Park Hyatt, The RocksCredit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour from their bedroom at the Park Hyatt.
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Thanks to spectacular natural wonders; vibrant city and town centres; and innovators in design and culture, NSW is primed for luxury accommodation. Whether you’re booking into five-star city experiences, wine region indulgence or a World Heritage-listed tropical getaway, let your worries melt away with these unforgettable stays across Sydney and New South Wales.
One-of-a-kind stays
Gather your inner circle for an idyllic weekend of bonding at Burrawang House, a luxury holiday home in the Southern Highlands village of Burrawang. With an open kitchen set up for entertaining, a nine-metre pool, a games room, several luxe living spaces, a sunny deck and an office, you and 13 others will always have something to do and somewhere to escape to.
Ramp up the rural charm on a different kind of Southern Highlands escape with a stay at Osborn House: a grand, century-old property on the edge of Morton National Park in the village of Bundanoon. For more privacy, book into Osborn House’s two-person Forest Lodge and spend the afternoon in an outdoor bath overlooking the park. Whether in the main manor or a lodge, spend your evenings getting pampered in the impeccably designed spa, and with a table at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Dinah’s.
The complete opposite end of the luxury spectrum is the sleek, almost futuristic feel of award winner Dovecote. Take in the panoramic ocean views from either Dovecote’s two-bedroom Range or four-bedroom Headland properties, both set on 60 hectares of coastal farmland above the seaside town of Gerringong, less than two hours' drive from Sydney on the NSW South Coast.
In NSW’s capital, Capella Sydney offers one of the most extravagant stays in the city. The hotel, set within a heritage-listed sandstone building by the harbour, is immaculately designed so almost every furnishing, artwork and building material tells a story about the city’s culture and history. There’s also a premium spa hosting one of the most beautiful indoor pools in the state, and high-end restaurant Brasserie 1930, run by the acclaimed Bentley Group.
Dovecote, Gerringong Credit: @dovecote @alexsprichard
Dovecote, Gerringong.
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Dovecote, Gerringong Credit: @dovecote @alexsprichard
Dovecote, Gerringong.
Capella Sydney Credit: Timothy Kaye
Capella Sydney: Premier King
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Capella Sydney Credit: Timothy Kaye
Capella Sydney: Premier King
Totally disconnect in paradise
World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island feels like a rare piece of untouched nature, where you can snorkel pristine coral reefs, hike mountains with extravagantly coloured tropical birds, and swim beaches with water the colour of bubble gum ice-cream. Rest your head at Capella Lodge, a premium retreat with nine opulent suites, a serene spa and a fine-dining restaurant showcasing the unique local produce.
Escape to your own private oasis on the island at Island House, where each of the two houses is stylishly fit with Mid-Century Danish furniture and is designed to meld into the environment. Alternatively, settle into one of only four suites at the five-star Arajilla Retreat, before enjoying the creative fare from the resort’s organic kitchen garden.
Romance on the water
Check into a plush harbourside room at a lauded five-star hotel such as Park Hyatt Sydney, W Sydney or Ovolo Woolloomooloo, then take your love to new heights on a sunset helicopter tour over Sydney Harbour. Or whisk away your loved one for the ultimate romantic getaway with a seaplane flight over the city and its spectacular coast. Sydney Seaplanes and Sydney by Seaplane both offer private flights from the eastern suburb of Rose Bay, landing on the sheltered waters of the Hawkesbury or the Northern Beaches.
On the Northern Beaches, drink, dine and recline at the Whale Beach institution Jonah’s Restaurant and Boutique Hotel. Or live a luxury experience on the water with Lilypad, a luxurious villa floating in the secluded bay off Palm Beach. On the Hawkesbury River, check into the exclusive Oxley Boatshed, set right on the water, accessible only by boat. Just further north, on the Central Coast, The Lodges at Bells at Killcare delivers three-stories of elegant, coastal luxury among the angophora forest, with fresh baked goods delivered in the morning and a nightly seat at The Wild Flower Bar and Dining for dinner included.
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island Credit: tom-archer.com
Woman relaxing by the pool at Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
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Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island Credit: tom-archer.com
Woman relaxing by the pool at Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
Look for luxury among the vineyards
In the historic Hunter Valley wine region, a two-hour drive north of Sydney, you’ll find a comprehensive experience of luxury. Renew your body and mind with treatments at plush day spas, check into the sculpted gardens and country elegance of Spicers Guesthouse or Chateau Elan, and entertain your tastebuds with the creativity and panache served at award-wining restaurants Muse and Margan. The next morning, gain a new perspective as you take to the skies on a hot-air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft or a helicopter flight around the valley.
Cosy up in style in the Mudgee wine region, a 3.5-hour drive northwest from Sydney. Soak in an outdoor bath and gaze at the vibrancy of country night sky at Sierra Escape, a luxury eco-glamping experience a 20-minute drive out of Mudgee, or stay close to the action at Perry Street Hotel, housed in a 19th-century civic building in the heart of town. Enjoy the fruits of this fertile region at Pipeclay Pumphouse Restaurant, the casual fine diner of Robert Stein Winery or try Lowe Family Wine Co.’s slow-food-focused seasonal farmhouse, Zin House.
Discover country history and an acclaimed wine growing region around Orange, a 3.5-hour drive from Sydney via the Blue Mountains. Byng Street Boutique Hotel, in the heart of the town’s heritage precinct, brings colour, character and a bold design vision to the original homestead. Then spend the days touring some of Orange’s outstanding wineries, including Borrodell Estate and Ross Hill Wines. Anchor a memorable day of wine tasting with a long lunch at Printhie Wines’ acclaimed fine diner a few minutes outside of town.
Sierra Escape, Mudgee Credit: Sierra Escape Mudgee
Elouera, a luxury tiny house at Sierra Escape in Mudgee. Meticulously crafted from a shipping container and offering unparalleled views.
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Sierra Escape, Mudgee Credit: Sierra Escape Mudgee
Elouera, a luxury tiny house at Sierra Escape in Mudgee. Meticulously crafted from a shipping container and offering unparalleled views.
Borrodell Vineyard, Canobolas Credit: Destination NSW
Woman relaxing in the Cider Suite at Borrodell Vineyard, Canobolas.
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Borrodell Vineyard, Canobolas Credit: Destination NSW
Woman relaxing in the Cider Suite at Borrodell Vineyard, Canobolas.
Recharge in in the mountains
NSW’s Snowy Mountains offers alpine luxury in the snow or a rainbow of wildflowers in the spring. Nimbo Fork Lodge, an understated country retreat around a four-drive from Sydney near Gundagai and Tumut, offers cute cottages with soothing Snowy Valleys scenery and a farm-to-table restaurant run by the celebrity chefs of Three Blue Ducks.
In Capertee National Park, just west of the Blue Mountains, marvel at the sandstone cliffs dotting the world’s second largest canyon, less than three hour’s drive northwest of Sydney. Then kick back in your bubble tent, soaking up the last rays of the mountain sun, and using the tent’s telescope to contemplate the complexity and beauty of the cosmos painted across the sky above.
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.
Bubbletent Australia, Capertee Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Bubbletent Australia luxury glamping accommodation under the night sky in the Capertee Valley.
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Bubbletent Australia, Capertee Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Bubbletent Australia luxury glamping accommodation under the night sky in the Capertee Valley.
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
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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.
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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.