Holiday houses in Bangalow

The town of Bangalow in northern New South Wales takes many of its cues from its bigger and busier seaside sister, Byron Bay, just 20 minutes away on the east coast. Both destinations are known for their fabulous food and wine scenes, great outdoor adventures, and tight-knit communities of locals who know how to slow down and enjoy life.

But while Byron is all about the beach, Bangalow is a rainforest haven, replete with a line of historic Federation-style buildings housing cozy cafes, independent boutiques, and paddock-to-plate restaurants that source produce from the lush surrounding countryside. Fan out into the hinterland and you’ll discover the village’s legendary grove of Bangalow palms as well as macadamia and dairy farms, fruit orchards, and coffee estates, all surrounded by national parkland where waterfalls tumble into cool rivers and clifftop lookouts offer glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.

Like Byron Bay, Bangalow draws visitors all year round. It’s hugely popular in winter, when cooler temperatures and lower humidity make hiking the hinterland particularly appealing — this is also a great time to explore nearby coastal tracks, with migrating southern right and humpback whales a regular sight from Byron’s lighthouse. For those looking to combine a holiday here with surfing or swimming, the summer months will be most attractive. Other popular times to be in Bangalow are for the annual Billycart Derby in May and the Byron Bay Bluesfest in April, when many choose to stay in town and commute to the coast rather than brave the crowds in Byron proper.

Bangalow Markets

The region’s pop-up markets follow a trail between Byron, Mullumbimby, Kingscliff, and Bangalow, where they operate on the fourth Sunday of every month. Enjoy live entertainment while you peruse stalls selling local fashion and homewares, organic beauty products, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious baked goods.

Minyon Falls

Looking to stretch your legs and feel the force of nature? Minyon Falls is one of the coolest attractions within Nightcap National Park. It’s a quick stroll to the top of the gushing waterfalls, which drop 100 metres to the forest floor, casting a welcome spray over hikers.

Village hopping

You could while away a week in Bangalow and never think about moving far. But when it’s time to widen your reach, explore the nearby country towns of Federal and Newrybar (both with excellent restaurants) and then head east to Byron Bay, where waterside bars, a regular roster of events, standout beaches, and scenic walks await.