The beautiful city of Sydney is the perfect starting point for an epic road trip through New South Wales, Australia. With a wide range of breathtaking destinations just a short drive away, there is no shortage of sights to see and experiences to be had.
New South Wales is one of Australia’s smaller states, making up just 10% of the total area of the country. This makes it perfect to explore by road! To turn your road trip into an adventure, you may wish to organise a campervan hire from Sydney. A campervan holiday will allow you to spend more time immersed in nature, and less time worrying about hotel reservations.
Here are 11 beautiful places near Sydney, to visit on your New South Wales road trip in Australia.
Blue Mountains
Just an hour west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a breathtaking landscape of towering cliffs, lush forests, and rolling hills. The Blue Mountains are named after the blue haze that hovers over the region, which is created by the oil released by eucalyptus trees. The area is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
One of the must-visit locations in the Blue Mountains is the Three Sisters, a famous rock formation that stands tall above the town of Katoomba. Take a walk along the boardwalk for stunning views of the Three Sisters and the surrounding landscape. Another popular spot is the Scenic World, where you can enjoy a thrilling ride on the Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world.
Hunter Valley
Located just a few of hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. The area is home to over 150 wineries, offering a range of wine tastings and tours. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, sampling the local wines and taking in the picturesque scenery.
The Hunter Valley is also known for its stunning hot air balloon rides. Rise above the vineyards and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. You can even enjoy a champagne breakfast after your flight! If you prefer to stay on the ground, the Hunter Valley Gardens are a must-visit. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of the blooming flowers and stunning water features.
Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is a stunning coastal destination located several hours south from Sydney. The area is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life.
One of the must-visit locations in Jervis Bay is the Booderee National Park, home to a variety of wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. Take a walk along the park’s many hiking trails and admire the views of the turquoise waters and towering cliffs. Another popular spot is the Jervis Bay Marine Park, where you can go snorkeling or diving and explore the vibrant underwater world.
Port Stephens
Just a 2-hour drive north from Sydney, Port Stephens is a spectacular coastal destination that offers a range of water-based activities. This picturesque area is surrounded by stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and towering sand dunes.
One of the most popular activities in Port Stephens is dolphin watching. Take a boat tour and observe the playful dolphins swimming in their natural habitat. Another must-visit spot is the Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Rent a sandboard and enjoy the thrill of sliding down the towering dunes.
Kiama
Located just over 2 hours’ drive from Sydney, Kiama is a beautiful Sapphire Coast town known for its stunning beaches and historic landmarks. The area is famous for the Kiama Blowhole, a natural wonder that shoots water high into the air when the waves crash into the rocks below.
Take a stroll along the Kiama Coastal Walk, a scenic path that takes you along the stunning cliffs and beaches of the area. Another must-visit attraction in Kiama is the Kiama Farmers Market, where you can sample the local produce and pick up some unique souvenirs. In the evenings, enjoy a sunset over the ocean from one of the many cliff-side restaurants and cafes.
Shoalhaven Coast
The South Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline located just a few hours’ drive from Sydney. The area is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests.
One of the must-visit destinations on the South Coast is the Shoalhaven region, where you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking. Another popular spot is the Minnamurra Rainforest, where you can take a stroll through the lush forest and admire the towering trees and cascading waterfalls.
Central Coast
The Central Coast is a stunning region located just a short drive from Sydney. The area is known for its white sand beaches, wild national parks, and vibrant communities.
One of the must-visit destinations on the Central Coast is the Bouddi National Park, where you can hike through the lush forests and admire the breathtaking views of the coastline. Another popular spot is the Avoca Beach, where you can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many beachside cafes.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a beautiful coastal town located far north of Sydney, just before the Queensland border. The area is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant arts scene, and relaxed lifestyle.
One of the must-visit locations in Byron Bay is the Byron Bay Lighthouse, offering stunning views of the coastline and ocean. Take a stroll along the beach, relax on the sand, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many beachside cafes. Another popular spot is the Byron Bay Arts & Industry Estate, where you can browse the local art galleries and boutiques.
Illawarra
The Illawarra is a gorgeous region located just a short drive south from Sydney. The area is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich cultural heritage.
One of the must-visit destinations in the Illawarra is the Wollongong Botanic Garden, where you can stroll through the lush gardens and admire the stunning floral displays. Another popular spot is the Kiama Farmers Market, where you can sample the local produce and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands are a beautiful region located just a couple of hours’ drive from Sydney. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and rich cultural heritage.
One of the must-visit destinations in the Southern Highlands is the Bowral, a charming town known for its stunning gardens and historic architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the town and admire the quaint homes and stunning floral displays. Another popular spot is the Sutton Forest, where you can take a hike through the lush forest and admire the towering trees and stunning wildlife.
Snowy Mountains
The Snowy Mountains are a beautiful mountain range located about 5 hours drive south-west from Sydney. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, winter sports, and rich cultural heritage.
One of the must-visit destinations in the Snowy Mountains is the Thredbo, a popular ski resort offering a range of winter sports and outdoor activities. Take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Another popular spot is the Jindabyne, where you can enjoy a range of water-based activities, such as fishing and kayaking, in the beautiful Jindabyne Lake.
Whether you are a fan of winter sports or just looking for a beautiful place to escape the city, the Snowy Mountains are the perfect destination for you. With its stunning landscapes, diverse range of activities, and rich cultural heritage, you will have plenty to see and do during your visit. So, pack your bags and hit the road to explore this breathtaking region of New South Wales.
