Dorsia is the Byron fine diner everyone will be name-dropping this season.
Dorsia is the Byron fine diner everyone will be name-dropping this season.
If you’ve been looking for a reason to ditch your usual dinner plans and head south of the border, we’ve got just the ticket – and it’s dressed in moody lighting, plated like art, and possibly smoked over cherrywood.
Introducing Dorsia, Byron Bay’s bespoke new dining spot crafting contemporary Australian fare with flavours that flirt shamelessly with international technique. This intimate 32-seat gastronomic hideaway – founded by the esteemed culinary mastermind Martyn Ridings of Project Chef fame, is what happens when a private chef goes public…and we all win.
The vibe at Dorsia could best be described as “Byron noir” and is like a moodier, tastier version of your favourite book club. The dining room is cloaked in deep red French-washed walls, giving off strong Parisian bistro energy, and just the right amount of mystery. And at the heart of the space is the eye-catching 12-seat Chef’s Table that runs the length of the kitchen. Inspired by Japanese omakase dining, plates are prepared and served right before your eyes, so there’s no hiding behind swinging doors or suspiciously long waits for sauce.
Inspired by UK born Martyn’s time working in fine-dining kitchens across Australia and abroad (including two-Michelin-star restaurants in Southern France), Dorsia is a reflection of everything he loves about food: artistic execution, genuine hospitality, and ingredients so local, they probably waved at him on the way in.
There’s a seasonally shifting tasting menu, but some stunners are here to stay – including the 14-Day Dry-Aged Duck, slow-cooked, grilled over charcoal and lovingly kissed with cherrywood smoke (yes, it’s as sexy as it sounds). It’s served with pumpkin red miso and a red wine jus that takes four days to make (yes four, that’s not a typo) – a nod to Martyn’s inspiration from Thomas Keller’s iconic French Laundry.
If duck doesn’t ruffle your feathers, the Cured Kangaroo with native pepperberry, pickled daikon and a foam of parsnip and horseradish will hop right into your heart.
From the sea, there’s line-caught Flame Tail Snapper marinated in turmeric-laced hiwaij, wood-fired to perfection, and plated with coconut, kaffir lime, red papaya and toasted local macadamias.
And for dessert? A Caramelised White Chocolate Cheesecake with tarragon oil of course, a sweet-tart-floral fantasy that shouldn’t make sense – but somehow totally does.
Dorsia might be new, but the concept is seasoned. Years of private cheffing have taught Martyn that people don’t just want food – they want a connection, a story, and an experience that feels like it was made just for them.
In a world obsessed with share plates, Dorsia is marching to the beat of its own beautifully curated drum. Here, the experience is yours and yours alone – no awkward negotiations over the last scallop. Martyn’s vision is to give guests a night that feels deeply personal, like you’re not just dining at a restaurant, you’re part of it.
So if you’re ready to lean hard into one of the most exciting dining concepts to hit Byron Bay (and let’s be honest, the entire Northern Rivers region), tell Siri to make a beeline for Dorsia, because life’s just too short to miss out on four-day jus.
Where: 109 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
When: 3pm – 12pm Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 4pm Sunday. Closed Monday.
Words by Bianca Trathen
One day trip, full main character energy.
Byron Bay. Just an hour south, but a whole new vibe. When the GC feels a little too familiar and you need a new coastal playground to frolic in, Byron always delivers – with cocktails, croissants and crystal shops. Whether you’re chasing handcrafted margaritas, beachside brekkies or that elusive ‘wellness era,’ here’s why we keep making the pilgrimage.
Name a more iconic duo than a Byron sunset and a cold one at the Beachy. You can’t. This pub is legendary for a reason – live tunes, ocean views, and a beer garden that feels like one long Sunday session. And now there’s The Shack, their new seaside bar slinging lobster tacos, lychee martinis and seriously cruisy vibes. It’s the Byron glow-up we didn’t know we needed.
Where: 1 Bay Street, Byron Bay
Stone & Wood is Byron’s OG brewery and an absolute must for craft beer lovers. Sip a fresh Pacific Ale straight from the tank, kick back in the leafy beer garden, and snack on epic eats from 100 Mile Table. Tour optional, good times guaranteed.
Where: 100 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay
Byron’s food game is elite. Some GC faves have even set up shop there – plus a few you’ll want to gatekeep.
• Beach Byron Bay – Dine with uninterrupted ocean views. Coastal luxe at its finest. Clarkes Beach, 2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay
• Three Blue Ducks at The Farm – Paddock-to-plate done very right, in the prettiest farm setting. 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale
• Pixie Italian – 70s Italian chic with Byron flair. Gnocchi night is a must. 139 Jonson St, Byron Bay
• Light Years – Modern Asian faves, terrazzo bars, and cocktails that pack a punch. 139 Jonson St, Byron Bay
• Miss Margarita – Fresh, fun Mexican steps from the sand. Margaritas with actual muscle. 2 Jonson St, Byron Bay
• Bang Bang – Asian fusion and serious buzz. Try the Emerald Garden cocktail – dangerously sippable. 4/1 Byron St, Byron Bay
Breakfast is sacred, and Byron treats it accordingly.
• Top Shop – Vintage milk bar vibes with brekkie burgers worth the drive. 65 Carlyle St, Byron Bay
• The General Store – Historic charm and mostly plant-based eats that actually slap. 26 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay
• Roca – Dulce de leche pancakes that’ll ruin you for all other pancakes. 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay
• Éclair at The Bay – Pastries that’ll haunt your dreams (in the best way possible). 3a/1 Byron St, Byron Bay
• Baloney’s Deli – Sopranos-style sandwiches + $2 espresso bar. Fuggedaboutit. 10-12 Shirley Street, Byron Bay
Byron knows how to pour a drink, and the vibes are immaculate.
• Byron Bay Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant – Oysters shucked to order, luxe raw bar bites and coastal elegance. 4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay
• The Mez Club – Mediterranean magic in the form of clay-hued interiors and dreamy cocktails. Bottomless brunches and interiors that will 100% end up on your Instagram. 85-87 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
• Balcony Bar & Oyster Co – Cocktails, oysters and people-watching from the wraparound balcony. It’s giving vintage movie star energy (with a side of seafood). Corner of Jonson & Lawson Streets, Byron Bay
• Bar Heather – With 700+ bottles and serious food cred, this wine bar is equal parts swanky and sippable. 139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
• Smoking Camel – Middle Eastern eats, zesty cocktails, and a vibe that says, “Yes, I do own a spice rack.” 17 Lawson St, Byron Bay
Byron’s boutiques hit different – floaty, boho, and expensive in a way that feels justified.
• Spell – Floaty dresses and Byron-born boho realness. 15 Browning St, Byron Bay
• Mister Zimi – Retro prints for your inner disco queen. 5/85-87 Jonson St, Byron Bay
• Zulu & Zephyr – Swimwear and leisurewear made for sun-drenched lounging. 10/11 Banksia Dr, Byron Bay
• St. Agni – Minimalist heaven. Think earthy tones and rich-girl sandals. 4 Acacia St, Byron Bay
• Temple of the Sun – Jewellery with soul. Timeless, ethically made, and totally covetable. 3 Ti-Tree Pl, Byron Bay
• Habitat – A design-lover’s dream precinct. Come for the boutiques, stay for the vibe. 1 Porter St, Byron Bay
Zephyr Horses makes every horse girl’s dreams come true with forest-to-beach rides. It’s giving The Saddle Club but aesthetic.
Where: 145 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay
The Cape Byron loop is 3.7km of breathtaking views, ocean breezes, and smug satisfaction. Bonus: you’re basically guaranteed to spot dolphins, whales or a shirtless surfer named Bodhi.
Where: 199 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay
Navia Bathhouse is your ticket to mineral soaks, icy plunges, and steaming away the sins of last night’s mezcal. This sleek little sanctuary serves Scandinavian calm with an Aussie accent – think steamy saunas, icy plunges, and magnesium pools that feel like a full-body exhale.
Where: 7 Marvell St, Byron Bay
You came for the day. You stayed for the magnesium pool. Byron’s got no shortage of dreamy digs to rest your head.
• Hotel Marvell – Designer rooms, plush suites and a rooftop bar and pool. 4 Marvell St, Byron Bay
• Basq House – Boutique and boujee with art deco flair. 4 Fletcher Ln, Byron Bay
• Raes Guesthouses – Byron’s newest luxe stay brings vintage charm, dreamy suites and two lap pools just steps from Wategos. Guests also score access to Raes Dining Room, Cellar Bar and spa – beachside bliss, sorted. 1 Marine Parade, Byron Bay
• Elements of Byron – Beachfront luxe with a spa and a kid-free pool. You deserve it. Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay
No proof, just vibes. When Hollywood’s golden gods (hi, Hemsworths) choose Byron as their backyard, you know it’s got something special. From actors to artists, celebs have clocked the chill factor – and honestly, same.
Spiritual. Stylish. Slightly chaotic. But always, always worth the trip.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen and Belinda Symons
Scenic drives, exceptional dishes.
Every January, the Australian Good Food Guide (AGFG) bestows its much-anticipated Chef Hat Awards, aka the foodie holy grail. For hardcore dining devotees, it’s a bit like Christmas morning, only with better smells and no awkward socks. Think of this as our cheat sheet for working your way, hungry-caterpillar style, around the most esteemed and decorated local destinations.
Our Northern Rivers neighbours are doing their thing, but this year we’re also adding South East QLD country into the mix – because why limit your appetite?
Whether it’s hinterland hideaways or mountain-top marvels, these spots all earned a Chef Hat score of 13 or above, making them prime candidates for your next road trip. Here are 16 of this year’s most road trip-worthy restaurants:
Founded by former Paper Daisy chef, Pipit owner Ben Devlin (alongside his wife Yen Trinh) is no stranger to the art of crafting exquisite eats – nor has he pulled any punches when it comes to his first solo venture. And AGFG clearly agrees, with Pottsville’s Coronation Avenue darling taking out the coveted top spot among this year’s most noteworthy Northern Rivers Hat recipients. They stand as the highest-ranked NSW regional restaurant outside of Sydney.
Pipit’s superb score of 16/20 propels them to pole position on our day trip priority list and also, according to the AGFG, ‘ worth a detour’ designation.
Set aside a few hours and treat yourself to the revelatory set menu dining experience, a curated sequence of flavours, textures and ideas spanning over several hours, one which Ben likens to ‘a day trip around the Northern Rivers’ in and of itself.
Where: 8 Coronation Avenue, Pottsville
Byron Bay institution, Raes on Wategos scored an impressive 15/20. Headed by Executive Chef Jason Saxby, the restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine with a Mediterranean influence deemed ‘Quite Out of the Ordinary’ by AGFG – we wholeheartedly agree.
The chic boutique retreat, an icon set amongst Byron’s idyllic beaches, delivers a fine-dining experience in its Dining Room, headed by Executive Chef Jason Saxby. A culinary showcase of the region, curated with Mediterranean influences, the menu offers Caviar service, 3-course à la carte and Tasting Menu options.
A word of warning, though – after tasting dishes like Lamb Blackstrap in black garlic, lamb fat & anchovy salsa, Glazed Northern Rivers Duck, and the MacAffogato dessert, a coconut and roast macadamia sorbet topped with macadamia crumb, Brookie’s Mac liqueur and espresso, you might want to move in.
Where: 6 – 8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay
Murwillumbah’s aptly named Tweed River House, perched just a stone’s throw from its banks, also scored a hat – earning a rating of 14 for its gastronomic bistro and bar experience. Shout out to master chef Dayron Perugorria.
The venue, housed in a spruced-up, century-old colonial-style mansion, offers a panoramic river view, wraparound verandas, and elevated eats to match.
The luxurious and immaculately appointed interiors alone make it worth filling your tank. Still, decadent dishes like Lobster agnolotti with vin jaune and wild vanilla sauce, Beef tartare with brioche and crème fraîche and the Peach dessert made with poached peach, almond dacquoise, peach mousse and almond praline certainly sweeten the deal.
Where: 131 River St, South Murwillumbah
Another noshery deemed one of the best in the Northern Rivers Restaurant category is Murwillumbah’s Bistro Livi, scoring the prestigious hat with a total of 14.
A short 30km trek from Cooly and one of the fresher faces among its culinary cohort – if you’re yet to be acquainted with Livi, it’s an easy one to tick off the list when you’re looking for a low effort adventure snap you out of the Sunday lazies (or scaries).
Tucked within the arts precinct of the tight-knit Murbah community, the European-inspired venue radiates romance with rustic textures and an inviting, intimate ambience, while Spanish influences inform the menu. It’s certainly not just the AGFG critics that this regional gem has succeeded in winning over… #swoon.
Where: 1A 1-3 Brisbane St, Murwillumbah
This Possum Creek gem scored 13, shocking absolutely no one who’s ever eaten there. Set in a literal old-school setting (the former O’Possum Creek Public School), it pairs Southern European flavours with Byron hinterland charm.
Soak up garden views through airy white windows as you dive into fresh oysters or Burrata with Tuscan tomato salsa, breadcrumbs and basil oil. For mains, expect delights such as Black Angus brisket ragú with horseradish gremolata and Parmigiano Reggiano, and Australian bay lobster with chilli, garlic, confit cherry tomatoes, zucchini and crustacean bisque.
Rustic, refined, and ridiculously good, this is one lesson in good taste you won’t want to skip.
Where: 471 Friday Hut Road, Possum Creek
If long, lazy farm lunches are your vibe, Frida’s Field is a must. Set on 120 dreamy acres just outside Bangalow, this paddock-to-plate gem dishes up a seasonal feast that scored 13/20. Award-winning chef Alastair Waddell lets Northern Rivers produce shine with a modern Australian menu that changes every six weeks – think wood-fired meats, farm-fresh veggies and big, bold flavours.
With only three long lunches a week (Friday to Sunday), this is a slow-food experience in every sense – one sitting per service, plenty of time to sip, savour, and soak up the Byron hinterland views. Whether you go omnivore or veg, you’re in for a next-level spread that might just ruin you for regular dining forever.
Where: 76 Booyong Road, Nashua
Capitalizing on Carool’s sweeping valley views, Potager – A Kitchen Garden has long been a favourite destination among locals and discerning visitors. The charming nosher is also somewhat of a teacher’s pet, earning a score of 13 for its Modern Australian style eats in this year’s Chef Hat Awards – along with a near-perfect 4.8 score on Google, might we add… and honestly, we’re not sure which is harder to pull off.
Set on a small 10-acre farm, the seasonal menu is informed by locally sourced produce, much of which is grown on the property. Dishes like the heirloom tomato with Byron Bay mozzarella are a testament to the community-minded culinary experience, while the fish stew with focaccia and zeta’s coffee and dark chocolate mousse gets a mention, because #yum
Where: 502 Carool Rd, Carool
Byron Bay’s Dorsia has quietly earned itself a well-deserved nod with a solid 13, cementing its place as one of the region’s most exciting dining destinations. Sitting along Jonson Street, this intimate, mood-driven restaurant delivers a polished yet approachable take on modern fine dining – the kind that feels special, but never stuffy.
Guests can choose between a thoughtfully curated two-course or three-course menu, dive all in with the chef’s tasting menu, or kick things off with elegant snacks and a luxe caviar experience. Early standouts include the pillowy Parker roll with Noosa black garlic and the indulgent dry-aged duck cigar. Mains deliver more exquisite dishes like Murray cod paired with pickled green mango and coconut, or the show-stopping Cape Grim sirloin with burnt carrot and puffed grains. Dessert is a must, with Valrhona dark chocolate and malted milk that leaves you wanting to order round two.
Where: 109 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
Halcyon House’s beloved Paper Daisy, of course, also earned itself a nod, with an honourable 13. The esteemed and elegant eatery, sitting pretty against Cabarita Beach’s stunning shores, is not just reserved for sandy-footed in-house guests.
We’re all invited to see what the fuss is about, courtesy of the bar, open from 3pm, or for dinner. Led by Andrew Milford, the kitchen shoots for ‘sophisticated simplicity’, where you can expect to delight in inventive and delectable dishes like Spanish anchovies and gremolata on toast with guindillas and coconut-crumbed king prawns, green mango and herb salad alongside an award-winning wine menu.
We’d recommend packing your appetite (and your towel, because, y’know, Caba #phwoar).
Where: 21 Cypress Cres, Cabarita Beach
Brunswick Heads’ River – Wild at Heart has quickly carved out a name for itself after opening less than a year ago. Sitting pretty on Mullumbimby Street, this intimate dining destination is a creation by Scottish-born chef and former welder (yes, really) Michael Lee, serving small plates that change and adapt to what’s growing and what’s caught.
Standout starters include the Lismore wild shot venison tataki made with Blueberry Fields ponzu, radish, charred and crispy shallots and the bay lobster with smoked garlic, lobster coral butter and lemon. For the main, the soltera rum-glazed smoked corn short rib and the local line-caught market fish. Finish with Piña colada made with soltera rum, sumac caramel and coconut aquafaba and you may call it the best meal of your life.
Where: 2/26 Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads
For a long, leisurely meal in a ridiculously scenic spot, Shelter is the move. With a score of 13, an award-winning wine list, and bi-fold windows framing 7 Mile Beach, it’s got everything going for it – top-tier food, service, and views.
From sunrise to sunset, they’re serving up seasonal, sustainable, and ethically sourced goodness. Kick off your morning with green chilli scrambled eggs with avocado and roti, or swing by later for gems like local sashimi with watermelon verjus, gochugaru salt, grapes and finger lime, followed by their daily beef cut with chilli crunch, katsuobushi cream, black sesame. Don’t leave without trying the beetroot mousse with lavender, pine nuts and almond panna cotta rhubarb consommé. Trust us.
Where: 41 Pacific Parade, Lennox Head
Perched on Byron Bay’s Jonson Lane, Bar Heather transports its diners to the charm of Paris or New York – at least that’s what it feels like. They lead with an exquisite selection of natural wine, followed by an equally impressive menu, so clearly designed to torture and tantalize you into returning time and time again. It’s no surprise that they, too, were awarded a 13/20.
You must try their snapper with tomato cream and cucumber and the lamb skewer with roasted chilli and roti. And, of course, no trip to Bar Heather is complete without sampling a selection from their wine list. Don’t mind if we do.
Where: 139 Jonson Lane, Byron Bay
High on a mountain, with clouds drifting past your table and the Great Dividing Range as your backdrop, The Peak is where Modern Australian cuisine meets luxury without fuss. AGFG scored it 15/20, enough to make this Scenic Rim gem a must-visit.
The tasting menu is a culinary journey across Australia: cured kangaroo, dry-aged duck, Kangaroo Island marron and more, all paired with wines that could start their own conversation. With comfy furnishings, an open stone fireplace and an outdoor terrace that’s practically begging for a lingering lunch, The Peak turns a meal into a full-on experience.
Road trips are better with views like this, and food this ambitious.
Where: 1 Wilkinson Road, Maryvale
At Homage, the clue really is in the name. This refined paddock-to-plate powerhouse at Spicers Hidden Vale celebrates the farmers, producers and fertile lands of the Darling Downs and Lockyer Valley with flair.
Scoring a solid 14/20 from AGFG, Homage is officially ‘worth a detour’ and then some. The menu champions local ingredients with dishes that feel both elegant and deeply connected to place, whether that’s Murray cod with finger lime and macadamia cream, pork belly with Kalbar carrot and nduja or heritage rooster elevated into something truly special.
It’s fine dining with heart, where every plate tells a story and every ingredient earns its spot.
Where: Spicers Hidden Vale, 617 Grandchester–Mt Mort Road, Grandchester
Boonah’s Blume is a restaurant that feels like it’s been quietly waiting for you. Inspired by the town’s original name, Blumbergville, this 14/20 AGFG-hatted spot focuses on the principle of ‘time and place’. Only the freshest local ingredients make it to the table.
The ever-evolving set menu is packed with clever touches: rainbow trout with finger lime, Brisbane Valley quail with fig leaf and exotic pepper, or sweet cheese ice cream with apricot and almond praline. Every course reflects the region, the season, and the care of the people behind it.
Where: 5 Church Street, Boonah
In the heart of the Gold Coast Hinterland, The Paddock is a spacious, sunlit spot celebrating simple, honest food. AGFG awarded it 13/20 for its unpretentious approach to paddock-to-plate dining.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors frame sweeping Hinterland views while the menu champions local produce, from roast duck with spiced carrot purée to fire-grilled vegetables and Wagyu rump cap. Cooking over an open flame, the dishes are rustic yet refined, the kind that make a long drive feel completely worth it.
If you’re chasing fresh air, great food and a true Hinterland vibe, The Paddock delivers in spades.
Where: 422 Binna Burra Road, Beechmont
Words by Chelsea Ipsen and Belinda Symons
For when escape is the only option.
Sundays are reserved for one of three purposes; chilling with the fam and getting prepped for the week ahead, sneaking in a little Sunday sesh to delay Monday as long as humanly possible, and our fave, a spot of road trippin!
We’re lucky on the GC as we’re inundated with scenic drive options, and only need to travel an hour or two to find lots of beautiful, unique sights and activities.
We’ve broken it down to five destinations and provided a small snapshot of what you can find at each.
Toot toot!
Gallery Walk
A trip up the mountain isn’t complete without a stroll along Gallery Walk. It’s a melting pot of eclectic finds, with over 70 shops in the one block. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts, cellar door outlets, chocolate, fudge, food outlets, cafes…and even a cuckoo clock shop. If you’re looking for something unique or need to buy that friend who has everything a gift, chances are you’ll find something here.
Where: Long Road, Tamborine Mountain
Curtis Falls
Enjoy a beautiful walk through the rain-drenched Eucalyptus forest to the magical Curtis Falls. Wander past towering trees and through a canopy of ferns, down to this miniature and photogenic waterfall. The 1.1km walk should only talk half an hour or less to get down to the falls, but you will likely want to stay awhile and soak up the peacefulness. Top it off with a spot of morning tea at the Curtis Falls Cafe. Lovely!
Where: 16 Eagle Heights Road, North Tamborine – Get there via Eagle Heights Road and park right at the entrance to the walk.
Cauldron Distillery
This 18-acre working distillery is the darling of the Scenic Rim. A Prohibition-style space with an established vineyard, lush rolling meadows and of course, a generous gin and cocktail bar, there’s a lot to love. Settle in for a bev or a feed, or BYO picnic rug and chill amongst the vineyards. You can partake in complimentary lawn games if you so desire, and they’re pro pop here so Fido can come too!
Where: 89-123 Hartley Road, Tamborine Mountain
The Glow Worm Caves
Take a guided half-hour walk through lush rainforest to a purpose-built cave, filled with thousands of shimmery glow worms! Everyone can get up close and personal with a glow worm here without damaging delicate wild habitats #CueApplause. And the best part? It’s conveniently located in the Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery, you can enjoy a tipple pre or post tour…or pre and post tour!
Where: Cedar Creek Estate, 104-144 Hartley Road, North Tamborine
Mountview Alpaca Farm
Located in O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard, you can meet alpacas and drink wine and srsly, life made. Choose between 15 and 60 minute alpaca experiences where you can walk and feed these cute creatures, or go all out with an alpaca picnic, alpaca devonshire tea, or a wine, cheese and alpaca package (#us). Set in a boutique vineyard and historic Queenslander homestead, it’s as picturesque as it is fun.
Where: 852 Lamington National Park Road, Canungra
Farm & Co.
No doubt Instagram has informed you there is a field of sunflowers just a short 25 minute drive away where you can frolic, take selfies, pick said sunflowers and generally pretend you don’t have a care in the world. There’s also a coffee shop where you can sink into an oversized lounge chair while gazing at the sunflowers and contemplating a new career in farming, live music of a weekend, a tasty array of brunch eats and fresh veggies you can take home too.
Where: 529 Cudgen Road, Cudgen
The Chindy
Check out restful riverside town Chinderah, stopping in for a refreshment and snack at The Chindy. Also known as Chinderah Tavern, The Chindy boasts a big old deck overlooking the widest river in the world (not a fact) and supplies all the cold beer, wine and tasty eats you could wish for on a Sunday afternoon. There’s live music, sunsets if you time it right, and just general non-city good times. Right next door is Cubby Bakehouse so you can get yourself some dessert for the drive home.
Where: 156 Chinderah Bay Drive, Chinderah
The Farm Byron Bay
A must visit for everyone (especially anyone with a little person in tow), The Farm is a destination in itself. See how the farm operates and say hi to the animals, and meet the infamous mascots Braveheart the Scottish Highland cow and Bobby the rooster. Collect macadamia nuts from the macadamia trees, have a meal at Three Blue Ducks restaurant, or grab a little something from The Bread Social to eat outside on a picnic rug. There’s a playground for the anklebiters and plenty of beautiful open space to explore.
Where: 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale
The Crystal Castle in Mullumbimby
Instagood alert! Sit in an ancient amethyst cave, pose with rare and amazing giant crystals, and wander five hectares of subtropical, crystal-filled Shambhala Gardens and rainforest. You can even touch the World Peace Stupa, a project blessed by the Dalai Lama and join in Crystal Sound Healings at 12pm and 3pm! Grab a bite with a stunning hinterland view at Lotus Café and let the kids run amok in the playground.
Where: 81 Monet Drive, Montecollum
Hotel Brunswick
The heart of beautiful Brunswick Heads, swing in for a drink or a feed at this classic Aussie pub. Somewhat of an institution and a fave far and wide, relax under the beautiful Poinciana trees in the beer garden and soak up the ambience. Always busy on Sundays, if you can push the friendship and stay on till the early evening, you’ll generally be rewarded with live music and an even more awesome vibe. Pub grub at its best.
Where: Mullumbimbi Street, Brunswick Heads
Newrybar Merchants
A collective of creative local artisans and curators of fine goods who are passionate about what they do, this is our jam! Honouring the space and the essence of the Byron Bay Hinterland, Newrybar Merchants enables customers to experience rustic charm effortlessly blended with sophistication within a beautiful and unique retail space. Shop everything from faaarshion, to homewares, to wellness products and everything in between, it’s a must.
Where: 16 Old Pacific Highway, Newrybar
Northern Rivers Rail Trail
This scenic trail connects you to breathtaking landscapes, charming local towns, and top-notch spots to eat, stay, and explore. Whether you’re cruising on two wheels, taking a leisurely stroll, or going for a run, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is an adventure at your own pace. With bike hire, shuttles, and cosy accommodation options along the way, planning your trip is a breeze. For an extra dose of fun, Better By Bike makes exploring even easier—perfect for beginners, casual riders, and anyone keen to swap four wheels for two. It’s also a great way to switch off, soak in the stunning surroundings, and even turn a team-building day into a mental health boost. Grab a picnic or a coffee at The Platform Cafe before you head off.
Where: Various access points from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek
Wollumbin National Park
This World Heritage-listed national treasure is well worth a look. Previously known as Mt Warning National Park, lose yourself in some of the largest and oldest tracts of sub-tropical rainforest on Earth. Wollumbin, which rises from the park to a height of 1,157 metres above sea level, is a remnant central vent of an ancient volcano and yep, that’s a drawcard right there. Note the Wollumbin (Mount Warning) summit track and the Aboriginal Place remains closed.
Where: About 12km south-west of Murwillumbah off Kyogle Road, Mount Warning
Tweed River House
This one is special! From the vantage point of the verdant riverbanks, settled at the tropical foothills of the Tweed Caldera in Murwillumbah, this century-old riverside plantation house has been lovingly restored to maintain its original character and charm. The elegant yet relaxed renovation creates a unique space that reflects the gentle pace of the Northern Rivers, oozing 1930s style with a French twist. They’ve even been nominated for a Chef Hat Award by the Australian Good Food Guide so if the aesthetics aren’t enough to get you there, the nosh will be!
Where: 131 River Street, South Murwillumbah
Baked at Ancora
Another one that’s close by when you’re a bit strapped for time is Baked at Ancora. Believers that sweet treats and waterside picnics go hand in hand, we concur and we can’t get enough of this Parisian style café bakery. From their signature croissants and traditional classics like pain-au-chocolat, to the more unique and inventive flavour combos, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in actual Paris. Well worth the waistline damage.
Where: 118 Wharf St, Tweed Heads
Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre
There’s always something new to discover at the Tweed Regional Gallery, housed in a large, modern, architecturally award-winning building with views to Wollumbin/Mount Warning. While you’re there, a meal at in-house eats haunt Apex is an absolute non-negotiable. With a stunning outlook and design to reflect the vista, indulge in a unique combo of rustic French patisserie goodies and modern cafe plates with a very ‘now’ pan-Asian twist. Add a cocktail and instant happy place.
Where: 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah
Husk Farm Distillery
Just a hop, skip and a jump over the border, a sneaky visit to the lush Husk grounds is certainly one of the more low effort, high reward outings Gold Coasters have at our fingertips. Our recommendation? Take your tastebuds on a very smooth sip around the signature Husk offerings with a tasting paddle to start. Not only have they mastered treats of the thirst quenching variety, the Husk Farm kitchen offers up a selection of top notch eats to rival their signature spirits selection.
Where: Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum
Words by Bianca Trathen.
