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Explore, Fish, Swim, Picnic, Go Fossicking
While staying in Tamworth take the time to visit some of the nearby towns such as
  
Chaffey Dam, Tamworth's water supply on the way to Nundle.
Nundle;
Nestled in the “Hills of Gold”, 45 minutes east of Tamworth is the historic village of Nundle. Gold and other precious metals, including sapphires, green crystals and jasper can still be found in creek and river beds and visitors are welcome to try their hand at fossicking at many sites in and around Nundle.
 
One of the best-know attractions of Nundle is the Nundle Wollen Mill, a showcase of Australia’s world famous fibre with its own range of yarns spun on antique machinery and hand-knotted garments
Visit the Hills of Gold Art Gallery, The historic Peel Inn, The cottage on the Hill patchwork shop, Odgers and McCelland Exchange Store, or visit some of the antiques and trading stores hawking the wares of yester- year or the Arc-En-Ciel Trout Farm.
Manilla;
Manilla, 30 minutes drives west of Tamworth is Australia’s aero-sports capital. As one of the best paragliding, sky sailing and hang gliding sites, Mount Borah at Manilla annually hosts Australia and International Competitions.
 
Manilla is a popular fishing spot, large catches of cod, catfish and Golden Perch (yellow belly) are regularly caught in both the Manilla and Namoi Rivers or at Lake Keepit. Platypus are often seen in the rivers. Warrabah National Park is one of the State’s few inland river parks. The pools and rapids are excellent for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Further north of Manilla is Manilla Grove for olives and honey.
 
Barraba;
Barraba, only 45 kilometers west of Manilla is famous bird watching region. Over 190 species of birds have been seen in the Barraba region, with the endangered Regent Honeyeater the most sought by birdwatchers. There are 14 bird routes that have been set out and signposted.
Explore the fossicking reserves of Ironbark Creek and Woodsreef rich in garnets, rhodenite, Zeolite, quartz, fossilized wood, jadelite and jasper. Visit Horton Falls, the historical Museum or view the heritage buildings.
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Bendemeer
At the peak of the Moonbi Range and just 42 kilometers north of Tamworth is the village of Bendemeer. The town hugs the banks of the trout-infested Mc Donald River and is a great place for a picnic or visit the renowned Bendemeer Hotel for a quiet drink or a meal. The old bowery Inn is a community co-operative hosting a collection of arts, crafts and also serves morning teas and light lunches.
 
Head a further 15 Kilometres north of Bendemeer and visit Banalasta to experience a high altitude vineyard, eucalyptus and lavender oil plantation.
Heading back down the highway to Moonbi, stop at Fred Hilliers Ceramic Gallery, and view the unique Australian bush buildings, including the “ Aussie Dunny”.
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