Kwloon

Kwloon is a rugged, off-the-beaten-path destination in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, offering a true taste of the Australian bush. This tiny locality is surrounded by World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforests, making it a haven for nature lovers and hikers seeking solitude. With its dramatic escarpments, ancient trees, and crystal-clear creeks, Kwloon feels like a hidden world away from the coast's tourist crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Border Ranges National Park – Explore one of the most biodiverse rainforests on the planet. The Brindle Creek walk leads you through towering Antarctic beech trees and past a stunning lookout over the Tweed Valley.
• Sheepstation Creek – A serene swimming spot with cool, clear water perfect for a midday dip after a bushwalk. Look for platypus at dawn or dusk.
• Pinnacle Lookout – A short, steep walk rewards you with panoramic views across the caldera of the ancient Tweed Volcano, stretching to Mount Warning and the coast.
• Antarctic Beech Groves – These ancient trees, some over 1000 years old, are remnants of the supercontinent Gondwana. The Antarctic Beech Walking Track is a must for botany buffs.
• Night Wildlife Spotting – Kwloon's forests are alive after dark: listen for the calls of Albert's lyrebirds, pademelons, and the occasional powerful owl.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers allocate a full day to Kwloon, arriving early to tackle a longer hike like the Brindle Creek loop (3–4 hours) and then cooling off at Sheepstation Creek. If you're a keen birder or photographer, consider staying overnight in one of the nearby national park campgrounds to experience the dawn chorus and sunset light over the escarpment. Kwloon itself has no services, so pack all food, water, and fuel before you head up the winding roads.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Warning – The iconic peak for sunrise climbs, about 45 minutes east. Combine with Kwloon for a full day of rainforest and summit views.
• Uki – A quirky village with a community market, great coffee, and a laid-back vibe. Perfect for a post-hike lunch.
• Murwillumbah – The main hub of the Tweed Valley, with an excellent art gallery (Tweed Regional Gallery) and a thriving food scene.
• Nightcap National Park – Home to the spectacular Protesters Falls and the ancient Minyon Falls, just a short drive south.
• Byron Bay – About an hour and a half east, for a complete contrast of surf, sand, and vibrant café culture.

Please check official sources for current details.