Mullumbimby

Alternative attractions 

The town offers plenty of opportunities for mingling with colourful locals at legendary markets, strolling the banks of the winding Brunswick River, dining in forward-thinking restaurants and cafes and easing into the alternative lifestyle this pocket of the Northern Rivers promotes. The Brunswick Valley Historical Society Inc Museum, meanwhile, reveals the region’s history, from its early farming days to its most notable town buildings.

For a moment of magic, connect with the world’s largest crystals amid the lush Shambhala Gardens at Crystal Castle. Across five hectares of rainforest lie enormous, sparkling geodes, not to mention a dreamy labyrinth, buddha statues and the ‘Dragon Egg’: a 120-million-year-old amethyst cave where you can sit to soak up positive vibes. 

Mural in Mullumbimby - Credit: Sarah Reid

Outdoor adventures 

You don’t have to travel far to immerse yourself in nature when Mullumbimby is your base – in fact, you can go bushwalking within the town itself. The Brunswick Valley Heritage Park is a botanical haven for hundreds of species of rainforest plants, some rare or endangered, and all of which nurture a menagerie of animals, big and small. Take the reserve’s trail to the Brunswick River for a picnic beside the water. 

Slightly further afield, more wilderness awaits in Nightcap National Park, an immense expanse of protected forest forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Explore hiking trails along crystal-clear creeks in the shadow of the (extinct) Wollumbin shield volcano, then cool off at Protestor or Minyon falls – the latter offers a swimming hole at its base. 

Man enjoying Minyon Falls walk, Nightcap National Park, Minyon Falls

Eat & drink 

Follow the lead of locals to The Middle Pub (bring your instrument for Sunday jams), Empire Café (the burgers are highly rated) or Izakaya Yu (a slice of Kyoto). Flock Espresso & Eats is as quirky as cafes get, full of mismatched furniture and whimsical art. Punch and Daisy offers a tight but delicious menu revolving around free-range poached eggs and homemade salsa verde with seasonal sides. Visit Wandana Brewing for craft beers with a view of Mount Chincogan. 

The region’s bountiful seasonal fare also stars at the Mullumbimby Farmers Market, a heaving weekly event featuring stalls bulging with local produce – live entertainment is an added bonus. Held every Friday, it’s a great place to grab breakfast and good coffee, then stock up on fresh fruit and veggies or sweet baked treats to take home. The monthly Mullumbimby Community Market is like a mini-festival, with yet more food as well as arts, crafts and fashion. 

Wandana Brewing Co, Byron Hinterland - Credit: Byron Photography

Music festivals 

The annual Mullum Music Festival spans four days every November, attracting some of the country’s most talented up-and-coming performing artists – past editions have hosted more than 100 acts. Music aside, expect family-friendly events and activities, as well as street stalls selling quirky curios. 

Held just 15 minutes’ drive away in Tyagarah, Byron Bay Bluesfest is one of the country’s largest music festivals, showcasing more than 200 performances across seven stages over five days at Easter. Byron Bay packs out, making Mullum the ideal base – away from the crowds.

Mullum Music Festival street parade, Mullumbimby

Stay in style

On the outskirts of Mullum, luxe Blackbird is a design-driven retreat featuring sleek pavilions surrounding an infinity pool. Perched on the edge of a striking cliff, the boutique Koonyum Range Retreat offers panoramic views across the rolling hills of the hinterland all the way to the ocean.

More low-key accommodation includes centrally located pub rooms and motels, as well as a sprawling camping ground.   

Take a dip in the pool at Koonyum Range Retreat, Mullumbimby

Getting there

Mullumbimby is a scenic 8.5-hour drive north from Sydney, or a two-hour commute south from Brisbane. If you prefer someone else to navigate, catch the train to the nearby town of Casino, and connect via bus. Alternatively, fly into Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, 35 minutes away, or Lismore Regional Airport, 50 minutes away.