Bucketts Way

Bucketts Way is a scenic 60-kilometre drive that winds through the lush green hills and valleys between Raymond Terrace and Gloucester, offering a quintessential taste of rural New South Wales. This road trip takes its name from the dramatic Bucketts Range, a series of volcanic peaks that rise abruptly from the farmland like ancient sentinels. As you cruise along the winding asphalt, you’ll pass dairy farms, pockets of subtropical rainforest, and tiny historic villages that seem frozen in time. This is a perfect detour for self-drive travellers who want to escape the highway and experience the region’s natural beauty, local food, and quiet country charm.

Highlights & What to See

• The Bucketts Range – These towering basalt cliffs dominate the skyline. Pull over at one of the many viewpoints to photograph their sheer faces, especially magical in late-afternoon light.
• Gloucester – The northern terminus, a friendly country town with a heritage main street, excellent bakeries, and the Gloucester River for a quick paddle or picnic.
• Barrington Tops National Park – Accessible via a turn-off from Bucketts Way, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails for all levels.
• Stroud – A historic village with convict-built buildings, a lovely pub, and the Stroud Showground that hosts markets on weekends.
• Booral – Tiny hamlet with a charming general store and the Karuah River, perfect for a break and a spot of kayaking.
• Local produce – Look for roadside stalls selling fresh berries, cheese, and honey; the Gloucester region is known for its seasonal fruit and artisan products.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate half a day to a full day for the drive, depending on how often you stop. The route itself takes about 50 minutes without stops, but you’ll want to budget at least 2–3 hours to explore the towns, take photos, and enjoy a meal. If you plan to hike in Barrington Tops, set aside a full day. The road is sealed and suitable for all vehicles, including campervans, though it’s narrow and winding in sections – take it slow and savour the journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – Just south of Raymond Terrace, this coastal paradise offers dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and beautiful beaches.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A water wonderland of lakes and rivers, great for kayaking, fishing, and camping, located east of Bucketts Way.
• Gloucester River – Perfect for a post-drive swim or lazy tubing in summer; access points are just off the main street.
• The Hunter Valley – Australia’s premier wine region lies about an hour south, ideal for a detour to cellar doors and gourmet restaurants.
• Nelson Bay – A lively coastal town with whale-watching tours (June–November) and excellent seafood, reachable via a scenic loop from Bucketts Way.

Please check official sources for current details.