Discover new adventures beyond Sydney in regional New South Wales
Sydney has always offered Kiwis an exciting urban escape – especially now, with Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour’s The Phantom of the Opera (March 27-May 3) and art-and-light festival Vivid Sydney (May 22-June 13) on the horizon. But it’s possible to get so much more out of a Sydney excursion by venturing beyond New South Wales’ biggest city.
There’s plenty to discover throughout the east coast state, from fabulous food and wine to exquisite white-sand beaches and dramatic mountain villages – with premium packages from YOU Travel & Cruise that align with each region.
They each include three nights in luxurious accommodation that represents the best of each region, plus four-day hire car, the perfect excuse to slow down and explore each region at a relaxing pace.
Just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney is the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, so named for the haze produced by its abundance of eucalyptus trees. YOU Travel & Cruise recommends staying at the Hydro Majestic, an art deco hotel with beautiful views over the escarpment. Take the hire car to the township of Katoomba and see the famous rock formation the Three Sisters, head to Leura to shop for local crafts or get back to nature on a beautiful bush walk, breathing in the fragrant eucalyptus air. Take your time exploring the region’s grand gardens and enjoying fabulous food, galleries and artisans, each of the Blue Mountains’ townships exhibiting its own unique charm.
Couples seeking a romantic getaway or to celebrate a special occasion should head 90 minutes north of Sydney to the Central Coast, staying at the Pretty Beach House. This all-inclusive luxury lodge was listed in Conde Nast USA’s Gold List of 100 Top Hotels in the World. Its quintessential Australian design boasts just four intimate pavilions set over the bush, along with fine dining, a wine cellar and an open fireplace.
Just as famous for its wine is the Hunter Valley, just two hours north of Sydney, but it’s increasingly becoming renowned for its architecturally impressive cellar doors – and its food. Hop in the hire car and discover the Hunter Valley’s little areas from wine capital Pokolbin to scenic Lovedale. Sample epicurean delights along the drive, from cheeses to chocolates and charcuterie, then burn them off by indulging in a nature-based adventure. The Hunter Valley offers everything from horse-back riding to sunrise hot air ballooning, where you’re bound to spot kangaroos hopping through the vineyards. YOU Travel & Cruise has a package that captures the spirit of the Hunter Valley, with Voco Kirkton Park, set on 70 acres, with stunning vineyard and countryside views.
Another region known for its natural beauty is Port Stephens, two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney. Though it’s a relaxed place to visit it offers an abundance of adventure, from national parks to a multitude of beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters, with bottle-nosed dolphins leaping through the water. (Australia’s other famous friends can be found at the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.) Foodies can enjoy great seafood from star British chef Rick Stein at Bannisters, while thrill-seekers will love the quad bike rides across the giant sand dunes with the Indigenous owners of Sand Dune Adventures. YOU Travel & Cruise has partnered with the Hamptons-style The Anchorage Hotel & Spa Port Stephens, situated right on the marina.
If you happen to fly into the Gold Coast why not head over the border into NSW to visit Byron Bay. Byron Bay itself offers a restful escape with a focus on wellness. Stay at Crystalbrook Byron, nestled in 45 acres of subtropical rainforest, for an immersive experience in nature. Rise for morning yoga on the swimming pool deck, head out for standup paddle boarding at the beach or even go kayaking with dolphins.
Perhaps the most memorable way to explore the NSW region, particularly for those who prefer not to drive, is by train. Step back in time with Vintage Rail Tours. The Southern Aurora overnight passenger train, which operated from 1962 to 1986 between Sydney and Melbourne, is back in business with beautifully restored carriages. Travellers from Sydney’s Central Railway Station can now once again experience the charm and comfort of train travel, with three 5-day, 4-night rail tours, taking in some of NSW’s best scenery. The Riverina Rail Tour explores Australia’s “food bowl”, rich in agricultural heritage, passionate producers and country charm. The North Coast Rail Tour journeys along scenic rivers and lush hinterlands to iconic landmarks and coastal gems. And the Golden West Rail Tour travels urban skylines and sweeping rural plains to cool-climate vineyards and heritage-rich towns, with every stop revealing a new side of the state’s storied interior.
Peruse the NSW YOU Travel & Cruise packages or contact your YOU Travel & Cruise agent to find out more.