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09:00 Mon 29 April - till - 17:00 Mon 13 May.
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REFRESHING ESCAPE FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF MODERN LIFE.
Tucked along the banks of the mighty Clarence River, the quaint village of Ulmarra offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Blending cultural charm with tranquil river experiences, Ulmarra beckons visitors to savour simple pleasures and embrace the serenity of nature, with its quiet, calm ambience.
Situated on Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr Country, one of Ulmarra’s highlights is undoubtedly the opportunity to explore the river. Whether you are a paddler, a fisher, a boatie, or simply someone who enjoys being close to the peaceful serenity of the water, Ulmarra is the perfect place for you to experience river life “your way.” In a nod to the days when Ulmarra was a bustling river port, there’s a schmick new pontoon and waterfront precinct. Feel free to berth your craft or cast your rod there or enjoy a picnic on the water's edge.
But the allure of Ulmarra extends well beyond the riverbank. Turn down Coldstream Street and lights, camera, action! You’re on a movie set, literally. The Australian classic The Picture Show Man, mini-series Fields of Fire and more recently the 2023 adaption of The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart have all been filmed in Ulmarra. With its visible rich history and historic country charm, we can see why.
Take a trip down memory lane yourself, and enjoy the Ulmarra Heritage Trail. As you meander through this picturesque route, the whispers of history intertwine with the rustling leaves. Cyclists breeze through avenues scaped with trees, while walkers pause to admire the quaint charm of heritage-listed buildings. This trail is more than just a path. It's a portal to the past, a celebration of the timeless beauty that is Ulmarra.
Ulmarra Hotel, boasting a heritage wrought-iron balcony facade, invites patrons to step inside and indulge in culinary delicacies, or as the locals call it, ‘A Snitzie.’ The alfresco dining area, boasting world-class river views, is the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with a view.
Ulmarra might be quite a compact town, but its unique retail shopping is a rare treat. Many of the buildings featured on the heritage trail are now home to quaint little shops. From woodworking to antiques, minutes turn into hours, and hours evaporate when lost in the magical world of the main street. It’s not uncommon for visitors to lose their bearings and become untethered from life’s usual concerns when immersed in Ulmarra’s standout second-hand bookshop.
Ulmarra punches above its weight in the creative sphere too, with a number of fabulous small galleries and art stores for you to get your art on. Ulmarra also plays host to events throughout the year such as the Riverlight Lantern Festival and the Clarence Valley Country Muster music festival.
Ulmarra village serves as a gateway to some of NSW’s most spectacular and unique scenic drives including the renowned scenic drive dubbed “One Ferry, Two.” This road trip promises you a ride on not one, but two car ferries, and the historic 1906 McFarlane Bridge onto the large inland island called Woodford Island, so large it has its own mountain range. Along the way pause to discover Ulmarra’s sister towns Maclean, Lawrence, and Brushgrove, each with its own unique river town identity.
If a day trip along the river is not enough of a river fix for you, spend the night rocking to the gentle rhythm of the river on one of the Clarence River’s houseboats. You don’t need a boat license or navigation experience to drive the houseboat, but you do need a sense of adventure.
Is the wilderness calling your name? Then the Everlasting Swamp National Park is your answer. For those craving an off-the-beaten-track adventure, follow the Clarence River 21 km upstream from Ulmarra and you will find yourself in an out-of-this-world nature haven. A favourite for bushwalkers, kayakers and birdwatchers. Known to bird watchers as the Kakadu of the South, the Everlasting Swamp National Park is one of the largest freshwater wetlands on the NSW North Coast and protects 26 threatened species. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars and the ‘Bird Routes of the Clarence Valley’ guide.
Take it from seasoned traveller and Escape writer, Andrea Black “The river port of Ulmarra might be tiny but it’s well worth lingering here.” Ulmarra is an easy 12-minute jump off the highway, an enticing location for pub lunch or a riverbank picnic to break up the trip. However, be warned, the allure of a quick stop-in can easily lead to an extended stay once the charm of Ulmarra captivates your soul. It’s quite possible you may never want to leave.
LOVING ULMARRA?
Vote for this top town in the 2024 Top Tourism Town Awards
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Day 1:
Ulmarra on Yaegl Country
Welcome to Ulmarra, where your tranquillity begins! The beautiful village of Ulmarra sits peacefully alongside the mighty Clarence River on Yaegl Country. As you arrive at Ulmarra, the peaceful ambience envelops you, offering a sanctuary to unwind and immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Check into your accommodation and take a moment to breathe in the fresh air and picturesque river views.
After settling your bags, head down to the backyard where cozy couches and a firepit await by the river's edge. This serene setting invites you to relax, sip on a refreshing drink, and simply soak in the tranquillity. The gentle sounds of the river flowing by and the rustle of leaves in the breeze create a perfect backdrop for you to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind you.
Once you’ve embraced the calm pace of Ulmarra, it’s time for a short stroll down the street for a spot of shopping. But this is no ordinary shopping trip. Ulmarra’s shopping is a unique treat. You would be forgiven for thinking you can quickly gander in this small town's array of eclectic shops, but this is rarely the case. The art galleries, woodworking, and antiques stores that dot the street entice you in and keep you there. From the charming Second-Hand Bookstore to the boutique stores showcasing local artisans' creations, every corner reveals a piece of Ulmarra's artistic identity.
As you meander through the town, don't miss the opportunity to admire the public mural depicting the region's First Nations, the Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr people. This vibrant artwork adds a cultural depth to your exploration of Ulmarra, highlighting the rich heritage of the area.
By now, shopping and sightseeing may have stirred your appetite. Head to the Ulmarra Hotel, for an early dinner so you can savour the sunset as you dine on banks of the Clarence River. Ulmarra Hotel is the place for a top-notch classic pub meal with five-star views of the mighty river, the ultimate “dinner with a view” experience to complete your first day on your Ulmarra holiday.
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Three days in Ulmarra
Ideal for couples and groups who are drawn to unique cultural experiences and scenic environments.
Ulmarra’s quiet streets and quaint buildings exude a sense of nostalgia, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and heritage. The town's artistic vibe is evident in its galleries, and local artisanal and antique shops, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit that thrives here.
For couples looking for a romantic retreat, Ulmarra’s romantic ambience is a perfect fit. From strolls along the Clarence River to cozy evenings admiring the charming sunsets, every moment is embedded with a sense of intimacy and serenity.
Groups with a shared interest in cultural exploration will find Ulmarra to be a treasure trove of experiences. The appeal of Ulmarra lies not only in its unique cultural character but also in its scenic beauty. Surrounded by lush landscapes, including National Parks and waterways, the town offers endless opportunities
Ideal for couples and groups who are drawn to unique cultural experiences and scenic environments.
Ulmarra’s quiet streets and quaint buildings exude a sense of nostalgia, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and heritage. The town's artistic vibe is evident in its galleries, and local artisanal and antique shops, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit that thrives here.
For couples looking for a romantic retreat, Ulmarra’s romantic ambience is a perfect fit. From strolls along the Clarence River to cozy evenings admiring the charming sunsets, every moment is embedded with a sense of intimacy and serenity.
Groups with a shared interest in cultural exploration will find Ulmarra to be a treasure trove of experiences. The appeal of Ulmarra lies not only in its unique cultural character but also in its scenic beauty. Surrounded by lush landscapes, including National Parks and waterways, the town offers endless opportunities
