Story by Sarah
Rainforest living in the heart of Mur'bah
Adventure in Murwillumbah, North Coast, NSW, AU
Nestled among lush rainforest, Glenelg is a secluded escape, yet just a five-minute wander from the heart of Murwillumbah - affectionately known as Mur’bah by the locals. Built in 1902, Glenelg offers a taste of period elegance, blending stylish and comfortable furnishings with old-world charm. With its wrap-around verandahs, breathtaking views over the Tweed River, and gardens that feel like a private oasis, it was the perfect setting for a weekend of relaxation, indulgence, and a little adventure—and trust us, we lived on those verandahs!
Mornings started slow, coffee and croissant in hand, as we watched birds flit through the lush greenery while the valley stretched out before us. Then, it was time to explore. We wandered through Mur’bah’s charming streets, indulging in brunch at a cozy café before venturing further. A scenic drive took us through the quaint town of Chillingham and up to Natural Bridge, where we wandered through stunning rainforests and explored the cave that glows with bioluminescent worms after dark.
That evening, after a long soak in the tub and a home-cooked feast in Glenelg’s dreamy kitchen, we set out again—this time for dessert and cocktails at the infamous Bistro Livi. It more than lived up to its reputation. High on life (and sugar), we ended the night with a spontaneous dance session at a private party that we may or may not have snuck into—it was the perfect way to wrap up the night!
No trip to Murwillumbah is complete without a visit to the Tweed Regional Gallery and a walk along the Rail Trail, so even after checking out on Sunday, we weren’t ready to leave just yet. We spent much of the day exploring, stretching our weekend as far as it would go.
Glenelg's top floor is the main house with three bedrooms. The ground floor is a self-contained spaces with fourth bedroom, and full second kitchen & living area. The two spaces can be rented separately or together, making the home perfect for couples, and larger groups of up to eight.
Our Mur’bah getaway wasn’t long enough—but we made every second count.
Mornings started slow, coffee and croissant in hand, as we watched birds flit through the lush greenery while the valley stretched out before us. Then, it was time to explore. We wandered through Mur’bah’s charming streets, indulging in brunch at a cozy café before venturing further. A scenic drive took us through the quaint town of Chillingham and up to Natural Bridge, where we wandered through stunning rainforests and explored the cave that glows with bioluminescent worms after dark.
That evening, after a long soak in the tub and a home-cooked feast in Glenelg’s dreamy kitchen, we set out again—this time for dessert and cocktails at the infamous Bistro Livi. It more than lived up to its reputation. High on life (and sugar), we ended the night with a spontaneous dance session at a private party that we may or may not have snuck into—it was the perfect way to wrap up the night!
No trip to Murwillumbah is complete without a visit to the Tweed Regional Gallery and a walk along the Rail Trail, so even after checking out on Sunday, we weren’t ready to leave just yet. We spent much of the day exploring, stretching our weekend as far as it would go.
Glenelg's top floor is the main house with three bedrooms. The ground floor is a self-contained spaces with fourth bedroom, and full second kitchen & living area. The two spaces can be rented separately or together, making the home perfect for couples, and larger groups of up to eight.
Our Mur’bah getaway wasn’t long enough—but we made every second count.
Things We Did
- Walk
- Restaurant
- Café
- Experience
- Town
Just half an hour from Murbah is the edge of the Springbrook National Park with the infamous Natural Bridge. Try going at night time to see the glow worms!
Starting in Murwhillumbah and running all the way to Crabbes Creek is the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. The old railway track has been turned into a picturesque walk & bike track. It's around 25km each way, which you can do on foot or on bikes. There is an e-bike hire place there if you don't have your own bikes.
Winner of the Gourmet Travellers best restaurant for NSW in 2024 Bistro Livi did not disappoint. We popped down for dessert and cocktails, and will be back again to try everything else on the menu!
Buzzing cafe with scrumptious food and friendly service
Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a regional art gallery. Lonely Planet Australia describes it as "an exceptional gallery... home to some of Australia's finest in a variety of media.
The cutest little town on the way to Natural Bridge, with a general store and a fresh produce store - definitely worth a stop in!
Part of the Tweed Regional Gallery and definitely worth a stop in. Stunning views, great food & coffee. Delish take away goodies as well.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
We've plotted our adventure on the map below. Select the map icons to discover more details.
Share The Love
Add this story to your bucket list or gift it to someone you think deserves it!
Book Our Adventure
Book through this story to receive our itinerary and extra tips to help you live your adventure to the fullest.
What are Riparide Stories?
Riparide Stories are authentic experiences shared by real travellers (who are handy with a camera). It's like reading your best friend's travel journal - packed with photos, honest reviews and visual itineraries.