Villa Riviera feels like a luxury houseboat cruising on the Richmond river. The water is so close you feel like your floating, particularly when you fall into the supa comfy beds. What you see in the photo's is truly what you get with regards to the amenities, but what the photos cant tell you is just how peaceful and relaxing Villa Riviera is - it really is a special place. At low tide you can enjoy your own private beach which doubles as a love little place to dip in the river and cool off. The views up and down the river always provide some type of activity that will help you unwind - particularly a pod of dolphins cruising past or the pelicans floating by. Don't be surprised if they come and say hello. At high tide the river literally laps up against the landing providing a blissful background tempo that guides you to sleep. Be it the breaking dawn or the radiant sunsets and all in between, the river provides a scenery that will draw you right back into nature and the peace and harmony we all seek during a little holiday break.

My name is Richard Jones & I manage Villa Riviera on behalf of my family. Our dad, who purchased the Villa way back in the 70's, passed away in 2009 and left us his legacy of having people stay for as little or as long as it took to wind down. My mum, brothers and sisters have all enjoyed Villa Riviera & have fond memories of our childhood years & continue to this day when we can find a break in the calendar. When not unwinding at Villa Riviera, I like to relax at the beach with my puppy Samson, although he needs a good long walk/run/jump before he relaxes. He enjoys swimming as much as I do. All of our family have pets & that's why we allow (via request) for guests to bring their four legged family members to Villa Riviera to help feel right at home. There are so many ways to relax or explore in the Ballina/Byron area. There are two professional 18 hole golf courses in Ballina and Byron. About a 20 minute drive is one of the prettiest 9 hole recreational golf course nestled in the rolling hills at Teven. There are too many surfing beaches to mention & there are also dog friendly beaches and bike paths to explore, before taking in a nice meal & a few cold beers :)

Villa Riviera is one of nine apartments built on this prime piece of real estate, but don't be concerned, you'll feel very secluded and private even when dining on the outdoor setting by the river. Our Aunt lives next door and is always ready to help with directions or just letting you know when the dolphins have come to visit. There is plenty of nature watching, even fishing if you wish, right at your doorstep. However if you want to explore, located with in a 3 minute drive is the town of Ballina, or a 10 minute drive to Ballina's lifeguard patrolled swimming beaches. Its a 20 minute drive to the local seaside town of Lennox Head or 40 minutes to the very popular coastal tourist town of Byron Bay - which is loaded with many activities, walks, restaurants and pubs with great live music. Lets not overlook the hinterland towns of Alstonville (20 minute drive), Bangalow (25 minutes) or Mullumbimby (45 minutes). All these little towns mentioned have have their own distinct personalities with many shops, restaurants and sights to explore and all are within easy reach. No doubt the best thing about visiting all these places is coming back to your own piece of paradise.