Alstonville is a quaint little town just 13 kilometres west of Ballina which provides plenty of hidden gems to discover.
Alstonville's wide streets, heritage buildings and beautiful gardens, along with its cosy cafes, unique stores and farm fresh produce make Alstonville an experience not to miss. Well known for macadamia farms and coffee plantations in the surrounds, the village has great gift shops to browse, a country pub in the heart of town and some lovely cafes. We've made your planning easy. Here's some top stops:
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SUMMERLAND FARM
Summerland Farm is a beautiful macadamia and avocado farm and is a great day out for families and groups. Jump on board a tractor and get a taste of life on a working farm. The farm harvest over 7,000 macadamia trees, 2,000 avocado trees and is home to 450 happy hens that move around the farm to produce eggs for the restaurant and grover - it doesn't get much fresher! The farm provides quality macadamia dehusking, and fruit grading and packing services as a sustainable horticulture business and social enterprise providing employment for people with disabilities.
The kids will love exploring the adventure park and playing in the waterpark in the hotter months as well as getting up close with the farm animals and snack from the delicious on - site cafe.
Summerland farm also offers a fully licensed restaurant, farm picnics and a spot of shopping at their grocer, gift shop and nursery.
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VICTORIA PARK NATURE RESERVE
Only a ten minute drive from Alstonville, Victoria Park Nature Reserve protects one of the last surviving remnants of the original rainforest, known as the Big Scrub, which once extended across the entire Lismore, Byron Bay, Ballina and Mullumbimby regions. The short accessible walk makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
Ancient fig trees and majestic black beans tower above while bangalow palms and ferns grow up from below. Take a moment to absorb the cool quiet of the rainforest and you might catch a glimpse of the shy red-legged pademelon or the colourful wompoo fruit-dove.
The informative displays show how the Wildjabul people, of the Bundjalung nation, relied on the local plants and animals for food, medicine and ceremonies.
When thoughts turn to lunch, enjoy a relaxing barbecue at the shaded picnic tables, to a backdrop of lush rainforest. The accessible facilities make the picnic area an ideal spot for older people and groups.
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THE FEDERAL HOTEL
Affectionately known by the locals as 'The Feddy', Alstonville’s iconic Federal Hotel has welcomed locals and tourists alike for more than 100 years. The Federal Hotel was established in 1896 and whilst the Hotel has undergone many refurbishments over the years, the original federation character is balanced alongside the essential features of a modern venue.
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CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM
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SHOPS AND CAFES
Alstonville is home to many cosy cafes and lovely shops so ensure you leave some time to wander along the main street and explore.
