'Download the Northern Rivers section from the Pacific Coast Touring Route guide, or email: nrt@northernriverstourism.com.au to request a copy of the entire guide.'

Driving north into the subtropical climate of Northern Rivers NSW, the words “on holiday” take on real significance. Defined by a confluence of rivers, World Heritage national parks and reserves and spectacular coastline, the region offers some of Australia’s best nature-based experiences.

One of Australia’s most charming provincial cities, Grafton is renowned for its jacaranda trees and graceful old buildings. Outdoor adventurers can choose from 4WD tours, horse-riding, canoeing and bushwalking. 

The mighty Clarence River runs more than 400km between the World Heritage hinterland bordering Queensland to its mouth at the towns of Iluka and Yamba. Yamba and its smaller cousin Angourie are among the hippest beach towns on the coast, with legendary surf beaches and a healthy collection of restaurants. The Iluka Nature Reserve contains nearly one third of NSW’s forest reserve, with accommodation ranging from self-contained cottages or guesthouses, to “million star” coastal camping grounds.

Evans Head, the first commercial prawning port in Australia is now a small but perfectly-formed beach village popular with families. A deviation inland will lead to Casino. Settled on the banks of the Richmond River, Casino is known as the Beef Capital after its most significant industry. 

To the south of Nightcap National Park, Lismore serves as a commercial and cultural centre for the region, with many market towns and artistic communities clustered in its surrounds.
 Byron-Ballina serves as the regional gateway airport.  Byron Bay is a melting pot of surf culture, alternative lifestyle and hedonistic indulgence.  Its cafes and restaurants and those of the nearby laid-back beach towns of Ballina, Lennox Head and Brunswick Heads, augment the casual coastal vibe with a touch of city style.
The Tweed Coast borders Queensland and is home to the southern hemisphere’s largest volcanic caldera, resulting in an incredible biodiversity that produces coffee, tea tree, macadamia and tropical fruit.

The seaside towns of Kingscliff and Cabarita are low-rise, beach front and blissed out, five-star spa retreats and self-contained B&Bs with ocean views make it an ideal base to explore the Tweed’s waterways, villages, beaches and Mount Warning National Park.