Alison Godfrey and Simone Ziaziaris find peace, privacy and beauty in the North Coast hinterland.
The NSW North Coast is hiding a fabulous secret. Murwillumbah, a picturesque town just south of the Queensland border, is a blend of rolling hills, flowing rivers, banana plantations and sugarcane fields. To the west of the town, a horseshoe of World Heritage National Parks surround the small villages Crystal Creek and Tyalgum. If you're looking for an off-the-radar escape, this is it. 
Known for the semi-precious stones that tumble through its water, Crystal Creek offers stunning views of Wollumbin, Border Ranges and Lamington National Parks. With little more than 300 people, this town is the perfect place to relax.
Settle in for a few nights at the Hillcrest Mountain View Retreat, an award winning bed-and-breakfast set on five landscaped acres in the middle of a grazing farm.
Hillcrest serves a delicious and slightly indulgent country-style breakfast including homemade bread and home-grown free- range eggs. Unwind in the hammocks and daybeds on the deck, take a swim in the saltwater pool or simply admire the stunning view. There will be no noise, no traffic and nothing to bother you here.
From Crystal Creek exploring the surrounding national parks is easy.
Mount Warning is the first place in Australia to receive the morning sun.
The mountain is a remnant of an ancient shield volcano which last erupted 23 million years ago.
Known as Wollumbin, meaning "cloud catcher" or "weather maker" by the Bundjalung people, Mount Warning soars to 1157 meters above sea level. It dominates the horizon looking south from Crystal Creek. Take a walk around the mountain on the Lyrebird track past towering palm trees and you'll hear the calls of whipbirds, noisy pitta and lyrebirds.
The north of Crystal Creek is dominated by Lamington National Park, known for its rainforests, waterfalls, walking trails and caves.
A day of walking here will reward you with incredible views over the Coomera Valley. If you like a little more adventure, try the 180-metre Tree Top Walk.