Backyard Tourist: Mullumbimby the place to be in northern NSW

This is how a trip to Byron Bay ended up in a detour to a lesser-known but charming country town in northern NSW.

Mullumbimby. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

IT was supposed to be a surprise trip to Byron Bay for two days, but a lack of affordable accommodation meant we instead stayed in the “biggest little town’’ in northern NSW.

And I’ll admit it — I was slightly miffed.

But I shouldn’t have been because the alternative, Mullumbimby, had so much more character than I had imagined.

Love those trees! Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Mullumbimby is of course best known for its famous export, rapper Iggy Azalea, but I expect not much has changed since she became famous some years back.

However, the town should also be known for its huge palm trees that line the main street and the gorgeous older-style homes and buildings.

Some cute and reassuring wall art Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Oh — and its amazing food and boutique stores.

Seriously, there’s a bunch of restaurants and eateries there including Japanese, Yemen, Asian-fusion and of course, good old fish and chips.

They have at least two bamboo clothing stores, op shops, an antiques store and a bunch of other boutique stores, plus a supermarket.

The pub is gorgeous on the outside. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Mullumbimby also happens to be in the perfect position to get to some other interesting destinations such as Crystal Castle, Minyon Falls and of course, Byron.

So next time you think of heading to Byron Bay, make sure you follow the lesser known trail to “the biggest little town in Australia’’.

DISCOVER

Minyon Falls plunges 100m into a rainforest gorge. Picture: Cathy Stubbs.

MANY people know of Minyon Falls, but have you taken in the scenery on the way there?

The winding roads from Mullumbimby, passing by Crystal Castle, are just breathtaking on a clear day.

There are multiple views to be seen and large, knobbly trees line the undulating roads.

It’s the perfect time to roll down your windows and enjoy the great outdoors.

Once you’re close to Minyon Falls, you’ll find the road becomes increasingly pot-holed until you hit gravel. Take care when driving your car to the lookout. It’s a bumpy ride.

EAT AND DRINK

Hidden in a little alleyway is the Rock and Roll Coffee Company. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

IT’S called The Rock and Roll Coffee Company and they sure make a mean meal.

At this cute little alleyway cafe, nestled behind a boutique homewares store and adorable inside-outside flower shop in the heart of Mullumbimby, you’ll find delicious Pan-Asian food.

For something a little different, try their Golden Wha Wha drink, which has lots of turmeric in it.

Breakfast and lunch overlap and they’re happy to accommodate those with dietary considerations.

It’s a great place to hang out for a little while, with cozy inside tables and alfresco dining. It’s dog friendly too.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Markets at Byron Bay. Picture: Destination NSW Paul Ewart

OF course, if you’re already most of the way down the northern NSW coast, make sure you visit Byron Bay.

Plan ahead to ensure you’re there on market day, because you can find some really good fare at the local markets.

(I admit it, we spend much of our time eating when on holiday.)

We visited the Saturday evening artisan markets and although it was small, it was certainly not disappointing.

I grabbed some amazing olive tapenade and was awfully tempted to buy some handmade jewellery too.