On the edge of the
Great Dividing Range escarpment, about 1,000 metres above sea level, lies the small and friendly country town of Dorrigo. Highlights are the drive there via
Waterfall Way, one of Australia’s most scenic roads, and the nearby rainforest walks, lookout points, waterfalls, birds and wildlife.
On the east side of the town, the Dorrigo plateau drops away into the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of
Dorrigo National Park. To the west lies gently rolling farmland.
Dorrigo National Park is simply a must-see destination for anyone visiting Coffs Coast. Just inside the entrance of the National Park is the famous Sky Walk, a 70m boardwalk jutting out over the tops of rainforest giants. Below are walkways and trails through the forest to explore as well as short accessible walks with interpretive signs for anyone who’s short on time or mobility impaired. The overhead canopy, vines and ferns are home to numerous forest birds. There is also an education centre, souvenir shop and delightful rainforest café.
In the centre of the town, the pub, bakery and country stores hark back to an era of traditional, rural Australia – mixed with an influx of chic cafés, boutiques, galleries and food stores. Stop for a coffee, browse the craft shops, pamper yourself with some health and beauty therapy and don’t forget to sample the agricultural produce of the rich volcanic soils of the Dorrigo Plateau.
Visitors who are in for some action can try trout fishing, canoeing, horse riding, mountain bike riding and self-guided 4WD trips. Not far from Dorrigo are plenty of forests and national parks with amazing trails, waterfalls, views and wildlife.
Dorrigo is home to a large and active art community and you’ll find regular exhibitions and events featuring their paintings, woodworks, sculptures and other artworks. In October each year, the town fills up with musicians and music lovers for the annual Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival.
Town map of Dorrigo...
