Get distracted in Wallaga Lake. A relaxing coastal drive that won't add much time to your highway trip.
Only 5-10 minutes off the highway if coming from the North (turn off at Bermagui Road just south of Tilba Tilba). From the south, turning off at Cobargo and left onto Wallaga Lake Road, you will hit the start of the lake in approximately 15 minutes. The northern end is another 5 - 10 minutes up the road. Even if you don't want to stop but are looking for a change from the highway scenery, it's a pleasant coastal drive that won't add much time onto to your trip. Taking a break? When you get there, choose from a wide range of access points to enjoy the lake - keep an eye out for signs. There's usually public amenities and all access points are well signposted regarding safety and walking your pooch. It's a perfect spot to stop if you want to picnic, paddle, explore, throw in a line or take the kayak or boat for a spin. If you are up for a bike ride or a stretch of the legs, the northern end is a nice flat spot where along the side of the road you can enjoy being fully surrounded by water and natural sounds or if you prefer you can get down on the sandy shores. Probably best to pick up refreshments and fill up with fuel before you head in - there's not a lot to offer along this stretch. Definitely worth the detour from the highway, even if it's just for the drive.
USEFUL LOCAL LINKS
Queensland Border to South Ballina (Approx: 110 kms), South Ballina to Woolgoolga (Approx: 185 Kms), Woolgoolga to Kempsey (Approx: 135 Kms), Kempsey to Taree (Approx: 120 Kms), Taree to Raymond Terrace (Approx: 145 Kms), Raymond Terrace to Sydney (Approx: 165 Kms), Sydney to Nowra (Approx: 160 Kms), Nowra to Bodalla (Approx: 168 Kms), Bodalla to the Victorian Border (Approx: 197 Kms)