Glenelg's Top 10 Eco-Tourism Picks

Eco-Tourism Adventures in The Tweed: From Heart-Stop Views to Hidden Trails

Slow travel experiences to complement your stay at Glenelg Murwillumbah

The Tweed Valley is more than a destination — it’s a mood, a rhythm, and a landscape that invites you to slow down and explore with intention. Surrounded by ancient rainforests, winding riverways, and fertile volcanic caldera lands, the region naturally lends itself to lingering, especially when paired with a stay at Glenelg Murwillumbah, a heritage boutique residence shaped by place and quiet comfort.

For those inclined to stay a little longer, Glenelg Murwillumbah is offering 20% off stays with the code SUMMER2026, valid for bookings until 31 March 2026.

Here are ten thoughtful ways (in no particular order) to experience The Tweed’s natural beauty — from gentle rainforest walks and cycling along rail trails to slow journeys along the river.

1. Wollumbin / Mount Warning Summit Track 

Big News!!!! Wollumbin Summit Track is one step closer to re-opening and anchors the Tweed Valley both visually and culturally. While the summit remains closed, reopening is mooted for July 2027 with planning, design and cultural heritage items still to work through to make it a safe climb. The surrounding base trails Lyrebird Track mentioned below and rainforest edges already offer a meaningful way to experience the presence of this iconic mountain.

·  Great for: Morning Walks around the base, Photography, mindful exploration

·  Distance/Time: TBC

·  Grade: TBC

2. Lyrebird Track

This short rainforest trail is deceptively rich. Just 600m of winding path leads through a cathedral of greenery, dappled light, and shaded creek crossings — perfect for guests seeking a gentle, restorative stroll before returning to Glenelg Murwillumbah for coffee or a long breakfast.

·  Great for: Short excursions, effortless nature immersion

·  Distance / Time: 0.6 km, ~20–30 mins

·  Grade: Easy

3. Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk

For the adventurer at heart, the Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk offers a multi-day (3-night, 4-day) passage through ancient rainforest, mist-kissed waterfalls and ridge-top panoramas moving through the Tweed and Byron Shire hinterlands, pack free or with your pack. Even if you only tackle a section of this Great Walk (sections listed below), you’ll encounter the scale and diversity of The Tweed in a way that feels profound and personal. Check out the Connected Adventures website to book this newly opened in mid 2025 world class hiking trail and bookend your stay at Glenelg with pick-up and drop-off points for the 4-day hike conveniently located Murwillumbah.

·  Great for: Multi-day exploration, deep nature connection

·  Distance / Time: ~42 km, 3–4 days

·  Grade: Moderate–Challenging

Photo Credits: Sally Singh

4. Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Stretching in gentle curves through heritage farmland and over historic bridges, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a superb way to explore at a relaxed pace. Hire an e-bike from Better By Bike, Valley E-Bikes or Pedals and Picnics and glide through the landscape effortlessly — stopping for a picnic, a photograph, or simply to breathe in the views. Jump on the Trail at heritage Murwillumbah Railway Station (a 15 minute walk from Glenelg) and ride as far as you desire along this 24km section to Crabbes Creek, and with many interesting stops along the way including Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Arts Centre, Burringbar Village, among others. Plan your ride here.

·  Great for: Cycling, easy adventure, family outings

·  Distance / Time: 24–56 km, half-day to full-day depending on section

·  Grade: Easy

5. Whiskey Creek & Unicorn Falls Loop

Tucked within Mount Jerusalem National Park, this combined loop trail carries you beneath rainforest canopies and along quiet creeks to cascading waterfalls that feel wonderfully secluded — a true sanctuary for those who relish peace and solitude in nature. Choose both or one. These two are located near the start of Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk 3 night, 4 day hike mentioned above.

·  Great for: Serene hiking, birdwatching, quiet reflection

·  Distance / Time: 3–5 km, ~1–2 hrs

·  Grade: Easy–Moderate

Photo Credits: The Tweed Tourism Co.

6. Tweed River Boat Cruise

There’s quiet magic in seeing The Tweed from the water with Tweed Eco Cruises. Choose from a variety of cruise experiences: relaxing rainforest lunch cruises on board their vintage river cruiser, scenic sunset cruises with live music, educational eco-tours, fun-filled bushtucker activities, soul-soothing morning tea cruises – or design your own private event. Departure is from Tweed Heads.

·       Great for: Scenic relaxation, wildlife spotting

·       Duration: ~1.5–2 hrs

·       Grade: Easy

7. Byan Yangala Loop

The Byan Yangala Loop is located near the end of Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk 3 night, 4 day hike mentioned above. It blends rainforest paths with gentle ridgelines. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail that encourages lingering — stopping for light conversation, quiet meditation, or simply letting nature’s rhythm set your pace. This remote loop walk through wet and dry eucalypt forest and rainforest is a green cathedral for nature lovers, bushwalkers and campers staying nearby.

Start at Rummery Park campground where you can use the facilities before you set out. Then follow the loop clockwise to minimise meeting other walkers, and revel in the peace and birdsong. 

·  Great for: Easy day walks, intimate nature experiences

·  Distance / Time: 3–5 km, ~1–2 hrs.

·  Grade: Easy

8. Twin Falls

Twin Falls in Springbrook National Park that starts at Canyon Lookout delivers drama with serenity. This loop walk leads through lush rainforest to breathtaking waterfalls that cascade into verdant valleys. The experience feels timeless — a half-day escape that pairs beautifully with Natural Bridge walk below and an afternoon of rest back at Glenelg - approximately an hour's drive to get there but well worth it and great to pair with Natural Bridge Walk below! Take your bathers and a back-pack picnic for a swim in the waterfall swimming hole.

·  Great for: Waterfall lovers, photographers

·  Distance / Time: 4 km loop, ~2 hrs.

·  Grade: Moderate

9. Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park feels almost secret — a rock arch formed by ancient waters, moss-covered cliff walls, and a cave that shimmers with glow worms after dusk. Visit as the light softens for an unforgettable moment of wonder. It's a good one to pair with Twin Falls on the way home to Murwillumbah.

·  Great for: Short nature excursions, evening exploration

·  Distance / Time: 1.5 km loop, ~45 mins

·  Grade: Easy

10. Minyon Falls Lookout

Minyon Falls provides one of The Tweed’s most striking views. A short walk brings you to the lookout over the falls and surrounding rainforest amphitheater — perfect in the soft light of sunrise or late afternoon.

For a relaxed, memorable meal nearby after your nature experience, Federal Doma Café in 3-6 Albert street Federal offers Japanese‑inspired café fare with a locally sourced food focus — an elegant way to unwind and reconnect with taste as well as place.

· Great for: Scenic viewpoints, relaxed walks, café lunch

· Distance / Time: ~1 km return, 30 mins

· Grade: Easy

Photo Credits: The Tweed Tourism Co.

Discover The Tweed, Slowly

Adventures in The Tweed don’t rush — and neither should you. From misty rainforest corridors and scenic rail-trail rides to river cruises that feel like poetry, this is a landscape that rewards the curious and the calm alike.

Pair any of these experiences with your stay at Glenelg Murwillumbah — where heritage comfort, garden tranquility, and valley panoramas await at day’s end. Book your stay now!

Murwillumbah & The Tweed Dining: From Chef Hats to Hidden Gems

The Tweed region continues to impress food lovers, with Murwillumbah at the heart of its culinary rise. Known for its lush valleys, creative community, and rich agricultural roots, the town is now home to restaurants celebrated both locally and nationally. 

Photo Credit: Tweed Tourism Co.

GOURMET TRAVELLER NEWS 

Gourmet Traveller has revealed its Top 100 Australian Restaurants for 2025, and the Tweed is shining bright. Of the 25 NSW venues named, two are right here: Pipit and Bistro Livi.  

This accolade makes The Tweed the most awarded region in NSW outside of Sydney. 

Congratulations to both Pipit and Bistro Livi for their extraordinary achievements. 

Photo By: Sally Singh Creative

The Tweed Fine Dining Icons

Bistro Livi – Murwillumbah’s Modern Marvel

Located in the M|Arts Precinct, Bistro Livi blends refined design by Flack Studio with a warm and friendly, regional spirit. Its Spanish-influenced, seasonal plates — from silky braised eggplant to Moreton Bay bug in curry butter — have earned it multiple chef’s hats and Gourmet Traveller recognition.

Pipit – Coastal Innovation in Pottsville

Chef Ben Devlin’s Pipit champions sustainable coastal dining with menus that shift daily according to tide and season. Expect dishes like duck with smoked beetroot or tuna tartare with preserved yuzu. Two Good Food Guide hats confirm its standing as one of the country’s most inventive regional restaurants.

Potager – Dining in the Hills

Set on a Carool farmstead, Potager brings modern Australian dining to the hinterland. Chef-hatted and locally beloved, it transforms Tweed produce into polished yet approachable dishes. Its 2025 Tweed Business Award celebrates both its culinary excellence and community spirit.

Paper Daisy – Coastal Elegance at Halcyon House

The signature restaurant at Halcyon House, Paper Daisy offers contemporary Australian dining in a breezy, beachfront setting. With a focus on seasonal produce and a menu shaped by coastal influences, it delivers an elegant but relaxed experience.

Tweed River House – Verandah Dining with History

Housed in a restored colonial manor overlooking the Tweed River and caldera, Tweed River House serves contemporary chef hated menus that highlight regional ingredients all with super friendly service and attention to detail. Its wide verandahs and heritage interiors make it one of the Tweed’s most atmospheric fine dining destinations. For more casual dining try a relaxing grazing menu on the lawn by the river.

Fins Seafood – A Pioneering Institution

Founded by celebrated chef Steven Snow, Fins is Australia’s most-awarded seafood restaurant. With a focus on sustainability and ocean-fresh produce, it delivers sophisticated coastal dining that has shaped the region’s culinary reputation for over three decades.

Photo Credit: Tweed Tourism Co.

Beyond Fine Dining: Local Flavours to Discover 

Apex Dining Café at the Tweed Regional Gallery

A light-filled gallery café offering a wide and diverse menu of seasonal dishes that champion Northern Rivers produce, paired with sweeping views of Wollumbin and the caldera.

Keith Café

A favourite local hangout, Keith roasts its own coffee and serves artisan toasties and brunch plates in a relaxed, stylish retro space.

Crystal Creek Estate Café & Nursery

A riverside café with a homely country feel, where meals are complemented by the chance to wander through the nursery and browse local gifts.

Flutterbies Cottage Café, Tyalgum

A whimsical garden café famed for Devonshire teas, high teas, and weekend live music — a fairytale-style escape in Tyalgum village.

The Imperial Hotel (“The Impy”)

A community hub serving pub classics and craft beers, complete with live music, trivia nights, and a buzzing social atmosphere.

Husk Distillery

The home of Ink Gin and Husk Rum, this distillery offers paddock-to-bottle spirits, long lunches, and cocktails on expansive lawns with mountain views.

Wild Thyme Dining

A plant-based café known for creative vegan dishes, raw treats, and a down-to-earth vibe — making it a go-to for conscious dining in town.

Farm & Co.

A paddock-to-plate restaurant set among sunflower fields, offering seasonal menus crafted from produce grown onsite and nearby farms.

Natural Wine Shop & Bar

A boutique bar specialising in minimal-intervention and organic wines, with share plates that highlight the Tweed’s local food culture.

The Pasta'bah by Woodland Valley Farm

A regenerative poultry farm known for ethical practices, also operating Pastah Bar, where handmade pasta and farm produce create hearty, casual meals.

Tropical Fruit World

An iconic attraction offering guided tours, fruit tastings, and orchard-to-table dining experiences with rare and exotic fruits.

No. 35 Cabarita Beach

A relaxed coastal restaurant with a Mediterranean-leaning menu, where fresh seafood and vibrant flavours meet a laidback Cabarita setting.

Together, these spots prove that dining in and around Murwillumbah is as much about atmosphere and connection as it is about flavour. 

Photo By: Sally Singh Creative

Final Word  

With restaurants like Bistro Livi, Pipit, Potager, and fellow icons Paper Daisy, Tweed River House, and Fins setting the benchmark, the Tweed has moved firmly onto the national stage as a leader in regional dining. From chef-hat accolades and Gourmet Traveller recognition to Potager’s 2025 Tweed Business Award, the region continues to prove that innovation and excellence thrive well beyond the cities.

Add to this the warmth of its cafés, the charm of country pubs, the creativity of plant-based pioneers, and the immersive farm-to-plate experiences that define its landscape, and the Tweed becomes more than a place to eat — it’s a destination where every table, whether fine dining or casual, tells the story of the region itself.

Wander into Wonder: Finding Stillness in the Wild Corners of Australia

Photo Credit: Sally Singh Creative

Wander into Wonder

There’s something quietly powerful about going where the map fades. Not to check off a list or chase a landmark, but to feel something shift inside you—slowly, deliberately, without fanfare.

This is what it means to 'Wander into Wonder in Murwillumbah, nestled in the heart of the Tweed Valley.

It’s not just a tagline. It’s an invitation to trade the rush for rhythm. To move through landscapes that don’t need to impress to be unforgettable. To find yourself in places where beauty doesn’t shout—it hums.

www.wanderintowonder.com.au

Driven by Murwillumbah Chamber of Commerce, namely Business Murwillumbah, the Tweed Shire Council, Tweed Museum and NSW Government, Murwillumbah was granted funding as a Community Improvement District pilot — a transformative initiative aimed at revitalising the town centre. With this vital support, and that of the local businesses and community, the project is breathing new life into key areas, creating a vibrant and sustainable hub for residents, businesses, and visitors, and Murwillumbah is set to further enhance its already vibrant community.

'Wander into Wander' leverages the unique attributes of Murwillumbah, such as its historic architecture, vibrant creative community, and proximity to the Tweed River, to develop attractive public areas, enliven the CBD with various activities and events, and foster robust collaborations among businesses, the community, and government.

Public art is a defining feature of Murwillumbah, celebrating its culture and creative energy. From murals to sculptures and light installations, new artworks are transforming the town, adding colour and meaning to everyday spaces.    

The Art of Noticing

In a world that rewards speed and noise, it takes courage to slow down. But in the quiet, nature speaks clearly. A birdcall that echoes through an eucalyptus forest. A tidepool is breathing on the edge of a rocky cove. A sunrise over red dirt that stains your boots and stays with you.

To 'wander into wonder' is to walk without an agenda. To make space for awe. Not the kind that explodes, but the kind that settles in slowly and stays with you long after the trip ends.

Photo Credit: Sally Singh Creative

Travel as Presence

This isn’t about being a tourist. It’s about being present. Whether you’re walking a windswept track on the coast of Tasmania or standing still beneath a sky heavy with stars in the outback, what matters isn’t how far you go—it’s how deeply you notice. The texture of the bark under your hand. The smell of the earth after rain. The warmth of a shared story from someone who’s lived on the land far longer than you. True connection happens in the stillness.

Photo By: Sally Singh Creative

Beyond the Instagram Moment

Not everything you experience will be easily shared. Some of the most meaningful moments don’t photograph well. A sudden hush in the forest. The pull of a tide you can’t quite explain. A conversation with someone who reminds you how big the world is—and how small we are in it.

This kind of travel isn’t about collecting moments for social proof. It’s about letting moments change you. Quietly. Radically.

Photo By: Sally Singh Creative

Where to Begin

Start with the places that feel a little forgotten. Small towns. Dirt roads. National parks that don’t show up on “top 10” lists. Places where the welcome is warm but unpolished. Where signs are hand-painted and time moves like molasses.

Let instinct guide you more than the itinerary. Let the weather decide your plans. Let conversations shape your direction. And when you feel the itch to post, to capture, to schedule—pause. Breathe it in instead.

Photo By: Sally Singh Creative

The Wonder Is in You

'Wander into wonder' isn’t just about the outside world. It’s also about what shifts within. When we move slowly and with intentionality, we start to see differently, not just the land, but ourselves. The person who returns home from a journey like this isn’t quite the same as the one who left.

Because once you’ve tasted this kind of presence, it’s hard to settle for less. Whether you’re preparing for your next big trip or simply learning how to be more present in the one you’re on, remember this: wonder doesn’t require a plane ticket. It just asks that you show up fully.

Let yourself wander. You might be surprised what you find.