Hankering for the great outdoors? Keen to go green? Look no further than Lake Macquarie! Only 90 minutes up the M1 motorway from Sydney, Lake Macquarie is one of the largest saltwater lakes in the Southern Hemisphere and is home to some of NSW’s best nature experiences to relax and rejuvenate.
Living Smart Festival, 23-25 September
Back bigger and better than ever, Lake Macquarie’s popular Living Smart Festival will light up the lakeside between September 23-25 in one of the country’s biggest sustainable-themed events.
Kick off the wellness-focused weekend with the Feast for the Senses, a dreamy dinner under the stars on Friday 23rd September featuring a sustainably sourced three-course vegetarian menu from The Wilderness Chef.
On Saturday 24th September, Speers Point Park will overflow with planet-friendly events, including markets packed with handmade products and local product, roving performers, workshops with headliner and Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis, morning yoga by the lake, a native plant giveaway, a Green Thumb Zone showcasing backyard beekeeping, worm farming, urban gardening and more, an Eat Zone conducting fermentation classes, sourdough sessions and more, and an Upcycle Zone to discover how to turn trash into treasure – such as DIY dog toys and pet beds.
Whether you want easy ideas to live more sustainably at home, ethical meal ideas, pre-loved pieces to revamp your wardrobe, or a fun-filled day out with the family, the Living Smart Festival is for you.
Hop on board the ‘tiny house’ trend
Forget ‘go big or go home’, it’s time to get back to nature, go glamping or embrace the tiny house travel trend with these pint-sized accommodation picks in incredible settings – think emerald forests, foraging fauna, campfire clearings, plenty of privacy and unique eco builds.
Don’t be fooled by the term tiny because these luxurious, modern cabins are set with everything you need whilst escaping from the rest of the world. In2thewild’s tiny houses located in Lake Macquarie sleep two to four and provide all your basics. Bring only food & drinks – they will arrange everything else.
Nestled in a secluded rainforest clearing in Lake Macquarie is Tiny Robinson, this peaceful retreat feels like your miles away any kind of civilisation but only a short drive to some of Lake Macquarie’s best open spaces where you can refresh and reset.
Kookaburra Ridge is an opulent glamping experience located in Wyee Lake where guests can enjoy uninterrupted privacy and soak in an outdoor bath under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights for an utterly unique romantic experience. Available for hire for an intimate escape for two, or for a group of friends using two spacious tents, Kookaburra Ridge offers a campfire, sound system and the chance to truly get off the grid.
Take a hike, or hit the bike
When it comes to travelling more sustainably, there’s nothing simpler, or more spectacular, than strapping on your hiking shoes or harnessing some pedal power to explore the region’s stunning scenery.
With a myriad of walking trails for all abilities, lookouts, and campgrounds, the Watagans Mountains are a great place to start. Explore lush rainforests, marvel at massive red cedars, take a horse trail ride or test your photography skills at the majestic Gap Greek Falls.
Wallarah National Park is another popular pick with nature lovers, who enjoy exploring the walking trails and cycling paths which offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean – as well as the chance for the eagle-eyed to spot echidnas, sea eagles and sugar gliders.
Glenrock State Conservation Area is heaven for the adventurous and active. From beach fun to bushwalking, mountain bike riding, hang gliding and horse riding, this 500-hectare playground is home to headlands, beaches, rainforests and the gorgeous Glenrock Lagoon.
Take a scenic tour of Lake Macquarie by hiring a Beam e-bike giving you the opportunity to take in the natural beauty in its entirety. To hire an e-bike, download the Beam app to see where your nearest Beam bike can be found.
Rise and shine
Early risers will fall in love with sunrise at Caves Beach, which paints the sky in soft shades of pink and orange. For the ultimate early morning experience, add the Caves Beach Coastal Walk to your list for magnificent views along the coastline – and keep an eye out for breaching Humpback and Southern Right Whales between May and September.
Island-hopping
Make the most of warmer weather with a spot of island-hopping between Lake Macquarie’s unique white sandy islands, a local favourite with swimmers, stand-up paddleboarders, kayakers and boaties.
Making sustainable travel simpler
To make sustainable travel even easier for eco-minded visitors – and electric vehicle drivers – tourism providers such as the Esplanade Motel have installed car charging stations. Enjoying a central location on the Warners Bay Foreshore, the motel exudes a laidback, coastal vibe within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and endless walking and water sports options.
