Day One
There are a number of markets held all around our region every weekend. The Port Macquarie Foreshore Market is held at lovely waterside Westport Park every second Saturday of the month. Laurieton Riverwalk Markets are held every third Sunday. Wauchope Farmers Market is held on the fourth Saturday of the month head to the markets to fill your baskets with anything from fresh vegetables and fruits to local preserves, and sample gourmet jams, fresh homemade breads and more. The Artists Markets are held every fourth Sunday at the Maritime Museum. These markets have live music, artisan goods and a great vibe for all ages.
BAGO - WINERY, MAZE & CHOCOLATE SHOP
Explore a Russian chocolate shop (where owner Tash from on a hand-makes thousands of delicious chocolates each week!) and lose yourself in the largest hedge maze in NSW. Perch yourself on the grassy hill and sip local wines and indulge in a cheese platter.
LUNCH AT DRURY LANE EATERY
With produce sourced locally, being spoilt for choice with local farmers and keen backyard gardeners, Drury Lane’s ever-changing menu is a must-try.
Taste local wines delicious products from the Hastings hinterland while admiring local art. Try the famous Agent Orange liqueur and refreshing alcoholic ginger beer.
Gain insight into local Aboriginal culture with Aboriginal bush tucker and discovery tours, a 1.3km loop Rainforest elevated boardwalk and monthly rainforest meditation. The Rainforest Café is in a lush setting and serves breakfast, lunch and snacks throughout the day.
DINNER
So many choices! Especially for seafood lovers...Bill's Fishouse has quickly become a favourite with locals and visitors alike, with a focus on the freshest seafood, amazing oysters and an innovative menu. Or, if you like your seafood dining waterside, head to Whalebone Wharf for the stunning food, decor and views.
DESSERT
Head to Blue Cow Gelato and try one of their every changing flavours while you watch the sunset on your first evening in Port Macquarie.
SWEET DREAMS
Mantra The Observatory offers seaside accommodation in the heart of Port Macquarie. Located directly across from the beach, this contemporary hotel boasts spectacular views over the ocean, river and hinterland, and provides close proximity to many of the areas natural attractions. Secure onsite car parking is complimentary for all guests along with free in-room wireless Internet access.
Day Two
Enjoy brekky at this family owned café where the menu is crafted around the region’s freshest local produce. The owners even own their very own free-range chicken and pig farm to help supply the café, so big is their passion for local farming!
GO CRUISING
Take a heart pumping Jet Boat thrill ride , an eco-cruise or take in the scenery on a river cruise, departing regularly from Town Wharf at the end of Clarence Street. From May to November you will almost definitely spot humpback whales.
TAKE AN ITALIAN COOKING CLASS
Formerly from Naples, and now a Port Macquarie resident and chef, the lovely Alessandra from Osteria Pappazo not only runs a pop-up authentic Italian restaurant, she fits in a number of fabulous cooking classes into her busy schedule. Hand-make filled pastas and gnocci and enjoy your creations.
LUNCH
If you’re hungry grab a quick bite at the Burger Rebellion – a funky gourmet burger restaurant sure to tickle your taste buds.
WINE TASTING WITH FRANKIE’S TOURS
Spend the day cellar door hopping around the hinterland, visiting three boutique wineries and enjoy a leisurely two-course lunch overlooking the vineyards. It’s a fabulous way to get a sense of the wider region and takes the worry out of driving after a few wine tastings. The tour runs from 1-5pm.
Visit the most photographed spots in Port Macquarie, you may even spot a whale or two.
DINNER AT THE STUNNED MULLET
The Stunned mullet is the region's hatted restaurant, with sweeping views over Town Beach and is perfect for a magical evening a short walk from your accommodation. Offering a seasonal menu with a focus on local and specialty ingredients, incredible wines and sublime service, you are in for an amazing dining experience.
Day Three
BREKKY
Head on down to the Salty Crew Kiosk for a light and healthy bite to eat before hitting the waves at Town Beach. Whether it’s a cold-pressed juice, acai bowl or chia pudding you’re after, you’ll find them all here. If you're not up for the beach, head to Urban Grain Bakery for incredible pastries, pies and sourdough hand made on the premises.
Time to work off all that food! Start at Town Beach and walk some of Port Macquarie’s 9km easy grade coastal walk.
CASSEGRAIN WINERY for Tastings & Lunch
Enjoy an in-depth winery tour and take home award-winning local wines. Or, head to the region's newest restaurant - Twotriplefour- overlooking the vines. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore by horseback at the Port Macquarie Riding Centre onsite.
STRAWBERRY PICKING
Call in to Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries and experience the pleasure of picking your own plump, luscious strawberries. Enjoy a free farm tour undertaken weekdays from 11am and sample award-winning jams, condiments and pickles.
DINNER OPTIONS - THE BOAT HOUSE
You will find a balance of fresh elegant foods, breezy drinks and water views from the stunning deck. Located at the fabulous newly renovated Sails Resort, The Boathouse Bar and Restaurant is the place to pop in for an atmosphere of relaxed simplicity and delicious indulgence.
Or...
With a team hailing from some of the finest dining establishments and a passionate love of food and wine, this urban, sophisticated diner with a large alfresco area and carefully curated wine list has become a favourite with the locals.
Now you can take the best of Port home with you...
The Port Macquarie Food Hub is a collective of local growers,producers and chefs (including farm fresh veggies, eggs, and meat, baked goods and gourmet products using local ingredients), that deliver weekly to Port Macquarie and surrounds, as well as Sydney and Newcastle! Do yourself a flavour and either take a box of goodness home with you, or order online delivery if you can.
