Take a Break in NSW This Winter

By MiNDFOOD

4WD driving along the beach on Worimi Conservation Lands, Port Stephens. Photo credit: Destination NSW
4WD driving along the beach on Worimi Conservation Lands, Port Stephens. Photo credit: Destination NSW
Escape the city this winter and rediscover a New South Wales that truly shines during the cooler months.

If you’re questioning why you’re not on holiday, a trip to New South Wales might just be your answer.

This chunk of Australia is one that you will most likely fall in love with (and possibly never want to leave!). There is so much to see and do, whether you’re a nature lover or food aficionado; NSW has it all. Take a trip along the North Coast and uncover crystal coastlines, lush World Heritage rainforests and relaxed beach towns, or experience new gourmet tastes and great wine in the Hunter Valley. Get back to nature in the Blue Mountains or discover the dramatic landscapes of the outback. And at the end of the day, it’s all a short drive from Sydney, where a tasty meal and a tall glass of while awaits.

Here are a few things you need to add to your NSW itinerary…

Breathtaking Beaches

If you’re currently sitting under a pile of thick layers, next to an overworked heater, the all-year-round beaches along the NSW North Coast are calling your name. Not only does this piece of paradise have gorgeous beaches, it also has breathtaking bushwalks in hinterland rainforest, spectacular coastal trails and amazing marine life including dolphins, turtles and whales. Popular beaches include the year-round patrolled Main Beach and Clarkes and Wategos beaches.

Don’t miss the easy-going seaside town of Byron Bay. This little gem of a town has a charming feel about it, bound to put any lingering stress to rest. There are plenty of accommodation options, not to mention a selection of fabulous places to eat. We recommend trying Three Blue Ducks, Harvest Newrybar, or Lighthouse Beach Café for a splendid meal out.

4WD driving along the beach on Worimi Conservation Lands, Port Stephens. Photo credit: Destination NSW

Take a Wine Tour

The Hunter Valley is full of award-winning wineries, acclaimed restaurants, tasty festivals and fresh local produce. If you’re a lover of food and wine, you may have just found your mecca.

A lovely escape only two hours’ drive north of Sydney, Australia’s oldest wine region is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. Exceptional heritage and exciting innovation define the winemaking, producing some of the best wines in the world such as the iconic Hunter Valley Semillon.

An abundance of wine tasting opportunities is at your fingertips in the Hunter Valley. To try some world-class grapes, we recommend paying a visit to Tyrrells Wines or Tamburlaine Organic Wines.

If you’re not such a wine buff the Hunter Valley has plenty more to offer…

In colonial times the Hunter River was a transport artery, so be sure to make a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Yengo National Park.

If you’re a golf fan, the Hunter Valley is one of the best golf destinations in the world.  We recommend you try the green at Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club or the Hunter Valley Golf and Country Club on the grounds of the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley.

Or if you still want to see the vines but would rather break a sweat while doing so, hire a bike and ride through the vineyards.

Brave the Blue Mountains

Whether it’s luxury or adventure, the Blue Mountains offers a dramatic backdrop to your NSW getaway this winter. Just 90 minutes from Sydney by car, two hours by train, the Blue Mountains has some of the country’s most dazzling natural attractions. 

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains is Scenic World, renowned for providing the ultimate Blue Mountains adventure. Encounter native birdlife and fresh air and experience breathtaking views of famous sights, including the Three Sisters, Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley.

The Blue Mountains is also packed with many great bush walks, including easy strolls around lookouts, to longer walks such as the Grand Canyon Track, and for those who are looking for a challenge, the Six Foot Tracks.

Hungry in the Blue Mountains? They’ve got that covered too! We recommend stopping for a bite at The Hydro Majestic, Leaura Garage or Silk’s Brasserie.

With deals from AU$185*pp sharing, there is a destination for everyone in NSW this winter. For more short breaks, click here.

*Ts & Tc apply.

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