Discover the ECO certified North Coast Regional Botanic Garden (Coffs Harbour) a lush oasis in the heart of the City of Coffs that promises to captivate your senses with its vibrant beauty and rich biodiversity. From the moment you step through the garden entrance, nature’s wonders unfold before you. Every twist and turn invites you to pause, reflect, and immerse yourself in the serene splendour of this natural haven.
For those eager to explore at their own pace, the Best Of The Botanic Garden Interactive Trail offers an immersive, self-guided adventure into this cherished sanctuary. Prepare to be enchanted by a tapestry of natural wonders, as this trail promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
Around Every Corner, Natural Wonders Await
Accessible through the Coffs Coast Explorer App, The Best of the Botanic Gardens Interactive Trail is a mostly flat circuit walk that follows sealed paths and boardwalks to some of the garden’s best spots.
Meander through lush littoral rainforests and marvel as the landscape unfolds into a panorama of green hues and vibrant blooms. From a Japanese-inspired garden to beautiful glasshouses filled with exotic plants, there are so many secluded spots where the tranquillity of nature will surprise and delight.
Birdwatchers, rejoice! One of the highlights of the trail experience will be the many bird species that dazzle with their vibrant colours and enchanting calls. Watch for the elusive Satin Bowerbird, known for its striking plumage and intricate courtship displays. At the bottom of the garden, the delightful Fairywrens flit about, their blue feathers catching the sunlight in a mesmerising dance. With its kaleidoscopic feathers, the Rainbow Lorikeet lives up to its name, adding a splash of colour to the garden’s skies. And don’t miss the Sacred Kingfisher, whose brilliant turquoise and white plumage stand out while scanning for its next meal. The Botanic Garden is also a seasonal home to the magnificent Powerful Owl, Australia’s largest owl. These formidable predators choose to raise their young here, drawn by the abundance of old-growth trees that provide essential nesting hollows. With their ancient branches and thick foliage, these trees offer perfect hiding spots during the day, shielding the owls from smaller, agitated birds.
A home amongst the gum trees. The garden’s old-growth trees are not just a haven for owls but also for various possums and gliders. Recent fauna surveys have revealed a high population of Ring-tailed Possums and Squirrel Gliders, the primary food sources for the Powerful Owls. These marsupials thrive thanks to the diverse plant life in the garden, which includes native Australian plants like the Tree Waratah and exotic species from around the world. These plants flower and fruit at different times of the year, providing a continuous food supply for the possums and gliders and, in turn, for the owls.
Coffs Coast’s Most Beautiful Accessible Walk
The mostly flat terrain and accessible paths ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the trail, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals with mobility challenges.
To reach the start of the walk, follow the main path from the garden entrance, turning right at the Gondwana Plants signboard. Then, take the side road down through a fern gully to the northern end of the creekside picnic area, where the walk begins. We recommend allowing a minimum of 90 minutes to complete the 2km trail.
Eco Certified Excellence
Boasting ECO Certification from Ecotourism Australia, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden (Coffs Harbour) is more than just a beautiful landscape; it is the product of the local community’s decades of dedication and hard work. Since its opening in September 1988, the garden has played a vital scientific and conservation role, serving as a sanctuary for rare and endangered plants, particularly those native to the north coast region of NSW. In fact, over half of the garden area is retained natural forest, representing the plant community types common along the Coffs Coast and NSW north coast regions. The remaining areas feature gardens with rare and endangered plant species from Australia and worldwide.
In its commitment to conservation, the garden also houses an extensive Herbarium library of dried plant specimens, a Seedbank of native seeds, and a comprehensive database.
Interactive Discovery With The Coffs Coast Explorer App
Experience the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden (Coffs Harbour) like never before with the Coffs Coast Explorer App. This innovative app transforms your exploration into an interactive adventure, providing a wealth of information and engaging features that enhance your journey.
As you explore the well-maintained paths, the app provides insights into the various points of interest along the trail. From enlightening interpretive displays that educate and entertain to unexpected encounters with local wildlife, each moment on the trail will spark wonder and curiosity. Discover the stories behind the diverse plant species, learn about the garden’s history, and gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate ecosystems at play.
The app’s audio guides offer an inclusive experience for those with vision impairments, allowing everyone to engage fully with the trail’s offerings.
Ready To Explore? Download The Coffs Coast Explorer App Today.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid explorer, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Best Of The Botanic Garden Interactive Trail promises an unforgettable experience that connects you with the natural beauty of the Coffs Coast.
