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Bellingen Region
Bellingen
This riverside town is on the Waterfall Way between Coffs Coast and the Dorrigo Plateau.
Here the turn of the century "main street" village atmosphere still exists - pubs, shops and general stores and gnarled, leafy shade trees. And now, with cafes and eateries offering cappuccinos, creative cuisine and contemporary live music.
The two storied timber, stone and iron lace Hammond & Wheatley Emporium which dominates the townscape, once supplier of groceries and merchandise to the early settler community now caters for visitors with arts, wood crafts and designer fashions.
In and around Bellingen are a variety of accommodations, particularly B&B’s, farm stays and self contained cabins - most in quiet rural hideaways.
If you enjoy jazz, Bellingen’s Jazz Festival is held each August - book early. In between times the Bellingen market is held on the third Saturday of each month.
Dorrigo
One thousand metres above sea level on the edge of the Great Diving Range escarpment nestles Dorrigo. On the east side of the town, the plateau drops away into the Dorrigo National Park's World Heritage rainforests. To the west lies gently rolling farmland. In the town, the pub, bakery and country stores hark back to an era of traditional, rural Australia.
On the "Sky Walk" at the entrance to the National Park you step out over the tops of rainforest giants. Below are walkways and trails to wander. The overhead canopy, vines and ferns are home to numerous forest birds. Be patient and be rewarded with a rare sighting.
Five minutes north of town is Dangar Falls with water spilling into a circular pool before continuing its downward journey to the Coffs Coast. With lawns and shade trees, this is an excellent picnic spot.
Urunga
Waterways, farm fields and beaches surround Urunga where the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers join the sea.
Good sporting facilities, clubs and the seaside village atmosphere combine to make your stay in Urunga relaxed and peaceful.
The traditional Ocean View Hotel overlooking the rivers is a great place to enjoy a meal. And for other accommodation options, stop at the Bellingen Visitor Information Centre, on the Pacific Highway just south of the Kalang River.
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