The Northern part of NSW is a great place to explore by car. Stunning scenery can be found all over the place - between the beaches of the coastline and the rainforests found a little inland, you're sure to be amazed with what you discover.
Leg 1 - Head South To Yamba
The first leg of your journey would be straight to the Clarence Valley for a stay at BIG4 Saltwater @ Yamba.
If you're heading south from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, you could take a detour off the highway and have a bite to eat at Byron Bay, Australia's most easterly point.
Depending on the time of year you might be able to wander up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse and spot some whales making their annual pilgrimage along the east coast.
After lunch you would jump back in the car and continue your journey south via 'The Hinterland Way', before getting back on the Pacific Highway at Ballina and heading for BIG4 Saltwater @ Yamba.
BIG4 Saltwater is the ideal base to explore any or all of the 3 picturesque towns of Yamba, Maclean & Iluka which sit on the banks of the Clarence River.
You might also find time to check out the famed surf break at Angourie and take a dip in the Angourie Blue Pool, a freshwater swimming hole that sits alongside the beach.
Leg 2 - Inland To Nightcap National Park
After a day or two (or three or four) spent relaxing at BIG4 Saltwater, the next leg of your journey would take you north & inland to Lismore.
From Lismore you then take your pick from any number of scenic drives that can include historic towns, stunning waterfalls and rejuvenating bushwalks.
If you love the outdoors you could easily spend a few days exploring this region and in particular the world-heritage listed rainforests of Nightcap National Park
Or you could simply pick one of the scenic loops and spend the day exploring at a leisurely pace before making your way a little further north to BIG4 Tweed Billabong.
Leg 4 - Murwillumbah and surrounding villages
On the banks of the Tweed River, Murwillumbah is the creative and cultural hub of the Tweed Valley. A vintage country town dotted with art deco cafes and shopfronts. Visit the Tweed Regional Art Gallery where the views of the surrounding landscape rivals the artwork.
Murwillumbah is the gateway to Wollumbin/Mount Warning and it’s a great base to explore the astounding natural wonders of the Tweed hinterland.
RURAL/HINTERLAND VILLAGES
Tumbulgum is well known for its classic country pub, friendly locals and absolutely exquisite riverfront location. It’s a gorgeous place to stop and experience the beauty of Tweed’s hinterland villages, with a great view to Wollumbin/Mount Warning.
Crystal Creek is a small community at the foot of the Caldera Range and Springbrook Mountain. Unique rainforest accommodation attracts a range of tourists to the area all who enjoy exploring The Tweed.
Chillingham is a charming rural farm village with roadside stalls offering homegrown veggies and exotic fruits and good ol’ Aussie tucker and an historic general store.
Uki village is housed with historical buildings that date back to the town’s early days as a thriving dairy and timber centre. Today the village is home to a range of small businesses including art studios, shops, cafes and a bakery, with a laid-back, alternative vibe.
Burringbar’s local businesses benefit from road trippers keen to visit its unique offerings including the award-winning Tweed Valley Whey Farmhouse Cheeses, the Burringbar Rainforest Nursery and Heath’s Old Wares and Collectables.
Tyalgum is a historic village oozing country charm and features quaint old buildings that have been lovingly transformed by business owners into cottage cafes, art galleries, gift stores and accommodation.
You can end your road trip with a few nights spent at BIG4 Tweed Billabong which, amongst many great facilities, has an amazing waterpark that takes its inspiration from the Mount Warning caldera.
This is really just scratching the surface when it comes to things to do & see in Northern NSW. There are also waterways & beaches to explore, fish to catch and good food to eat.
But hopefully this gives you some idea of what you can see if you're happy to jump in the car and take a drive around the region.
Great Deals Available
Outside of school holiday periods there are always great deals available at both BIG4 Saltwater & BIG4 Tweed Billabong. You can head to the links below to see what deals are on offer right now.
