Prepare to be dazzled by the incredible variety of destinations in New South Wales, from glittering Pacific beaches to vast outback plains, energising pockets of rainforest and one of the world’s most striking cities, Sydney. Get inspired to uncover a new corner of NSW with these itinerary highlights.
Be spellbound by Sydney
Drink in the exceptional natural beauty of Sydney, with its sparkling harbour, sun-kissed ocean pools and wildlife-rich national parks. Then dive into the city’s rich Aboriginal and colonial history, as well as its fabulous restaurants — a product of the city’s vibrant cultural diversity. Get a buzz ticking off iconic experiences such as surfing at Bondi Beach with Let’s Go Surfing, dining under the sails of the Sydney Opera House and meeting the wildlife at Taronga Zoo. Whether you crave shows, museums, shopping, coastal walks, sporting events, seaside fun or nightlife, you’ll find it all in Sydney.
Embrace the wide open spaces of Country NSW
Get a dose of classic Aussie charm in Country NSW. Soak up the bucolic rural landscapes and warm country hospitality as you eat and drink your way around the wineries of Orange and Mudgee (both less than four hours’ drive from Sydney), marvel at the heavens in the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park or join a thrilling lion safari at Taronga Western Plains Zoo (both within six hours of Sydney). Say yes to the region’s many opportunities for bushwalking, mountain biking, horse riding, fishing, rock climbing and other active pursuits, cherishing seasonal delights such as autumn colours and spring wildflowers as you explore.
Expand your horizons in Outback NSW
Head west to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Outback NSW, where rich red earth meets endless blue skies. Have a blast getting to know the unofficial capital of the outback, the characterful outpost of Broken Hill (a 13-hour drive or three-hour flight from Sydney), and be wonderstruck by the otherworldly landscapes of Mungo National Park (a 10-hour drive from Sydney). In Outback NSW you’ll also discover sacred Aboriginal sites and ancient rock art, and get a chance to experience the ultimate sense of achievement in unearthing a glittering black opal. Luxuriate in the freedom of off-road adventures, feel a deep connection with nature on a stargazing experience with Outback Astronomy, and get an authentic taste of outback life as you share a cool drink with the locals in a remote pub.
Hit the beach on the North Coast
Trace the sparkling NSW coastline from the Tweed in the north (an 8.5-hour drive from Sydney) down to Port Stephens (2.5 hours from Sydney) to find your perfect stretch of sand or surf spot. But you’ll also find plenty of other reasons to love the North Coast, including artisan shopping, charming heritage villages, invigorating rainforest trails and more. Feel at one with the ocean as you catch a wave at Angourie, immerse yourself in nature as you explore the wonderous Waterfall Way, enliven your taste buds on a food trail, dine at sophisticated seaside restaurants or revel in the simple pleasure of tucking into a fish and chips feast by the beach.
Unwind on the South Coast
Venture south from Sydney and explore at your own pace on the beautiful South Coast, stretching from Wollongong (a 90-minute drive south of Sydney) all the way to Eden (a six-hour drive from Sydney). Uncover lovely laidback towns, peaceful deserted beaches, spectacular wilderness areas, and a thriving food and wine scene. Laze on some of the whitest sands in the world, be entertained by migrating whales breaching close to shore during winter, savour freshly shucked oysters from the source, and enjoy a range of water sports, cycling and bushwalking.
Unleash your appetite in the Riverina
Introduce your palate to the food bowl of NSW, a rich agricultural region about a six-hour drive southwest of Sydney. Feel pre-holiday tension melt away as you cruise along the river in a restored paddle steamer, coo over koalas dozing in their natural habitat, and take a fascinating step back into the pioneer days of New South Wales as you walk in the footsteps of bushranger Ned Kelly. Visit in spring to follow the bright golden flowers of the Canola Trail carpeting the landscape, and take some time out to appreciate a great glass of wine with all your senses at the cellar doors of celebrated local wineries such as Berton Vineyards and Calabria Family Wines.
Chase adventure in the Snowy Mountains
Strike out into the magnificent alpine scenery of the Snowy Mountains, affectionately known as the Snowies. Seize the chance to experience four distinct seasons here, from romantic snow-covered slopes in winter to serene alpine lakes edged with rainbows of wildflowers in summer. Pack your sense of adventure and sign up for seasonal activities including hiking Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, with K7 Adventures; or join a scenic river tour with Alpine River Adventures in the warmer months, and in the cooler months hit the slopes for some memorable skiing, snowboarding and snow-shoeing.
