Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the Local Charm
Morning:
Arrive in Gloucester and settle into luxurious accommodation with breathtaking views—ideal for a romantic escape. Whether centrally located or more secluded, you'll be surrounded by stunning scenery. Start your day with coffee and breakfast at a local café, soaking in the small-town atmosphere and planning your adventures.
Mid-Morning:
Explore Gloucester Town: Take a leisurely stroll along the main street. Explore the quirky shops, local stores, and colourful mosaics along the sidewalk, each telling the history of Gloucester. Don’t forget to stop by the Art Gallery and Visitor Information Centre to learn more about local events and activities. Coffee Break: Pop into one of the local coffee shops for freshly baked goods and a warm cup of coffee while soaking in the charming town atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Pick up lunch from a local café and head to Gloucester District Park for a peaceful picnic by the river. If you are very quiet you may spot a resident platypus. Explore walking paths, enjoy the sounds of the river, visit the Minimbah Bush Tucker Garden, The community garden, Human Sundial, and be sure to visit the giant Mosaic Platypus in Billabong Park. Relax at the Park: Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the park’s beauty. If the weather’s warm, take a dip in the Olympic Swimming Pool (seasonal) or the hydrotherapy pool (open year-round).
Evening:
Dinner in Town: After a day of exploring, head to one of Gloucester’s local pubs or eateries for a delicious dinner. Enjoy a casual meal and engage with the friendly locals, who are always eager to share stories about the area.
Day 2: Adventure in the Barrington Tops
Morning:
Breakfast at The Common: Start the day with breakfast at The Common or your favourite local café before setting off for adventure. Head to Gloucester Tops: Located in the southern section of the World Heritage Barrington Tops, this pristine area is known for its cool-climate rainforests, breathtaking walking trails, and rich biodiversity. Pack a picnic (from one of the local cafés) and warm clothes, as the mountain weather can change quickly.
Mid-Morning:
Hike to Gloucester Falls: Take the short walk to Gloucester Falls, a peaceful and serene destination perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. From there, head to Andrew Laurie Lookout for panoramic views of the Barrington Tops region. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the nearby Antarctic Beech Forest.
Afternoon:
Drive the Scenic Route: After exploring, enjoy the scenic drive back to Gloucester. Stop along the winding country roads to enjoy breathtaking views, or simply relax and take in the tranquility of the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing at your accommodation. Unwind with a glass of wine and enjoy a relaxing spa soak to rejuvenate after your adventure.
Evening:
Dinner & Stargazing: Visit one of Gloucester’s cosy eateries for dinner. Afterward, take a moment to gaze up at the starry skies—Gloucester is known for its incredibly clear, dark skies, making it a prime spot for stargazing. On clear nights, you’ll be treated to a stunning array of stars and satellites. You may even want to book an evening stargazing tour to learn more about the constellations in Gloucester’s "Dark Sky Country."
Activities to Add:
Day 3: Explore Nature & Wildlife at Aussie Ark
Morning:
Breakfast & Coffee: Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a local café before heading out to your next adventure.
Visit Aussie Ark: After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive through the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops to Aussie Ark. This wildlife sanctuary was established to help save the Tasmanian devil from extinction and now houses the broad toothed rat and is helping save Koalas from extinction as well as several other endangered species. Aussie Ark offers insight into conservation efforts and provides an opportunity to learn more about Australia’s unique wildlife.
Mid-Morning:
Explore Aussie Ark: Spend time exploring the beautiful landscape surrounding Aussie Ark, all while learning about the incredible work being done to preserve endangered species. The region, located at 1,500 meters above sea level, offers stunning views and a glimpse into pristine wilderness.
Afternoon:
Drive to Devils Hole Lookout: On your way back to Gloucester, stop at Devils Hole Lookout for magnificent views of the Barrington Tops region. If you have time, pull in at Polblue, known for its moss-covered landscape, and The Firs, a magical and picturesque spot for nature lovers.
Late Afternoon:
Return to Gloucester: Relax taking in the fresh country air, glass of local wine in hand
Evening:
Farewell Dinner: For your final night in Gloucester, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s restaurants or pubs. Reflect on your trip and savour the flavours of the area before departing the next day.
End of Trip:
Whether you’re hiking, relaxing, or exploring the local history, your 3-day getaway in Gloucester will offer the perfect balance of nature, adventure, and relaxation. You’ll leave with memories of breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, delicious food, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes Gloucester a truly unforgettable destination.
Morning:
Arrive in Gloucester and settle into luxurious accommodation with breathtaking views—ideal for a romantic escape. Whether centrally located or more secluded, you'll be surrounded by stunning scenery. Start your day with coffee and breakfast at a local café, soaking in the small-town atmosphere and planning your adventures.
Mid-Morning:
Explore Gloucester Town: Take a leisurely stroll along the main street. Explore the quirky shops, local stores, and colourful mosaics along the sidewalk, each telling the history of Gloucester. Don’t forget to stop by the Art Gallery and Visitor Information Centre to learn more about local events and activities. Coffee Break: Pop into one of the local coffee shops for freshly baked goods and a warm cup of coffee while soaking in the charming town atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Pick up lunch from a local café and head to Gloucester District Park for a peaceful picnic by the river. If you are very quiet you may spot a resident platypus. Explore walking paths, enjoy the sounds of the river, visit the Minimbah Bush Tucker Garden, The community garden, Human Sundial, and be sure to visit the giant Mosaic Platypus in Billabong Park. Relax at the Park: Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the park’s beauty. If the weather’s warm, take a dip in the Olympic Swimming Pool (seasonal) or the hydrotherapy pool (open year-round).
Evening:
Dinner in Town: After a day of exploring, head to one of Gloucester’s local pubs or eateries for a delicious dinner. Enjoy a casual meal and engage with the friendly locals, who are always eager to share stories about the area.
Day 2: Adventure in the Barrington Tops
Morning:
Breakfast at The Common: Start the day with breakfast at The Common or your favourite local café before setting off for adventure. Head to Gloucester Tops: Located in the southern section of the World Heritage Barrington Tops, this pristine area is known for its cool-climate rainforests, breathtaking walking trails, and rich biodiversity. Pack a picnic (from one of the local cafés) and warm clothes, as the mountain weather can change quickly.
Mid-Morning:
Hike to Gloucester Falls: Take the short walk to Gloucester Falls, a peaceful and serene destination perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. From there, head to Andrew Laurie Lookout for panoramic views of the Barrington Tops region. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the nearby Antarctic Beech Forest.
Afternoon:
Drive the Scenic Route: After exploring, enjoy the scenic drive back to Gloucester. Stop along the winding country roads to enjoy breathtaking views, or simply relax and take in the tranquility of the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing at your accommodation. Unwind with a glass of wine and enjoy a relaxing spa soak to rejuvenate after your adventure.
Evening:
Dinner & Stargazing: Visit one of Gloucester’s cosy eateries for dinner. Afterward, take a moment to gaze up at the starry skies—Gloucester is known for its incredibly clear, dark skies, making it a prime spot for stargazing. On clear nights, you’ll be treated to a stunning array of stars and satellites. You may even want to book an evening stargazing tour to learn more about the constellations in Gloucester’s "Dark Sky Country."
Activities to Add:
- Star-gazing: If you’re a fan of the night sky, don’t miss the chance to stargaze in Gloucester’s “Dark Sky Country.” It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening under a blanket of stars.
- If you’re visiting on the second Saturday of the month, don’t miss the Gloucester Markets, which offer fresh produce, wine, and local crafts.
Day 3: Explore Nature & Wildlife at Aussie Ark
Morning:
Breakfast & Coffee: Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a local café before heading out to your next adventure.
Visit Aussie Ark: After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive through the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops to Aussie Ark. This wildlife sanctuary was established to help save the Tasmanian devil from extinction and now houses the broad toothed rat and is helping save Koalas from extinction as well as several other endangered species. Aussie Ark offers insight into conservation efforts and provides an opportunity to learn more about Australia’s unique wildlife.
Mid-Morning:
Explore Aussie Ark: Spend time exploring the beautiful landscape surrounding Aussie Ark, all while learning about the incredible work being done to preserve endangered species. The region, located at 1,500 meters above sea level, offers stunning views and a glimpse into pristine wilderness.
Afternoon:
Drive to Devils Hole Lookout: On your way back to Gloucester, stop at Devils Hole Lookout for magnificent views of the Barrington Tops region. If you have time, pull in at Polblue, known for its moss-covered landscape, and The Firs, a magical and picturesque spot for nature lovers.
Late Afternoon:
Return to Gloucester: Relax taking in the fresh country air, glass of local wine in hand
Evening:
Farewell Dinner: For your final night in Gloucester, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s restaurants or pubs. Reflect on your trip and savour the flavours of the area before departing the next day.
End of Trip:
Whether you’re hiking, relaxing, or exploring the local history, your 3-day getaway in Gloucester will offer the perfect balance of nature, adventure, and relaxation. You’ll leave with memories of breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, delicious food, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes Gloucester a truly unforgettable destination.