Start your coast and country drive at Port Macquarie, just north of Sydney, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Hastings River. Head to the beach for a refreshing swim before you set off on your journey.

Away from the water, say hello to some four legged friends at Billabong Zoo, or hear the sounds of forest birds as you wander the easy 1.3km walk through the rainforest canopy of the Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk.

Home to the Malibu Classic held here every year in May, Crescent Head is one of the hottest spots of international surfing. Pros and amateur surfers alike are drawn to Crescent Head’s stunning coastline, featuring one of the best right-hand point breaks in the world.

Keep your swimmers on and head to Killick Creek, where you can float down the river for a bit of fun. When you dry off, head for a round of golf with a difference. Crescent Head Country Club’s six-hole course offers marvellous views of the ocean where humpbacks swim between May and November.

Continuing your drive north you'll arrive at Kempsey, set on the Macleay River halfway between Sydney and the Queensland border. It's a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the nearby national parks and majestic beaches are easily accessible.

Eungai is actually the two villages of Eungai Creek and Eungai Rail, the surrounding countryside of Allgomera and Tamban, and land along Browns Crossing Road. It's midway between Sydney and Brisbane, midway between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour and midway between Kempsey and Macksville.

Towering over the area is the impressive 495m Mount Yarrahapinni. Visit a dairy with a difference – enjoy handcrafted buffalo milk cheese, yoghurt and café treats at the Eungai Creek Buffalo Farm. And train-lovers, keep your eyes peeled for the daily Sydney to Grafton XPT on the North Coast railway line going past.

Macksville is a popular destination for fishing and boating. Jump on a Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Council Eco Tours from the port of Scott's Head and learn about Aboriginal heritage through a beach and bush walking tour of the enchanting Gaagal Wanggaan National Park.

Visit in November and toast with the locals at the annual Nambucca River Festival, showcasing locally produced wine and food.

Take the scenic drive to Nambucca Heads via Bowraville, and pass the time wandering the folk museum, war museum, a historic theatre, and other historic buildings. Follow the Nambucca River to the coast and discover the beautiful beaches and coastal scenery of Nambucca Heads.

Stroll along the waterfront boardwalks and stop to view the storyboards telling the story of the town. Turn towards the river and admire the impressive V-Wall, an outdoor graffiti gallery where you can create your own art on the enormous rock boulders.

Nestled on the tranquil Bellinger River and next to World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park, Bellingen is a haven for lovers of nature and the arts. There’s always plenty to see and do, and the town celebrates its creativity with monthly Bellingen Community Markets and festivals such as Bellingen Music Festival, Bello Winter Music Festival and Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival.

Food-lovers, prepare your palates - you can regularly sample fresh produce from local farms at the Bellingen Growers Market held two Saturdays a month.

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is the perfect spot to begin your discovery of the stunning World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park. Walk through lush rainforest to reach Crystal Shower Falls in Dorrigo National Park and experience the majestic rocky cavern behind the waterfall.

Head towards the heavens and take in the inspiring view from the Skywalk lookout. Or book a Free Guided Tour with a National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger for an extra activity.

Enjoy dinner at the heritage listed Dorrigo Hotel before retiring for the night at a relaxing retreat, charming B&B or self-contained cottage.

This rural village hosts a canoe centre and campgrounds. The surrounding landscape features mountain bushland, magnificent waterways and an abundance of wildlife, including endangered species.

There are over 25 historical sites around the city and many buildings have been classified by the National Trust, including Grafton Gaol and the Christ Church Cathedral.

Other treats for history enthusiasts include the Grafton Regional Gallery, Schaeffer House Museum, the beautiful sandstone commercial buildings around the CBD, Fig Tree Avenue in Breimba Street, and much more.

If you’re after some adventure on your way to Grafton, hit the white water rapids or take your 4WD for an offroad tour at Nymboida.

Leave Grafton late as you enjoy the morning at the Grafton Regional Art Gallery. Then stop in and visit a working farm at Nana Glen as you make your way to the coast.

In Coffs Harbour, take your photo in front of the famous Big Banana before heading to the beach. Enjoy a camel ride, learn to surf, go diving or cruise out on the water for a spot of whale watching.