If you’re looking for a little change of scene on the weekend, Bangalow—a mere stone’s throw from Byron Bay and less than an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast—could be the answer.
This charming country town in the Byron Shire hinterland offers a slower pace, lots of greenery, along with great food, antiques, galleries and homewares. And did we mention that Bangalow neighbour Chris Hemsworth has been seen strolling around the main street lately?
All you need to do is grab bae, pack your weekend bag and read our guide to the best places to eat, shop, play and stay to maximize your chill getaway in Bangalow.
EAT
For a tiny town, Bangalow punches above its weight in terms of good food. Here are some must-visits to satisfy the taste buds.
Butcher, Baker, Bangalow
BBB is a modern mix of sumptuous baked goods, tasty tapas, jam-packed baguettes and locally brewed beverages. Except seriously fluffy jam doughnuts served with full-bodied coffee by local roasters Unity. Lunch includes Italian Porchetta Hoagies paired with a Bam Bam passion cocktail (Husk Spiced Rum, local passion fruit and lime). Housed in a spacious, bright building with high tables at the front, cocktail bar in the middle and dining hall at the rear, the catchphrase here is good times, honest food—we can vouch for that.
The Italian Diner
Positioned on the corner of the main street, The Italian Diner evokes the charm of a traditional Italian trattoria and is inspired by regional flavours and the freshest of produce. Sending all your senses into overdrive, delicious smells waft from every corner. An ideal winter spot, try the $29 pasta and vino lunchtime special, you’ll be suitably impressed. Our tip? You cannot go past their award-winning Fricelli Cacio É Pepe—it's totally moreish.
One Green Acre
One Green Acre located at the Bangalow Bowlo, are known for collaborating with local growers and producers to create a menu for the seasons. Think: a sweet array of changing menu nights like; Stone & Wood Curry Night, 96 Chook Night and a BBQ Sunday Sesh on the lush lawns. Created as an affordable, community food hub, you'll want to check this gem out.
Bangalow Heritage House & Musuem Café
Housed in one of Bangalow's much loved heritage homes, set amongst picturesque pruned gardens and run by a group of local volunteers and enthusiastic historians, this sweet spot is a must do. A proud supporter of local designers, artisan’s display their works throughout the house, think crocheted doilies and teapots. There’s a quaint café to write home (to nanna) about with classic jam and cream scones or pikelets accompanied by local tea served just the way it should be—in fine bone china of course.
Woods
Super gorgeous, Woods on Station Street is the sister venue to Byron favourite Folk and is the place to be for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. We love the cactus-dotted interiors as much as we love the overnight soaked chia oats with baked cinnamon apple breakfast.
SHOP
When it comes to shopping, Bangalow knows how to do understated luxury like a boss. Bring the credit card.
Island Luxe
Bangalow’s Island Luxe is seriously divine for interiors and uber-cool fashion. We’re talking pure linen sheets, gorgeous pots and plants and fierce leather jackets.
Johansen
Jessica Johansen Bell is a talented local designer who is all about beautiful fabrics and raw finishes. Visit her new Deacon Street store, Johansen to pick up bohemian pieces that have been created and made in Australia.
Wax Jumba Emporium
We love Wax Jumba, for its eclectic array of everything from ethically sourced clothes to the best coffee table books around. Carve out some time to peruse this treasure trove of an emporium—there are literally nooks and crannies everywhere and you’re bound to find a unique gift or two to take home.
Our Corner Store
Once the local corner store, Our Corner Store is a delightful take on a modern grocery store housed in a 100-year-old timber building. You’ll want to empty your wallet on fragrant lotions and potions, table linen and handmade ceramics.
The Flower Bar
Cameras at the ready, The Flower Bar is a truly beautiful joint. Bursting at the seams with fragrant blooms, every inch of this shop is filled with beautiful creations, as well as dried flowers you can mix and match, potted plants and candles.There’s an array of local wares like weaved baskets and stylish rugs from talented local designer Wandering Folk.
STAY
Mahalo House
This spacious and stylish Queenslander is ideally located in the center of town and a short walk to the popular Bangalow markets and showgrounds. Offering a contemporary fresh white décor, open plan living and luxe bathrooms, Mahalo is the perfect base for your holiday.
Bangalow Guesthouse
If you’re looking to splurge, the picturesque Bangalow Guesthouse sitting on the banks of Byron Creek should definitely be in the mix. Think sumptuous rooms, stunning art, beautiful linen, and gorgeous claw-foot bathtubs.
Byron View Farm
The boho Byron View Farm sits at the highest point in the Byron Shire, so there's stunning views from the mountains to the ocean. It’s actually part of a working cattle farm so if you want to get close to nature, you’re welcome to walk through the 40 acres of greenery and paddocks. This is a good choice for a romantic weekend.
DO
What is there to do in Bangalow? If you’re not eating, shopping, celeb-spotting, or relaxing, check out these options.
Visit The Bangalow Markets
The roving Sunday Markets rotate between the local towns of Byron, Mullumbimby, Kingscliff, and Bangalow. If you time your visit right the monthly Bangalow Markets offer a cracking range of local designers wares, organic beauty products, fresh produce and delicious doughnuts.
Swill Some Drinks At The Bangalow Hotel
You can’t come to Bangalow without having a beer in the historic Bangalow Hotel and chatting to the local characters. The hearty pub meals made from local fare is pretty top notch too.
Road Trip To Minyon Falls
Once you’ve had your fill of cute cafes and boutiques, jump in the car for a 30-minute drive through the rolling countryside and green fields to Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park. It’s a quick stroll to the top of the gushing falls, which drop dramatically 100 metres to the forest floor. Or take a 15 minute drive to the historic Newrybar township and head five minutes out of town to Killen Falls, an easy ‘walk in waterfall’ with a viewing platform to watch the cascading natural falls.
Keen to pair your trip with a visit to Byron (of course you do!). Here’s the only guide you need to Byron Bay.
Image credit: Byron View Farm, byronnaturally.com.au, lisaeatsworld.com; and Brooke Darling