Bellingen is nestled in the Bellingen Valley on the banks of the Bellinger River. This pretty town is home to farmers, creatives, young families and retirees. Throughout the year it hosts a diverse range of festivals, events and market days. It’s a delightful place to relax and enjoy the stunning view and some fine local music while sampling this region’s produce in friendly restaurants and cafes around town, stretch your legs on a gentle nature walk or a more challenging hike, or kayak along the river. You are truly spoilt for choice for things to do here.
Visitors are captivated by the region’s natural beauty, the green rolling pastures and pockets of rainforest framed by the tree-clad Dorrigo escarpment. But it’s the wonderful combination of Bellingen’s turn-of-the-century main street village atmosphere, rich architectural heritage, rural charm, bohemian atmosphere and thriving cosmopolitan culture and cafe society that truly captures people’s hearts.
The 3500-plus richly diverse locals come from all walks of life. The healthy ‘alternate’ dedication to family, community and work-life balance is the strong denominator that unifies the town. One of the most creative communities on the mid-north coast, Bellingen is home to some of the most colourful events in NSW. Bellingen is also a shopper’s Mecca, from designer labels to locally made and organic, there is something for everyone. Stay awhile in Bellingen and grab some holiday accommodation in Bellingen on Search and Stay.
Start your Saturday mornings a little differently with a hike route planned and led by the Bellingen Hikers. Each hike is announced a couple of days prior, with a map, meeting point and a description of the hike’s length, degree of difficulty and general advice. They’re generally 1.5-2hrs long and such a great way to kick off your weekend. Discover places you didn’t even know existed, enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Warm summers bring locals and visitors to the picnic area under the town’s iconic Lavenders Bridge. This is a beautiful place for families who want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon or early evening swim in the Bellinger River while having a picnic or take-away meal outdoors. Don’t forget your sunscreen and hat
Bellingen Canoe Adventures promises a fun day out for everyone. There are trips catering to all ages and skill levels. Hire a comfy single, double or triple canoe/kayak - stable and flat bottomed so you won’t fall out. This is a fantastic way to observe the rich ecosystems and wildlife, flora and fauna and aquatic culture of the Bellinger River.
Try a scenic flight with Precision Helicopters and head up the Bellinger River through the Valley towards Bellingen. View the mountain foothills over pristine rainforests, mountain eucalypt forests, and opening up to the pretty Bobo Valley with views back to the coast or further west to the famous Dorrigo Plateau. From an orbiting vantage point of Mt. Moombil, a pass over the beautiful Gleniffer Falls where the earth just falls away beneath you; take in a breathtaking vista of the Bellingen Valley or the hidden rock pools and river below.
The Bellingen Growers Market is held every Saturday except the 3rd week when Bellingen Community Markets is on. These little markets have a big impact and a great community vibe, with local growers (focusing on organic), makers and bakers along with delicious food and live music. 
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to support local growers and creators.
One example of the local creators is Bellingen Brewing Company. They are Bellingen's artisan, music venue, brewery and boutique bar making and serving their own beers and ferments. Aiming to be a brewing company of the highest caliber with strong environmental ethics, they offer a fine selection of Australian organic, bio-dynamic and preservative-free wines and their unique cocktail menu is inspired by the flavours and sights of local surrounds, highlighting fresh and aromatic ingredients.
Originally the land of the Gumbaynggirr people, the Bellingen Shire forms part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest, as well as the beautiful town of Bellingen the Shire also offers Urunga on the seaboard and Dorrigo on the plateau to enjoy and round out your holiday experience. While staying here in your Urunga holiday house or Dorrigo farm stay found on Search and Stay, there are numerous creative, bespoke activities and attractions to take advantage of.
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