Take a break from the cooler Ballina coastline and head to the scenic hinterland for a drive to discover a warming food trail adventure this winter. The cozy cafes and eateries create a perfect winter escape and make for delightful experiences.
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1. WARDELL PIES
Begin your adventure by catching the Burns Point Vehicle Ferry across to South Ballina. Enjoy the views of the Richmond River and don’t forget to pay the driver! Follow the river through to Wardell. Wardell is known for its landmark lift span bridge, great fishing location and its famous Wardell Pies. Start your day with a delicious pie from the Wardell Café and Takeaway to warm your insides – you will be spoilt for choice by the different flavours.
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2. SUMMERLAND FARM
Follow Tourist Drive 28 past green rolling hills to Summerland Farm, a 238-acre macadamia & avocado working farm in Alstonville’s hinterland. What better way to warm up on a beautiful wintry day than at Summerland Farm Restaurant. The cozy country style venue uses seasonal produce in their menu or perhaps some freshly baked scones for something light. Stock up on some fresh produce and local treats at the retail outlet.
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3. ALSTONVILLE VILLAGE
As you continue along to the hinterland drive to Alstonville you will be spoilt for choice – sit in at one of the quaint cafes along the main street, grab a pub feed at the local pub, spoil yourself with a delicious cake or pastry, savour a relaxing moment with a cup of coffee or enjoy takeaway fish and chips. We told you you would be spoilt for choice! Spend some time wandering through Alstonville village with gorgeous book shops, dress shops and heritage style buildings to admire.
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4. BYRON BAY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
To make room for some more treats, walk off lunch by taking a stroll along the viewing platform at Killen Falls. Heading north along Hinterland Way from Lennox Head, drop into Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and grab a few bags of different flavoured hot macadamia nuts to snack on before heading to Newrybar.
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5. HARVEST DELI & RESTAURANT
A popular spot for foodies, renowned Harvest has a restaurant, deli, and heritage bakery. Choose from a delicious assortment of sandwiches, homemade salads, and pastries – using some produce grown in their garden including vegetables, herbs, edible flowers and fruit.
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6. ZENTVELDS COFFEE ROASTERY & PLANTATION
Heading out of Newrybar along Broken Head Road, stop in Zentvelds Coffee Farm and Roastery, a family-owned business that focuses on regenerative farming practices. With the beans grown, processed and roasted on the farm; Zentvelds Coffee offers a true ‘crop to cup’ experience. Indulge in a barista made coffee while overlooking the plantation or pick up some freshly ground beans to take home with you.
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7. FARM GATES
Along the drive from Wardell to Newrybar, make sure to stop in at some of the roadside stalls along the way to pick up fresh, local produce. Your belly will be full, your bodies will be warm and you just never know what you might discover in our hinterland villages.
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