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. Atop all this sits 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.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.
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.
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.
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.
"The unspoilt natural beauty of the southern coastline of New South Wales..."
Southern Sensation
The south coast extends from the edge of Sydney's Royal National Park to Eden near the Victorian border, offering more than 30 national parks, marine parks and reserves, plus an unsurpassed beach culture and a rich Aboriginal history.The unspoilt natural beauty of the southern coastline of NSW unfolds in a series of little townships hugging striking bays and coves. Locals here love their fine food and wine, and love sharing it at great country markets. Soar like a bird on a tandem paraglide from the Illawarra Escarpment.
Cruise sheltered Jervis Bay to spot for dolphins and whales and see some of the whitest sand in the world. Settle into the country charisma of historic Kangaroo Valley and explore the wildlife haven of Montague Island near Narooma.
Outback
The outback is an impressive display of big skies and landscapes. Amongst its treasures you'll find opal mines, emus and extraordinary characters.
Outback pubs (quirkily decorated and built to quench legendary thirsts) are full of welcoming locals and memorable stories. From Lightning Ridge to Broken Hill, Nyngan to the back of Bourke, it is harsh but fragile country that has been appreciated by Aboriginal people for millennia.
Check out their ancestral impressions in 30,000 year-old artwork which adorns sites in Mutawintji National Park. At Mungo National Park the remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman date back even further to 40,000 years, making this the oldest known ceremonial burial site on the planet.
Snowy Summits
The highest ski fields in Australia are all within Kosciuszko National Park in the vast bushland ranges of the Snowy Mountains. Topping out the lot is Mt Kosciuszko, at 2,228m it's Australia's tallest peak.It is also recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve thanks to 20 species of plants which occur nowhere else in the world.
Air doesn't come purer than the Snowys, perfect for filling the lungs before partaking in all manner of adventure activities, from winter sports to cycling, caving, rafting, kayaking, horse riding and mountain walks. For snow sports, the spots are Thredbo, Perisher Blue, Selwyn Snowfields and Charlotte Pass. Cast a line for trout in mountain streams, bracing lakes and deep dams and trek up Kosciuszko's lofty peak, past glacial lakes and valley views. Reward yourself afterwards with a drop or two of cool climate wine in Tumbarumba where many of Australia's best sparkling wines are created.
Big Hearted
The aptly named 'heart of country' region is replete with pioneering history, cultural events, museums, galleries, paddle-steamers and food and wine made all the better by welcoming hospitality.The region runs west from the Great Dividing Range, to outback New South Wales, and from the Murray River to the Queensland border. Some of Australia's most historic country towns grace this region. Classic Australian settlements founded by gold miners, graziers and farmers, today they're favoured by visitors for their charming shopfronts and cosy pubs.
Editor's Pick
Harbour Bridge ClimbThis is truly the ultimate way to experience Sydney from a birds eye view. Climb 134m above the harbour and view the expansive city from a top one of Australia's most iconic and impressive structures. Dawn, day, twilight or night climbs are available.
Harbour Bridge Climb © Tourism Australia
