Photo: perthhdproductions / CC BY 2.0
Set along the lush banks of the Manning River, Taree Estate is a tranquil retreat that blends heritage charm with modern luxury. This sprawling property, once a thriving dairy farm, now offers boutique accommodation, a farm-to-table restaurant, and sprawling gardens that invite leisurely exploration. It’s a perfect base for immersing yourself in the natural beauty and slow-paced lifestyle of the Manning Valley.
Highlights & What to See
- Heritage Homestead & Gardens: Wander through the lovingly restored 19th-century homestead and its surrounding gardens, where century-old trees, rose arbors, and a picturesque lake create a serene backdrop for a stroll.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: The on-site restaurant sources ingredients from the estate’s own gardens and local producers. The seasonal menu changes daily, so you can always expect a fresh, inventive take on regional produce.
- Manning River Kayaking: Launch a kayak from the estate’s private river access and paddle along the calm, tree-lined Manning River. Keep an eye out for pelicans, kingfishers, and the occasional dolphin.
- Art & Antiques: The homestead doubles as a gallery, showcasing a curated collection of Australian art and antiques. The owners are happy to share stories behind the pieces.
- Wine Tasting at Nearby Vineyards: The estate is a short drive from several cellar doors in the Manning Valley wine region, where you can sample cool-climate Semillon and Verdelho.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least a full day to truly soak in the atmosphere. Arrive mid-morning for a guided garden tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch on the verandah, then spend the afternoon kayaking or exploring the local wine trail. If you’re staying overnight (highly recommended), allow a second day to visit nearby attractions like the Manning Valley Historical Museum or the coastal town of Old Bar.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Old Bar: A laid-back coastal village with a patrolled beach, rock pools, and the Old Bar Reserve – perfect for a morning swim or sunset walk.
- Manning Valley Historical Museum: Located in Taree, this museum offers fascinating insights into the region’s timber, dairy, and Indigenous history.
- Booti Booti National Park: A stunning coastal park just south, with walking trails through rainforest and along pristine beaches, plus lookout points over Wallis Lake.
- Wingham: A charming historic town with well-preserved 19th-century architecture, antique shops, and the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve – a pocket of subtropical rainforest.
- Forster & Tuncurry: A 30-minute drive south takes you to the twin towns on Wallis Lake, famous for their beaches, dolphin cruises, and seafood restaurants.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Old Bar — Axetm / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Booti Booti National Park — Anonymous Dissident / Public domain
- Wingham — Blarneytherinosaur / CC BY 3.0
- Forster & Tuncurry — Rob Freijs / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Manning Valley Wineries — Marionlad / CC BY-SA 3.0