Hit the road and head to Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie may be renowned for its beautiful lake and spectacular coastline, but it’s also home to a raft of not so well-known treasures loved by the locals. Best of all, it's only 90 minutes from Sydney. The team from Anne Wild Associates handed me a brilliant little guide to 8 perfect places you can discover off the yellow brick road. Try these for size ...

Petrified Forest, Swansea Heads Accessible at low tide just a short walk from the Reids Mistake Reserve you’ll find the Petrified Forest, home to 250 million-year-old tree stumps and fallen logs as well as an expansive rock platform ideal for exploring up close.

‘Grannies Pool’ Nestled between the Swansea Channel Breakwall and Blacksmiths’ Beach, the ‘Grannies Pool’ is a shallow, sheltered inlet protected from large waves and swell, that is loved by local children – and their grannies!

Gap Creek Falls, Watagans The Watagan Mountains are well known, but many visitors are entirely unaware of the stunning Gap Creek Falls, which are hidden deep within the rainforest. These striking falls are accessible for keen hikers via the spectacular Gap Creek Falls Trail.

Pulbah Island Only accessible by boat, Pulbah is Lake Macquarie’s largest island and favoured by locals for its tranquil picnic spots and idyllic bushwalking pathways.

Dora Creek Located on the southern side of the lake, the peaceful Dora Creek is ideal for kayaking trips, and is home to lovely picnic spots along the banks. Don’t miss ‘The Swinging Bridge’, which is tucked behind the Sanitarium Factory and also accessible by kayak – a well-kept local secret spot for family fun.

Morisset Park kangaroos There’s no entry ticket to buy to get up close and personal with the kangaroos here… in Morisset Park’s picnic grounds there are dozens of roos just waiting for visitors to come and give them a gentle pat. Hidden away within the vicinity of Morisset Hospital, there’s a large grassy area, a barbeque and a lovely view over the lake to enjoy.

1950s Car Museum If vintage cars are your thing – or even if not – this is the spot for a stroll down memory lane packed with American classic cars (some are even for sale), a replica Fonzie milk bar, 50s memorabilia, 50s music, and a caravan dishing up memorable milkshakes and burgers. The locals love it – so don’t forget to book!   Lake Macquarie Airport/Air Adventures, Marks Point Locals agree that the best way to see the lake is from the sky, and the recently re-opened Lake Macquarie Airport (formerly the Belmont Airport), is home to a raft of adventurous air activities including Matt Hall Racing, Skydive the Beach and Skyline Aviation Group helicopter tours, all of which include magnificent views of the Lake.

For more information or to book a Lake Macquarie escape visit www.visitlakemac.com.au or free call 1800 802 044. Don't forget to grab a car rental from DriveNow

SCOTT PODMORE

Scott Podmore

Award-winning writer, editor, photographer, videographer and owner of October Grey Media. Specialising in travel and lifestyle content and a full member of the Australian Society of Travel Writers. Has contributed regular content for the NewsCorp stable of newspapers and magazines, TravelTalk mag, The Departure Lounge and many more publications in Australia and internationally. Follow on Twitter & instragram #scottpodmore

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