A Road Trip to take from Ballina, NSW

Northern NSW is road trip country. It’s where hinterland highways trickle into quiet, farm-fringed trails and the constant allure of the coast is only a detour away. With great deals on flights from Sydney to Ballina Bryon Gateway Airport, there has never been a better time to explore NSW’s Northern Rivers region. Spoilt for choice when it comes to road trips in this region, here are a few of our all-time favourite routes, starting with your first stop – Ballina.

Ballina

It is easy to get to Ballina but hard to leave! The Airport is located 5km from Ballina’s CBD. To avoid disappointment, it is strongly suggested you arrange a car rental with Everything Fleet prior to flying into the airport. Once here, you will want to breathe in, slow down and soak it all in. Ballina has a sleepy reputation but don’t be fooled, there are plenty of things to do in this area. It’s a bike-friendly town with more than 25km of pathways to explore the  river and ocean foreshores and natural surrounds. Between June to November, you can see the humpback whales from any of the Coastal Headlands, passing on their annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef.  And, if you need any more inspiration make sure you watch ‘North Walk Wall’  created by Chris Speed.

Bangalow

Next stop is Bangalow. About 20 min from Ballina it is known as a picturesque town with lovely parks, intriguing shops and high quality cafés. The Bangalow Markets are held on the 4^th Sunday of each month and its definitely worth perusing the offerings of the talented locals. The surrounding hinterland including the nearby villages of Newrybar, Federal and Clunes, and two inland hippie townships of Mullumbimby and Nimbin are also popular and within easy driving distance.

Bryon Bay

Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most laid-back destinations. Located about 15 min from Bangalow on a Cape at the Eastern most point of Australia, it’s blessed with 9 spectacular soft white beaches. Yes, it’s changed over the years and has become a little commercialised in comparison to its humble beginnings but tourists still flock here to visit the lighthouse of Cape Byron – a stunning location to capture the sunset and to do a bit of celebrity spotting! Our only advice would be to avoid school holidays.  For all the best things to do in Byron Bay, click here.

Brunswick Heads

Last stop is Brunswick Heads. A small unspoilt coastal village situated 15 minutes north of Bryon Bay or 30 minutes if coming directly from both Ballina Byron Airport or the Gold Coast Airport.

The small community of Brunswick Heads has ensured that there is a quality mix of cafes, speciality shops, accommodation and a variety of activities to cater for families, couples and the most discerning visitors. The most popular activities are those related to the water – activities such as surfing, yabbying, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking plus the award winning eco-certified river cruises. Dolphins can be sighted regularly from the breakwall and with its flat topography, Brunswick Heads is ideal for walking, bike riding, bird watching and other nature-based activities.

Are you looking to get away for a few days, weeks or even a month? Don’t miss out! Book a car rental at Everything Fleet now to avoid the rush. Our team are only a phone call away on 131 381 or email us at hello@everythingfleet.com.au to book in your express pick-up service from Ballina or Gold Coast Airport, for rental bookings 7 days or more.

We look forward to welcoming you!