Sydney, or the Harbour City, is a dynamic place full of art and culture. From beaches and gardens to cultural sites, the capital city of New South Wales has a variety of getaway options to offer respite from the busy life. Though the city is famous for its must-visit places, there’s a lot more that can be added to the list.
Whether you are looking for places to get away from the city bustle or just want to be one with nature, your wish is about to be granted! Here’s our list of places around Sydney that you should definitely check out:
Hunter Valley
About 150km north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is easily accessible by car, train or tour. With more than 150 wineries, The Hunter Valley is home to award winning restaurants and gourmet trails. Don’t forget to book a tour of the region and indulge in some of the world-known cheeses that they have for offer.
Port Macquarie
Adventures begin in Port Macquarie! Only four hours’ drive north of Sydney on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, lies home to some of the most gorgeous beaches. A walk near Hastings River offers once-in-a-lifetime view of dolphins and whales. You can also enjoy swimming or surfing or just watch majestic humpbacks on a cruise. For a complete by-the-sea experience you can also visit the Tacking Point Lighthouse. Just 8 km south of Port Macquarie, it’s Australia’s third oldest lighthouse. Lastly, don’t miss out on some precious koala love at the Koala Hospital at Port Macquarie!
Canberra
Canberra, the capital city of Australia has a lot to offer. One of the mandatory stops here is the Pod Playground at the National Arboretum Canberra. Canberra is the host to Australia’s biggest celebration of spring – Floriade. It is a diverse, ever expanding program of music, cultural celebrations, food and wine, horticultural workshops, market traders, artistic displays, entertainment and recreational activities.
Also, don’t miss the national attractions like the Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament – one can make a never ending list of must-visits while travelling to this magnificent city.
Blue Mountains
Less than two hours from Sydney by car or train, the Blue Mountains is the perfect spot for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. One of the most spectacular natural parks in Australia, this place offers a variety of activities including bushwalks and trails. Do visit the Scenic World in Katoomba to enjoy the view of the wilderness, waterfalls and rugged sandstone tablelands by cable car or the famous scenic railway.
West of the Blue Mountains, is located the Jenolan Caves, known for its historical, aesthetic, research and rarity values. A place for every type of adventurer!
Bathurst
If you are a history buff, this one should definitely be on your list! Being one of the oldest inland settlements, Bathurst is home to a gold rush town that features colonial buildings and grand old homes built for wealthy graziers. This place is rich in history and character and is also known for the annual motor race, the Bathurst 1000.
There are plenty of things to do in Bathurst which includes driving on Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit. You can also visit Chifley Home, which was once the residence of Australian Prime Minister Ben Chifley and his wife, Elizabeth.
Sydney and its surrounding regions have a lot to offer for everyone. Share this list with your friends if you would like them to visit any one of the places!