2 Nov 2026

Australian Traveller's Best of Regional NSW special edition celebrates the extraordinary diversity of escapes across NSW

Australia’s best-selling travel magazine, Australian Traveller, has released a special bonus edition showcasing the remarkable diversity of destinations and experiences waiting to be discovered across NSW, just as Australians start planning their summer getaways and travels for 2027.

The special edition comes as regional NSW continues to deliver significant benefits to local communities. By inspiring Australians to explore the state in greater depth, Australian Traveller celebrates the local businesses and communities that make regional NSW such a rewarding place to visit.

"The striking cover shot of the Bermagui Blue Pool on the Sapphire Coast is a real jaw-dropper and so characteristic of the diverse experiences you will find in NSW," said special edition editor Lara Picone.

"One day you may be diving into a sparkling ocean pool, the next might see you wandering through the undergrowth of an ancient rainforest, and the following day you could be running your hand through the red dust of Broken Hill."

"Every corner of the state offers something extraordinary," Picone continued, "from the repeatedly loved escapes of Byron Bay and Kiama to the quieter gems tucked behind the coast, such as Barrington Tops or Wauchope, and the food bowl of Riverina. Whichever direction you head in, you can't help but discover something incredible."

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “Regional NSW has something for every kind of traveller, from our world-class coastline and rainforests to vibrant regional cities, incredible food and wine, and the unique experiences found in our outback.

“This special edition puts a spotlight on the extraordinary diversity of our state and gives people fresh inspiration to explore somewhere new, stay a little longer and experience all that regional NSW has to offer.

“Every visitor makes a difference to regional communities, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and helping our visitor economy thrive.

“Regional NSW continues to be a powerhouse for the visitor economy, with more than 64 million domestic visitors spending $27.7 billion across our regions in the year ending June 2026. Encouraging Australians to discover the incredible destinations, experiences and communities on offer throughout regional NSW is delivering significant economic benefits for local businesses, jobs and communities.”

The edition spans the breadth of NSW’s landscapes and travel experiences, with features and reports covering:

• Best bits of NSW 
  A wrap of NSW highlights, from regional cities to First Nations-led tours to luxe farm stays and stargazing spots
   
• Repeat Weekenders 
  Why perennially favourite spots like Coffs Harbour and Wollongong are worth visiting in all seasons
   
• Coastal Revival 
  A motel road trip along the coast of NSW reveals a new wave of nostalgic, design-led accommodation
   
• Gondwana Dreaming 
  From Dorrigo to Armidale and the Barrington Tops, where to experience NSW's ancient Gondwana rainforest
   
• What's On
  An essential calendar of events taking place across the state, from Wagga Wagga to Eurobodalla

Many NSW regions are also profiled in their own right:

• Barrington Coast
  The hidden high country of the Barrington Coast is a nature lover's dream
   
• Broken Hill
  What not to miss in the historic and iconic outback city of Broken Hill
   
• Dubbo and surrounds
  Magic dust: in search of the celestial and terrestrial treasures of the Dubbo region
   
• Kiama 
  Experience the off-peak pleasures of Kiama
   
• Lake Macquarie
  Discover an aquatic wonderland anchored by a rich, cultural history
   
• Mudgee
  The regional destination pairing small-town charm with trailblazing eco ambition
   
• Newcastle 
  The seaside city that swaps the beach for great food and drink at dusk
   
• Shoalhaven
  Why this coastal pocket of the South Coast might just be the perfect wellness escape
   
• Snowy Mountains
  When warmth descends, a summer playground beckons in the Snowy Mountains
   
• The Tweed
  Why you should head to Murwillumbah, one of NSW's hippest towns

The Best of Regional NSW special edition is published in partnership with Destination NSW.

The edition is tipped onto the current issue of Australian Traveller magazine, which reveals the results of the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards, on sale now nationwide. The Best of Regional NSW is also published on an exclusive hub on Australiantraveller.com