Kumbaingiri Retreat

Kumbaingiri Retreat homestead

Favourites to see & do

Bellingen, the bush and beyond

This is the country that inspired Peter Carey's great work: Oscar and Lucinda, “In this landscape every rock had a name, and most names had spirits, ghosts, meanings.” It's worth exploring every corner of it. But why not start by exploring these links.

A bushwalk is a fine way to start. The seven nearby National Parks are full of them. Canoeing and white water rafting is a beautiful way to see the country. And there are a dozen unspoilt beaches on the coast ready to walk, swim, scuba dive, surf or fish.

The river fishing is also excellent. Try fly-fishing at Mt Ebor. Mind you, a good drive can be just as exhilarating. The Waterfall Way to Armidale is terrific.

You'll soon work up an appetite, in which case Lodge 241 Gallery Cafe in Bellingen has fantastic food and views. As does Chefs Hat winner, No. 2 Oak Street in Bellingen – be sure to ask for Toni.

If you fancy a nice quiet coffee, there are various cafes in Bellingen to choose from.

While you're in Bellingen a visit to the imperial Hammond and Wheatley building is a must. Certainly for the Emporium Bellingen clothing boutique.

If you're a golfer, your game can only improve at the magnificent Bonville International Golf Course. The courses at Bellingen and Urunga are also a joy, if slightly less challenging.

Perhaps the best way to discover all about Bellingen is to go to www.bellingen.com where everything you need to know, see and experience is listed and easily discovered.

» Around Bellingen in two clicks