Welcome to Coolah, NSW
A hidden gem nestled in the picturesque countryside of New South Wales, Australia.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor adventurer, or a history enthusiast, Coolah and its surrounding areas offer a myriad of exciting things to see and do. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the countryside, explore charming historical sites, embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, and indulge in the local arts and culture.
For the Nature Lovers
Coolah Tops National Park
Located just outside Coolah, this national park features stunning landscapes, rugged escarpments, waterfalls, and walking trails. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, bushwalking, birdwatching, amidst the park’s beautiful scenery.
Warrumbungle National Park
Situated approximately 90 kilometres west of Coolah near Coonabarabran, the Warrumbungle National Park is known for its iconic mountain ranges, extensive walking tracks, and panoramic views. It offers opportunities for bushwalking, camping, and observing unique rock formations.
Warrumbungle National Park is also renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. It has been designated as Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, offering pristine night skies and low light pollution.
Outdoor Recreation
Engage in outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, or swimming at nearby waterways like the Coolaburragundy River and Lake Burrendong. These locations offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife in the area, including kangaroos, wallabies, bird species, and other native animals. You may encounter them while exploring nature trails or driving through the countryside.
Pilliga Forest
Take a day trip to Pilliga Forest, one of the largest and most diverse inland forests in Australia, featuring unique flora, fauna, and the iconic Pilliga Pottery.
For the History Buffs
Black Stump Monument
A popular landmark in Coolah, the Black Stump Monument commemorates the colloquial phrase "beyond the black stump" symbolising remote or isolated areas. It provides a photo opportunity and a glimpse into the area's history and folklore.
Binnaway Historical Railway Museum
Explore nearby Binnaway's railway history at the Binnaway Historical Railway Museum. Discover vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia, providing a glimpse into the region's past.
Dunedoo Historical Museum
Situated in Dunedoo, a short distance from Coolah, this museum exhibits a range of historical artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the region's pioneering past, agricultural heritage, and local industries.
Cassilis Historic Site
Take a trip to Cassilis, a small historic village near Coolah. Explore the Cassilis Cemetery, which holds the graves of early settlers, or visit the remains of the Cassilis Court House, a building of historical significance.
For the Explorers
Kangaroos, Warrumbungle National Park. Credit: May Fleming, DPE.
Siding Spring Observatory
Visit the Siding Spring Observatory, Australia’s premier optical astronomy research facility, and witness the wonders of the universe through its powerful telescopes. It is situated atop Siding Spring Mountain, which is located at nearby Coonabarabran, and is part of the Warrumbungle Range.
Coolah Crafts
Indulge your senses in the enchanting world of craftsmanship at Coolah Crafts, a premier destination for discerning art enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll through their unique and exquisite craft shop, where a vast array of locally made country handcrafts awaits.
Pandora Gallery
Indulge your passion for artistic exploration and immerse yourself in the rich history that Pandora Gallery in Coolah exudes. Discover the hidden gem that is Pandora Gallery, where art, history, and the charm of the Art-deco era converge in perfect harmony. Immerse yourself in Max Dupain’s iconic photographs, breathe in the nostalgia of the 1930s, and create lasting memories in this enchanting cultural haven.
Golfers
Perfect your swing at the Coolah Sporting Club, an 18-hole golf course surrounded by scenic landscapes. Challenge yourself while enjoying the fresh air and the panoramic views offered by this picturesque course.
Local Events and Festivals
Go to the Pandora Gallery & Tourist Information Centre in Coolah to find out about local events and festivals happening in and around Coolah. These can include agricultural shows, community markets, music performances, and other cultural celebrations.
Scenic Drives
Take leisurely drives through the picturesque countryside surrounding Coolah. Enjoy the scenic views, rolling hills, and rural landscapes that make the area unique.
Kangaroos, Warrumbungle National Park. Credit: May Fleming, DPE.
For Day Trips
Mt Exmouth Walking Track Warrunburgle National Park. Credit: Sue Brookhouse, DPE
Coolah's location provides convenient access to different directions within Central NSW and serves as a gateway to various tourism attractions and destinations, while providing an affordable and convenient starting point for exploring the region.
Mudgee
is situated to the east of Coolah and is approximately 130 kilometres away, which is typically around 2 hours of driving. Mudgee offers a delightful destination for food lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Dubbo
is located to the west of Coolah and is about 200 kilometres away, which is roughly a 2.5 hour drive. Dubbo is a major regional city in New South Wales and offers various attractions such as the Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the Old Dubbo Gaol.
Coonabarabran
is situated to the southwest of Coolah and is approximately 130 kilometres away, which is about a 1.5 hour drive. Coonabarabran is commonly known as the "Astronomy Capital of Australia" due to its proximity to the Warrumbungle National Park, which houses the Siding Spring Observatory.
Tamworth
is situated to the northeast of Coolah and is approximately 165 kilometres away, which is about a 2 hour drive. Tamworth is known for its country music festival and is often referred to as the "Country Music Capital of Australia".
Gunnedah
is located to the northwest of Coolah and is about 150 kilometres away, which is roughly a 2 hour drive. Gunnedah is an agricultural town and is known for its rich farming and coal mining industries.