Photo: Mattinbgn / CC BY-SA 3.0
Manilla, a charming town on the Namoi River in northern New South Wales, is a gateway to breathtaking gorges and a mecca for paragliding enthusiasts. With its rich history, friendly locals, and stunning natural surrounds, Manilla offers a relaxed country escape with plenty of adventure.
Highlights & What to See
- Manilla Paragliding & Hang Gliding: Soar above the dramatic gorges and valleys – Manilla is one of the world's premier free-flight destinations, with thermals that attract pilots from across the globe.
- Split Rock Dam: A massive earth-and-rockfill dam offering fishing, boating, and picnic spots with sweeping views over the lake and surrounding hills.
- Manilla Museum: Housed in a historic 1880s building, this museum showcases local pioneer history, Aboriginal artefacts, and a fascinating collection of agricultural and domestic items.
- Namoi River Walk: A peaceful riverside trail that winds through town, perfect for birdwatching, spotting platypus at dawn, or simply enjoying the tranquillity.
- Bundella Valley: A scenic drive through this valley reveals dramatic rock formations and is a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend one to two days in Manilla. A single day allows time for a morning paragliding tandem flight, a visit to the museum, and a leisurely lunch by the river. With two days, you can explore Split Rock Dam, take the scenic drive to Bundella Valley, and perhaps enjoy a sunset walk along the Namoi River. If you're a keen paraglider, budget longer – the flying season is October to April, and many pilots stay a week or more.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tamworth: Just 40 minutes south, Australia's country music capital offers live music venues, the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, and family-friendly attractions.
- Nundle: A historic gold-mining village in the Great Dividing Range, with heritage walks, fossicking, and the scenic Hanging Rock lookout.
- Barraba: A small town known for its friendly hospitality, the Horton River, and the stunning Nandewar Range – ideal for a quiet stopover.
- Keepit Dam: A popular water-sports destination with camping, fishing, and water skiing, about an hour's drive east.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.