The Bucketts Way

Winding through lush green hills and past dramatic rocky escarpments, The Bucketts Way is one of New South Wales’ most scenic drives, connecting the coastal hub of Port Stephens to the Manning Valley. This 80-kilometre route is named after the striking Bucketts Mountains, a series of ancient volcanic plugs that rise abruptly from the surrounding farmland. Beyond the stunning landscapes, the drive offers a genuine taste of rural Australian life, with small villages, local produce, and bushwalking opportunities that make it a perfect addition to a self-drive itinerary.

Highlights & What to See

• The Bucketts Mountains: The iconic jagged peaks are best viewed from the lookout near Stroud; their distinctive shape changes with the light, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Stroud: A historic town with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, including the Stroud Courthouse and the Anglican Church. The Stroud Showground hosts occasional markets and events.
• Gloucester: At the northern end of the way, this charming town is a gateway to Barrington Tops National Park. Visit the Gloucester Visitor Information Centre for walking maps and local tips.
• Booral: A tiny hamlet with a classic country pub, the Booral Hotel, serving hearty meals and cold drinks on a verandah overlooking the river.
• Wingham: A historic timber town with a main street lined with verandahed shops and a popular farmers’ market on the first Saturday of the month.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least half a day to drive The Bucketts Way at a relaxed pace, with stops at Stroud and Gloucester. To fully appreciate the area, consider a full day that includes a short bushwalk at one of the national park trailheads or a picnic at a scenic lookout. If you’re combining it with Barrington Tops, you could easily spend two days exploring the region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – the starting point, with its famous sand dunes, dolphin cruises, and stunning beaches.
• Barrington Tops National Park – a World Heritage-listed wilderness with rainforest walks, waterfalls, and alpine plateaus.
• Manning Valley – continue north to the river towns of Taree and Wingham, or head east to the coastal villages of Old Bar and Forster.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a vast system of lakes and waterways perfect for kayaking and birdwatching, just south of Port Stephens.

Please check official sources for current details.