| Amaze 'n' Place
There is plenty of fun to be had trying to figure out the 46 metre square maze, after that there are puzzles to try and solve in the coffee shop, or better still just have a coffee and enjoy the countryside surrounds. Wardell Road, Alstonville (02 6628 7518).
Ballina
A coastal town at the mouth of the Richmond River with beaches and waterways that span over 30km of coastline,
and is 30 minutes south of Byron. It is also home of the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Byron Hinterland
Inland
from Byron Bay the landscape
has been transformed
from rainforest trees
to farmland. The original
forest is still to be
seen at the Nightcap
National Park. The area
is a scenic agricultural
landscape with banana
plantations, avocados,
soft fruits, lemon myrtle,
blueberries, custard
apples and lychees and
macadamias. More recently
has been the introduction
of coffee. The memorial
stone tribute to the
Pioneers of 1881 is seen
from Eureka Road.
Brunswick Heads
This coastal village 20
minutes north of Byron is popular as and ideal popular family holiday location. There is safe swimming here and great camping facilities. Brunswick Heads plays host to a couple of annual popular festivals, the January Wood Chopping Festival and the Festival of Kites and Bikes.
Casino
A small town located
on the Richmond River
one hour west of Byron.
Crystal Castle
Located 20mins from Byron Bay, this mystical place with stunning views is a lovely place to explore and relax. Take in The Buddha Walk as you admire the view of Byron's hinterland, then enjoy a coffee on the decking of the Buddha Belly Cafe. The Crystal gallery is a rainbow of color as all types of crystals are displayed and are for sale. You can also experience a Vibrasound treatment which is designed to induce a deep relaxation state, and then have a photo of your aura taken. Experienced psychic readers are on hand to do readings or you can browse the bookshop that has everything covered on alternative therapies. Monet Drive, Mullumbimby (02 6684 3111).
Lennox Head
Between Byron and Ballina and good for surfing.
Lismore
The main centre for the area about 45 minutes west of Byron is an attractive
inland setting on the railway line to Murwillumbah. Lismore is often refered to as the birthplace of ecotourism as the region contains nearly a third of NSW's forest reserves.
Macadamia Castle and Animal Park
Located on the Pacific Higway 10 mins south of Byron Bay, this is a good family day out.There are train rides, merry go round, tree house playground and an 18 hole mini golf course. The animal park has an animal nursery, native animal viewing with hands on experiences as well as an aviary. A cafe is here for refreshments but, you are welcome to bring your own picnic or use the BBQ facilities available. Pacific highway, Knockrow, (02 6687 8432).
Opal and Gem Musuem
Not just the most impressive display of opals in Australia, but there are other precious gems, mineral and gold, including diamonds on display. Shop 8, Big Prawn Complex, Pacific Highway, Ballina (02 6686 2559).
Thursday Plantation
Home of the natural cure all, tea tree. Explore the world of natural medicine, with interactive displays, sculpture garden, natural ampitheatre and a rainforest walk. There is aslo a factory shop and gift shop where you can make purchases of Thursday Islands natural products. Pacific Highway, Ballina (1800 029 000).
Byron Bay retreats, spas and massage.
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