Bellingen, located in NSW Mid North Coast hinterland between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, and a mere three-hour drive south of Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers region, has long been the home to a diverse community ranging from 'hippies' to dairy farmers due to its picturesque rainforest meets lush green river valley surrounds. Historic buildings still line Waterfall Way the primary thoroughfare through town connecting the coast to Armidale atop the Great Dividing Range, a drive named for the breathtaking waterfalls along the way. Its population of less than 4,000 residents swells throughout the year around warmer holidays and large events and is a sought-after destination for those seeking a nature-based holiday as they rejuvenate amidst the lush subtropical greenery.
Bellingen's allure lies in the heritage charm of its main street, and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding Shire, from the mountains to the sea. Bellingen's idyllic riverside location framed by majestic mountain ranges creates some of the most captivating and recognisable scenery in the NSW North Coast hinterland. A short 30-minute drive from Bellingen, west along Waterfall Way to Dorrigo, unveils a landscape brimming with the natural wonders of the Dorrigo National Park. Home to cascading waterfalls, ancient Gondwana rainforest, and breathtaking views that extend to the coast and unveil the region's diverse ecosystems and grandeur in one panorama. Those who live for the water will delight in the natural river systems that run through the heart of the Bellingen Shire, and the pristine beaches of Urunga and Mylestom in the east, a paradise for surfers.
Beyond the natural beauty, Bellingen tantalises the taste buds of food enthusiasts. The town boasts a vibrant cafe culture and a surprising array of award-winning restaurants, all championing fresh, locally sourced produce. Indulge in a gourmet breakfast sourced from nearby farms, or savor a delectable degustation showcasing the region's diverse culinary offerings. Explore the Bellingen Farmers and Growers Markets, brimming with seasonal delights and handcrafted artisan products. For a truly unique experience, take a farm-to-table dining tour, connecting with passionate local producers and savoring the freshest ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces.
It is widely known that Bellingen pulsates with a vibrant artistic spirit. This bohemian village and its surrounding Shire boast a range of boutique art galleries showcasing the works of local artists, as well as the annual Bellingen Shire Arts Trail. The town is also renown for its eclectic monthly market and festivals, including the annual Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival, a mecca for bibliophiles to connect with renown Australian authors featuring inspiring panel talks, spoken word competitions, and author signings; music festivals such as River Sounds, bringing some of the best Australian bands to the region; to the annual Camp Creative, where attendees partake in weeklong workshops as they seek to hone new creative skills, including crafts, art, music, dance, and much more.
Whether you crave adrenaline-pumping adventures or a tranquil escape, Bellingen caters to all preferences. For the thrill-seekers, mountain biking trails weave through the fire trails and back roads of the undulating hinterland, offering breathtaking panoramas as you conquer challenging terrain, glide across the water as you foil surf the Kalang River with OzFoiling, or head to the surf beaches of Hungry Head in Urunga or North Beach in Mylestom. Kayaking expeditions offer a more leisurely experience and the calm waters of the Bellingen and Kalang Rivers and provide a serene escape, allowing you to reconnect with nature at your own pace. Bellingen Canoe Adventures offer a range of Kayak Tours and kayak hire and are located in Fernmount in between Bellingen and Urunga.
The Bellingen Shire's convenient location makes it the ideal base for exploring the captivating beauty of the wider Coffs Coast region. Take a day trip to the family-friendly adventures and pristine beaches of Coffs Harbour, where you can spend the day at the local attractions including the Big Banana or Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, visit the Jetty, hit the beaches and soak up the golden sands and crystal-clear waters, explore the stately Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, a haven for thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters and a fantastic vantage point for whale-watching, or embark on a whale-watching tour. Alternatively, venture south to explore the beachside beauty of Nambucca Heads and Valla Beach. If you wish to discover the Bellingen Shire or its surrounds without the car, Coffs Harbour Trike Tours based at the old Tourist Information Centre on Giinagay Way, Urunga can assist!
The Bellingen Shire is actively working on improving accessibility to accommodate all travellers visiting the region. Head up Waterfall Way to Dorrigo's Dangar Falls, which has an accessible viewing platform, picnic area and children's playground. Stop in at the Rainforest Centre at the Dorrigo National Park and wonder at the views from the top of the rainforest canopy on the Skywalk viewing platform, for those keen to immerse themselves amongst the strangler figs and walking stick palms of the rainforest, head down to The Glade picnic area for the accessible level 2 Walk With the Birds boardwalk and bitumen track loop. Heading back down the mountain, and make your way to the coast. Urunga is a fantastic place for those looking for accessible adventures near the beach and boasts a 1km boardwalk to the ocean, accessible walking paths along the foreshore, and a short, accessible boardwalk at the wetlands to the south of town.
Bellingen offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. Nestle in a charming B&B exuding a warm, homely ambiance. For a luxurious escape, indulge in a stay at a boutique eco-lodge nestled amongst the rainforest canopy. Families will find comfort and convenience in spacious holiday homes, caravan parks and holiday resorts perfect for creating precious memories.
The coastal charm of Urunga is just a short 15 minute drive away from your Bellingen adventure. At Riverside Holiday Resort, we offer a range of fully self-contained comfortable and modern two-bedroom apartments, perfect for unwinding after exploring the hinterland's wonders. Our resort boasts stunning riverfront views, family-friendly amenities including a heated swimming pool and playground, and is a short five-minute stroll to the local shops and eateries. Urunga's laid-back, relaxed atmosphere is ideal for recharging your batteries, and makes the perfect base to explore the pristine beaches, National Park rainforests, and walking trails of the region. The team at Riverside Holiday Resort looks forward to welcoming you to the captivating beauty of the NSW North Coast and helping you create lasting holiday memories.