NSW is known for its charming small towns, golden sand beaches, natural wonders, and scenic drives, but a secret labyrinth hidden in a small town is not the first place that comes to mind when you want to explore the great outdoors. But that’s our bad because the state is home to one of Australia’s most impressive hedge mazes and it’s a gorgeous piece of work. With meandering pathways and hedges spanning 2000 metres, Bago Maze near Port Macquarie is acclaimed as one of the world’s largest hedge mazes and allows visitors to walk through hidden walkways, sunken pathways, and quirky musical instruments. Here’s everything you need to know about the photogenic spot.
Bago Maze and Wine
The expansive hedge maze can be found in a charming vineyard and winery making this the perfect weekend trip out of town for the whole family. The drive to the vineyard off the Pacific Highway is studded with picturesque countryside views, eucalyptus trees, and acres of vines. The cellar door overlooks the maze so the kids can play and adults can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the surrounding views or enjoy a meditative stroll through the maze and try and find your center.
Paying tribute to the wine estate it’s named after, this beautiful hedge maze was created by architect Ian Mobs in 2006 and has previously won big at the NSW Landscape Architecture Awards for its elegant design. Bago Maze is said to take about 20 minutes to an hour to complete and there are emergency exits in the maze if you need it. The winery also hosts treasure hunts, music nights, behind-the-scenes tours, cheese and chocolate tastings, and lively seasonal activities throughout the year, keep an eye on their website for updates. Tickets to the maze will cost you $12 per adult and $8 per child, book here.
If you’re going for the wine, you won’t be disappointed with the winery offering a range of sparkling, varietal, and fortified wines including their popular spritzy and jazz wines. Wine tastings are available with a choice of 4 wines for just $10 per paddle. The estate also offers wholesome cheese and meat platters that you can enjoy anywhere on-site. Another highlight is a cosy coffee bar serving drinks and cakes from 10am to 3pm except on Tuesdays. Read more about Bago Maze and Wine here.
How to get there
Bago Maze is located around a 30-minute drive from the coastal city of Port Macquarie and a 4-hour drive from Sydney but the views and experience are worth the drive out. Drive North on the Pacific Highway for about 3 hours and 52 minutes then take the Herons Creek Exit to Bago Road, you’ll find directions signposted from here on out leading to the maze and winery. There is no viable public transport route available.