Travelling Beyond SydneyBlue Mountains Just a 90-minute drive from the heart of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is one of the most spectacular and captivating wilderness parks in the country, featuring waterfalls, mountain trails, and long strolls through rainforests. There are plenty of reasons to stay more than just a day. Accommodation ranges from self-contained bush cottages to luxury resorts and guest houses. The mountains have always been home to the country's creative artists - explore the myriad art and craft galleries or indulge your taste for good food in spectacular surroundings - there are scores of eating houses from traditional tearooms to gourmet dining.
The Hawkesbury River The Hawkesbury is a very special river; its moods ever changing. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. For the active, such experiences as horse riding, grass skiing and downhill karting or water-skiing are available. For the explorer, the surrounding national parks provide hours of enjoyment in largely wilderness areas. For those with limited time half or full day guided tours can be arranged encompassing the history and beauty of the area. For a break away with difference, hire a self drive houseboat, your apartment on water, and barbecue your fresh catch on any one of the numerous beaches and bays that make up the shore line and bed down for the night, sleeping to the lap of the water.
Central Coast The Scenic Central Coast, encompassing Gosford, The Entrance, Wyong, Toukley, Woy Woy and Terrigal has for many years been known as Sydney's holiday playground. Located just one hour's drive north of Sydney, the region offers a smorgasbord of activities and adventures and provides a full range of accommodation to satisfy the desires of all - from enticing beachside camping sites to luxury five star resorts. Experience outdoor adventure - go horse riding in the lush countryside at Glenworth Valley, Australia's largest free range horse riding centre. Bushwalk along the scenic tracks in the surrounding National Parks. Laze in the sun or experience the host of water sports available on one of fifteen magnificent beaches which span the Central Coast from Broken Bay in the south to Catherine Hill Bay in the north.
Port Stephens
One of the jewels of coastal Australia, Port Stephens has wide, blonde ocean beaches and a giant bay that is second only to Sydney Harbour in its list of natural and man-made attractions. Port Stephens is also a boating paradise. From the town of Nelson Bay, there are regular cruises around the harbour, along the Myall River and out to watch the dolphins that frequent the area. Charter vessels are available for hire giving you access to the sheltered waters of Port Stephens as well as the tranquil paradise of Myall Lakes National Park - a total of more than 1300 square kilometres of cruising waters.
The Southern Highlands
Port Macquarie
With some of the finest surf beaches in NSW, Port Macquarie is one of the State's favourite holiday escapes. This part of the world has sun, sea and sand and the town's restaurants and resorts add to its natural glories. The Cassegrain vineyard has some great wines and the area is renowned for its fishing. Attractions such as Timbertown and the Koala Hospital are ideal for children. Accommodation in Port Macquarie caters to every holiday budget.
The Hunter Valley
Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour has long been a favourite with dedicated sun-lovers. It has a balmy climate, inspiring scenery, fabulous surf beaches and irresistible rainforests and wilderness nearby.There is a cosmopolitan choice of restaurants, facilities for just about every water sport, and many children's attractions. Accommodation options include luxury resorts, self-catering family size apartments, motels, beach cottages and farm stays. |