Locay - The Best Boutique in Bellingen: The Lodge Delivering a Signature Coast-to-Country Getaway

Found in the heart of New South Wales sits a destination that is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Think Byron Bay without the crowds and Burleigh Heads without the lights – it's back to basics, and it works.

Halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Bellingen is a 5.5-hour drive north of Sydney and a 30-minute drive southwest of Coffs Harbour. You can also catch the train from Sydney, and the journey takes around nine hours.

Bellingen, considered a lesser-known location here in Australia, boasts stunning World Heritage-listed rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and wide beaches. It's a place that effortlessly combines the beauty of coast and country, while also offering refreshing river activities for those looking to explore the great outdoors. It has all bases covered in terms of getting out and staying active.

Away from the bustling crowds, Bellingen offers a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of its vibrant local and regional communities, infusing this small hub with a dynamic burst of energy.

When it comes to dining options, Bellingen has no shortage of places to indulge in gourmet cuisine. In fact, it's slowly becoming a signature destination for foodies and making headlines with the attraction of big hospitality names in the industry. From the classic Australian pub, the Federal Hotel, to the artisanal Bellingen Gelato Bar, there's something for every kind of food lover and a destination making inroads within the Australian culinary scene.

Accompany Locay as we delve into this petite town enveloped by a tight community that propels its vibrant spirit, promising a local escapade like never before.

The Lodge Bellingen, a beautifully renovated motel, offers a serene retreat just 1km from the charming township of Bellingen. It's here that we strongly recommend to book well in advance in order to secure the perfect base for which to explore this cute township.

The Lodge boasts a unique blend of Australian food and warm hospitality, set amidst 16-acres of impeccably landscaped grounds. With an array of accommodations to choose from, including 27 cosy hotel rooms, two Luxury Glamping Tents, and a two-bedroom Luxury Mountain Retreat, there's a room category style to suit not only those travelling solo, but also couples, and families – or small group of up to six guests.

You'll find modern amenities like coffee machines, raw wood panelling, and stylish bathrooms that blend seamlessly with the hotel's rustic charm. Air-conditioned glamping tents are also available for those looking to experience the great outdoors in style.

'The Three Blue Ducks' have continued to create waves in the culinary world, and their latest venture has the locals abuzz in the region. With an emphasis on locally sourced and sustainable cooking, this famed Australian hospitality crew offers a relaxed dining experience that perfectly complements the laidback atmosphere of their new location at The Lodge Bellingen.

From Asian-inspired dishes like prawn toast and Szechuan pepper squid, to the popular Dirty Duck smothered in lemon, lime, and sour plums, the menu offers plenty of flavour and variety.

Vegetarians and vegans are well-catered for, with much of the dairy-free menu being plant-based. Guest breakfasts at The Lodge Bellingen are best enjoyed on the terrace, with stunning mountain views to boot.

The sibling restaurant to the famed 'Three Blue Ducks' Byron Bay establishment, The Farm, is an absolute must try for food lovers in the area and is conveniently located right at your doorstep.

The Lodge Bellingen is a perfect fusion of farm-to-plate and the boutique ticket you need to ensure your holiday is spent soaking up the ambiance, eating well, and taking a true countryside break. A spritz anyone?

Bellingen boasts an unparalleled variety of stunning natural attractions. Whether it’s dipping in the scenic wild swimming spots, exploring the ancient rainforest, or feeling the thunderous energy of dramatic waterfalls, Bellingen delivers a back-to-nature style of escape.

Tucked away only 15 minutes from town, 'The Promised Land' is a local spot that boasts some of the most beautiful water you've ever seen. The swimming holes here are deep, electric blue, and perfect for a crystal-clear cool-off; however, there are shallower spots along the river where you can take a leisurely paddle. If you're hoping for some peace and quiet, be sure to head there on a weekday or early in the morning – this spot is beloved by locals and travellers alike, so it can get pretty busy!

Bongil Bongil National Park has one of the biggest wild koala populations in all of NSW; however, it is the standout beachfront that makes this destination the ultimate coast-to-country hideaway. This stunning stretch of golden sand stretches for kilometres, is incredibly quiet, and will give you that perfect spot to tap out and take it all in.

For those seeking a secondary gourmet adventure to their time at The Lodge, look no further than Raleigh Winery. Just 15 minutes from the town centre, this privately owned winery boasts a fabulous restaurant with a terrace overlooking the vines and river.

When it comes time to create the perfect picnic hamper, check out the monthly Bellingen Community Markets.
 These events are all about community, diversity, and local crafts and producers. If you're looking to sample the region's specialities and produce straight from the farm, the weekly Bellingen Farmers and Produce Market is the place to be. For foodies, this small hinterland township is definitely making gourmet headlines. A visit here is an absolute must during your time in Bellingen.

Our tip is to book your time in Bellingen well in advance to ensure you have the opportunity to experience the best of what the region has to offer.

Qantas offers hassle-free flights to Coffs Harbour from major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Rex, on the other hand, flies from Sydney to Coffs Harbour on weekdays, with limited flights on weekends. Book and Compare the best flights to Bellingen with Locay's global partners to ensure you get the best deal currently available.

The airport, conveniently located just 4km away from Coffs Harbour's vibrant town centre, offers various travel options and car rental pickups.

Our top recommendation is to embrace the freedom of exploring the region at your own pace by renting a car with Locay's ultimate comparison tool with Australia's biggest car rental agencies.

Australia

Japan

New Zealand

Hotel Collection

About Us

The Best Boutique in Bellingen: The Lodge Delivering a Signature Coast-to-Country Getaway

Experience the fusion of country, cuisine, coast, and community at this warm hinterland lodge.

The Best Boutique in Bellingen: The Lodge Delivering a Signature Coast-to-Country Getaway

Experience the fusion of country, cuisine, coast, and community at this warm hinterland lodge.

Discover Locay Accommodation Nearby

The Lodge Bellingen

Salt at South West Rocks

Explore More With Locay

Best Motel Conversions on Australia's East Coast

Sign Up

Live Like a Local

Sign Up

The Best Boutique in Bellingen: The Lodge Delivering a Signature Coast-to-Country Getaway

Experience the fusion of country, cuisine, coast, and community at this warm hinterland lodge.

BOOK NOW

The Best Boutique in Bellingen: The Lodge Delivering a Signature Coast-to-Country Getaway

Experience the fusion of country, cuisine, coast, and community at this warm hinterland lodge.

Discover Locay Accommodation Nearby

The Lodge Bellingen

Salt at South West Rocks

Explore More With Locay

Best Motel Conversions on Australia's East Coast

Sign Up For Newsletter

Sign Up

Live Like a Local

Sign Up