17:30 AEST Sat May 5 2012

Catriona Rowntree travelled two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney to Tea Gardens, a quaint township on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. With roughly 3000 permanent residents, the hidden treasure is often missed by holiday makers as they drive over Singing Bridge or stop at Hawks Nest, the more popular neighbour.

Tea Gardens is a great destination for art and food enthusiasts. Marine Drive has cafes, galleries and bric-a-brac stores, along with the art walk that embraces local talent.

Related: Insider's Guide to North Coast NSW