The Tweed region in Far Northern NSW has stepped out from behind its more famous neigbours to take it’s place in the sun after being named in the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 – 50 inspirational travel destinations.
The region, sandwiched between Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and former Lonely Planet darlings The Scenic Rim, was named in the 50 inspirational travel destination as one of the top places to visit in Oceania – sandwiched between Dunedin and Waitaki in New Zealand, which topped the list, and third-placed New Caledonia. The only other Australian entry was in the Experiences were Immerse in art in the Red Centre was just ahead of experience Fa’a, Samoa, Embark on Ocean adventures – French Polynesia.
As someone who has lived in the Tweed for more than 40 years – it’s big news. For years in television shows, movies, magazine articles and even books it was hard not to feel like we were the shadow land – a strip of highway on the way to somewhere else.
But that’s ok, because we knew something the rest of the country and the rest of the world didn’t – it’s bloody beautiful here, the pace is slower and we have lots of natural, cultural and gastronomical experiences to offer.
According to Lonely Planet’s Oceania Destinations Editor Jessica Lockhart, the selections across the board and around the globe this year tapped into what Lonely Planet is seeing and hearing most from travellers – the desire to slow down, escape the crowds and seek out meaningful experiences that go beyond the obvious.
She said the Tweed fits perfectly within that profile, given its majestic landscapes, vibrant arts and culture and memorable eco experiences. From its pristine coastlines and ancient rainforests to its picturesque riverside villages and rolling rural landscapes. The Tweed invites visitors to connect more deeply with place, people and nature.
“We’ve been watching the Tweed rightfully grow in popularity with domestic tourists,” Jessica said.
“It’s becoming known as a foodie and outdoors destination, especially the opening of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail and the Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk. Now, we think it’s time that we let international tourists in on the secret: The space between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay isn’t one you want to speed through. It’s a destination in its own right – and one that’s worth lingering in.“
“Of course, they are telling us what we here in Tweed already know,” newly minted Tweed mayor Reece Byrnes. Byrnes’ family came to the region in the 60s and is a long -time advocate of the region as the youngest person ever elected to Tweed Shire Council.
“To be recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s must-visit destinations is a wonderful honour for the Tweed and a proud moment for our community.
“This recognition celebrates our spectacular natural landscapes, vibrant villages, rich culture and outstanding local businesses. We warmly welcome visitors to experience The Tweed at a slower pace, support local and respect the places and communities that make our region so special.”
Reading through what Lonely Planet sees in the area you live in, kind of reminds you of why you live where you do.
The Tweed they say is an idyllic travel destination for rest, renewal and adventure. “From sunrise surfs to countryside rail trails, hinterland hiking, snorkeling trips and riverside sips, The Tweed offers experiences to suit event pace and every mood. Its national parks, wide open spaces and year-round sunshine are guaranteed to have visitors leaving refreshed and renewed.”
Lonely Planet praised both The Tweed’s emerald coastlines and charming riverside settings where nature is both backdrop and playground.
“The region is loved for its unique combination of outdoor adventures, creative culture, diverse wellness experiences, flourishing food bowl and exceptional paddock to plate dining options. While it is increasingly gaining recognition, The Tweed still remains a largely hidden gem for many, offering a gentler and uncrowded charm that sets it apart.”
This is a place where you can fish on a riverbank or in the ocean, swim with turtles or drift down creeks on hired canoes, sit on headlands and watch the whale breach (or sit in surf clubs and do the same thing with food on tap), walk in world heritage listed rainforests, enjoy much-awarded restaurants and quaint country pubs. Ride bikes or walk on a rail trail heading south towards Byron Bay or walk or ride almost the entire length of our coastline on curated paths cutting through bushland and coastal suburbs. Where Wollumbin (Mt Warning) watches over as you take drives through cane farms and down country roads, you can visit breweries, rum distilleries and wineries and enjoy farm tours and tropical fruit or fresh seafood.
