and taking scenic helicopter flights.