Bellingen

Nestled in a lush green valley beside the Bellinger River, Bellingen is a creative, eco-conscious town that feels like a verdant escape from the coast. This vibrant community is known for its thriving arts scene, alternative lifestyle, and stunning natural surroundings, with waterfalls and rainforest just minutes away. It's a place where you can spend the morning browsing art galleries and the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear river pools.

Highlights & What to See

• Bellingen Markets – Held on the third Saturday of each month, these markets are legendary for artisan food, handmade crafts, and live music, set in the beautiful park by the river.
• Bellinger River swimming spots – Take a dip at the Bellingen Swimming Hole or upstream at the Never Never River, where natural rock pools offer idyllic swimming in clear, cool water.
• Promised Land – A magical spot where the Never Never River meets the Bellinger River, perfect for a picnic and a swim in the calm, deep pools.
• Dangar Falls – A short walk from the town centre leads to this picturesque waterfall cascading into a deep pool, ideal for a refreshing dip.
• Bellingen Brewery & Co. – Sample craft beers and ciders made with local ingredients in the relaxed beer garden, a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Suggested Time to Spend

Bellingen deserves at least a full day to soak up its relaxed vibe and explore the surrounding nature. If you're driving the Waterfall Way, stop for a night or two to enjoy the markets (if timed right), go for a swim, and take a short rainforest walk. The town is compact and walkable, so you can easily see the main streets and river in a few hours, but the real magic lies in lingering.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dorrigo National Park – Drive 30 minutes west along the spectacular Waterfall Way to see ancient rainforest, the Dorrigo Skywalk, and dramatic waterfalls.
• Coffs Harbour – Head east for 40 minutes to reach the coast, with its famous Big Banana, beaches, and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.
• Sawtell – A laid-back beach town with a great café scene and a beautiful patrolled beach, just 30 minutes south of Coffs Harbour.
• Urunga – Explore the boardwalk through mangroves and the Urunga Lagoon, where the river meets the sea, only 20 minutes away.

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