When the QLD/NSW border bubble extended to Ballina, Jacob and I booked accommodation for a mini Escape to Northern NSW to visit family before Christmas.
Who knew a severe rain event was going to dampen our weekend! We thought we had to watch the news for changes on border closures if COVID roared its head.
We had a picture perfect day last Thursday and the rest of our time in Ballina and Goonellabah was wet and windy.
Despite the severe wet weather and flooding, we were able to safely visit my in-laws. The last time we had seen each other was last December.
Thankfully we were able to leave early Sunday morning before the next rain event was to arrive later that day.
While the trip was specifically to spend time with family, I thought I’d share what we got up to on the only sunny day of our trip and where we stayed.
The Farm Byron Bay
Ballina is approximately a 2 hour drive south from Brisbane. We broke up the trip by stopping at The Farm in Byron Bay and having lunch at Three Blue Ducks.
We had visited here a few years ago but it was packed and hot. The kids were younger and arriving at midday was not the best as the table wait time was at least 45 mins.
When we arrived last Thursday, we were told the same thing, however a waitress was able to squeeze us in straight away.
In terms of food choice, the menu was limited. The produce is grown at the farm or ethically sourced. The stand out for us was the roast potatoes! We should have ordered 2 bowls! Didn’t get a picture of those because they were eaten so quick!
After lunch, we walked around the farm. Even though it was the middle of the day, it was pleasant to walk in the sunshine, with a gorgeous breeze to keep the temperature down.
The rows of macadamia nut and pecan trees piqued our curiosity. Some visitors had set up picnic rugs or camping chairs under the shade of the trees for a picnic.
We made use of the landscape for some family selfies. Its best to visit on a sunny and dry day.
The Cubana Ballina
We’ve stayed in a range of hotels in Ballina, but this time, we opted for an interconnecting family motel room at The Cubana.
Upon arrival, the rooms were just as bright as pictured on the website. Lighting wasn’t the best for these photos as we arrived late in the afternoon.
This motel had a major renovation during COVID lockdown. Think QT style with a retro vibe.
All the motel doors represent the colour scheme in each room. The Barbie artwork made the rooms quirky and fun. I’d stay at this motel again for its cleanliness, fresh ambience and location.
The interconnecting room had twin beds and the queen bed room had a sofa bed. Finding accommodation to fit a family of 3 children becomes a little tricky with the bed situation but this worked fine for us.
Coffee and breakfast was all sorted with Grab 2 Go, a mini caravan set out the front of the motel. It’s a favourite for locals and guests staying at the motel.
If you are looking for accommodation which is new and offers a quality, modernized room in Ballina, The Cubana is definitely one to put on your list.
Other Northern NSW Travel Posts
- What to do with kids in Alstonville
- Family Accommodation in Ballina
- Top Things to do in Coffs Harbour with kids
