Mt Warning and Murwillumbah
Tweed Valley
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By TRACY PARKER
Slightly inland of the coastal strip, as we travel down the Pacific Highway from the Twin Towns, we can't help but notice Mt Warning towering over the canefields that line the highway.
Mt Warning, where the dawn sun first touches mainland Australia, is the last remnant of the extinct volcano's central core. Named Wollumbin, meaning "Cloud Catcher" by the Bundjalung people who lived in the area before European settlement, it stands like a huge reminder that we're nearing the hub of the Tweed Shire — Murwillumbah.
Just off the Highway, nestled in a small park by the Tweed River is the Murwillumbah Rainforest and Information Centre. It's here that we learn Murwillumbah means "place of many possums," that our volcano is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere and the second largest in the world, find a fascinating display of how the erupting volcano formed the area's unique topography, as well as stock up on brochures and pamphlets on things to do and see during our stay.
Centre of picturesque town
A short drive across the bridge and we're in the centre of Murwillumbah, a picturesque town that spreads along the western bank of the Tweed River and up into the hills of the McPherson Ranges.
Surrounded, as it is, by the rim of the volcano and bordering the Tweed River, we can't help but notice that almost every street has magnificent mountain, river and valley views.
Murwillumbah is a place where the lifestyle is relaxed and informal, the people friendly and welcoming and a perfect place to stop for lunch.
Many al fresco cafes
You can choose from one of the many al fresco cafés and restaurants in town, or maybe you'd prefer to dine at one of the several pubs and clubs. Whichever you choose, your meal is bound to include fresh local produce as well as a friendly chat on the best places to visit during your stay.
Time to find somewhere to base yourself while enjoying the many features of the area. There are several motels in Murwillumbah itself, but why not immerse yourself in the area by choosing one of the bed and breakfast homestays just outside of town?
Only 12 minutes from the centre of Murwillumbah you'll find Hillcrest Mountain View Retreat. Perched atop a hill on five landscaped acres, surrounded by a 200-acre cattle farm, with panoramic views of Mt Warning in one direction and the stunning Border Ranges in the other, Hillcrest is an oasis of peace, privacy and fine dining.
You can relax by the 12-metre saltwater swimming pool, sip on a cool drink and be sightseeing all at the same time!
Next page: Go on a 4WD Safari or Cruise the River by Houseboat
