Autumn is the perfect time to visit Wellington and explore all the amazing natural attractions this charming town has to offer!
Nestled in the foothills of the Mount Arthur Reserve where the Bell and Macquarie Rivers meet, this area is a bona fide nature lover's paradise.
Uncover ancient fossils in the new Wellington Caves Fossil Discovery Lab
1. The wonder underground – Wellington Caves
Have you ever pondered what the landscape looked like millions of years ago? Australia’s prehistoric past is within reach at the incredible Wellington Caves. Unearth the mysteries of megafauna that once roamed the land and find out what those miners were up to 100 years ago in the Phosphate Mine. Marvel at the 15m tall stalagmite in the Cathedral Cave and the delicate dripping stalactites in the Gaden Cave.
You can even become a scientist for the day in the new Fossil Finding sessions in the Discovery Lab, where you can uncover fossils from one million years ago. Learn about Australian Megafauna, dig through dirt from the Fossil and Phosphate Mine and see what you can find!
Make a splash at Burrendong Dam and enjoy kayaking and water sports
2. Wellington’s Water Playground – Burrendong Dam
Adventure beckons at Lake Burrendong or ‘The Dam’ as it’s known to locals. Spike the adrenaline and try your hand at water skiing, wakeboarding and biscuiting. Pack the reels, rods and tackle box for a relaxing fishing session and you may just take home the ‘big one’. More than just aquatic life, the dam is a haven for native Australian animals and there’s no better way to spot them than on a scenic hike. Or head out on the gently winding waterways of the Macquarie River, a favourite destination for kayakers and stand up paddleboarders.
At full capacity the dam is one of the largest inland dams in NSW - three times the size of Sydney Harbour! The lake’s foreshores are home to two caravan parks, the Burrendong Arboretum and a sport and recreation centre. Please check up to date information and alerts at waternsw.com.au when planning your visit to Lake Burrendong.
Enjoy the cool Autumn weather on a bush walk through the beautiful Mount Arthur Reserve
3. Go back to the bush – Mount Arthur Reserve
Immerse yourself in the serenity of Wellington’s countryside at the 2,100 hectare Mount Arthur Reserve. There are six marked walking trails which range from 30 minutes to a half day trek and vary in difficulty with all trails delivering spectacular views of the surrounding valley. Along the way you can enjoy spotting some 400 species of native flora and fauna that call the Reserve home along with many native Australian animals and birds.
Discover a man-made rainforest under the cool canopy of Fern Gully at the Burrendong Arboretum
4. Get lost in the beauty of nature – Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum
Stop in at the Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum, which houses one of the largest collections of Australian plants in cultivation. Over 50,000 flowering plants, shrubs and trees from more than 2,000 species are growing on 164 hectares with stunning views overlooking Lake Burrendong. Don't miss a stroll through Fern Gully, once a dry bush gully that has been transformed into a man-made rainforest situated beneath an enormous thatched canopy. Enjoy the trickling creek lined with palms, tree ferns and rainforest trees in this delightful oasis.
Pack your pushbike, a picnic hamper, bird watching binoculars and your very best walking shoes to experience nature at it's best. Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
All ages and abilities will love the new inclusive play space at Cameron Park
5. While away an afternoon - Cameron Park
Located in the heart of Wellington, Cameron Park boasts beautifully manicured gardens and abundant shady trees making it the perfect place to stop and enjoy an afternoon relaxing in the Autumn breeze.
The park also has an amazing new inclusive play space that is bound to be popular with kids of all ages and abilities. In close walking distance to CBD cafés and boutiques the park is a great place for a picnic with the whole family.
Explore the scenic surrounds of the beautiful Toyama Osawano Japanese Gardens
6. Feel at peace – Toyama Osawano Japanese Garden
This scenic and unique garden is located right next to one of Wellington's greatest attractions, the Wellington Caves. The garden is open every day and is the perfect spot to wander around or stop for an outdoor lunch with seating available. The man made 'mountain' from which water trickles into a stream then a pond, is a main feature of the garden.
Stop on the water pavilion and watch the impressive koi fish swim leisurely around the pond, while you rest your legs or observe the ducks. The garden is the ideal place to let the kids run around and explore or even just for you to let go and unwind.
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We encourage anyone travelling to our Region to maintain social distancing practices and stay home if you are feeling unwell. For the latest travel advice please visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-1...