Bellingen, just 30 minutes from the regional hub of Coffs Harbour, is a riverside village nestled in the heart of the lush Bellinger Valley. Surrounded by rolling green hills and bucolic rural scenes, the valley and town has stolen the hearts of many who pass through. That’s because Bellingen is not your run of the mill small country town, it’s special. Maybe it’s the power of the beautiful natural environment that pulls you in, or the tangible sense of warmth from the cosmopolitan community. Either way, a visit to Bellingen feels like a great big bear hug. So whether you are looking for a halfway stop between Sydney and Brisbane, or driving the incredibly scenic Waterfall Way through to Armidale, Bellingen is the perfect place to put on the brakes, stop and spend a bit of time.
In town, the eclectic village vibe melds together an artistic and alternative scene, with a buzzing festival, cafe and gallery culture. Walk the streets to the sound of buskers, stop and take in the colourful and diverse flyers dotted on various community noticeboards, admire the turn of the century atmosphere and rich architectural heritage, watch the colourful characters, feel the cosmopolitan culture. You’ll quickly realise, there’s no other place quite like Bellingen.
The main street is lined with independent and quirky shops and cafes. You won’t find any large chains like McDonalds or Kmart, but you might find retro clothing, vintage wares, natural wholefoods, Australian made clothing, wellness products, boutique kitchenware, handmade leather goods and local art. The shops reflect the diversity of the community who live in Bellingen, all coming from a fascinating blend of backgrounds with widely varying interests.
Putting aside the unique town, Bellingen’s location is also pretty special. Perfectly situated between the mountains and the sea, you can enjoy a wide variety of natural environments without having to travel more than half an hour. In the Bellinger Valley you can while away the day sliding down the river on a canoe, or cool down in the crystal clear creeks of the Promised Land overhung with trees dripping in moss.
Feel like walking? Head up to the Dorrigo Plateau and walk amongst the giants in the ancient Gondwana rainforests. Find the many thundering waterfalls and see some of the most mind blowing views. Or if sand and sea takes your fancy, make your way to the coast and feel the wind in your hair at Hungry Head – you’re likely to have the beach all to yourselves. There are numerous other beautiful beaches close by too, with their pristine white sand, rocky headlands and natural lidos. Take your pick or visit them all.
Treat yourself to a stay that’s genuinely relaxing with nothing but the sound of birds, trees, and the occasional cow in the distance.
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