Murwillumbah

Nestled in the lush Tweed Valley beneath the dramatic Mount Warning, Murwillumbah is a vibrant country town that blends subtropical beauty with a thriving arts and food scene. Its leafy streets are lined with heritage buildings, and the surrounding countryside is a patchwork of sugarcane fields and rolling hills. This is a place where you can explore a world-class art gallery, paddle a calm river, and taste farm-fresh produce — all in a single day.

Highlights & What to See

• Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre – Perched on a hill with sweeping views, this gallery showcases Australian art, including a dedicated wing to the late painter Margaret Olley, reconstructed with her actual belongings.
• Mount Warning (Wollumbin) – The remnant of an ancient volcano, this iconic peak offers a challenging sunrise hike (3.5 hours return) with panoramic views from the summit. Note that the traditional owners ask visitors not to climb the summit out of respect; the base walk is a beautiful alternative.
• Mavis's Kitchen – A beloved farm-to-table restaurant set in a tropical garden, serving seasonal dishes made with local produce. Book ahead for weekend brunch or lunch.
• Murwillumbah Farmers Market – Held every Saturday morning, this is the place to grab artisan bread, tropical fruits, and local honey, and to chat with growers.
• Tweed River – Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm, wildlife-rich waterways. Keep an eye out for sea eagles and kingfishers.
• Heritage Walk – Pick up a map from the visitor centre and wander past grand Federation-era buildings, including the art deco Civic Centre and the historic courthouse.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two days is ideal: spend the first day exploring the gallery, the farmers market (if it's a Saturday), and a paddle on the river. On day two, drive the scenic Tweed Valley Way to Uki or take a guided tour of a local macadamia farm. If you're short on time, a full day allows you to hit the gallery and have a leisurely lunch at Mavis's before a short walk near Mount Warning.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Byron Bay – Just 40 minutes south, with its famous beaches and lively surf culture.
• Nimbin – A quirky, alternative-lifestyle town 30 minutes west, known for its colourful street art and rainbow-tinged history.
• Mount Warning National Park – The base walks and picnic spots are perfect for a morning or afternoon outing.
• Uki – A tiny village with a Sunday market, craft breweries, and a laid-back hippie vibe.
• Gold Coast Hinterland – An hour north, with national parks like Springbrook and Lamington offering waterfalls and ancient forests.

Please check official sources for current details.