A delicious feed in an old-time pub, quintessential bed & breakfasts tucked away between eucalypt forests, and rolling green hills painted in dense jungles – sounds like a dream, right? It’s time to escape the hustle and experience the glorious natural beauty the Hinterlands have to offer.

We’ve put together a guide of the NSW Hinterlands, so all you need to worry about is how long you should stay!

Grafton

The Jacaranda Capital of Australia

On the banks of the Clarence River, lies this idyllic historic town famous for its beautiful purple flowering jacaranda trees and Edwardian architecture. This pocket of the North Coast truly makes for the perfect off-road adventure.

Looking for some action? Explore Nymboida National Park which is adorned with ancient rainforests, rushing rapids, and jaw-dropping gorges making it the perfect place to camp, hike, canoe, and 4WD.

Prefer a slower pace? Grafton is the perfect place to linger, with Farmer’s Markets each week and an extensive list of cafes, pubs, and restaurants to try, like the infamous Ulmarra Hotel. Stroll through town and be taken away by the Christ Church Cathedral built in 1884, and the Bendy Bridge built in 1915.

There’s truly something around every corner.

Byron Bay

The beacon of Australian luxury

Byron Bay is a must-visit for those looking for something a little more… splendour. Renowned for its glorious beaches, vibrant community, grandeur resorts, and world-class dining, Byron Bay has quickly established itself as the ‘it’ holiday destination.

For some of the best food this country has to offer, you can’t go past Rae’s on Wategos Dining Room. You’ll be greeted with an undisturbed view of Wategos Beach as the likes of Mr Sinatra and Aretha Franklin lay the soundtrack to your evening. Followed by a seafood-forward menu that stars some of the areas finest produce.

On Australia’s most easterly point sits the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. A destination most known for its jaw-dropping panoramic views and majestic walking trails – it’s a must-see on your trip.

Nimbin

The colourful small town of the North

Nestled at the bottom of an inactive volcano lays a little town with a very colourful history. In 1973, thousands of hippies and alternative lifestyle lovers alike gathered for the Nimbin Aquarius Festival… and some just never left. Today, this little village is still considered Australia’s epicentre of counterculture, with dreamtime murals, spirituality boutiques, and sustainability at the heart of this small community.

Pick up a delicious Dutch & Co breakfast, or freshly baked pies from Nimbin Bakery then soak in all this little town has to offer. Looking for breathtaking natural beauty? You don’t need to travel far. Explore Protesters Falls walking track in Nightcap, or the Pinnacle Walk in the Borders Ranges in the UNESCO-listed rainforest.

Though the most striking natural feature must be the Nimbin Rocks, which are spectacular volcanic extrusions from an eruption that occurred 20 million years ago. Absolutely mind-blowing.

Mullumbimby

The biggest little town in Australia

Love Byron Bay but chasing a little more peace and quiet? Mullumbimby could just be your new favourite spot. On the edge of the Brunswick River at the foothills of Mt Chincogan, you’ll find a vibrant and distinctively laid-back community that’s hard to not fall in love with.

Mullumbimby is famous for its bushwalking – you can even take a hike within the town itself! The Brunswick Valley Heritage Park is adorned with hundreds of species of rainforest plants, some rare or endangered, all of which are home to a variety of native animals.

If you time your trip right, you could catch a glimpse of the Mullumbimby Community Market, which is held on the third Saturday of every month. There’s food galore, live music, and a warm, welcoming, experience for all. It’s the perfect representation of this tight-knit community.