Nestled in the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest eroded crater, The Tweed is a fertile wonderland that has some of Australia’s greatest biodiversity. From World Heritage-listed rainforests and unspoilt beaches, to rolling farmland and lush wilderness, it is a haven for holidaymakers wanting to get back to nature.

Within this Eden-like landscape, a wealth of holiday experiences await: lazy days spent fishing from the riverbank or beach; relaxing river cruises or adrenalin-pumping off-shore fishing charters; slow and easy drives through quaint country villages, stocking up at farmers’ markets and browsing local art and craft shops; hiking in the rainforest; long walks by the sea; leisurely lunches at cosmopolitan beachfront cafes; lively dinners at a country pub.

The Tweed is actually located in the remnant of an ancient volcano, with Mt Warning at its centre.  The Tweed’s rich soils have created a flourishing landscape, much of which forms part of the World Heritage-listed Central Eastern Rainforest Reserves of Australia. Mount Warning National Park has significant Aboriginal sites and a 4km walk that takes you through three types of rain forest. Spend time in wonderment at the 1000 year old Antarctic beech trees at Border Ranges National Park. The Tweed Scenic Drive, which has magnificent views over Mt Warning and the Tweed Valley is a great way to explore the region.

The mighty Tweed River slices through the valley and offers inlets and wetland areas teeming with wildlife. Here you can take a relaxing cruise from Tweed Heads, or hire a houseboat and discover the river for yourself. Highlights include watching the dolphins play and mud-crab hunting on rainforest-covered Stotts Island. The Tweed is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 200 species in the hinterland, which makes bushwalking another great way to experience the region.

As the original home to the nation’s richest portrait prize, the Tweed proudly showcases local artist wares in an array of public galleries and exhibitions. The Tweed River Art Gallery displays a wide variety of paintings, sculptures and photographs and is a must for any art lover. The Tweed also has lots of little gems to uncover at a number of local art cooperatives, such as the Curious Art Gallery, where regional artists can show case as many or as little of their wares as they like.

And we can’t forget about shopping. With the emergence of boutiques offering international and local designer wares, and the local markets offering fresh produce, art, jewellery, clothing and gifts made in the local community, there really is something for every one.

The Tweed Coast also offers a true dining experience. Feast on international and local cuisine by the water, in a local pub or in a five-star establishment. Have a bite to eat at Sandbar and Grill at Casuarina by the seaside or sip on a cocktail at the Salt Bar at Salt Village. The Tweed is home to some of Australia’s finest produce, including locally-caught seafood.

After a busy day exploring, there are plenty of accommodation choices – from quaint bed and breakfasts and mountainside retreats like Wollumbin Palms Retreat and Hillcrest Mountain View Retreat, to the luxurious properties of the Salt Village and Casuarina Beach developments such as Peppers Salt Resort and Spa, Outrigger Resort at Salt and Casuarina Beach Resort.

For more information, visit www.visitnsw.com