Coonabarabran

Known as the ‘Astronomy Capital of Australia’, Coonabarabran is the gateway to the magnificent Warrumbungle National Park. It is a peaceful country town set beneath the majestic Warrumbungle Mountain Range.

Coonabarabran has some of the clearest skies in Australia and is the home of Australia’s largest optical astronomy research facility, Siding Spring Observatory. Coonabarabran is an ideal place for stargazing with its high altitude, low humidity, a non-turbulent atmosphere for viewing clarity, clean air and an average of 70% clear night skies.

With a population of 3200, Coonabarabran is located at the junction of the Newell and Oxley Highways midway between Melbourne and Brisbane. It is the administrative centre of the Warrumbungle Shire and is situated within two hours of the major regional centres of Dubbo and Tamworth. Getting to Coonabarabran.

The word Coonabarabran is said to derive from the Aboriginal word for ‘inquisitive person’ although the translation is somewhat debatable.

Today the town is a thriving service centre for the surrounding areas with plenty of things to do and see. Coonabarabran has a range of attractions and accommodation options to cater for every need and taste. From 4 star hotels close to the town centre and luxury cabins set amidst the Warrumbungles, to backpacker style accommodation and pet friendly B&B’s, you will find something to suit your needs.

More about Coonabarabran

• Accommodation
• Attractions
• Eating Out