Northern Rivers Discovery Trail – Murwillumbah, Nimbin, Lismore
DISCOVER HINTERLAND VILLAGES
Take the scenic 'road less travelled' through the regions’ rich hinterland. Discover charming hinterland villages, home to local artists and delicious local produce. You’ll also discover an alternate way of life, along with stunning natural beauty and pure wilderness in the region’s World-Heritage-listed national parks.
From Murwillumbah, follow the main road through town and take the Nimbin/Kyogle Road through the foothills of Wollumbin Mount Warning, arriving in Uki. Uki is a charming village with galleries, markets and a gorgeous café housed in the 110-year-old heritage listed Uki Post Office. Mount Warning Hotel provides a beautiful location to enjoy a great meal with views of Wollumbin.
From Uki, the road to the Rainbow region offers spectacular views as you pass between the Nightcap and Mebbin National Parks.
Along the way, stop in for a visit at Blue Knob Gallery and Café and view the works of local artists, enjoy a delicious morning tea or lunch with great views of beautiful Blue Knob from the verandah.
Visit Australia's Alternative Lifestyle Capital
Just 7km up the road is Nimbin, the birthplace of the Aquarius movement and the alternate lifestyle capital of Australia.
As well as offering an array of cafés serving local coffee, spicy chai brews and healthy food options catering for all dietary needs, the shopping is diverse with many offering environmentally sustainable options, or locally made health and wellbeing products that are locally grown and made.
Nimbin is also home to the H.E.M.P Embassy, Nimbin Environment Centre, Nimbin Sustainable Living Hub, Nimbin Artists Gallery, Djanbung Permaculture Gardens and the Nimbin Candle Factory. Before setting off, stretch your legs, admire the local beauty and learn about the story of Nimbin along the Nimbin Rainbow Walk.
Follow Nimbin Road towards Lismore, Tourist Drive 32 that passes Nimbin Rocks, an awe-inspiring landmark and place of great cultural significance to the local Indigenous people.
Where Markets, Music & Rainforest Magic Collide
Turn left onto Koonorigan Road, around 15km from Nimbin, and follow the road to The Channon.
The Channon Craft Markets are the region’s original weekend market and are well worth a visit on the second Sunday of the month.
The Channon Tavern located alongside Terania Creek is a popular place for a great pub meal, a cold brew or to enjoy live music on Sunday’s.
The 25- minute drive from The Channon village to Protesters Falls is well worth the effort. The falls were named after the Terania Creek protests in 1979 that saved this precious patch of pristine rainforest from logging. Enjoy an elevated boardwalk with sculptural elements at the start of the walk that brings this historical story to life, the walk to the base of the falls is an easy 1.4km round trip.
Lismore - The creative hub of the northern rivers
Head to Lismore City, the creative and artistic hub of the region via Modanville. Modanville is home to Annie's Country Bakery, famous for their delicious pies, baked on the premises daily, offering an extensive menu of varieties along with other baked goods.
In Lismore, you will find a mix of quirky, cosmopolitan shops, and an array of dining alternatives with fabulous food and coffee. Make sure you visit the Lismore Regional Gallery alongside the Quad, the Lismore City Library and Conservatorium of Music.
A walk around the city centre is a great way to explore the many historic buildings, enjoy street music and art. Have your photo taken in front of the Lismore ‘You are Here’ heart, and wander through the ‘Back Alley Gallery’. The back lanes of the Lismore City Centre have been transformed into a larger-than-life gallery by talented local, national and international street artists.
Head to South Lismore to explore the Lismore to Casino section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, a stop at the Two Mates Brewery on the Rail Trail is a great way to reward yourself after a walk or ride!
Drive Highlights
There is so much to be discovered along this tourist drive, outlined are some of the highlights we recommend you include on your trip!
- – Discover the Nimbin Rainbow Walk
- – Walk to the base of Protestors Falls
- – See What’s On in Lismore, perhaps take in a live show or art class
- – Ride the Northern Rivers Rail Trail from Lismore to Casino.
