Charli Robinson checks out Bellingen’s thriving food scene
The bohemian town of Bellingen on NSW’s mid north coast has long been a favourite holiday haven for those in the know. Blessed with pristine rivers, world heritage wilderness and a flourishing art scene, now the region is luring a new style of traveller - the foodie! Charli Robinson happily agreed to check out the thriving food scene.
Location:
Bellingen, NSW
Cost:
Levenvale Farm, Bellingen www.levenvalefarm.com.au
Tours start at $35pp, cabins start at $236 per night
Charlie’s at Church, Bellingen www.charliesbellingen.com.au
Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays 5pm to late
The Lodge, Bellingen www.thelodgebellingen.com.au
Rooms start at $265, luxury glamping tents start at $425 per night
Luxury Mountain Retreat starts at $645 per night
Three Blue Ducks, Bellingen www.threeblueducks.com
Open Thursday - Monday
Correct at 08.08.26
Highlights:
The Bellingen community is leading the way with regenerative and sustainable agriculture; growing, sharing and celebrating fresh and unique local produce. This culture and the fertile soils have attracted farmers and high-quality chefs who showcase the flavours of the region.
A quick 10 minute drive out of Bellingen, set amongst lush green rolling hills, is Levenvale Farm. Charli had a tour around to see happy cows living their best life in organic pastures. Their 100% grass-fed Bello Beef products, organic vegetables and pasture-raised chickens not only supply local restaurants, they can also be purchased from the farm shop. Levenvale hosts events, workshops, farm tours and you can also stay on the farm at their camp sites or off-grid cabins.
Back in town, Charli wandered past heritage shopfronts, eclectic boutiques and a host of wonderful cafes and restaurants. Just off the main street is Charlie’s at Church, a rustic Italian diner run by Michelin star chef Simon Jones. Charli got hands on with food prepping some pasta for their signature crab lasagna. The final dish was delicate, delicious and was followed up with their famous tiramisu!
For somewhere to stay, you can’t go past the newly renovated country escape, The Lodge. Set amongst manicured lawns with mountain views, there are 30 spacious rooms, all on ground level,
ranging from studios to family rooms, and even glamping tents! The indulgent luxury mountain retreat has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, and private outdoor sitting area.
Guests of The Lodge can enjoy a cocktail and wood-fired pizza from the bar by the pool, walk down to the paddock to feed the resident alpacas, and then end the day relaxing by an open fire!
The Lodge also boasts the iconic restaurant chain, Three Blue Ducks, bringing its paddock-to-plate philosophy to the Bellingen scene. They serve up hearty seasonal menus for lunch and dinner, in a relaxed atmosphere with a huge outdoor terrace. Their 12-hour slow-cooked lamb shoulder with a side of Dorrigo potatoes is just divine!
