NSW is the most popular state for tourism and for very good reason; home to Sydney, the Blue Mountains and, of course, Hunter Valley, the most fertile region in the country. How much time have you got? You could rent a motorhome, spend 3 months touring NSW and still not see everything; a month would certainly enable you to take in the best parts of the state. A week would hardly cover Sydney and the Blue Mountains; however long you have to explore NSW, here are some of the best attractions to add to your itinerary.
Best Attractions
- Sydney Harbour and the Opera House – Who goes to Australia and doesn’t spend time at the iconic Sydney Harbour? There are many performances at Sydney Opera House, both indoor and outdoor; Google their site and check out what’s on at Xmas and New Year. You can also book online, so you won’t be disappointed.
- Bondi Beach – Sun, sand and a few ice-cold beers; take a picnic hamper, beach towel and a beach mat and you’re good to go! You might be lucky and surf is up and you can watch the best Bondi surfers take on some wicked waves! The web hosts resources to tell you everything you need to know about Bondi and that stretch of coastline, which has much to offer in terms of natural beauty.
- Blue Mountains – The blue tinge comes from the many eucalyptus trees below and from a location like the Three Sisters, you can see Sydney in all its glory. Approach a leading Blue Mountains tour operator and take a look at their VIP tours that include a champagne lunch at one of the wineries in Hunter Valley. Some of the best Australian wines are grown here, so if you are a wine lover, you can explore a range of fine wines. One of the most iconic attractions in the state, which must be on your list of places to see.
- Hunter Valley – World-class restaurants abound in this fertile valley and if you have a week, you can visit some of the best restaurants and wineries and enjoy A la Carte menus. There are some fantastic hikes with guided tours that show you stunning countryside and if you ride, why not book a group tour with a guide? You can rent mountain bikes and explore trails, which is a popular way to experience the forests. Have you ever tried glamping? Luxury camping is relatively new and there are numerous campsites in Hunter Valley and Byron Bay.
- Byron Bay – The quaint town has many busy restaurants and pubs that sell craft beers and there are stunning views of the bay, with some great beaches. You can order beachwear and towels online and make sure you have sunscreen. Whale watching is popular and if you have yet to get close up to the majestic humpback whale, this is your chance! Deep sea fishing is another great day out, which you can book online (subject to weather).
- Helicopter tour of Sydney – Why not see Sydney from the air? Sydney Airport is home to a top-rated helicopter tour company that offers a VIP service and several packages. A typical tour would be 90-minutes, which takes in Sydney Harbour, Bondi Beach, the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley. The pilots can give you amazing views for images and video, you can talk to the pilot via the headsets that all passengers wear. If you are a single traveller, you can join others to make a group, or you can book a family package.
- Sapphire Coast – Merimbula is a top destination for whale watching, fishing, while there are some fantastic seafood restaurants for you to enjoy. Most visitors are surprised that they don’t see more tourists along this amazing stretch of coastline, which appeals to many. A Google search will take you to the NSW tourism website, where you can find details of the top attractions on Sapphire Coast.
- Lord Howe Island – This underdeveloped island offers beaches and snorkelling, with an array of water sports and a few great fishing spots. Rent a car in Sydney and drive to this island and you’ll have a day to remember! Capella Lodge is a firm favourite place to stay and we recommend booking in advance.
Conclusion:
If you are planning to spend the New Year in NSW, we hope that the above information helps you to arrange the holiday-of-a-lifetime. Search online for more information about the many wonders of NSW and if you are looking for a budget holiday, rent a campervan; there are many campsites in the state.
