Here in the Northern Rivers, we live between two breathtaking masterpieces: the bay and the hinterland. While the Pacific stretches wide and blue to the east, the road inland winds into lush green rainforest, rolling hills and red earth. For our guests who appreciate the quiet feel of Basq House, the hinterland is an extension of our sanctuary; a region of beautiful farmsteads and hidden natural beauty that somehow feels remarkably undiscovered. 

Here’s how we recommend discovering the hinterland at your own pace.

Gidjuum Gulganyi (Old People’s Track)

This trail stretches 42km, starting from Nightcap National Park. But you don’t need to walk it all to get the experience. A short return walk from the park entrance gives you a feel for its ancient stillness: thick canopy, giant figs, and the calls of the Albert’s Lyrebird echoing through the forest. We recommend taking the 50-minute drive to the Unicorn Falls track entry point in Mount Jerusalem National Park; a gentle 2 hour, 4.2km return walk that will lead you through subtropical bush, creeks and eventually to the picturesque falls itself.

→ Discover more about this trail.

Killen Falls, Tintenbar

Roughly 30 minutes from Basq, Killen Falls is a great option for a morning nature break. A short trail leads you down to the base of the falls, where you can step into the cave behind the cascading water. It’s a cool, damp retreat that feels like a hidden world that’s especially beautiful after a light rain when the ferns are bright green.

→ Learn more about these iconic falls.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail

For a scenic change of pace, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail’s 24 km Tweed Section from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek offers one of the region’s most rewarding rides. Recently ranked in the top 10% of attractions worldwide by Tripadvisor, this 24km Tweed Section has quickly become the region’s premier outdoor adventure. The gentle, shared‑use path follows a former railway line through rolling farmland, heritage villages and lush valleys. Along the way you’ll cross restored bridges and pass through two tunnels, including the 524 m Burringbar Range Tunnel, home to microbats and glow worms, and a striking highlight of the route.

The Full-Day Adventure (One-Way): Drive 25 minutes north of Basq House to the southern trailhead at Crabbes Creek, where local operators like Better By Bike can shuttle you and your e-bikes to the northern start point in Murwillumbah (a 30-minute drive). From there, you enjoy the full 24km ride south, finishing back at your car at Crabbes Creek. This "whole-of-trail" route allows for a full day of exploration, with plenty of time for a lunch stop.

The Half-Day Detour (Out & Back): If you’re looking for a more relaxed morning, drive 30 minutes north to the mid-trail access point at Burringbar. From here, it’s a gentle 6km return ride to the Burringbar Range Tunnel. This route puts you right at the heart of the trail’s most scenic, forested leg, allowing you to return back to the House in time for a late-afternoon magnesium soak.

Where to refuel: While the trail feels beautifully remote, it is dotted with exceptional pitstops. We suggest planning your day around these local favorites:

• Pack a picnic lunch and stop for lunch with a view along the way: Before you leave town, grab a curated grazing box from Byron Bay Deli (Tue–Sun).
• Cafe stops: Teakwood Cafe in Burringbar for artisan coffee (Wed–Sun) or Tweed Valley Whey Farmhouse Cheeses for handmade gelato and cheese platters (Tue–Sun).
• Pub Lunch: stop into the Victory Hotel in Mooball for a hearty counter meal and a cold drink (Wed–Sun).

→ Plan your journey here.

Whian Whian Falls

A short walk through the forest leads to this swimming hole. It’s a great freshwater alternative to the beach, surrounded by ferns and moss-covered rocks. Unlike the more popular falls, Whian Whian often feels like a private discovery, offering several shallow pools perfect for a cool, quiet dip on a humid afternoon.

→ More local tips about the falls here.

Bexhill Quarry 

If you're looking for a unique photo or picnic spot, the turquoise water against the white rock walls of this old quarry is striking. Though it's a decommissioned site, it has become a local landmark for its bright, milky-blue hues caused by the minerals in the rock. 

→ Local tips about the quarry here.

Federal & Doma

Venture about 30 minutes inland to Federal, a charming village known for its creative spirit, artistic community and relaxed atmosphere. In the heart of Albert Street, you’ll find a Northern River’s darling, Doma; a Japanese-Australian fusion café that serves some of the best sushi in the country. We suggest grabbing a seat on the deck and taking time to sample as much as the menu as you can (because we guarantee, you’ll spend the next month daydreaming about it).

A moment for Bangalow

Just 20 minutes from the House, Bangalow feels like a welcome step back in time. The streetscape is a row of 19th-century buildings now housing some of our favorite curators. Visit Island Luxe for high-end, textured fashion and homewares, or Pony Rider for locally designed textiles. For a mid-morning pause, Woods offers a lush, plant-filled sanctuary for a coffee, while Ciao, Mate! provides that nostalgic Italian-vinyl-bar energy perfect for an early evening pizza.

The Eltham Hotel

A classic country pub that’s been given a sophisticated makeover. It’s old-world Australia at its best, featuring wide verandas and a dining room that prioritises local produce with a refined touch. Our tip? When the light hits the surrounding hills, this is the quintessential spot for a sunset drink. Take a peek at the pub here.

Frida’s Field

Set on a 120-acre farm, Frida’s feels more like a private country estate than a restaurant. The menu is built around what’s freshly harvested from the red volcanic soil, served in a beautiful barn that opens onto rolling hills. It’s a slow, generous kind of dining, a perfect destination for your weekend escape. Frida’s opens for a set-menu lunch, three days a week (Friday to Sunday from 12–4pm) with one sitting a day—so be sure to book ahead!

The Hut, Possum Creek

Once a humble schoolhouse, now a Mediterranean-inspired long lunch destination tucked in the hills. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time over a bottle of chilled wine and Mediterranean-inspired shared plates. Lunch is served Thursday to Sunday, 12–6pm. (Local tip: book ahead online to secure your table). FYI: The Hut typically closes for a seasonal break from early June to early August each year, as the team heads to Europe for their own summer reset.

If you’d prefer to let a local lead the way, there are several curated ways to experience the hills and forests.

Wild Byron Sea-to-Forest Tours

While they are known for their marine work, Wild Byron offers incredible guided rainforest walks through the Nightcap Range, providing deep insights into the flora and fauna of the Big Scrub.

Better by Bike

Rent an e-bike to tackle the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. They can arrange drop-offs and pick-ups at various points, allowing you to glide through the heritage tunnels and over the Burringbar Range with ease.

Pack a Picnic with Byron Bay Deli

For those planning a hinterland drive or afternoon by the falls, a grazing platter from Byron Bay Deli is an easy upgrade. Their picnic-friendly options are made to travel and beautifully packed, featuring local cheeses, fresh produce, dips, and artisanal extras. Order ahead here.

Planning a day trip into the hills is part of the experience at Basq House. Whether you need a map for the open sections of the Rail Trail, a recommendation for a quiet swimming hole, or help securing a hard-to-get table at Frida's Field, our team is here to help you navigate the region. Come see us at the front desk to plan your hinterland adventure.