The Bucketts Way

Winding through the lush green hills and fertile valleys of the Manning Valley, The Bucketts Way is a scenic 60-kilometre drive that connects the historic town of Stroud to the coastal hub of Port Macquarie. This route offers a quintessential taste of rural New South Wales, with the dramatic backdrop of the Bucketts Range—a series of rugged, volcanic peaks that rise abruptly from the surrounding farmland. The drive is dotted with charming villages, local produce stalls, and plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs on bushwalks or beside tranquil rivers. It's a perfect half-day detour for those looking to escape the highway and discover the heart of the mid-north coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Stroud – This historic town is the southern gateway, with a handsome main street lined with 19th-century buildings, quirky antique shops, and the excellent Stroud Village Bakery for a pie and a coffee.
• The Bucketts Range Lookout – Just north of Stroud, a short walk leads to a viewpoint that offers sweeping panoramas over the valley and the distinctive jagged peaks of the range, especially photogenic in the late afternoon.
• Gloucester – A friendly country town at the northern end, where the Bucketts Mountains form a stunning backdrop. Browse the weekend markets, visit the Gloucester Gallery, or take the easy walk to Gloucester River for a swim.
• Wingham – Detour east to this beautifully preserved timber town with a historic main street, the Manning River, and the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve—a remnant of lowland rainforest with a boardwalk and flying foxes.
• Local Produce Stalls – Along the way, keep an eye out for roadside stalls selling fresh fruit, honey, and macadamias. The Wingham area is known for its avocados and pecan nuts.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least half a day for the drive itself, including stops at Stroud and Gloucester. If you want to explore the side towns like Wingham or do a short bushwalk, set aside a full day. The road is well sealed and suitable for any vehicle, but take your time to enjoy the scenery.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Start or end your journey here, with its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and the Koala Hospital.
• Barrington Tops National Park – From Gloucester, head west into this World Heritage-listed wilderness for ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and high-altitude hiking.
• Myall Lakes National Park – South of Stroud, this vast system of lakes and waterways is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and camping.
• Forster & Tuncurry – A short drive east from the Bucketts Way, these twin towns offer great surf beaches and the stunning Wallis Lake.

Please check official sources for current details.