Bella Vista Bellingen

That garden outlook was breathtaking, with lush greenery and distant mountains from the seating area. The Garden apartment was spacious, clean and well equipped, and we really appreciated being able to use the washing machine at no extra cost. We only stayed one night and wished we’d booked longer. Bellingen is handy for a visit, and it’s a lovely drive into the mountains to Dorrigo National Park walk and Dangar falls. I’d definitely recommend staying here.

The living room felt welcoming and homely, with plenty of seats, and the fire there plus air conditioning in the bedrooms kept us comfortable through chilly winter nights. Our family group of five adults had the top floor for three nights. It was clean, quiet and comfortable, with no problems at all. Another group stayed downstairs on two nights, but we didn’t have any real noise issues.

The patio was a lovely spot for breakfast, looking across the pool towards the mountains, and the quiet setting was nice. The Garden Suite suited two people, the beds were comfortable, and we appreciated the light continental breakfast. There was a damp, musty smell in the unit, which we thought might be from the recent flooding rain in the area. The bathroom was okay, though there was mould in the shower grout and a high hob to step over. Parking involved a steep drive and a sharp turn into a small bay, making it tricky to get out without risking the high driveway edge. The manager said this was being addressed soon. Update, October 2022: management advised that the bathroom had been renovated and parking improved.

Bird calls, leafy surroundings and the peaceful feel made our stay at Bella Vista really relaxing. The host was friendly and welcoming, and kindly left us fresh milk, bread and breakfast. Bellingen is a very short drive away, or you can walk there, though it’s hilly.