Possum Brush: Forests, Wildlife and Riding Trails

Possum Brush is on the Barrington Coast in New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway and between Taree and Forster-Tuncurry. The town’s natural appeal is especially evident around Clarendon Forest Retreat: several wallaby species and reptiles have been spotted on its grounds, and occasionally a sugar glider. These are individual wildlife sightings and are not guaranteed.

Forest, Wildlife and Views

Clarendon Forest Retreat is surrounded by 16,600 hectares of state forest and nature reserve. The 100-acre property is located in Talawahl Nature Reserve, giving your stay a strong connection to the forest landscape. The two area figures refer to different scales: 100 acres is the retreat property, while 16,600 hectares is the surrounding state forest and nature reserve. The setting on the property also provides a backdrop for forest bathing, an offering associated with the accommodation. As this may change, check before travelling whether it will be available during your visit.

The tracks around the retreat also offer different perspectives on the landscape. Gracies Loop starts right outside the retreat entrance and is a challenging, one-hour circuit through sections of preserved rainforest. Fire trails lead to Breakneck Lookout, which offers views of the coast and surrounding hills. This gives you a choice between a challenging circuit through preserved rainforest and a route to a lookout. Check track conditions and access before setting out.

Horse Riding and Lessons

Sowter Equestrian offers riding trails and lessons in Possum Brush. The business also offers trail rides through Talawahl Nature Reserve for all experience levels; it is a five-minute drive from Clarendon Forest Retreat. The riding options differ in format: riding trails and lessons are offered in Possum Brush, while the trail rides go through the nature reserve. This lets you choose an activity that suits your planned stay. Bookings and operating conditions can change; check them before planning a ride. Blue Metal Equestrian in Possum Brush offers coaching, clinics and Protocol Days. If a specific date matters to you, check in advance which events are taking place.

Guest Facilities at Clarendon Forest Retreat

Guests at Clarendon Forest Retreat have exclusive use of a 12-metre saltwater pool. A tennis court with racquets and balls, basketball, soccer goals and a ball, and a badminton set are also provided free of charge for guests. If the pool or sports equipment is important to your decision, check its current availability in advance.

Discover more destinations: Nericon, Tyringham, North Star, Woollamia, Raleigh, Orange City, Kootingal, Killara

For the broader travel guide: New South Wales.