Bellingen is a unique small town. With a population of around 3000 (12,000 total in the valley) it must boast the highest per capita of coffee shops in the state. And its good coffee. Here you'll find artists, musicians, crafts people and a vibrant supportive community. The River was the lifeblood of the early settlement with ships navigating right up to the town, where goods and timber were shipped out as the money rolled in. The affluence enabled the building of the first concrete structure in NSW - the Hammond and Wheatley building, which still sets the grand tone of the centre of this town.

Bellingen is a gentrified place - its been suggested that it's a proto-Byron - or what Byron was like once upon a time. Here the influx of alternative life-stylers and tree-changers means you can get your organic spelt-sprout rockenbrot with chia seeds, but still have the friendly relaxed pace of the country.

Here are some things to check out Bellingen...

 

• The Federal Hotel is a family-friendly place that serves great pub food
• FESTIVALS! Winter Music Festival  
• Camp Creative,
• Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival

Winter is a great time to visit our lovely town - we have dry winters with glorious warm sunny days, and crisp starry nights - great for snuggling up in a warm chalet.

As well as the thriving centre, with the historic Hammond and Wheatley Building, further out there is the Golf Course, and the Old Butter Factory - a craft and "shopping village" with boutique shops and gallery.