Murwillumbah

With rolling fields dotted with grazing cows, seemingly endless plantations of sugarcane and bananas, and the dramatic backdrop of Wollumbin Mount Warning, Murwillumbah is lush North Coast NSW hinterland at its very best. Set in the middle of an extinct volcanic caldera, the sleepy village is the gateway to The Tweed region’s greatest cultural and natural attractions, from the world’s largest expanse of subtropical rainforest to must-see galleries.

Highlights

National parks, walks and water sports

You’ll be surrounded by nature in Murwillumbah with Wollumbin National Park to the southwest and Nightcap National Park to the south. The towering undulations of Wollumbin Mount Warning (the remnant vent of an ancient volcano) are of great sacred significance to the Bundjalung Indigenous people. Rising to a towering height of 1,157 metres above sea level, it is a much-loved landmark by photographers and artists alike. Nightcap is also popular among adventure seekers drawn to the sheer rock pinnacles and cooling waterfalls.

Scenic aerial view of Tweed Regional Gallery in Murwillumbah South

Views from Murwillumbah, The Tweed

Another place to cool down is Clarrie Hall Dam, located on a tributary of the Tweed River which you can explore on a rainforest cruise. Packed with Australian bass and surrounded by parkland and picnic areas, it's also a popular fishing spot. Golfers will enjoy the 18-hole course at Murwillumbah Golf Club, which has sweeping views over the Tweed.

Clarrie Hall Dam - Credit: Jewels Lynch, Tweed Tourism Group Australia

Cycle or hike the new Northern Rivers Rail Trail, which follows the region's former rail corridor through working farms, quaint country towns, lush rainforest and historic train tunnels, passing art galleries, museums and cafes along the way. The track currently connects Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek (24km each way) and Lismore to Casino (29.7km each way). Hire an e-bike with Better by Bike or ride your own a get a lift to the trail with their shuttle service. Don't miss their magical evening glowworm e-bike tour.

Couple on bikes crossing bridge with old railway in background, South Murwillumbah

Northern Rivers Rail Trail, South Murwillumbah - Credit: Kiff & Culture/Tweed Tourism Co

Art galleries and culture

If the lush tropical grounds of the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre don’t win you over, then the dynamic program of permanent and touring exhibitions spotlighting regional artists will. The space pays homage to one of the country’s most celebrated painters (Margaret grew up in this part of the state), recreating her famous home studio and showcasing a great number of her works.

Real Byron Tours, Tweed Regional Art Gallery, South Murwillumbah

Tweed Regional Art Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre, South Murwillumbah

Visit Murwillumbah’s M|Arts Precinct, a space for emerging artists to create and sell wares in. Housed in an industrial warehouse replete with shipping containers for pop-up exhibits, see artists at work, buy an extra special souvenir, and have a coffee at the on-site cafe. Before you leave, pick up a self-guided walking map detailing the town’s impressive collection of Art Deco buildings.

M|Arts Precinct - Credit: Mitchell Schultz, ZASK Pty Ltd

M|Arts Precinct, Murwillumbah - Credit: Mitchell Schultz, ZASK Pty Ltd

Weekend markets and events

The volcanic soil of the region nurtures bountiful produce, which you can sample at the weekly Murwillumbah Farmers' Market (held every Wednesday). Stall keepers here sell everything from organic eggs to freshly baked sourdough, olive oil to seasonal fruit and vegetables. Things get busy at the Makers and Finders Market, held in leafy Knox Park on the third Saturday of the month. Food abounds, alongside stalls laden with handmade jewellery, ceramics, art and fashion, with live entertainment on the side.

Every November, night rodeos, fireworks, agricultural displays and rides for the kids consume the town, at the Murwillumbah Show, which spotlights and celebrates the traditions that make country Australia so vibrant.

Makers & Finders Market, Murwillumbah - Credit: Curl Events

Cafes, restaurants, breweries and distilleries

Be sure to treat yourself to some local wining and dining. Head to Ventura Brewing to sample Australia's first artisanal alcoholic kombucha, Bistro Livi for European-inspired share plates, Tweed River House for fine dining on the banks of the Tweed River and Apex Dining for a regional menu supporting local producers with stunning views of the Tweed Valley. Visit Australia's only agricultural rum distillery, Husk Farm Distillery, the home of ink gin and husk rum.

Friends enjoying dinner, Apex Dining restaurant, Tweed Regional Gallery, Murwillumbah South

Apex Dining at Tweed Regional Gallery, Murwillumbah South

Where to stay

Accommodation ranges from caravan and camping sites to a riverside youth hostel, motels and luxurious retreats amid the rainforest. For a romantic escape, check into Glenelg Murwillumbah, a beautifully restored 1902 Queenslander-style property just a short stroll from the town centre and nestled in tranquil gardens.

The tranquillity of Murwillumbah makes it a great spot for a relaxing wellness retreat. Head to Avion Retreat for a serene escape in architecturally designed glasshouses with panoramic views of Wollumbin, outdoor stone baths and farm-to-table dining featuring local produce. Enjoy a romantic weekend away at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat or enjoy a yoga retreat at Krishna Village.

The glasshouse at Avion Retreat - Credit: Sally Singh

Avion Retreat, Pumpenbil - Credit: Sally Singh

Getting there

The fastest way to get to Murwillumbah is to fly into the Gold Coast Airport, just a 30-minute drive to the northeast, or the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, an hour to the south. From Brisbane, the drive is less than two hours with plenty of towns and lookouts to stop at along the way. If you’re a fan of road trips, the drive from Sydney takes around nine hours, following the Legendary Pacific Coast route.