MURWILLUMBAH is not just loved by its locals – it's loved by its visitors too.

The town's backpacker hostel, Murwillumbah YHA, has been named the top hostel in Australia under 25 beds by the Australian Backpacker and Youth Hostel Association

Owner Tassie Duff said it was easy to see why people had loved to visit the riverside backpacker accommodation for more than 30 years.

“The scenery here is beautiful and the location is perfect,” he said.

“People like coming to an Aussie community off the beaten track.

“They love Australians and the people around here are always smiling.”

Mr Duff said there was never a dull moment with plenty to do in and around Murwillumbah.

“They love to climb Mount Warning, take a kayak down the river and go cycling,” Mr Duff said.

“The ones that have cars love driving to all the national parks as well.

“A lot of people come back again and again.

“I get a lot of Australian couples coming for short breaks or backpackers travelling around Australia.”

Mr Duff said the last 30 years had been a labour of love.

“I've been doing this for more than 30 years, and I guess if you enjoy something you just keep doing it,” Mr Duff said.

“People say they come back and the whole world has changed, but not Murwillumbah, and that's why they come back.

“People who came here 30 years ago are bringing their children back to show them the area and show them the hostel experience.”

Mr Duff said the award also belonged to the community.

“It is very satisfying to be named the best under 25, because all 22 of us around Australia in that category work really hard,” he said.

“I would never have got this award though, without the community being so good to me.”