Northern Rivers Travel Guide
Visit the picturesque Northern Rivers region in New South Wales, Australia, and discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local dishes, and much more.
- Introduction to Northern Rivers
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Rivers
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Rivers
- Best Things to Do in Northern Rivers: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Rivers
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Rivers
- Where to Stay in Northern Rivers: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Rivers: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Rivers
- Best Time to Visit Northern Rivers
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Rivers
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Rivers: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Rivers
- Where to Go Next from Northern Rivers: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Rivers
The Northern Rivers region of New South Wales is a paradise for nature lovers as well as culture enthusiasts. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the east and the Great Dividing Range on the west, the region is known for its stunning beaches, lush green forests, and picturesque countryside. With numerous charming towns and villages, Northern Rivers is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and laid-back holiday. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, things to do, and how to get around in Northern Rivers.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Rivers
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Australian Standing Stones: Located in Glen Innes, the Australian Standing Stones is a unique monument that features 40 granite stones arranged in a circle to represent the Celtic heritage of the town.
- Tweed River Art Gallery: Situated in Murwillumbah, the Tweed River Art Gallery showcases a collection of contemporary and traditional Australian art.
- Richmond River Historical Society Museum: This museum in Lismore tells the story of the region’s early settlers and showcases their everyday life and works.
Natural Attractions of Northern Rivers: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Mount Warning National Park: Mount Warning, also known as Wollumbin, is the highest peak in Northern Rivers and offers spectacular views of the surrounding rainforest and valleys.
- Border Ranges National Park: Spanning across the NSW and Queensland border, Border Ranges National Park is home to unique wildlife, dramatic waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
- Minyon Falls: Located in Nightcap National Park, Minyon Falls is a stunning 100-meter waterfall that can be reached through a scenic walking track.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Rivers
- Byron Bay Lighthouse: The lighthouse offers stunning views of the ocean and is accessible through a scenic walking trail. The nearby Cape Byron State Conservation Park also has many hiking trails.
- Mount Jerusalem National Park: The park has several trails of varying length and difficulty that wind through lush forests and offer scenic views.
- Northern Rivers Rail Trail: The 130 km trail runs from Casino to Murwillumbah and can be used for hiking, biking, or horse riding. The trail passes through numerous small towns along the way.
Best Things to Do in Northern Rivers: Activities and Tours
- Surfing in Byron Bay: Byron Bay is known for its world-class surf breaks and attracts surfers from all over the world.
- Whale watching in Byron Bay: Between May and November, humpback whales can be spotted from the shore or during a boat tour.
- Nimbin Village Tour: Nimbin is a unique village known for its alternative culture and colorful murals. A tour of the village can take you through the art galleries, cafes, and the Hemp Embassy.
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Rivers
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Byron Bay beaches and walk up to the lighthouse |
| Day 2 | Hike in Mount Jerusalem National Park and visit the small towns on the way |
| Day 3 | Visit Minyon Falls and other scenic spots in Nightcap National Park |
| Day 4 | Go whale watching during the day and enjoy the nightlife in Byron Bay |
| Day 5 | Take a day trip to the picturesque coastal town of Ballina |
| Day 6 | Spend the day exploring Nimbin village and its surrounding rainforest |
| Day 7 | Relax on a beach or take a surfing lesson in Byron Bay |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Rivers
Must-Try Dishes
- Byron Bay Chilli Co.: Famous for their award-winning sauces and condiments, Byron Bay Chilli Co. also offers a delicious range of hot meals and snacks.
- Bangalow Pork: A local farm in Bangalow that produces organic, free-range pork. Their smoked bacon and ham are a must-try.
- Tweed Valley Whey Farmhouse Cheeses: This artisan cheese factory produces a range of soft and hard cheeses with a unique flavor using traditional methods.
Local Beverages
- Stone & Wood Brewing Co.: This independent brewery in Byron Bay produces a range of award-winning beers that use locally sourced ingredients.
- Brookies Gin: A small batch gin distillery in the Byron Bay hinterland, Brookie’s Gin uses native Australian botanicals to create unique and flavorful gins.
- Zentveld’s Coffee: This family-owned coffee plantation in the hills behind Byron Bay produces single-origin Arabica beans that make a delicious cup of coffee.
Where to Stay in Northern Rivers: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Lord Byron Resort: This 3.5-star resort is located within walking distance from the Byron Bay town center and features a tennis court, a pool, and spa facilities.
- The Bower Byron Bay: This upscale boutique hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a saltwater pool, and a lush garden.
- Arts Factory Lodge: This budget accommodation in Byron Bay is perfect for backpackers and offers a range of dorms and private rooms, a pool, and a bar.
What to Buy in Northern Rivers: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Art and Crafts: Northern Rivers is home to many local artists and artisans who create unique pottery, glassware, and jewelry.
- Macadamia Nuts: Northern Rivers is famous for its macadamia nuts that are grown locally and sold in many stores.
- Byron Bay Cookies: These delicious cookies are made locally and come in many flavors, including white chocolate and macadamia nut and milk chocolate chunk.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Rivers
Northern Rivers has a rich indigenous heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn about the local indigenous culture and customs. The Bundjalung Nation people are the traditional custodians of the land, and their culture and stories can be experienced through guided tours and events.
Best Time to Visit Northern Rivers
The best time to visit Northern Rivers is between March and May or between September and November. These months offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer season. However, Northern Rivers is a year-round destination, and each season has its unique charm.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Rivers
Do:
- Respect the local indigenous culture and customs.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
- Take care of the environment and practice sustainable tourism.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the wildlife or environment.
- Ignore beach safety advice.
- Engage in unsafe or irresponsible behavior.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Rivers
Northern Rivers is a relatively safe destination, but visitors are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Always swim between the flags on patrolled beaches, avoid unmarked trails or areas, and follow advice from local authorities during bushfire season.
Health in Northern Rivers
Visitors to Northern Rivers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and accidents. It’s also important to take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, especially during the warmer months.
Getting to Northern Rivers: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Rivers
- Ballina Byron Gateway Airport: Located about 30 minutes from Byron Bay, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport offers domestic flights to Sydney, Melbourne, and Newcastle.
- Gold Coast Airport: About an hour’s drive from Byron Bay, the Gold Coast Airport offers domestic and international flights.
Bus Stations Near Northern Rivers
- Byron Bay Bus Station: Located in the town center, the Byron Bay Bus Station offers bus services to many destinations in Northern Rivers and beyond.
- Lismore Transit Centre: The Lismore Transit Centre is the main bus terminal for the region and offers services to many rural and regional destinations.
Other Options
- Car rental: Car rentals are available at the airports and many towns in Northern Rivers. This is a good option if you want to explore the region at your own pace.
- Train: The XPT train service runs from Sydney to Grafton and stops at many towns in Northern Rivers.
How to Get Around in Northern Rivers
The best way to get around in Northern Rivers is by car, as public transport may be limited in some areas. Car rentals are available at all major towns and airports in the region. Buses are also available, but services can be infrequent and may not run on weekends or public holidays.
Where to Go Next from Northern Rivers: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Gold Coast: The Gold Coast, located just across the border in Queensland, is known for its stunning beaches, theme parks, and nightlife.
- Coffs Harbour: Located to the south, Coffs Harbour is a popular coastal destination known for its whale watching tours, colorful marina, and scenic hinterland.
- Hunter Valley: About a four-hour drive from Northern Rivers, Hunter Valley is Australia’s premier wine-producing region and offers wine tasting tours and scenic hot air balloon rides.
Conclusion
Northern Rivers offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, delicious food, and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous holiday or a peaceful retreat, Northern Rivers has something for everyone. Visit Northern Rivers, and you’ll be sure to discover the magic of this beautiful region.