Paragliding
The town is home to one of Australia’s premier X-C soaring sites and is one of the best sky sport sites in the world for hang-gliding, paragliding and soaring – if you’re visiting in February and March, you will often see hang-gliders and paragliders competing in World Championship competitions. If you head up onto Mt Borah during the competitions, you can watch the gliders competing. Interested in learning how to hang-glide or paraglide? The flying school in the Manilla District can offer tandem flights for adventurous tourists and locals.

Mount Borah is only a 27 minute drive (18 km) from your Manilla holiday rental.

Nature
If nature is your cup of tea, head out for a walk along the Manilla, Namoi and MacDonald Rivers and keep an eye out for the elusive platypus, which can often be seen near the river banks. Warrabah National Park is also a bush walker’s paradise. This inland river park offers bush walking tracks. While the rapids in the river provide an enjoyable challenge for experienced canoeists. For the photographer, the Namoi River provides beautiful scenery. The huge granite boulders sitting high above the valley’s pools offer great photo opportunities.

Fishing
There are some great fishing destinations in and around Manilla. The Manilla and Namoi Rivers are a great place to catch Murray Cod, while Split Rock Reservoir and Lake Keepit are well stocked and regularly replenished with Golden and Silver Perch. There are some lovely towns and sights to visit around the Manilla area including Tamworth, Barraba, Lake Keepit and Split Rock Dam.

Our Manilla holiday house is great base for Tamworth Country Music Festival – Tourist Book for Tamworth

Tamworth is the Australian country music capital and home to the largest country music festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Don’t be fooled though, there is much more to the city than country music. If you take a trip into Tamworth, make sure you take a visit to the local art galleries, museums and of course, the Golden Guitar.

Local museums and exhibits include the Walk a Country Mile interpretive exhibit, the Australian Country Music Foundation Museum and the Gallery of Stars Wax Museum. Bicentennial Park is where you’ll find bronze busts of country music legends. Additionally there is the Galaxy of Stars, where top artists are honoured with a star in the footpath.

Tamworth is only a 35 minute drive (45 km) from your Manilla short stay rental accommodation.

Barraba- Things to See and Do Around Barraba plus Map

Barraba is a true hidden gem of the New England North West region. You can bush walk or 4WD along the Barraba Track, through rugged rainforest and spectacular mountain scenery to arrive at the summit of the 1510 metre high Mount Kaputar, an extinct volcano. Horton Falls is also a must visit, with waterfalls cascading 83 metres to the valley floor. You can also drive the Horton Valley via the Bereen Mountain for outstanding views over the valley. The Barraba region is home to the endangered Boronia ruppii, a rare plant species found only in the district. As well as some of the most westerly Remnant Rainforest in NSW. The town is a popular bird watching region. There are 14 signposted Bird Routes in the area. Over 190 species of birds have been seen in the Barraba region. The endangered Regent Honeyeater the most sought after sighting of bird watchers. Barraba is only a 33 minute drive (47 km) from your Manilla short term accommodation.

Our Manilla short term accommodation is great place to visit Lake Keepit
Lake Keepit State Park

is a great family day out with BBQ and picnic facilities as well as bush walking along the Namoi River and water sport facilities. If you feel like fishing you’ll find Hook Silver and Golden Perch (Yellow Belly), Murray Cod and Catfish. During Spring and Summer, the lake is great for boating, sailing, swimming, water skiing and wind surfing. The area is home to over 170 species of birds including the Australian King Parrot. A walk along any of the tracks will give you glimpses into the life of the Australian native bush. Lake Keepit is just a half an hour drive from your Manilla Accommodation NSW and a great way to unwind and relax.

Split Rock Dam
It is a 20 minute drive north of Manilla Cottage to Split Rock Dam, which is popular for boating and fishing. You can expect to catch species such as Golden Perch, Black Bream, Jew Fish and the prized Murray Cod. To fish you need an inland fishing license. The park is accessible all year around. Manilla is a lovely country town where you can meander through the local village. Explore the local area or sit on the front porch. Spend your time reading and drinking coffee while soaking up the sun. It’s a rare place where you can do as little or as much as you want. Above all there is no-one to interrupt you.

Free, Family Fun, Nature, Adventure & Country Experiences

Staying at Manilla Cottage puts you in the heart of one of New England’s North-west’s most interesting country destinations.

Manilla sits at the junction of the Manilla and Namoi Rivers, with Lake Keepit, Split Rock Dam, Warrabah National Park and Mount Borah all within easy reach. It’s also only around 30–40 minutes from Tamworth, making Manilla an excellent base for exploring the wider region.

Whether you’re travelling with family, looking for a quiet country escape, chasing a big fish, exploring Australia’s country music capital or wanting a little adventure, here are 30 free and paid things to do within about an hour of Manilla.

FREE & LOW-COST THINGS TO DO

1. Manilla Bridge-to-Bridge Walk

Enjoy the 2.5–3 hour return walk following the Manilla and Namoi Rivers. It’s a great way to stretch your legs while seeing the town and river country from a different perspective.

2. Explore Manilla’s Historic Streets

Take a leisurely walk through the town centre and admire the historic facades, verandas, leadlight windows and country-town architecture.

3. Manilla Heritage Museum

Step back into Manilla’s past at the Heritage Museum at historic Royce Cottage. Discover local stories, rural artefacts, a schoolhouse and fascinating material, including the area’s famous platypus research.

4. Manilla River & Weir

Spend some time besides the river, enjoy a picnic, watch the birdlife or simply slow down and enjoy the peaceful country atmosphere.

5. Chaffey Park

A relaxed place to enjoy some open space besides the Namoi River. Pack a picnic or take the kids out for some fresh air.

6. Mount Borah Lookout

Drive towards Mount Borah and take in the spectacular views across the Manilla Valley. Even if you’re not ready to fly, watching the paragliders and hang gliders is an experience in itself.

7. Warrabah National Park

Explore this beautiful inland river park where the Namoi River passes through a dramatic gorge surrounded by granite boulders. Walking, birdwatching, photography, picnicking and nature spotting are all great options.

8. Warrabah River Picnic

Find a peaceful spot beside the Namoi River for a picnic and enjoy one of the quieter corners of the Tamworth region.

9. Split Rock Dam

Only around 14 km north of Manilla, Split Rock Dam is a wonderful spot for scenery, fishing, picnicking, boating and water sports.

10. Birdwatching Around Manilla

Bring the binoculars and look for native birds around the rivers, dams, farmland and bushland. The wider Barraba region is particularly renowned for birdwatching.

WATER, FISHING & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

11. Fishing at Split Rock Dam

Try your luck catching Murray cod, golden perch and silver perch, as well as other species. Remember that a NSW recreational fishing licence is required.

12. Fishing at Lake Keepit

Lake Keepit offers around 34 km of waterways, with fishing available from the shoreline or from a boat. Murray cod, golden perch and catfish are among the species found here.

13. Boating at Split Rock Dam

Bring the boat or enjoy the lake from the shoreline. Sailing, skiing and other water activities are popular here.

14. Lake Keepit Water Sports

Head to Lake Keepit for boating, sailing, fishing and family water activities. The lake is a popular recreation destination between Manilla, Tamworth and Gunnedah.

15. Kayaking or Canoeing at Warrabah

When river conditions are suitable, Warrabah National Park provides an excellent setting for paddling through the spectacular Namoi River gorge.

16. Swimming at Warrabah

Cool off in the river pools when conditions are safe and suitable. Warrabah is one of the region’s special inland swimming destinations.

17. Manilla Paragliding

Manilla is internationally recognised for flying sports, with Mount Borah having hosted state, national and international competitions. For the adventurous, try a tandem flight or flying experience.

18. Watch the Paragliders at Mount Borah

Not ready to take to the sky? No problem. Drive up to Mount Borah and watch colourful gliders launch and soar above the valley.

FAMILY FUN & INTERESTING EXPERIENCES

19. Lake Keepit Water Park

A great family option during warmer weather, with a splash zone, water features, toddler pool, playgrounds and plenty of space for outdoor fun.

20. Lake Keepit BMX & Skate Facilities

Combine a trip to the lake with the BMX track, skate facilities, tennis and other recreational activities around the holiday park.

21. Tamworth Marsupial Park

Visit this 14-hectare free-entry native animal park where you can see kangaroos, wallabies, emus, cockatoos and other wildlife. There is also a large adventure playground for children.

22. Tamworth Regional Playground

Let the kids burn off some energy at one of the region’s impressive playgrounds, featuring slides, towers, flying foxes, climbing areas and more.

23. Big Golden Guitar

You can’t visit the Tamworth region without seeing the famous 12-metre-high Golden Guitar. It’s one of the most recognisable symbols of Australian country music.

24. Tamworth Country Music Attractions

Explore the city that proudly calls itself Australia’s Country Music Capital. Look for the Walk of Fame, country music memorabilia, venues and music-themed attractions around Tamworth.

COUNTRY DRIVES, HISTORY & DAY TRIPS

25. Barraba & the Fossickers Way

Take a scenic drive to Barraba and explore its historic streets, country shops, cafes and gold-rush heritage. Barraba forms part of the famous Fossickers Way touring route.

26. Barraba Silo Art

See The Water Diviner, the spectacular 40-metre-high Barraba silo mural by artist Fintan Magee. It’s an impressive stop for photographs and is part of NSW’s Silo Art Trail.

27. Horton Falls

Head towards the Barraba area to see Horton Falls and the surrounding countryside. The falls are particularly impressive after good rainfall, although they can be dry during extended dry periods.

28. Tamworth Powerstation Museum

Discover the story of Tamworth’s pioneering electricity history. The museum preserves the site of Australia’s first municipal electric street lighting and features historic steam engines and electrical exhibits.

29. Powerhouse Motorcycle Museum

Motorcycle enthusiasts will love this private collection in Tamworth featuring more than 60 vintage motorcycles from brands including Ducati, Triumph, Honda, Velocette and Laverda.

30. Tamworth Scenic Lookouts & Country Drive

Finish your day with a drive through the Tamworth countryside and up to Oxley Scenic Lookout. Enjoy the elevated views across the city and surrounding landscape before heading back to Manilla Cottage.

Why Stay at Manilla Cottage?

Manilla Cottage is a great-value base for discovering the Tamworth region and the beautiful countryside around Manilla.

You can spend the morning fishing at Split Rock Dam, explore Manilla’s history after lunch, head to Mount Borah to watch the paragliders, or make a day of Tamworth’s country music, wildlife and family attractions.

It’s ideal for:

• Fishing trips
• Family holidays
• Country road trips
• Adventure seekers
• Nature and wildlife lovers
• Country music fans
• Bushwalking and outdoor adventures
• Pet-friendly country getaways
• Couples wanting a relaxed country escape

Why Manilla?

Manilla gives you the best of country NSW without the crowds.

You have rivers and dams for fishing and water activities, national parks for exploring, Mount Borah for adventure, historic country towns to discover and Tamworth only a short drive away.

And after a day exploring, you can come back to Manilla Cottage, relax and enjoy the slower pace of country life.

• Internet: WiFi – Netflix – Stan – YouTube – Apple TV
• Air-conditioned for cooling and heating
• Fully equipped kitchen, laundry and bathroom (2 toilets)
• TV & DVD player plus library of books and DVD’s in the lounge room
• Main bedroom with Queen Bed
• Second bedroom with one holiday bunk (single bed on top and double bed on bottom) plus an extra single bed
• Lounge room contains a sofa bed and there is room for two single foam mattresses
• Caravan with two Single Beds
• BBQ and outdoor entertaining area on the back patio
• Table and chairs on front patio
• Linen included in tariff. This incudes bed sheets, pillow cases, towels, washers, doonas and pillows for all beds

• Where is the best place to stay in Manilla NSW?

Manilla Cottage is a comfortable holiday cottage in Manilla, NSW, offering private whole-home accommodation for up to 8 guests. With 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, family amenities, outdoor space, and pet-friendly features, it is suitable for families, couples, and groups.

• What are the best accommodation options in Manilla NSW?

Manilla Cottage is a convenient option for guests looking for private, self-contained accommodation in Manilla. The entire cottage is exclusively yours during your stay, providing privacy, space, and the comforts of a home away from home.

• Is Manilla Cottage suitable for guests with accessibility needs?

No. Manilla Cottage is not accessible. Steps into properties, bathroom confined area with shower in bath. There are grab rails and a handheld showerhead.

• Who is Manilla Cottage best suited for?

Manilla Cottage is suited to families, couples, small groups, guests travelling with pets, guests with accessibility needs, remote workers, and visitors planning longer stays in Manilla, NSW.

• How do I access Manilla Cottage?

Manilla Cottage offers 24/7 self check-in via a lockbox, allowing flexible arrival. Your access code is sent by email 5 days before check-in and by SMS 2 days before check-in.

• What time is check-in at Manilla Cottage?

Check-in details and arrival instructions are provided before your stay. Normal check-in is 2 pm. The 24/7 self-check-in system allows flexibility for guests arriving at different times.

• Can I check in early or arrive late?

Early check-in may be possible depending on availability. Late arrivals are also possible with 24/7 self check-in. Please let us know your expected arrival time in advance where possible.

• How many guests can stay at Manilla Cottage?

Manilla Cottage accommodates up to 8 guests. Please let us know your preferred sleeping arrangement before arrival so we can prepare the appropriate beds. The caravan acts as a third bedroom.

• Can we add extra guests later?

Yes. You can add extra guests to your booking, subject to the cottage’s maximum occupancy. Please contact us as soon as possible if your group size changes so we can arrange the appropriate bedding. For additional guests above 4, there are additional charges.

• Where can families stay in Manilla NSW?

Families can stay comfortably at Manilla Cottage, which accommodates up to 8 guests and offers family-friendly amenities, including a baby crib, children’s dinnerware, and an outdoor play area.

• Is Manilla Cottage suitable for families with children?

Yes. Manilla Cottage is family-friendly and accommodates up to 8 guests. The property includes a baby crib, children’s dinnerware, an outdoor play area, and a fully fenced backyard.

• Is Manilla Cottage suitable for couples, families, and pet owners?

Yes. With family-friendly amenities, a fully fenced backyard, pet-friendly facilities, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, Wi-Fi, and heating and cooling, Manilla Cottage is suitable for couples, families, and guests travelling with pets.

• Is Manilla Cottage a good choice for guests travelling with pets?

Yes. Manilla Cottage is a pet-friendly option with a fully fenced backyard, providing a secure outdoor area for approved pets.

• Is parking available at Manilla Cottage?

Yes. Free onsite parking is available, with additional street parking. This is convenient for families and groups travelling with more than one vehicle.

• Does Manilla Cottage have heating and air conditioning?

Yes. Manilla Cottage has Daikin reverse-cycle air conditioning in the living area for heating and cooling. Ceiling fans are also provided in the lounge room and both bedrooms, with heating and cooling available in the caravan. For comfort and energy efficiency, please switch off air conditioning when not in use or when leaving the property and keep doors, windows, blinds, and curtains closed while operating it. 

• Is Wi-Fi available at Manilla Cottage?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, making it convenient for browsing, streaming, working remotely, and staying connected.

• Does Manilla Cottage have a fully equipped kitchen?

Yes. The cottage has a fully equipped kitchen with essential appliances, cookware, and utensils for preparing and enjoying meals during your stay.

• What kitchen appliances are provided?

The kitchen includes essential cooking appliances and equipment, along with cookware and utensils needed to prepare meals.

• Are basic cooking supplies provided?

Basic cooking supplies may be available, including essentials such as salt, pepper, and cooking oil. As availability can vary, we recommend guests bring their own or purchase these items locally at Manilla IGA to ensure you have everything you need for your stay.

• Are laundry facilities available?

Yes. Guests have access to laundry facilities, including a washing machine, drying rack, clothesline, and iron. These amenities are particularly convenient for families and longer stays.

• What essentials are provided at Manilla Cottage?

The cottage provides essential amenities, including bed linen and bathroom essentials. Guests can also access a local guide with helpful tips on places to visit, activities, local experiences, and things to do in Manilla.

• Does Manilla Cottage have an outdoor area?

Yes. Guests can enjoy a fully fenced backyard with outdoor seating and a BBQ area, providing a private space to relax, dine outdoors, and spend time with family or pets.

• Is there a BBQ at Manilla Cottage?

Yes. A BBQ is available for guest use, making it easy to enjoy relaxed outdoor meals during your stay.

• Can you recommend things to do in Manilla NSW?

Manilla Cottage offers a relaxed and practical setting in Manilla, NSW. Guests can enjoy its peaceful outdoor setting and fully fenced backyard, providing a comfortable space to relax and enjoy the Manilla area.

• Is Manilla Cottage a good base for exploring Manilla and the surrounding area?

Yes. Manilla Cottage provides a comfortable home base for guests wanting to explore Manilla and the surrounding NSW countryside while enjoying the privacy and convenience of an entire cottage.

• Where can I stay in Manilla for a longer holiday?

Manilla Cottage provides comfortable long-stay accommodation in Manilla NSW, with the facilities and privacy of an entire home.

• Can I extend my stay at Manilla Cottage?

Stay extensions may be available depending on availability. If you’d like to add extra nights, please contact us as early as possible.

• What information should I provide for a special request?

Please include your booking name, stay dates, and details of your request. Providing this information in advance helps us respond quickly and prepare for your arrival.

• What should I do if I have questions before arrival?

We encourage guests to contact us before arrival with any questions about check-in, accessibility, parking, bedding, towels, pets, amenities, or special requests. We’re happy to help make your stay at Manilla Cottage as comfortable as possible.

• Can I get an invoice or receipt for my stay?

Yes. Guests can use the guest portal we provide to view their reservation details and download invoices and receipts.