NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney
Intoxicating Sydney | Enticing beaches | Stunning Blue Mountains | Heritage towns World-class wines in the Hunter Valley | Superb national parks
For many visitors heading to Australia , New South Wales will be their first port of call , thanks to its headline city , Sydney . Little wonder really when you consider what it has to offer : dazzling landmarks , a glittering harbour , sun-kissed beaches , rich history , an endless calendar of events , hip neighbourhoods and so much more .
A short hop from Sydney are the UNESCO World Heritage listed Blue Mountains where along with incredible landscapes , visitors can experience grand gardens , heritage hotels , a string of charming townships , galleries , artisans and fabulous food .
For wine lovers the Hunter Valley vineyards , one of the country ’ s pre-eminent wine destinations , lies 2½ hours drive north of Sydney . No visit would be complete without experiencing the offerings at cellar doors , ( where the architecture almost , but not quite outshines the wine ), the equally alluring food and some outstanding accommodations .
If you crave a slow pace of life , then the southern coast is hard to beat as a place to disconnect . Here , endless curves of inviting beaches , striking swathes of green , cafés where local produce shines , marine reserves and enchanting towns all await you . Popular spots include Jervis Bay , Merimbula , Wollongong and Batemans Bay . People also flock to Kiama to witness the force of nature that is the town ’ s famed blowhole .
Head north and there ’ s wonder around every corner particularly if you follow the North Pacific Highway to Queensland . Top stopping points include Newcastle , which has access to Lake Macquarie , the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere ; Port Stephens for its uncrowded beaches ; plus Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay , a hot spot for surfers .
The NSW coastline may stretch for more than 1,200 miles , but the state is more red dirt than sand . So leave the Pacific Ocean behind and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Country NSW , home to some of Australia ’ s oldest and prettiest towns , pioneering history , fine wines and stunning national parks .
In the vast and rugged Outback discover ancient landscapes , unique rock formations and rich Aboriginal culture . Explore the remote mining town of Broken Hill ; see the tiny township of Silverton , whose pub and surrounding areas have featured in many films ; check out World Heritage listed Mungo National Park or see sacred rock art at Mutawintji National Park .
Another magnet for visitors is the Southern Highlands which lure with lush landscapes , fine food and wines , not to mention pretty heritage villages , such as Bowral , Bundanoon or Berrima .
NSW even has somewhere where winter sport enthusiasts will feel right at home , the Snowy Mountains , which serve up fantastic skiing and snowboarding . And , once the snow melts , enjoy biking , horse riding and kayaking before refuelling in classic country pubs .
Whilst not actually part of New South Wales , the Australian Capital Territory , which houses the nation ’ s capital , Canberra , lies within the borders of NSW . Equidistant between Sydney and Melbourne , it is a charming place lying in the southern tablelands of New South Wales .
22 AUSTRALIA visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900