Bellingen

Bellingen blends heritage charm, creative energy, and lush landscapes into a lively hub of food, arts, and nature.

Nestled in the heart of the Mid North Coast, Bellingen is a town that blends country charm with a vibrant, creative spirit. Surrounded by rolling farmland, ancient rainforest, and the clear waters of the Bellinger River, it offers a lifestyle that feels both peaceful and full of life. Many who visit find themselves wanting to stay, drawn to its relaxed rhythm, warm community, and scenic backdrop of the Great Dividing Range.

Locals affectionately call it “Bello”, and it’s easy to see why it holds such affection. The main street is lined with heritage buildings, local boutiques, and cafés filled with friendly faces. You’ll find markets every Saturday, with the Bellingen Community Market and Bellingen Growers Markets bringing the town together, celebrating local produce, art, and music. Festivals like the Bellingen Fine Music Festival, Camp Creative and Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival add to its reputation as a cultural hub with a strong sense of identity.

For those who love nature, Bellingen offers easy access to some of New South Wales’ most spectacular landscapes. Just a short drive away, Dorrigo National Park’s Skywalk lookout reveals breathtaking views over lush rainforest valleys. To the east, pristine beaches at Urunga, Valla, and Mylestom provide the perfect weekend escape. The region’s mild climate and fertile soil make it ideal for farming, while its small-town pace offers an appealing balance to city life.

Bellingen’s property market reflects its growing popularity with families, retirees, and city changers seeking a more grounded way of living. From charming heritage homes in town to rural lifestyle properties along the river, there’s a wide range of opportunities for those looking to invest or settle down. Despite its laid-back feel, the area remains well connected, with Coffs Harbour just half an hour away and regular flights to Sydney and Brisbane.

Life in Bellingen moves at a gentler pace, guided by genuine connection and shared community values. It’s a place where people greet each other by name, local businesses thrive on trust, and nature always feels close. Whether you’re drawn by the scenery, the culture, or the warmth of its people, Bellingen is not just a destination — it’s a way of life.