Where the wild reids are

Tag: family

  • Unicorn Falls and Hidden Gems in Uki

    A Magical Long Weekend in Uki

    We spent two starry nights at the base of Mount Warning in Northern NSW, soaking up the country charm of Uki — and honestly, it felt a little bit magical.

    Think Unicorn falls, fairy pools and mystical mountains that inspired the landscape of the children’s classic Ferngully. One morning I stepped out of the van to see low-lying clouds slowly lifting from the hill beside our campground. It felt like the land was waking up around us.

    Where We Stayed

    We booked a Hipcamp at Windmill Creek Camping, a beautiful working farm surrounded by rolling green hills, grazing cows and the peaceful Doon Doon Creek — complete with a perfect little swimming hole.

    It’s located on the road into Clarrie Hall Dam, a popular spot for non-motorised water sports. This time, though, we stuck to cooling off in the creek after some stunning hikes.

    You can check it out here: Windmill Creek Camp

    It was hot during the day (late January will do that in Northern NSW), but the evenings were absolutely perfect for sitting around a little campfire.

    What We Did

    Mount Warning National Park

    On Saturday we explored the surrounding national parks, including Mount Warning National Park.

    I’ve previously hiked to the summit before its COVID closure and experienced the breathtaking views from the top. I’m genuinely heartened by the NSW Government’s plans to reopen the hike in 2027. The natural beauty of this lucky land we all love should be accessible — as long as it’s respected, which I truly believe it is by those who love nature.

    With the kids, we opted for the shorter Lyrebird Track instead. When we could get them quiet enough (a rare but magical moment), we could hear so many birds. At the top, there’s a lookout and signage that helps you identify the birds — such a simple but special way to connect little people with nature.

    Lyrebird Track info here

    Unicorn Falls – Mount Jerusalem National Park

    The kids were hungry for more adventure, so we drove about 20 minutes to Mount Jerusalem National Park and tackled the Unicorn Falls Trail.

    It was such a fun little expedition — spotting lizards, listening for birds, navigating the track, crossing a creek and a bridge. The falls were a little dry, but still beautiful. We were able to enjoy them from both the top and bottom, which made it extra special.

    The kids even discovered some clay along the way, which kept them happily occupied.

    For those not keen on a longer hot hike with little ones, there’s a car park option that gets you within a 200m walk of the falls — much quicker than our 2.1km adventure. But where’s the fun in that?

    More info here on Mount Jerusalem National Park

    Pub Lunch Perfection – Mount Warning Hotel

    After a big morning hiking, we had definitely earned a couple of pints and a proper feed.

    We headed back to Uki and grabbed lunch at the Mount Warning Hotel — and it was a solid 10/10.

    If you’re travelling with kids, this place is gold. There’s a large fenced playground right next to picnic bench seating, plus shade sails to protect little faces from the sun. Between our steak sangas and burgers, the kids’ meals, and cold beers — everyone was happy.

    Highly recommend:
    https://www.mountwarninghotel.com.au/

    A Secret Swimming Hole (local knowledge win)

    We got chatting to a local at the pub (because local knowledge is always the best kind), and they told us about a little swimming hole perfect for kids.

    And what kind of blogger would I be if I didn’t share it with the two people who read this… 😉

    Heading south of Uki, turn off Kyogle Road onto Byrrill Creek Road. Drive a couple of kilometres, then turn right onto Cedar Creek Road. You’ll find a gorgeous little swimming hole on Cedar Creek, with the road widened enough for a couple of cars to park.

    There’s a small waterfall, shallow sections for kids, and a few slippery rocks to watch out for — but it was the perfect refreshing way to spend the afternoon.

    Another night around the fire wrapped up what was truly a stunning, magical little weekend away with friends.

    Northern NSW really does have that quiet, mystical charm. And sometimes, all you need is a creek, a campfire, and a couple of good hikes to feel completely reset.

  • Byron Bay bliss

    Byron Bay bound: Family adventures await

    We recently spent two nights in beautiful Byron Bay on our road trip south – and even though it was a short stop, it was packed with adventure, coffee, whales and the usual chaos that comes with travelling with kids.

    Where We Stayed

    👉 Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

    This park backs onto Tallow Creek and was perfect for families. The kids were immediately won over by the pool, jumping pillow, playground, and games room – all the essentials for keeping small humans happy.

    It’s also dog-friendly, for those travelling with a four-legged family member. We booked an upgraded site backing onto a big grassy space near the dog park, which made it easy for everyone to spread out and unwind.

    The only downside? The bridge over Tallow Creek was closed for repairs, so we couldn’t access the beach directly from the park. Other than that, the location was great – far enough out of the busy Byron town centre for a quiet night’s sleep, but close enough to drive or ride in for a coffee run.

    Cape Byron Walking Track

    👉 Walgun Cape Byron Walking Track

    Our first adventure was the Cape Byron Walking Track. We started from the Captain Cook car park, but with the benefit of hindsight (and tired little legs), I’d suggest parking closer to The Pass Café instead. There’s ample parking and caffeine – a win for any parent.

    The kids loved exploring the beach, the rocky outcrop, and climbing up Fisherman’s Lookout. Travelling in September meant we were treated to a spectacular show of whales breaching and blowing just off the coast – absolute magic!

    Of course, no family outing is complete without a little drama. Our eldest took a tumble on the steps at Wategos Beach and cut her leg. Thankfully, two paramedics enjoying their morning coffee came to the rescue. After a quick patch-up, it was piggyback rides back to the car – just another family travel memory to add to the collection.

    Cape Byron Lighthouse

    👉 Cape Byron Lighthouse

    Next on the list was the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. A handy tip – if you’ve paid for parking in Byron, your ticket works across different car parks within the time limit, so you can move between attractions without paying again.

    We strolled up Lighthouse Road, taking in those postcard-perfect views of the coastline and spotting more whales along the way. The kids were obsessed with the binoculars at the top, and there’s a little café nearby if you need a rest (or a reward).

    The Farm – Byron Bay

    👉 The Farm

    This one is a must-do. The Farm truly lives up to the hype, and the coffee alone makes it worth the visit. We had brunch at Three Blue Ducks, and let’s just say I’m still dreaming about it.

    ☕ Coffee: Amazing.
    🥐 Almond croissant from the bakery: So good I briefly considered not sharing it with my kids.
    🍳 Brunch pick: Chilli scrambled eggs with a side of lobster – premium, yes, but worth every cent.
    🧇 Kids’ pick: Homemade apple crumpets with vanilla cream and hot chocolates – they thought they’d hit the breakfast jackpot.

    After brunch, the kids burned off their energy at the playground (note: limited shade for helicopter parents) before we checked out the animal feeding. On weekends there are pony rides, but the line was long and our patience was not – so we gave that one a miss.

    Afternoon by Tallow Creek

    We spent the rest of the afternoon fishing at Tallow Creek near the closed bridge and letting the kids run wild at the playground. It was a relaxed way to wrap up our Byron adventure before heading back to camp for an early night.

    Final Thoughts

    The next morning we were back on the road to Coffs Harbour, but our short stay in Byron Bay was absolutely worth it. Between the beaches, the food, and the family-friendly activities, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this place.

    There’s plenty to keep the kids happy (and to wear them out), and my husband and I are already planning to return without the wildlings one day – to enjoy Byron’s grown-up side of boutique cafés, gin tastings and craft beers in peace.

    Until then – thanks for the memories, Byron Bay. We’ll be back! 🌊🐋☕

  • The Peach Farm  – Country Calm

    After a week in a busy caravan park, we were so ready to breathe in some fresh country air, stretch our legs, and let the kids run wild again. Just 20 minutes north of Yamba, tucked just off the highway at Moror NSW is a little slice of rural magic called The Peach Farm — and what a find it was!

    We booked two nights on a site called “Queen Peach” (how good is that name?) — one of many punny and quirky camping spots scattered across this gorgeous Hipcamp property.

    Book your own stay here.

    —

    First Impressions

    Driving into The Peach Farm, we passed a separate parking area for day visitors before winding through to find half a dozen peaceful campsites nestled amongst open paddocks.

    Along the way, we spotted a huge animal paddock, an outdoor kids’ playground, a camp kitchen stocked with all the essentials, and a sparkling little dam dotted with kayaks — and ducks, geese, and the most adorable goslings you’ll ever meet (but trust me, their mums are very protective).

    Our site had its own picnic table and fire pit, perfect for late-night marshmallow missions and early morning cuppas. For our little Jayco camper and three wildlings, it was camping bliss — simple, spacious, and full of heart.

    —

    Under the Stars

    Our first evening under the stars was magic. It was a little chilly, but the fire pit kept us cosy while the diesel heater in our old trusty Jayco did the trick once we climbed into bed.

    The only sounds were crackling firewood, the odd rooster crowing, and the soft giggles of tired, happy kids.

    —

    Day Trip to Yamba

    Morning came with the crow of roosters and eager little feet ready to feed the animals. After the farm chores (and about ten “Can we have a bunny?” requests), we jumped in the car for a quick drive to Yamba Beach. The kids splashed in the rock pool, built sandcastles, and soaked up that salty sunshine — pure joy.

    By lunchtime, hunger hit hard. On the drive in, I’d spotted a pub with a fenced playground across the Clarence River — mental note: potential golden find. That’s how we ended up at the Harwood Hotel (harwoodhotel.com.au) and wow, it did not disappoint.

    We scored a table right next to the playground (winning), ordered some cold drinks, and tucked into seriously good food. Hubby tackled the Spanish twist parmigiana — a monster meal — while I went for the salt and pepper calamari salad, which was light, fresh, and full of flavour. Kids happy, adults fed — perfection.

    —

    Back to the Farm

    Our final afternoon was spent making the most of farm life — animal cuddles, campfire chats, and new campground friends running around with glow sticks under the stars. The kids were in their element, and we were blissfully relaxed.

    For couples, there’s even an outdoor bath and woodfired pizza setup available to hire — such a cute idea for a romantic weekend away.

    Our host was just lovely too — friendly, helpful, and there when we needed her (mostly for firewood refills!).

    —

    Final Thoughts

    The Peach Farm is one of those rare places that just feels right. It’s simple, genuine, and packed with that good old-fashioned country charm.

    Whether you’re rolling in with kids and a caravan or sneaking away for a quiet couple’s weekend — it’s a spot that makes you slow down, breathe deep, and remember how good it feels to disconnect for a while.

    Thanks for having us, The Peach Farm. We’ll be back. 

    🍑