Lismore, located on the North Coast of NSW, is a truly one of a kind country town. Just 45 minutes drive from Byron Bay, the town is known for its vibrant culture, alternative lifestyles, organic produce, and awe inspiring World Heritage listed national parks.
Whether you’re visiting Lismore for a romantic getaway, adventure trip or cultural weekend, the region has something to offer everyone. Foodies will be delighted by sampling local produce that grows in the regions volcanic soils (such as macadamias, avocados, stone fruit, blueberries and more), while nature lovers will relish the regions multitude of national parks which have been shaped by 20 million years of heavy rainfall.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Lismore.
Enjoy an organic breakfast at one of Lismore’s local cafes
Lismore is known for its gourmet produce, sustainable farming methods, and flourishing dairy industry. Start your getaway with an organic breakfast at one of Lismore’s many local cafes and eateries. Flock Espresso, hidden away in a narrow laneway in Lismore’s CBD area and situated a 7 minute walk from The Comfort Inn Centrepoint, is well loved by locals, and offers a wholly organic breakfast and lunch menu. Crowd favourites include the Scram Senior (scrambled pasture raised eggs on wood fired The Bread Social sourdough, toasted with lots of greens, avocado, kasundi and haloumi), and the Sourdough Crumpets, served with house made lemon curd, whipped ricotta, roasted seasonal fruit, cultured butter and jam.
Take a day trip to Nightcap National Park
Located 35km from Lismore, Nightcap National Park is one of Australia’s most significant biodiversity hotspots, part of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Nightcap National Park is renowned for its ancient rainforests, crystal clear waterways and incredible native wildlife.
Nightcap National Park is also the perfect place to view the 20 million year old Wollumbin volcano, which sits an incredible 1,157 metres across sea level.
Immerse yourself in local art
Lismore is known for its incredible local art scene and artist community. The Lismore Regional Gallery, situated an 11 minute walk from The Comfort Inn Centrepoint, is open from 10am Wednesday – Sunday. Under Acting Director Sarah Harvey, this years 2021 programme includes Wonnarua, by Ryan Lee, and Max Dupain’s retrospective: Australian Modern.
For a more hands on art experience, visit Northern Rivers Pottery Supplies to enrol in a wheel throwing or clay immersion workshop amongst local ceramicists and artists.
Unwind at Augustine’s
Augustine’s is a small and intimate venue in Lismore’s CBD. Offering a curated selection of minimal intervention wine, boutique cocktails, locally produced cheese and olives with artisan bread, and fresh oysters from nearby Ballina, Augustine’s is the perfect place to enjoy an aperitif after a day of art and exploration.
Take a trip to Nimbin
Nimbin, Australia’s alternative wellness capital, is located a short 30 minute drive from The Comfort Inn Centrepoint. Often referred to as Australia’s Woodstock, Nimbin is renowned for its alternative wellness industry, psychedelic aesthetic, and organic produce.
A visit to Nimbin isn’t complete without a trip to Cullen Street, where visitors can enjoy acupuncture, homeopathy, health-promoting herbs, astrological counselling and energy work.
Catch some live music and enjoy a pub meal
Lismore, like most regional towns in Australia, has a lively and inclusive pub scene. Mary G’s, located in the heart of the Lismore CBD, is a Northern Rivers institution, and regularly hosts live music events. Be sure to check their upcoming gig guide for updates on local bands performing on their stage.
Need a place to stay?
Ideally located in Lismore’s CBD, The Comfort Inn Centrepoint is located within walking distance to several local leisure activities including the Lismore Bowls, Olympic Pool & Croquet Clubs. The Lismore shopping and business districts are just minutes away by car.
Book your next stay with Choice Hotels.
