Explore Sydney-Travel in the New South Wales

From the scorched, red earth of the outback, to the untainted waters lapping the east coast, the New South Wales landscape is nothing if not diverse. Most of all,Sydney – a city of international proportions offering the perfect introduction to this marvellous state.

Sydney

Whatever experience you aim for, Sydney will impress with its outdoor lifestyle, big city buzz and free spirited heart.

Sydney is an international city. There's always something happening; festivals, street parties, major sporting events and carnivals. Plus the stuff that goes on day and night - cosmopolitan dining, edge of the seat entertainment, live music, nightclubs and a smorgasbord of shopping. All the action centres around the harbour, the jewel in Sydney's crown with its leafy surrounds fringed by world class beaches, coves and architectural icons like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Explore Sydney-Travel in the New South Wales

On the doorstep

Now for Sydney's surrounds.

Regions close by include the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury River, Central Coast, the Hunter, Illawarra, Port Stephens and the Southern Highlands. Age-old mountains, sparkling rivers, cascading waterfalls, eucalypt-filled valleys, rich tablelands, two World Heritage-listed areas, 40 national parks (including the second oldest in the world) and renowned wine regions are just a few of the gems you can discover - all just a few hours from Sydney.

Explore Sydney-Travel in the New South Wales

Lord of the ocean

The World Heritage listed paradise of Lord Howe Island makes every arriving visitor do a double take when they first see it from the air.

It's a magical dot in the Tasman Sea with a forest-clad peak that juts upward like a cathedral spire. Only two hours from Sydney or Brisbane, Lord Howe is the perfect escape, especially since only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at any one time. This forward thinking rule has meant the place remains an island of unspoilt beauty where life is relaxed and unhurried. Pedal your way around on a bike and leave the mobile phone at home because there's no reception - bliss! The World Heritage tag is for the island's unusual geology and collection of rare birds, plants and marine life which live on the southernmost coral reef in the world.

Explore Sydney-Travel in the New South Wales

Life's a (north coast) beach

Classic Aussie surf culture, World Heritage listed national parks, hinterland villages, great food and fine wine.

This area extends the central coast north of Sydney to the Queensland border. If you're into beaches then this is your paradise found. Bounce off-road in a 4WD on the undulating sand dunes of Stockton Beach north of Newcastle, imbibe fine wines and fabulous food in the Hunter Valley and scuba dive to the depths in the underwater paradise of Solitary Islands Marine Park near Coffs Harbour. Trek through ancient forests in the World Heritage listed Barrington Tops National Park before digging the hippie vibe and tucking into local organic produce at the Channon markets en route to Lismore.

Explore Sydney-Travel in the New South Wales