Discover the invigorating charm of Australia’s highest city at Highlander Van Village, a premier holiday destination located at the northern gateway of Armidale. Nestled in the stunning New England High Country of New South Wales, this park offers a unique blend of heritage atmosphere and modern convenience, providing a tranquil sanctuary for travellers exploring the spectacular Northern Tablelands. Armidale is a city defined by its distinct four seasons, grand cathedrals, and world-class educational institutions like the University of New England. Staying at Highlander Van Village allows you to immerse yourself in this sophisticated regional hub while enjoying a leafy, park-like setting that serves as the perfect base for exploring the legendary Waterfall Way.
The park’s location on Glen Innes Road is its greatest asset for culture seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Armidale’s town centre is a treasure trove of Victorian and Edwardian architecture, featuring heritage-listed buildings that house boutique galleries, artisanal bakeries, and grand hotels. For those with an artistic soul, the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) is a must-visit, housing significant collections that rival major metropolitan galleries. During the autumn months, the city becomes a living postcard as the many European trees transform into vibrant shades of gold and crimson, creating a spectacular backdrop for photography and leisurely strolls through the city’s many parklands.
For adventure lovers, Highlander Van Village provides effortless access to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. A scenic drive east leads you to the dramatic gorges and plunging cascades of the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, including the awe-inspiring Dangars Falls and Wollomombi Falls. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Blue Hole and the many hiking trails that meander through ancient cool-temperate rainforests. The high altitude of the New England plateau ensures that even in the height of summer, the climate remains refreshing and the nights are pleasantly cool, making it a favourite retreat for those looking to escape the coastal humidity.
Accommodation at Highlander Van Village is meticulously designed to meet the practical needs of the modern road-tripper. The park is renowned for its level sites and stable surfaces, offering plenty of room for large caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers. With impeccably clean facilities, a friendly management team, and a commitment to genuine country hospitality, the park ensures that your stay in Armidale is both comfortable and authentic. Whether you are visiting for a university graduation, a heritage tour, or a multi-day wilderness expedition, Highlander Van Village delivers a quintessential regional experience defined by elegance, history, and the simple pleasures of the high country.
Highlander Van Village – NSW Location Map
Highlander Van Village
- Address: 76 Glen Innes Rd, Armidale NSW 2350
- Website: www.highlandervanvillage.com
- GPS Coordinates: -30.49339, 151.66973
Site Specifications & Information
- Location: Northern edge of Armidale on the Glen Innes Road approach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, motorhomes, big rigs, camper trailers, and tents.
- Road Access: Sealed highway access; easy entry for large vehicles.
- Site Surface: Level grassy sites and stable hard-stand areas with shade.
- Available Facilities:
- Modern Self-Contained Cabins (Budget to 2-Bedroom)
- Powered and Unpowered Grassy Sites
- Camp Kitchen with BBQs and cooking facilities
- Amenities Block with hot showers
- Guest Laundry with washers and dryers
- Swimming Pool
- Children’s Playground
- Sullage and town water to sites
- Dump Point for guest use
- Essentials to Bring: Warm clothing (even in summer, nights can be cool), hiking boots, and a camera for the autumn colours.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pet-friendly year-round on sites (subject to park rules and leash requirements).
- Fishing: Fresh water fishing for trout in nearby Gara River (12km) and Dumaresq Dam (10km).
- Short Walks:
- Park Perimeter Stroll (Direct access)
- Black Mountain Loop (6km drive)
- Armidale Heritage CBD Trail (1.8km drive)
Local Amenities
Local Pubs
- Stoker’s Hotel Armidale (0.8km) – Historic local pub with bistro and cold beer.
- New England Hotel (1.8km) – Grand heritage pub in the town centre with popular dining.
- The White Bull Hotel (2.0km) – High-quality pub and steakhouse with regional charm.
Places to Eat
- The Goldfish Bowl (2.2km) – Wood-fired bakery and specialty coffee.
- Daily Ritual (1.8km) – Renowned local cafe for high-quality breakfast and lunch.
- Tattersalls Hotel Restaurant (1.9km) – Fine dining in a restored Art Deco setting.
Local Attractions
- University of New England – UNE (2.5km) – Beautiful campus with historic Booloominbah House.
- NERAM – New England Regional Art Museum (3.5km) – Significant regional art collections.
- Dangars Falls (22km) – Spectacular waterfall and canyon views.
- Saumarez Homestead (7km) – Heritage-listed Edwardian mansion and parklands.
- Armidale Pine Forest (3km) – Extensive walking and mountain bike trails.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Armidale Tourist Park (4.2km) – Located on the eastern side of town.
- BIG4 New England Holiday Park (3.5km) – Located south of the CBD.
Nearest Free/Low-Cost Camps
- Mother of Ducks Lagoon, Guyra (36km north) – Low-cost camping on the highway.
- Dumaresq Dam (10km) – Basic overnight rest area (seasonal status applies).
Nearest Dump Points
- On-site Dump Point (0km) – Available for park guests.
- Armidale Visitor Information Centre (2.2km) – Public facility for travellers.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Shell Armidale (0.6km) – High-flow diesel and easy big-rig access.
- Ampol Foodary Armidale (1.5km) – Central town location.
Drinking Water Resupply
- On-site Taps (0km) – Potable town water available throughout the park.
- Armidale Visitor Information Centre (2.2km) – Public water access.
Public Toilets
- Curtis Park (1.8km) – Accessible public facilities in the town centre.
- Armidale Arboretum (3.5km) – Public facilities in the regional parklands.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Armidale
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm days with low humidity. Daytime highs 24°C–27°C. Nights are cool.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Crisp mornings and world-famous golden foliage. Daytime average 16°C–21°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and bracing with frequent frosts. Daytime average 11°C–14°C. Perfect for cozy pub meals.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Fresh and vibrant. Daytime average 18°C–23°C. Peak time for native blossoms and waterfall flow.