Number 1 in Lonely Planet’s Top 500 places to visit in NSW

Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park has been named the number 1 place to visit in NSW according to Lonely Planet’s Top 500 places to visit in Australia. 

“Lonely Planet has released their top 500 travel experiences in Australia, the Ultimate Australia Travel List,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. “Throughout this Australian Travel Guide it breaks these amazing experiences down into the top places to visit in each state across Australia, and the number 1 experience for NSW is visiting the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park.”   

“In 2016, Warrumbungle National Park was declared Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. The National Park is situated 35km west of Coonabarabran and has long been recognised not only for its beauty at ground level, but also for the wonder it holds in the night sky above,” said Cr Doolan.  

The Warrumbungle National Park, Dark Sky Park is an outstanding place to view the night sky and, with the nearby Siding Spring Observatory it plays an important role in Australian astronomical research. 

Lonely Planet describes the Warrumbungles as “still having plenty to offer once the sun rises. Avid bushwalkers are sure to enjoy the rugged volcanic landscape. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk will bring you close to the park’s most impressive formations. With over 190 bird species recorded within the park, birdwatchers should be sure to look out for emus, wedge-tailed eagles and the southern boobook owl.”

It’s a perfect climate this time of year to come and visit this region, book your camping at one of the many campsites available and be amazed when you look up to stargaze amongst the clear skies. While you are visiting the region why not also take a trip to Siding Spring Observatory to see Australia’s largest telescope. 

“This is a massive achievement for the Warrumbungle Region, and Coonabarabran is very proud to be the gateway to the stars,” Cr Doolan concluded. 

Click here to download media release

Photo Credit: Camplify 

Last Updated: 28 Apr 2022