A Wilderluxe escape: Things to do in the New England High Country

Nestled at the fringe of the New England High Country, Lake Keepit is more than a sparkling waterway—it’s a refined threshold to the elevated landscapes, hidden artisans, and quiet indulgences of northern NSW.

Outdoor Attractions Near Lake Keepit

Kayaking & Lakefront Immersion

Start your journey lakeside with kayaking or paddleboarding across the expansive Lake Keepit, two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour. You’ll find tranquil coves, waterbird habitats, and a sense of quiet like no other. Kayaks & paddleboards are available on-site or BYO.

If throwing in a line to see what’s biting is more your style, fish from the water’s edge or head out in your boat for a chance to catch golden perch (also known as yellow belly), Murray cod, and silver perch. You can also find carp, catfish, and even yabbies and shrimp in the lake.

Soaring Above the Plains

For a rare, silent thrill, book a glider flight with the Lake Keepit Soaring Club. Drift above the Liverpool Plains in a two-seat sailplane—no engine, just thermals and horizon.

Scenic Trails & Lookouts

While walking trails directly at Lake Keepit are limited, within an hour you’ll find elegant bush tracks and escarpment lookouts:

• Bindea Walking Track – A tranquil 3.6 km loop with panoramic views.
• Eagles Nest Walking Track – A mossy 2.2 km circuit among snow gums and granite ridges.
• Wright’s Lookout – A dramatic vantage across forested valleys, perfect for picnics with a view.

Cycle the Park

With e-bikes available to hire at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit, the park is yours to explore along the winding tracks around the bush camping side of the lake.

Stargazing by the Water

Lake Keepit’s elevation and minimal light pollution make it ideal for stargazing and night-sky photography. Take in the view from the deck of the Gilay Lounge, watch the Big Sky Dreaming experience video, or use the provided telescopes to get closer to the star action.

Indoor Attractions – Galleries, Museums & Artisan Finds

Tamworth Regional Gallery – One of NSW’s oldest galleries, established in 1919, this elegant space houses rotating exhibitions of national significance alongside regional artists and textile installations.

Weswal Gallery – A boutique gallery offering a beautiful blend of contemporary art and ceramics in a refined architectural setting.

Carroll Gap Farmhouse – A historic rural property turned creative and culinary destination. Enjoy artisan morning teas, light lunches, or seasonal workshops in the original 1900s schoolhouse and post office.

Gunnedah Civic Art Gallery – A compact but curated cultural space, often showcasing local exhibitions and Indigenous artworks within the Gunnedah Cultural Precinct.

Talking Threads Vintage – A beautifully curated vintage store in Tamworth, perfect for browsing pre-loved fashion, accessories, and quirky homewares. They also host community events and styling nights.

Calibre Country Indoor Shooting Range – Try your hand at rifle or handgun shooting under expert guidance. A fun, well-run indoor activity with the novelty of keeping your own target as a memento.

Wining & Dining – Where to Eat & Drink Near Lake Keepit

Hopscotch Restaurant & Bar – A local favourite for refined brunches, share plates, and natural wines. Set within a leafy courtyard, it’s perfect for an elevated long lunch.

Bitter Suite Café & Wine Bar – Linger over coffee and French pastries by day, or unwind with a curated wine flight and charcuterie board after dusk.

The Verdict Café – Known for its locally sourced produce, herb-laced frittatas, and rosewater shortbreads—this is quiet luxury disguised as a country café.

Carinya Farm Gate – Pick up seasonal vegetables, herbs, and small-batch wines direct from the source. An honesty-box gem worth the detour.

Reverence Sourdough – A must-stop for artisanal pastries, slow-fermented breads, and sourdough baked from locally grown, Lake Keepit-watered wheat. They supply Wilderluxe breakfast packs and are adored for their incredible croissants, danishes, and loaves.

Campgrounds Coffee – Great coffee, great people, great vibes. Proudly independent and community-minded—perfect for your morning flat white or slow espresso stop.

Pig and Tinderbox – This stylish Tamworth restaurant brings a little city polish to country dining, with a moody cocktail bar atmosphere, a solid wine list, and a seasonal dinner menu.

Goonoo Goonoo Station – A design-forward rural estate known for award-winning architecture, luxe accommodation, and its Glasshouse Restaurant. Ideal for special occasion dining or an elegant day trip.

Pursegloves Rural – Stocking quality belts, boots, Akubra hats, and rural fashion brands—perfect for a refined but functional country souvenir.

Markets – Taste & Take Home the Region

Peel Street Markets – Held monthly, this farmers’ market is a showcase of the New England’s culinary landscape, from boutique gin to heirloom apples, pickled zucchini, and aged cheeses. Check local listings for dates.

Gunnedah Farmers Market – Smaller and more local, but often features handmade preserves, flowers, and regional honey in the heart of town.

Seasonal Events – When to Visit

June – Keepit Kool Regatta – A gentle spectacle of sails and still water, this annual event invites you to watch or participate in an elegant weekend of sailing.

Spring – Wildflower Season – New England National Park bursts into colour, perfect for combining a gallery visit with scenic drives and wildflower walks.

October – Textiles in Focus – Tamworth’s Textile Triennial and related exhibitions run through spring, attracting collectors and creatives from around Australia.

Late Summer – Harvest & Cellar Door Tastings – Vineyards near Currabubula and Tamworth open their gates for harvest celebrations and curated tasting experiences.

Regional Annual Events – Celebrations with Soul

Credit: Destination NSW

• Tamworth Country Music Festival – Held annually in late January, this is the largest music festival in the Southern Hemisphere. The 10-day event transforms Tamworth into a city of stages, embracing not only country music but blues, folk, alt-country, and classical crossovers—plus gourmet food stalls, ticketed gala performances, and luxe experiences.
• Taste Tamworth Festival – In April, this regional food and wine celebration spans long-table paddock lunches, wine tastings, and a curated “Taste in the Park” showcase with artisan makers, local distillers, and live jazz under the gum trees.
• Gunnedah Week of Speed – Held in July, this grassroots motorsport event celebrates the heritage of country racing—from track sprints to vintage machines.
• Textile Fibre Forum & Triennial Exhibitions – Hosted in spring (or every third year), these events draw national textile artists, collectors, and designers for workshops, exhibitions, and discussions around material culture.

Ready to Head Out?

Wilderluxe isn’t your typical lakeside holiday – this is elevated Australian country living, and the local activities reflect that same refined, adventurous spirit. From gliding above golden plains to sampling wild honey beneath gallery skylights, this slice of heaven in the heart of New England offers slow luxury in every direction.

And when the day’s adventures wind down, the magic continues above you. With crystal-clear night skies and minimal light pollution, Lake Keepit is one of the best places in NSW for stargazing – and with Wilderluxe’s own telescopes, you can explore the cosmos without leaving your deck.

If you’re in the mood to roam further, the New England High Country is made for road trips. Wind through rolling farmland, explore charming country towns, and discover seasonal events along the way – each turn offering another reason to linger.