Introducing Uki: A Hidden Tweed Valley Gem

Kiff & Culture
November 14, 2022

On the hunt for a lesser-known Tweed Valley gem?

Then give Uki a go. Nestled under the shadow of Mt Warning (Wollumbin), this quaint Tweed Hinterlands town boasts spell-binding scenery, fab farm-to-table fare, and top-notch lodgings.

We’re covering all the need-to-know info in this go-to Uki guide.

The Best Places To Stay

Before you begin your Uki adventures, you’ll need somewhere suitably swanky to lay your head.

The snazziest place to stay is Mavis’, a 25-acre former dairy farm converted into a paddock-to-plate restaurant and country-style B&B. Peppered around the property lie four ultra-lux lodgings, from a spacious farmhouse (sleeps up to 10) to romantic, couples-only cabins. Panoramic balconies afford sweeping views of the World-Heritage-listed rainforest outside.

Wellness types might prefer Ecoasis Mami Wata, a soothing sanctuary with six standalone chalets. Each two-storey villa sits surrounded by nature and comes with a claw foot tub or spa to soak your stresses away. Ask about their wellness menu to optimise relaxation time.

Uki accommodation — The stunning view from the cabins of the Sunrise Chalet at Ecoasis Mamiwata.

Where To Eat & Drink

Mavis’ Kitchen is Uki’s undisputed culinary superstar. Named after the proprietor’s gastronomic guru mother, this acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant sources organic produce from regional providers and the on-site farm. A seasonal menu offers unpretentious home-style dishes with a firm focus on fresh. Don’t miss the Saturday night tasting menu.

Smack bang in the centre of town lies Bastion Lane, where you’ll find the best locally-roasted coffee this side of Melbourne. Set in a heritage-listed 1909 post office, it’s an atmospheric spot to quash those unshakable caffeine cravings.

Fancy knocking the froth off a coldie?

The cosy Mt Warning Hotel Uki serves ice-cold pints in a charming locale. Top-notch nosh (give the juicy burgers a shot), warm country vibes, and live music make it a hit among locals and out-of-towners alike.

Mavis' Kitchen Tweed Restaurant — Mavis’ Kitchen is an absolute must when staying or visiting Uki.

The Best Things To See & Do in Uki

Mt Warning (Wollumbin) is the big-ticket attraction here. While scaling the 1,159-metre summit is off-limits, travellers can marvel at the majestic peak from anywhere in town. Early risers should wake up to admire the sunrise—Wollumbin is the first place in Australia to catch the sun’s rays.

Outdoorsy types will find countless rainforest-shrouded hikes around Uki. Hit Nightcap National Park for luscious woodlands and gushing falls (don’t miss the Protesters Falls track). Border Ranges National Park is replete with long scenic drives and Antarctic beech-lined trails—try the Falcorostrum loop.

Hankering to hit the water?

Clarrie Hall Dam is a scenic Tweed River tributary packed with lilypads and lotus flowers. Glide through the tranquil waterway on a kayak or cast a line to snap up some tasty bass. Easy-going bushwalks and panoramic picnic spots make it a great place to while away a day.

Wollumbin and Clarrie Hall dam — A beautiful shot of Wollumbin in the background and Clarrie Hall dam in the foreground.

Explore Uki & The Tweed Hinterlands with Kiff & Culture

Eager to eat at the region’s top gastronomic hotspots?

Then join one of our Tweed Hinterland tours. We cruise between fabulous farm-to-table restaurants and boutique small-batch booze-makers in one decadent day trip. This fertile, food-growing region is brimming with culinary delights, and we’ll whisk you between the best bits.