Fast facts
- Relaxed but stylish village close to Byron Bay
- Set in lush green hills near the coast
- 778 km north of Sydney, population 950
Why go there
As you come into town from the west, past the palms outside the pub, Bangalow instantly charms. Verandahs, a single main street – a sleepy country classic you might think – but this is no ordinary bush town. Bangalow has sophisticated tastes, as a short stroll past the cafés, galleries and therapists’ shops along the main street will confirm.
One of the town’s minor treasures is the walking track that winds along the edge of Byron Creek. Within a few paces you’re swallowed up in a forest of strangler vines and huge, mottled trees that shut out the sunshine. Water monitors scuttle away from the path and into the brown creek alongside. A five-minute stroll will take you to a shady park with neat garden beds and arbours covered with riotous greenery – the perfect spot for a picnic.
History
The township did not come into existence until late in the 19th century. Since that time it has functioned as the service centre for the surrounding dairy farms. It is only in recent years that Bangalow has come to be appreciated for its quaint, rustic charm.
Things to do
- Admire the Federation-era facades along the main street.
- Sample macadamia nuts, a local specialty, and Bangalow Coffee, made from beans grown in the surrounding hills.
Events
- The Billy Cart Derby in May is every child’s dream run – an old-fashioned cart race along the main street.
Don’t miss
- The Bangalow markets, held on the fourth Sunday of each month.
- A weekend in a guesthouse in these quiet hills.
