Wilga Station, Evans PlainsCredit: Destination NSW
Wilga Station offers exceptional levels of contemporary, luxury accommodation. This idyllic country lifestyle is now open to guests, and you are invited to explore the winding, walking tracks and willow-lined creek, before settling in to toast marshmallows and watch the sunset at one of the two beautiful accommodation options.
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Escape to a luxe countryside retreat
Wilga Station, Evans Plains Credit: Destination NSW
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Whether you’re travelling as two or 10, the NSW countryside has an array of premium accommodation options to make your rural stay feel unique, luxurious and designed just for you. With your retreat as a base, sojourn in some of the state’s most spectacular landscapes.
Mudgee
Set on a scenic farm along the Cudgegong River, Evamor Valley lets you revel in luxuriously furnished glamping tents that are fitted out with plush king beds and a private hot tub. The family-run Budgalong Spicers Creek similarly offers a luxury safari-style set up. Accommodating eight guests across two camps, be treated to mountain or countryside views; minimal, refined amenities; and ensuite bedrooms. Wherever you stay, after a day spent exploring Mudgee’s charming town centre and surrounding wineries, relax with a glass of your favourite local wine by the fire pit, cook up a feast or just while away an evening, surrounded by nature. a luxury safari-style set up. Accommodating eight guests across two camps, here you’ll be treated to mountain or countryside views; minimal, refined amenities; and ensuite bedrooms. Wherever you stay, after a day spent exploring Mudgee’s charming town centre and surrounding wineries, relax with a glass of your favourite local wine by the fire pit, cook up a feast or just while away an evening, surrounded by nature.
Bathurst
Experience a different kind of farmstay at Wilga Station, just outside of Bathurst, where the secluded Farmers Hut blends into the surrounding landscape via a living-grass roof. Enjoy luxe touches including a designer bathroom, king-sized bed, wood-burning fireplace and kitchenette complete with a gourmet breakfast hamper. Treat yourself to a lie-in and luxuriate with views across the 100-hectare working sheep farm from the comfort of your bed. Visiting with a group? Retreat to the station’s characterful but stylish, five-bedroom Shearers Hall, which sleeps 10.
Spicers Guesthouse, Pokolbin Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Spicers Guesthouse in Pokolbin.
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Spicers Guesthouse, Pokolbin Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Spicers Guesthouse in Pokolbin.
Wilga Station, Evans Plains Credit: Destination NSW
Wilga Station offers exceptional levels of contemporary, luxury accommodation. This idyllic country lifestyle is now open to guests, and you are invited to explore the winding, walking tracks and willow-lined creek, before settling in to toast marshmallows and watch the sunset at one of the two beautiful accommodation options.
#newsouthwales #feelnsw
Wilga Station, Evans Plains Credit: Destination NSW
Wilga Station offers exceptional levels of contemporary, luxury accommodation. This idyllic country lifestyle is now open to guests, and you are invited to explore the winding, walking tracks and willow-lined creek, before settling in to toast marshmallows and watch the sunset at one of the two beautiful accommodation options.
The Blue Mountains
Find yourself drawn into nature on an escape to Spicers Sangoma Retreat, situated on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, 90-minutes’ drive from Sydney. Here, every stay is an all-inclusive package featuring fine dining catering, cosy evenings spent by the fireplace and utter comfort in nature-surrounded lodgings (book in a spa treatment for an extra luxe stay). Further up the mountain, Chalets at Blackheath boasts luxury chalets with fireplaces, soaking baths and king-sized beds, ideal for a getaway for two. Belle Bois resides on the north-west side of the mountains. Set on 40 hectares with views of the escarpment and Capertee Valley, this luxury country house is ideal for those wanting to stay put and unwind in comfort, as much as it is for those wishing to explore the nearby Wollemi National Park.
Snowy Valleys
Marvel at the morning mist gracing the Snowy Valleys when you wake up at Nimbo Fork, nestled between Gundagai and Tumut, a little over four hours’ drive from Sydney. Choose from one of six charming standalone cottages overlooking Tumut River or check into one of six upstairs suites in the main lodge. After a day spent walking, cycling or peddling the Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail, trying your hand at fly-fishing with Tom’s Outdoors or exploring Yarrangobilly Caves and Thermal Pool, tuck into a wholesome feast at Nimbo Fork’s on-site Three Blue Ducks restaurant, lauded for its dedication to sustainable dining.
Hunter Valley
Lean into the relaxed luxury experience at Spicers Guesthouse in Pokolbin, a contemporary property in the Hunter wine region. Begin your stay on a high note with a hot-air balloon rideover the vineyards (straight from the property) followed by a refreshing dip in the infinity pool overlooking serene bushland. After a day exploring the area's , enjoy the convenience of an evening meal at the in-house Italian restaurant, éRemo, or take a seat on the terrace to enjoy a lighter meal before retiring to your elegant room. Cedars Mount View similarly offers luxury in the Hunter with self-contained romantic villas kitted out with spa baths and fireplaces cellar doors and restaurants, enjoy the convenience of an evening meal at the in-house Italian restaurant, éRemo, or take a seat on the terrace to enjoy a lighter meal before retiring to your elegant room. Cedars Mount View similarly offers luxury in the Hunter with self-contained romantic villas kitted out with spa baths and fireplaces.
Nimbo Fork Lodge, Killimicat Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over accommodation at Nimbo Fork Lodge, Killimicat.
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Nimbo Fork Lodge, Killimicat Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over accommodation at Nimbo Fork Lodge, Killimicat.
Balloon Aloft, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
A girl looks out over the Hunter Valley during a ballon flight with Balloon Aloft. Balloon Aloft has been offering balloon flights over the Hunter Valley - Australia’s premier vineyard region - for over forty years. Flights begin at sunrise and take in views of the picturesque wine regions of Pokolbin, Lovedale, Rothbury or Broke.
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Balloon Aloft, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
A girl looks out over the Hunter Valley during a ballon flight with Balloon Aloft. Balloon Aloft has been offering balloon flights over the Hunter Valley - Australia’s premier vineyard region - for over forty years. Flights begin at sunrise and take in views of the picturesque wine regions of Pokolbin, Lovedale, Rothbury or Broke.
Southern Highlands
Make new memories with your favourite people at Burrawang House, a designer five-bedroom, 14-guest holiday home in the Southern Highlands hamlet of Burrawang. Enjoy leisurely days lazing by the nine-metre pool, and cosy nights with a glass of local wine beside one of the property’s three fireplaces. Flex your culinary skills in the huge high-end kitchen, or head out for a meal at the renowned Burrawang Village Hotel. During your stay, enjoy the ease of getting out into nature, with Morton National Park’s breathtaking Fitzroy Falls, just a 10-minute drive away.
Nearby, Osborn House in Bundanoon is a charming hotel offering sweeping views and laid-back elegance. Here, premier suites are home to four-post beds, double showers and juliette balconies, while Forest Lodges have uninterrupted views of the national park, baths, fireplaces and bespoke lighting. Drop into the onsite Fire Kitchen for a taste of Latin American over-fire cooking made with premium Australian produce.
Central West
Take in the uninterrupted views of the surrounding plains from one of the four Sky Suites at Callubri Station, a luxury outback farmstay experience near Nyngan. Sign up for a fascinating farm tour or ask your hosts for a map and head out to explore the 11,500-hectare property by foot, mountain bike or car, followed by a restorative dip in the heated mineral pool. Spot birds of the Aussie bush while sipping a sundowner, then head back to the station and book into the Premium Moonbathing Experience. The property also offers an accessible River Suite.
Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the cabins at Osborn House.
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Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the cabins at Osborn House.
Callubri Station, Buddabadah Credit: Monique Wye
Woman relaxing in a hammock with views across the countryside during a stay at Callubri Station, Buddabadah.
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Callubri Station, Buddabadah Credit: Monique Wye
Woman relaxing in a hammock with views across the countryside during a stay at Callubri Station, Buddabadah.
The Tweed
Nestled in the foothills of the Tweed, Avion Retreat is an exclusive adults-only retreat set on 65 hectares. The glasshouse-like cabins give you uninterrupted access to the surrounding mountains, as does the outdoor stone bathtub. Nearby, spend time exploring Husk Farm Distillery, Australia’s only single-estate paddock-to-bottle rum distillery, or fill your day with activity tackling the accessible Northern Rivers Rail Trail, passing through villages, farmland and scenic valleys.
South Coast
Tranquil, rural extravagance and abundant, expansive views await at Somnium at Bingie, tucked away on a private lakeside peninsula on NSW’s South Coast. This luxurious stay sleeping 14-16, has two bespoke dwellings: a four-bedroom house and an accompanying two-storey barn. Both spaces have oodles of room and are fitted out with floor-to-ceiling windows, polished concrete, marble textures, bespoke joinery and brass finishes. The Main House has underfloor heating, an outdoor fire pit, kayaks, mountain bikes and two living rooms. Over in The Barn (which can only be reserved with a Main House booking) find a spacious loft bedroom, a cosy living room with water views and a kitchenette.
Husk Distillers, North Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW
Couple touring the Husk Farm Distillers property in North Tumbulgum and meeting the resident cattle.
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Husk Distillers, North Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW
Couple touring the Husk Farm Distillers property in North Tumbulgum and meeting the resident cattle.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney's leading cultural institutions are presenting an impressive lineup of creative activities, workshops, and exhibitions for children and families during the autumn school holidays in 2025. From orchestra sing-alongs for little ones to engineering workshops, sustainable fashion, and interactive art installations, these programs cater to diverse interests and age groups.
Sydney Opera House Kids' Program
The Sydney Opera House has a packed autumn program featuring You Are Here (April 19-24), a sensory-rich production using vivid imagery, live music, and poetic storytelling to help young children discover their place in the world.
Families with children 8+ can enjoy DOG MAN: The Musical (April 12-27), returning after a sell-out season in 2024. This musical adventure features beloved characters from Dav Pilkey's bestselling book about a crime-fighting hero with a dog's head and a policeman's body.
Mimi's Symphony with Justine Clarke (April 12-13) introduces children 3+ to orchestra sections through a joyous sing-along about a little magpie blown from her nest.
Creative workshops include the Comic Book Illustration Workshop (April 15 and 23) for ages 8-14 and Make-Believe Masters: Putting on a Show (April 24), a full-day theatre design workshop for ages 12-16.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a visit to the Sydney Opera House, Sydney.
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Sydney Opera House, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a visit to the Sydney Opera House, Sydney.
Powerhouse Museum
The Powerhouse Autumn School Holidays program (April 12-27) offers in-depth workshops in engineering, sustainable fashion, and documentary making, plus drop-in creative sessions.
The three-day Creative Studio: Engineering workshops (April 15-17 and 22-24) teach students to build electronic devices using soldering irons and electrical components to create circuits, LED traffic lights, and more.
In Creative Studio: Sustainable Fashion (April 22-24), internationally acclaimed designer Hupfeld Hoerder guides students through fashion design processes inspired by patterns from the Powerhouse Collection.
Multimedia artist Miah-Tya Nungheena Gowland leads Capsule Documentary workshops in Parramatta (April 14-16) and Queanbeyan (April 22-24), where students create video collages inspired by Powerhouse Collection objects.
Families can participate in free drop-in Family Collage workshops with Eddie Abd (April 12-27), creating artistic family portraits inspired by the artist's work and the museum's collection.
See the full program here.
Museums of History NSW
Museums of History NSW presents Hope, a new digital projection artwork by multidisciplinary artist Hiromi Tango at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks from April 11. This installation uses the building's facade as its canvas, connecting historical stories with contemporary audiences.
All Museums of History NSW sites, including Hyde Park Barracks, Museums of Sydney, Vaucluse House, Elizabeth Farm, and Rouse Hill Estate, offer free entry throughout the school holidays.
Special events include Sonic Spaces at Hyde Park Barracks featuring Eric Avery (April 4), and History Kids programs at Elizabeth Farm (April 23) and Vaucluse House (April 24).
The Museum of Sydney will unveil the Seeing Sydney, Knowing Country exhibition from April 17, exploring the evolution of Sydney's landscapes through materials from the Museums of History NSW and Beat Knoblauch collections.
Museums of History NSW Credit: Joshua Morris for Museums of History NSW
Student in hammock room with Learning Producer
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Museums of History NSW Credit: Joshua Morris for Museums of History NSW
Student in hammock room with Learning Producer
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia showcases 34 Australian artists across several new exhibitions, including Warraba Weatherall: Shadow and Substance, the first solo museum exhibition by the Kamilaroi artist, and The Intelligence of Painting, featuring work by 14 women artists. The 2025 Circular Quay Foyer Wall Commission presents The Civilisation of the Abstract by Diena Georgetti, alongside new displays from the MCA Collection highlighting 18 Australian artists.
Families with young children can enjoy MCA Art Play (various dates, 10-11am and 11am-12pm), unstructured creative play sessions for ages 0-5 based on the Reggio Emilia early learning philosophy. These free sessions invite adults and children to lead their own creative journey with materials and prompts inspired by current exhibitions.
The Family Space: Drawn Together (until April 27, 10am-4pm) invites families of all ages to draw inspiration from Julie Mehretu: A Transcore of the Radical Imaginatory at a free drop-in activity space. After visiting the major exhibition (free for those 17 and under), participants can experiment with drawing materials and explore Mehretu's practice of large-scale layering and works on paper, with all materials provided including canvas, crayons, and collage.
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Credit: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
The Intelligence of Painting
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Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Credit: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
The Intelligence of Painting
Australian Museum
The Australian Museum (AM) offers free general entry every day during the school holidays, with convenient access from Museum, St James, and the new Gadigal Metro stations.
On April 14, the Peruvian Metal Masters workshop invites children to learn metal embossing techniques inspired by ancient Peruvian artifacts from the "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru" exhibition. Participants will craft their own wearable art pieces to take home.
Scientist for a Day: Geologist (April 15-16) is a full-day program where kids can conduct experiments, tour the collection lab, and meet experts Ross Pogson and Dayna McGeeney while exploring the science of rocks.
STEM Together: Sky High (April 17) is a family-friendly event where children and adults work as teams on challenges related to flight mechanics, problem-solving, and creativity.
The popular Scientist for a Day: Ornithologist (April 23-24) returns with behind-the-scenes access to the museum's specimen collection guided by Ornithology Technical Officer Emily Cave. Children will learn about bird anatomy, conduct experiments, tour the Birds of Australia exhibition, and survey local birdlife in Hyde Park.
Australian Museum, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family visiting the Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibit at the Australian Museum in Sydney.
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Australian Museum, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family visiting the Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibit at the Australian Museum in Sydney.
Art Gallery of New South Wales
The Art Gallery offers free kids artmaking workshops throughout the holidays. The ongoing Happy Birthday 2U2 by Hikoko Ito invites visitors of all ages to participate in an interactive card exchange celebrating birthdays and community (until August 17).
Other drop-in workshops include Autumnal wreaths and lanterns inspired by Angelica Mesiti's video installation (April 14-25, except April 18) and Sculptural reliefs based on collection works (14–25 April except Wednesday 16 April and Friday 18 April).
Families can join Roving art-making tours (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and children with disability can attend the sensory-friendly Clay play Access workshop (April 16).
Autumn School Holidays at the Art Gallery of New South Wales Credit: Destination NSW
Head to the Art Gallery of New South Wales in the autumn school holidays for free kids artmaking workshops, imagination and creativity. Entry is free!
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Autumn School Holidays at the Art Gallery of New South Wales Credit: Destination NSW
Head to the Art Gallery of New South Wales in the autumn school holidays for free kids artmaking workshops, imagination and creativity. Entry is free!
State Library of New South Wales
Future city builders and young urban planners can unleash their creativity at the State Library's "Build a City" drop-in center during the school holidays. Located in the John B Fairfax Learning Centre, this interactive experience invites children to construct their own cardboard box mega-city.
Kids can dive into a craft supplies box to design unique city buildings, then use the library's green screen and historic city photo collection to be photographed as builders, complete with hard hats, fluorescent vests, and hammers. Younger children can enjoy building blocks while exploring their architectural imagination.
The drop-in center will be open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday across two weeks: April 15, 16, 17, and 22, 23, 24. This free activity offers a playful way for children to engage with urban design and creative construction.
For more school holiday inspiration visit Sydney.com.