Backyard Tourist: Trip down to Bangalow, NSW for Mother’s Day weekend

It’s Mother’s Day this weekend, and in celebration we’re heading on a scenic road trip to explore a little known township that has something for everyone.

THERE is just 2000 odd people living in this tiny northern NSW town.

Which makes it the perfect place to get away from it all for Mother’s Day.

In fact, this week’s Backyard Tourist is going on a relaxing scenic trip to Bangalow.

Founded in the 1880s, this small township still retains all of its charm, with quaint federation buildings lining its main street and cosy cafes to check into.

The main street in Bangalow is bustling with antique shops, cafes and galleries.

And yet, mother nature is right around the corner, just 20 minutes away from the beach, or 15 minutes down to the amazing Killen Falls.

In fact, Bangalow is just around the bend from the scenic Friday Hut Road drive, so you can enjoy both while you’re out and about.

In the hamlet, you’ll find there’s markets and boutique shops to explore and cafes to enjoy.

The Bangalow Markets are on every fourth Sunday, while the Farmers Markets are on 8-11am every Saturday behind the Bangalow Hotel.

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A scene from 1996 — the township still retains all its charm more than a decade on.

The Bangalow Billy Cart Derby will also be held on May 19 if you prefer to lose yourself within the atmosphere of a fun sporting event.

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A store on your must-visit list is Abracadabra, which is famous for selling a variety of odd bits and bobs you never know you needed.

There’s something in this township for everyone, you just need to know where to look.

DISCOVER

Gaia Retreat & Spa. For a more luxurious day away.

Have I got a treat for you.

Gaia Retreat and Spa is an expansive property tucked away in Brooklet, a 10 minute drive from Bangalow.

This is the ultimate relaxation station, with a lookout said to be the highest in Ballina Shire, plus a pool, sauna, spas, award-winning restaurant and outdoor lounges.

Even Marcia Hines and Terri Irwin have visited.

They also offer yoga, meditation, organic cooking classes and clay sculpture activities.

The property offers luxurious accommodation packages, but day trippers are welcome to use the day spa for a range of massage, facials, masques and natural therapies.

Get ready to splash some cash though, this amazing spot doesn’t come cheap.

EAT AND DRINK

The Italian Diner, Bangalow. Picture: supplied

The Italian Diner in the heart of Bangalow focuses on fresh seafood and local produce.

Diners can opt to sit inside or al fresco and is slightly casual.

Its menu is deliciously Italian, with all the traditional fare like arancini balls, pepperoni pizza and bruschetta.

But their menu includes come interesting combinations, such as a vegetarian lasagne, spanner crab ricotta gnocchi, and baby octopus in chilli and tomato sauce with ciabatta.

There’s a range of yummy sides to taste as well, including a broccoli saltati with shaved almonds, fried polenta chips and Italian slaw with pickled red onion, white cabbage and parmesan. Bon Appetit!

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Broken Head, Byron Shire. Picture: Istock

Don’t forget to explore Broken Head when you’re down this way.

The beaches out here are beautiful, nestled among the Broken Head Nature Reserve.

It’s a relaxed spot and you won’t find too many people crowding along the beach. Phew!

You can choose to surf, swim or simply sunbake. There’s even a picnic area close by where you can make yourself some lunch.

The spot also offers a bunch of hidden coves to explore with your significant other.

If you enjoy meandering through a rainforest trail, then the Three Sisters Walking track allows you to stretch your legs.