Contentious CharacterCredit: Destination NSW
Contentious Character is part of Trail 1: Wine, Water, Wonder on the Southern Tableland Trails
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Less than two hours southwest of Sydney, the Southern Tablelands is home to rolling farmland, historic towns, cool climate wineries and produce-driven restaurants. The pace of life is a little slower here, but that’s how the locals like it. It means there’s more time to share a yarn over the bar of an old stone pub, lose track of time in search of antique treasures, follow a hiking trail along dramatic limestone clifftops or feel the unhurried joy of a long lunch stretching out over the afternoon.
The five new Southern Tablelands Trails take in the best of the region, with something for everyone to enjoy. Foodies, adventure-seekers, family travellers and those in search of authentic country experiences, can follow the trails as a day trip, use them as inspiration to plan their own adventures, or just hit the road to discover somewhere new.
Trail 1: Wine, Water, Wonder
Centred around the mysterious Lake George, this trail will give you a taste of the good life. Join the locals for coffee at the community minded Some Café in the tiny village of Collector before cruising along the aptly named Vineyards Road. Stroll between the vines and meet the passionate winemakers at Lerida Estate, Lake George Winery, Contentious Character and Lark Hill Winery. Feeling suitably serene, head into the town of Bungendore to refuel at The Gathering Cafe or pick up locally made pieces at Leather and Trading before rolling into the sleepy town of Tarago, where you’ll find vintage treasures, tasty eats and Yarralaw Springs, where the cellar door is made entirely of straw bales.
Trail 2: Vibrant Villages & Passionate Producers
Connect with the locals , chat over a beer and savour delicious local produce on this trail through the regions charming villages. Kick off your road trip at The Albion Hotel, in the heart of the village of Grabben Gullen, with a menu focused on seafood caught fresh by the local Fishing Club. In Crookwell, you can meet a member of the Lindner family, who have been making socks for almost 300 years. The amiable hosts at the Laggan Pantry will serve you an exceptional six-course meal made with produce grown in their kitchen garden and greenhouse. And in the historic town of Taralga, taste a tipple at one of two pubs dating back to the 1870s.
Trail 3: Wild Hume: Nature & History
Take things up a notch and feel your heart race along the Wild Hume trail, the most adventurous of the five. You’ll start slow, exploring the historic towns of Tallong and Marulan where the pretty streets are lined with 19th century buildings and bustling cafes. Then it’s time to hit the accelerator with a few laps of the Pheasant Wood Circuit, a professional standard racing track, before discovering Bungonia National Park where you can tackle Grade 3 hikes, lose yourself below ground in winding caves or set up camp in the remote bush where you’ll feel the peace of total solitude. Finally, embark on a self-guided Heritage Walk of Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city, where grand colonial buildings hint at an opulent past just waiting to be uncovered.
Southern Tablelands - Tablelands Trails Sizzle Credit: Destination NSW
Southern Tablelands - Tablelands Trails Sizzle
#feelnew #feelnsw
Southern Tablelands - Tablelands Trails Sizzle Credit: Destination NSW
Southern Tablelands - Tablelands Trails Sizzle
Bungonia National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Bungonia National Park is part of Trail 3: Wild Hume - Nature & History, in the Southern Tablelands Trails
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Bungonia National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Bungonia National Park is part of Trail 3: Wild Hume - Nature & History, in the Southern Tablelands Trails
Trail 4: Off the Beaten Track
Take the slow road from Queanbeyan to Braidwood on a trail that invites you to feel free to linger in unexpected places. Step back in time and take the back road to Captains Flat, a historic town where heritage walks, sensory gardens and pristine nature await. Depending on your schedule and fitness levels, there are a number of walks to choose from in Lowen Forest Park and Berlang State Conservation Area. Make sure you talk to the publican at the Erlington Pub in Majors Creek – she’s also the village’s mailman and Justice of the Peace. Then take some time to explore Braidwood’s abundant charms, like chic cafes, delicious delis and stylish art galleries. If you’re spending the night, check in to the luxe Mona Farm just outside town.
Trail 5: Recharge in the Great Outdoors
This region is known for its tapestry of colour and this trail lets you drink in the natural beauty of the changing seasons. It’s also a fun one for the whole family, with farm visits, trout fishing and water sports. Start big, at the Big Merino in Goulburn, then continue exploring the great outdoors at nearby Markdale, a working sheep and cattle farm, followed by a stroll to the stunning five-acre Edna Walling Garden. Visit the aquatic playground of Wyangala Dam for kayaking, wakeboarding or water-skiing; for a longer escape, pitch a tent lakeside. Then, it’s on to Crookwell, where you can choose to hand feed alpacas, catch a trout or toast the sunset at Kingsdale Wines.
For more information on the Tablelands Trails and to plan your visit now, go to www.visitnsw.com/things-to-do/southern-tablelands-trails. Share your Tablelands Trails experience on social media using @visitnsw #feelnew #feelNSW
The Erlington Hotel, Majors Creek Credit: Destination NSW
The Erlington Hotel is part of Trail 4: Off the Beaten Track in the Southern Tablelands Trails
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The Erlington Hotel, Majors Creek Credit: Destination NSW
The Erlington Hotel is part of Trail 4: Off the Beaten Track in the Southern Tablelands Trails
Crookwell Alpaca Farm Credit: Destination NSW
Crookwell Alpaca Farm is part of Trail 5: Recharge in the Great Outdoors, in the Southern Tablelands Trails
#feelnsw
Crookwell Alpaca Farm Credit: Destination NSW
Crookwell Alpaca Farm is part of Trail 5: Recharge in the Great Outdoors, in the Southern Tablelands Trails
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
#feelnewsydney
The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
#feelnewsydney
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
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Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.