Barraba Travel Guide

Plan a visit to Barraba with this comprehensive travel guide! Explore the cultural attractions, natural beauty, hiking and biking routes, delicious food scene, accommodation, and transportation options in this charming town.


Barraba, a small town nestled in the Southern New England region of New South Wales, Australia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, it is a unique destination for travellers seeking an offbeat experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through all that Barraba has to offer.

Introduction to Barraba

Barraba is located about 90 km from the city of Tamworth and has a population of around 1,500 people. The town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and forestry, and it is home to several historic buildings, including the Barraba Post Office, which dates back to 1886. Barraba’s serene surroundings and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for a relaxing holiday.

List of Places to Visit in Barraba

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Barraba, categorised by their unique features.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The town has a rich history, and there are several places that you can visit to explore its cultural heritage.

  • Barraba Museum: This museum is located in the town’s heritage precinct and exhibits the town’s history, including its forestry, mining, and agricultural roots.
  • Barraba Heritage Walk: Explore the town’s rich history by walking along the heritage trail, which takes you past several historically significant buildings.

Natural Attractions of Barraba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Barraba is blessed with stunning natural beauty, including national parks and waterfalls.

  • Mount Kaputar National Park: This park is located around 60 km from Barraba and is home to several unique plant and animal species. It is also famous for its scenic view from the Mount Kaputar summit.
  • Split Rock Dam: This dam is located around 20 km from Barraba and is a great place for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a picnic.
  • Barraba Waterfall: These waterfalls are located within the town limits and offer beautiful views of the countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barraba

Barraba has several walking, hiking, and biking trails that cater to all skill levels.

  • Frazers Creek Walking Track: This trail is a 12 km return walk and is suitable for all skill levels. It takes you through scenic bushland and offers beautiful waterfall views.
  • Mount Kaputar Summit Walk: This walk is around 6 km return and takes you to the summit of Mount Kaputar, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Gorge Walking Trail: This trail is a 4 km return walk and takes you through the Gwydir River gorge, offering excellent views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Barraba: Activities and Tours

Looking for things to do in Barraba? Here are some of the best activities and tours you can participate in:

  • Fishing: Barraba is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with many streams and rivers to explore.
  • Horse Riding: Take a scenic horse ride through Barraba’s beautiful countryside with the local horse riding tour operators.
  • Wine Tastings: Visit one of the local wineries and wine cellars and enjoy a wine tasting experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Barraba

If you’re planning to spend a week in Barraba, here’s an itinerary that will help you explore the town and its nearby attractions:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Barraba Museum and explore the heritage precinct
Day 2 Hike the Frazers Creek Walking Track or the Gorge Trail
Day 3 Visit Split Rock Dam and enjoy a picnic
Day 4 Take a scenic drive to Mount Kaputar National Park
Day 5 Visit the Barraba Waterfall and nearby wineries
Day 6 Go fishing in one of the local streams or rivers
Day 7 Explore the town’s unique shops and cafes

Food and Drink Scene of Barraba

Barraba offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Australian meals to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef and lamb roasts: These classic Australian dishes are a must-try.
  • Barramundi fish: This fish is native to Australia and is known for its buttery texture and mild taste.
  • Meat pies: These savoury pies filled with meat and vegetables are a popular snack in Australia.

Local Beverages

  • Australian Beer: Popular Australian beer brands include Victoria Bitter and Tooheys New.
  • Australian Wine: Local wineries in the region produce some of the best wines in the country.

Where to Stay in Barraba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Barraba offers a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Barraba Motel: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
  • Barraba Guest House: A charming guest house in the heart of town, with several room types to choose from.
  • Mount Kaputar Eco Lodge: A unique eco-retreat overlooking Mount Kaputar National Park.

What to Buy in Barraba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Barraba, make sure to pick up some unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some suggestions:

  • Pottery: Barraba is known for its distinctive pottery, crafted by local artisans.
  • Honey: The region produces some of the best honey in the country, with several local apiaries selling jars of honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Barraba

Barraba is a small, welcoming town that values its heritage and traditions. Locals are friendly and always willing to share their stories. Make sure to show respect for the town’s culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Barraba

The best time to visit Barraba is during the spring and autumn months (September to November, and March to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot, and winter can be chilly, so be prepared if you visit during these seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barraba

Do:

  • Respect the town’s culture and customs.
  • Try some of the local cuisine and wine.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their property.
  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Barraba is a safe and peaceful town, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Barraba

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking or hiking.
  • Check weather conditions and fire safety regulations before visiting national parks.
  • Lock your car and secure your valuables.

Health in Barraba

  • The town has a medical centre where you can seek medical attention if needed.
  • Check the UV index before spending time outdoors and use sunscreen and a hat.

Getting to Barraba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Barraba is well-connected to major cities within NSW by road and air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Barraba

Barraba does not have its own airport, but Tamworth Airport (around 90 km away) is the closest airport.

Bus Stations Near Barraba

Buses run between Barraba and Tamworth several times a week.

Other Options

You can also drive to Barraba from other major cities in NSW.

How to Get Around in Barraba

Walking and biking are popular ways of getting around the town, but if you need to go further afield, renting a car is a good option.

Where to Go Next from Barraba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Barraba is a gateway to several nearby attractions, including:

  • Tamworth: The country music capital of Australia.
  • Armidale: A university town famous for its cathedrals and historic buildings.

Conclusion

Barraba is a charming town with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s heritage, hiking through scenic trails, experiencing the local cuisine and wine, or simply relaxing in the tranquil countryside, Barraba has something for everyone. Plan a visit to Barraba today and discover its hidden treasures!

Queen Street, Barraba's main street Queen Street, Barraba's main street NSW TrainLink coach NSW TrainLink coach Sawn Rocks, Mount Kaputar National Park - between Barraba and Narrabri Sawn Rocks, Mount Kaputar National Park - between Barraba and Narrabri View of Lake Keepit, the reservoir of Keepit Dam View of Lake Keepit, the reservoir of Keepit Dam The Clock Tower, a war memorial in the roundabout of Queen and Maude Streets The Clock Tower, a war memorial in the roundabout of Queen and Maude Streets Barraba has two hotels, both of which also serve as restaurant and bar; the Commercial Hotel... Barraba has two hotels, both of which also serve as restaurant and bar; the Commercial Hotel... ...and Playhouse Hotel ...and Playhouse Hotel Barraba post office Barraba post office