Grafton

Festivals & events 

Over the spring months, jacarandas sprinkle NSW with an iridescent rain of purple flowers. And while the entire state appreciates the dose of imported Japanese colour, they’re particularly revered in Grafton. Here, October/November’s annual Grafton Jacaranda Festival (the oldest floral celebration in the country) paints the entire town lilac, from specially curated art exhibits to nightly fireworks, parades, markets and entertainment. 

Jacaranda Festival, Grafton - Credit: Grafton Jacaranda Festival

Natural wonders 

Grafton is the gateway to the wild rivers, ravishing gorges and ancient rainforest of nearby Nymboida National Park. Here, forest-clad escarpments create a striking backdrop for paddling, hiking, camping and 4WD touring. Exodus Adventures offer white water rafting, canoeing and river tubing tours or you can take a multi-day camping river tour or hire canoes from Nymboida River Canoes.  

Nymboida River Canoes, Grafton - Credit: Nymboida River Canoes/My Clarence Valley

History & culture 

Even minus the flowers, Grafton’s broad avenues offer reasons to linger, with many of its buildings significant National Trust sites. Take them in on the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail, highlighting the Grafton Gaol and 1884 Christ Church Cathedral, as well as the Clarence River Historical Society at Schaeffer House, a magnificent Federation homestead. Don’t miss the 1915 Bendy Bridge, particularly popular near dusk when visitors flock to its walkway for sunset views over the river. 

Grafton Post Office, Grafton - Credit: My Clarence Valley

Grafton has a vibrant arts scene. The Grafton Regional Gallery sits pretty in the historic Prentice House, built in 1880. See works from famed Aussie artists like Ken Done and Doris O’Grady, as well as contemporary Indigenous artists. Don’t miss the seasonal exhibition revolving around those jacaranda trees. Grafton Art Club runs daily classes and workshops in various mediums including watercolour, life drawing, and oils and abstract.  

Grafton Regional Gallery, Grafton

Eat & drink 

You can buy fresh seasonal produce at the Grafton Farmers Market, held every Thursday on Prince Street. Pick up fruit and veggies, then wander between stalls while munching on pulled-pork buns, gluten-free doughnuts and loaded slices of pizza. 

The formal dining scene around town unites country swagger with innovation, from cafes and restaurants to breweries and pubs. Not least the legendary century-old Ulmarra Hotel just outside of town, replete with an expansive veranda and one of the best beer gardens in the state – as voted by those in the know. Delicious spots for brunch and coffee include Vines at 139, Heart and Soul Wholefood Café and Brewhouse Café.  

Heart and Soul Wholefood Cafe, Grafton - Credit: My Clarence Valley

Where to stay  

When you arrive in Grafton, you’ll find accommodation to suit all budgets. Within the town are several hotels and motels including Fitzroy Motor Inn, Grafton Central and Crown Hotel Motel. Further north, BIG4 Big River Holiday Park and Ski Lodge is located right on the Clarence River, offering a great opportunity to try water sports. South of the river is Grafton Sunset Caravan Park, which has en suite cabins, drive-through sites and campsites. 

BIG4 Big River Holiday Park, Grafton - Credit: Hampshire Holidays

Getting there 

Getting to Grafton is as much about the journey as the destination. Enjoy the 6.5-hour drive north from Sydney or 3.5-hour drive south from Brisbane, lingering at charming country and coastal towns en route. By train or bus, your route from Sydney takes around 10 hours. You can also fly into Ballina Airport and hire a car for the 1.5-hour drive south.