Destination style See the delights of Port Macquarie, NSW
WE EXPLORE AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXCITING DESIGN AND STYLE DESTINATIONS
Known by the locals as “Port”, the region of Greater Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW is much more than a summer holiday spot. True, it has one of the best coastlines in the state, if not Australia, but if you can tear yourself away from the beaches, you’ll discover the treasures that Port and its neighbouring townships have to offer. From the hush of the hinterland to the heights of North Brother Mountain, see this part of the world from a new perspective. As for the rest? You won’t be disappointed. Copious cafes and bakeries rub shoulders with fine dining restaurants, impressive galleries and a wonderland of wineries.
DINE
1. Whalebone Wharf
Ask a local where the top restaurant in town is, and many would point you in the direction of the Whalebone Wharf. This much-loved institution sits on the banks of the picturesque Hastings River, tempting guests with fresh seafood dishes such as wakame oysters, cured hiramasa kingfish with eggplant miso, dashi cashew, yuzu and ponzu dressing, and local Eastern rock lobster straight from the tank.
Visit: 269 Hastings River Drive,
Port Macquarie.
Bookmark: whalebonewharf.com.au. 2. The Stunned Mullet
Enjoy waterfront views and unforgettable food and wine at this hatted restaurant overlooking Town Beach. With a stellar menu showcasing fresh, local produce, an international selection of wines and impeccable service to match, this is a spot for a special dining experience. Visit: 24 William Street, Port Macquarie. Bookmark: thestunnedmullet.com.au.
SHOP
3. Arthouse Industries
Join a resin workshop, browse the store and pick up one of the many locally created art and homewares, or watch in awe as the owner Skye Petho transforms molten glass into jewellery. You can even stay the night at one of their three accommodation options. Visit: 1/21 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie. Bookmark: arthouseindustries.com.au.
4. ELEMENTS OF DESIGN
VENTURE INLAND FOR A SCENIC DRIVE TO WAUCHOPE, JUST 19 KILOMETRES FROM PORT. THIS BUSTLING LITTLE TOWN IS HOME TO SEVERAL HOMEWARES AND GIFT BOUTIQUES, INCLUDING ELEMENTS OF DESIGN, WHICH IS BEAUTIFULLY STYLED WITH A CURATION OF FURNITURE, TEXTURAL ACCESSORIES AND LINENS, SO YOU CAN TAKE HOME A PIECE OF THE RELAXED COASTAL AESTHETIC WITH YOU. VISIT: 13 HIGH STREET, WAUCHOPE. BOOKMARK: ELEMENTSOFDESIGN WAUCHOPE.COM.AU.
EXPLORE
5. Glasshouse and Glasshouse Regional Gallery
Glasshouse and Glasshouse Regional Gallery is home to a host of concerts and shows by some of Australia’s most talented artists, such as Anna-Wili Highfield, whose mesmerising ‘Mating Dance’ installation of courtship formations with a sound work by Bree Van Reyk is simply mesmerising. Take time out and immerse yourself in this space.
Visit: Corner of Clarence & Hay Streets,
Port Macquarie.
Bookmark: glasshouse.org.au.
6. Bago Maze & Winery
You can literally get lost in the moment at Bago Maze & Winery. Kids (and big kids) of all ages can while away an hour or two – depending on navigation skills – finding their way out of this impressive architecturally designed hedge maze. The wine and cheese platters served up at the winery offer an incentive to make your way out sooner. Enjoy views of the vineyard across the valley, while you listen to live musicians who often entertain at this gorgeous venue.
Visit: Milligans Road (off Bago Road) Wauchope. Bookmark: bago.com.au.
STAY
7. Sails Port Macquarie
Spacious rooms overlooking the marina and private cabanas around the heated pool make this 4.5 star hotel a luxurious spot to end your day. Head to the bar for a sundowner before dinner on the deck at The Boathouse Restaurant & Bar – or grab room service and dine on your balcony. Visit: 20 Park Street, Port Macquarie. Bookmark: rydges.com.
8. Ana Mandara Luxury
Bed & Breakfast
Located at the tranquil Settlement Point, this retreat for adults only offers sunset views and your very own spa in select suites. When you’re feeling hungry, the resident chef can cook up a feast, or order a hamper-to-go for a local picnic. There are also some top-notch cafes nearby, too.
Visit: 152 Settlement Point Road, Port Macquarie.
Bookmark: anamandara.com.au.
WORTH A VISIT
Drury Lane Eatery
Visit: Shop 5, 26 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie.
Bookmark: @drurylaneeatery
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
Visit: 159 Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie. Bookmark: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au.
Meg & Me Boutique & Espresso Visit: 12/6-14 Clarence Street,
Port Macquarie.
Bookmark: megandme.com.au.
The Byabarra Café & Bar
Visit: 1078 Comboyne Road, Byabarra. Bookmark: thebyabarra.com.au.
“PORT MACQUARIE HAS GOT IT ALL – FROM BLISSFUL BEACHES TO STYLISH BOUTIQUES" ~ VICTORIA KINGSBURY, SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR