Nestled on the banks of the Macintyre River, Inverell is known as “Sapphire City” for its history in sapphire mining dating back to the 1800s. Specialty museums, art galleries, heritage sites and conservation areas make this a fascinating place to visit in the north-west region of New South Wales.
Things to do in Inverell
Try your hand at fossicking along the riverside. Head over to Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park or Seven Oaks Sapphire Fossicking to search for sapphires, quartz crystals and other valuable gems. Within the fossicking parks, you can also go birdwatching and bushwalking.
Back in town, jewellery shops, such as Billabong Blue Sapphires, offer polished gemstones, while Inverell Art Gallery features gem-based creations by local artists. Walk through history in original structures at Inverell Pioneer Village and stop by the National Transport Museum to view more than 200 classic vehicles.
Love outdoor recreation? Enjoy extensive walking tracks and wildlife viewing in Goonoowigall State Park or spend the afternoon picnicking and fishing at Lake Inverell Reserve. You can also visit an olive grove, go wine tasting and dine on fresh seafood at Riverside Café.
For some serious bushwalking and mountain biking, head north to Kwiambal National Park. You’ll see plenty of white-cypress pines and ironbark trees, as well as deep granite gorges and rushing rivers. Keep an eye out for the park’s resident kangaroos and emus, especially in the early morning or just before sunset.
Getting around Inverell
Inverell is a 50-minute drive from Glen Innes, where you can rent a car. Public buses and taxis provide transport within the town and to neighbouring attractions.