destination – Byron Bay

BYRON BAY
The natural delights of Byron Bay

Of all New South Wales beach resorts Byron Bay would have to be one of the best known - thanks to its natural beauty and its famous residents.

Over the past two decades, Byron Bay has become an escape for urban refugees, especially those with artistic inclinations. Artists, craftspeople and designers have set up shop, grafting their talents and energy on to this small, relaxed coastal village.

>> Destination Byron Bay, Weekends For Two

After spending a weekend wandering around Byron it’s easy to see why it has been so popular. All the elements associated with the perfect holiday destination are there - unpolluted waters ideal for surfers and swimmers, rugged cliffs and long stretches of beach.

One of the best places to appreciate this natural beauty is the Cape Byron Headland Reserve. The views from the reserve are fantastic. At the same time you are also visiting Australia’s most easterly point so an early morning walk means you’ll be one of the first in the country to see the sunrise!

As well as being able to say you’ve had such an experience you’ll be rewarded with some great views as you walk above 100 metre high cliffs.

A five kilometre walking trail through the reserve not only takes in the cliffs but also traverses coastal heath, littoral rainforest and banksia forest. It also offers stunning views of the hinterland and ocean. Lookouts along the way offer the chance to see dolphins and even humpback whales which cruise past the headland between June and December.

Another highlight is the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly lighthouse in Australia, and one of the most powerful. Standing on a bald rocky headland with a precipitous cliff on the east side, and a sheer drop of approximately 100 metres, it’s a majestic landmark. What better way to celebrate such a walk than with a great meal? With so many offerings in Byron the greatest challenge is deciding which to choose.