Lonely Planet dubs this NSW gem 'Byron Bay without the crowds' for 2027

Move over, Byron Bay: there's a new crown jewel of the Northern Rivers taking center stage on the world travel map.

The Tweed in the far north-east corner of NSW has been called "Byron Bay without the crowds" in a new inspirational travel collection by Lonely Planet.

The brand's new Best in Travel 2027 collection showcases 50 inspirational travel destinations and unforgettable travel experiences selected by its team of global experts.

And regional Aussie destinations shine; here's a sneak peak at the guide.

The beautiful Tweed region - right up near the border of Queensland - is known for its lush rainforests, river networks and agricultural valleys which sweep down to long blonde beaches.

Lonely Planet writer Sarah Reid says: "Famed surf town Byron Bay is only 45 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, but it's the bit in between the two you shouldn't miss. This is the Tweed."

She says while she is "a sucker" for the region's beaches and coastal restaurants, there is more to the area than sand and sustainable seafood.

This includes the local art scene, well-preserved art deco buildings, river tracks showcasing indigenous culture and rainforest walks.

Chris Zeiher, Lonely Planet's senior director, sales and marketing, says the Tweed can "sometimes fly under the radar", despite having "an incredible amount" of things to do.

He calls it an outdoor-lover's dream with the Northern Rivers Rail Trail prime for cycling, with brilliant food and coffee on offer for cyclists stopping into the local small town of Burringbar.

"There's outdoor adventure, fantastic local food, beautiful landscapes and wonderfully laid-back towns that almost force you to slow down," Zeiher says.

"It's a great example of a destination that rewards travellers who are prepared to look beyond the obvious."

Other unforgettable Oceania destinations in the guide include Dunedin and the Waitaki in New Zealand, and New Caledonia.

Around the world, Oman in the Middle East, The Veneto in Italy and Quebec in Canada are among the celebrated places to visit in 2027.

Immersing yourself in art in the Northern Territory's Red Centre is top of the list for unforgettable experiences in Oceania for 2027.

Lonely Planet writer Jessica Lockhart says Australia's outback is often characterised as a "flat, barren place", but central Australia is "anything but empty".

"The landscape constantly shifts the longer you look at it, revealing beauty and vibrant life to those willing to give it the time - or to capture it on canvas," Lockhart says.

A tutorial by Art Tours of Australia at Simpsons Gap captures colourful parrots, serene waterholes and ancient mountain ranges, Lockhart says.

Lonely Planet's Zeiher says a road trip through the Red Centre isn't simply a journey through "one of Australia's most extraordinary landscapes", but an opportunity to experience the region through art, culture and storytelling.

Travellers can immerse themselves in the recommendations on the Best in Travel landing page at lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel

The Lonely Planet app lets travellers plan their trip by destination and add their experiences.

The commemorative Best in Travel 2027 armchair book is available for $32.99 at shop.lonelyplanet.com