Bellingen

Welcome to Bello!

A cultural community with a country town vibe.

One of the prettiest towns in New South Wales is also one of its most creative. Bellingen (known as ‘Bello’ to the locals) is renowned for its natural beauty, festivals and vibrant arts and music scene.

Unique culture

Famous for its eclectic mix of boutique shops, galleries and  great restaurants, cafés, and bars, Bellingen was once a dairy village.

Retaining its country charm, this historic town is now home to a dynamic community of artists and creatives and is the host of a number of annual creative arts and music festivals.

Bello is just a little bit famous because world renowned pianist David Helfgott lives here.

We host many other fantastic events such as the Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival, Bellingen Muse and the SWIFF International Film Festival.

It is also the proud home of one of the last video stores in Australia!

Natural beauty

Relax and unwind against the backdrop of the beautiful Bellinger River and blue hazed mountains. The river runs through the town, perfect for swimming and canoeing.

There are plenty of opportunities to experience Bellingen’s wonderful natural setting – from paddling a canoe on the meandering Bellinger River to watching the majestic sight of thousands of flying foxes taking flight as they head down the river at dusk.

Dining

Bellingen is famous for its restaurants and cafes, which line the main street. You’ll find many full of local art and often hosting live music.

There is a huge variety of food on offer from fine dining to family-friendly bistros, cafes to takeaway pizzas and fish & chips.

Eco lifestyles

Bellingen has been transformed over the years into an alternative hub.

Known for its colourful monthly market (held the third Saturday of the month), a great opportunity for a day of shopping with local artisans and sampling fantastic food. 

Or check out our produce  markets (on the 2nd and 4th Saturday monthly) and try organic locally grown produce, gourmet foods and handmade wares.

Combining laid-back charm, with a passion for sustainable living, the Bello lifestyle is quite different to the urban norm.

Explore the Shire

Want to explore more?

Hit the road and drive to Dorrigo, which lays claim to the ‘World Heritage listed’ Gondwana rainforests of Dorrigo National Park, with walking trails and waterfalls.

Urunga is a 15 minute drive, a seaside town that’s a drawcard for summer holiday visitors. Here you will find swimming, beach walks and cafes.

Mylestom offers fishing, swimming and great fish & chips.

Sawtell boasts a fabulous array of cafes and restaurants, beaches and walks.  It also has a great range of boutique stores for shopping.

If you prefer a larger place, in 30 minutes you can drive to Coffs Harbour. Here you will find beaches, nature experiences, shopping centres, botanic gardens and plenty of things to do for the kids.

If you are driving around our beautiful Shire, be sure to tune into our local community radio station 2bbb on 93.3fm & 107.3fm.