Broken Head Nature Reserve, Backyard Tourist: Amazing views from Three Sisters walking track

As if sweeping views of the ocean, jagged cliffs and soft, white sands weren’t enough. Nope, this hidden nature reserve is something else altogether.

AS if sweeping views of the ocean, jagged cliffs and soft, white sands weren’t enough.

Nope, a trip to Broken Head Nature Reserve is more than just a quick walk to the top of a headland for some views.

This place will seriously take your breath away.

Situated just south of Byron Bay, the area is well known as a good surfing spot.

The photos don’t do this place justice! Picture: Amanda Robbemond

But it’s even more memorable for its winding trail along the knoll that takes you on an educational and stunning exploration of mother nature, all within a few 100 metres.

The start of the trail winds its way through the coastal forest, complete with cotton trees dangling their vinelike limbs across the pathway.

Some of the amazing view. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

It can be chilly as the sun sets though. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

It can be narrow in places, but that’s all part of the adventure, with a few small view openings along the way to tantalise your eyeballs.

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Towards the top of the headland the forest abruptly stops, giving way to … grass.

As unexciting as this sounds, the tundra-like grass is quite rare and endemic to the area. It also makes for beautiful pictures.

The windy way down. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

There are two pathways, one leading down towards the beach to your left, while the other circles the knoll to the opposite side just metres away

You can admire the view from the wooden viewing platform before hopping down the narrow, windy stairs.

That’s where you’ll find yourself in another world, sand underfoot, cliff face behind you and the blue, blue ocean right in front.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

IF you’ve got time to spare and are still keen to get some exploration in, then Lake Ainsworth at Lennox Head may be what you’re looking for.

Though it can be crowded, you’ll understand why when you take a dip in its reddy-brown waters, said to have some healing properties thanks to the leeching tannins from tea trees.

When you step close to the water you’ll see the colour changes from clear to yellow, to orange to that deep red colour.

A walk around the lake is also a really nice way to unwind.

EAT AND DRINK

Nom! Picture: supplied

Govindas Burleigh recently expanded into its second store down at Coolangatta.

And like the first, it’s worth the trip down south. Especially if you’re already heading to and from northern NSW.

All the food at the buffet-style hub is vegetarian, often using vegetables from their Murwillumbah farm. All profits made from the restaurant go back into community projects and charities too.

It’s comfort food at its best in a casual, relaxed setting.

It’s open 11am to 8pm seven days a week.

DISCOVER

The Three Sisters. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

The Three Sisters Walking track you’ll follow along the headland is aptly named.

Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll spot three rocky islands, or the Three Sisters.

The three islands were so named after an Aboriginal story, which was told to children to warn them away from the dangerous swimming spot.

Years ago, three sisters went bathing in the water, but one sister was pulled out into the sea.

Her two sisters tried to help, but they all tragically drowned and turned into the islands as a reminder.