Backyard Tourist: Tyalgum is a quaint Tweed township with cafes and shops galore

There’s only about two dozen streets in this adorable little northern NSW township, but trust me — it’s worth the scenic drive.

The main street in Tyalgum. Picture : Supplied

THERE’S only about two dozen streets in this adorable little northern NSW township, but trust me — it’s worth the drive.

Tyalgum, set along the curve of the Oxley River, is just 20 minutes from Murwillumbah, and about 45 minutes from the Gold Coast.

One of the quaint stores in the village. Image supplied by Ray White Rural Murwillumbah

Take the scenic route to this little gem by following Nerang-Murwillumbah Road, which not only takes you past the very accessible Natural Bridge, but through a number of quaint villages including Lower Beechmont, Numinbah Valley and Chillingham.

On the way, give yourself at least half an hour to see the stunning Natural Bridge rock arch, which is easily found by walking the 1km Natural Bridge Circuit.

View from a lookout near Tyalgum. Picture: Fran Silk

So cute! Picture: Destination NSW/Tweed Tourism Company

At Tyalgum, park the car and go for a wander to explore the boutique stores, gardens and eateries.

One particularly adorable shop is called Tyalgum Is My Tuscany, a gallery complete with wares and souvenirs to take home.

They have a range of handmade items there, including candles, soaps and local pottery, as well as recycled furniture.

One of its charming shops. Picture: Destination NSW/Tweed Tourism Company

Main street of Tyalgum. Picture: Tweed Shire Council

There’s also the Earth Heartbeat shop, an environmentally conscious store with snacks, essential oils, beauty products and homewares, and a jewellery store with its own handcrafted jewellery, called Osiris Jewellery.

If you need something to much on, Tyalgum even have their own gelato shop.

Once you’ve finished up at Tylagum, you can take Numinbah Road back up through Murwillumbah for a change of scenery.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

A view of MT Warning from Tyalgum Picture: Supplied

What trip to northern NSW is complete without a peek at Mt Warning?

And for those wanting to enjoy the lush rainforests that the 1156m mountain offers, there’s a range of tracks to enjoy.

One of the most popular reasons visitors climb the mountain is to view the spectacular sunrise.

If you’re a bit of an early bird, consider getting up extra early to take in the amazing view.

For those not keen on getting to the summit, the Pinnacle Lookout is a fantastic place to really get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding valley, all the way to the coastline.

DISCOVER

Welcome to Tyalgum sign

The Tyalgum Village Markets are a great way to get a feel for the town’s relaxed and welcoming vibe.

And it’s held right outside some of the village’s most adorable shops and cafes, adding to its appeal.

Held on the last Saturday of each month, it’s a great way to check out the local wares the region offers.

Expect to find handmade arts and crafts, food, jewellery and vintage items.

The markets also connect to some beautiful gardens, so it’s well worth setting aside some time to scope out their bits and pieces.

The next market will be held April 21 from 9am to 3pm.

EAT AND DRINK

Flutterbies. Cocktails: Bartender Diamonde Heart. Picture: Richard Gosling

Flutterbies Cottage Cafe is no ordinary cafe.

Set along the main drag of Tyalgum, the cafe offers visitors an authentic taste of the food the Tweed region can offer.

Where possible, the cafe uses organic and local produce, while its charming exterior and interior harks back to a simpler time.

For something extra special, you can book intimate high teas, but you’ll have no problems when it comes to enjoying the fare from their breakfast or lunch menu.

They offer a digger’s big breakfast, complete with free-range poached eggs, sauteed mushrooms, house beetroot relish and hash browns served with organic sourdough toast.

Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch.