Outback Astronomy, Broken HillCredit: Destination NSW
Couple star gazing beneath the Milky Way at Outback Astronomy, Broken Hill.
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Find your feet and ground yourself on a multi-day hike; meet the maker and savour local produce straight from paddock-to-plate; or meet some furry friendly locals as you come nose to nose with native wildlife and reignite your sense of belonging in NSW.
SHUCK OYSTERS STRAIGHT FROM THE SOURCE
Refresh your palate and go straight to the source by joining an expert on an oyster farm tour on the NSW Sapphire Coast. On a cruise along Pambula Lake aboard Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster tours, Captain Sponge himself (aka oyster farmer Brett Weingarth) schools oyster-lovers on the industry, before allowing the opportunity to shuck the fresh molluscs on the boat. Expect a taste sensation. The two-hour tour also affords the chance to spot birdlife and learn about the river estuary.
STAR-GAZE IN THE OUTBACK
Be awed by the by an unworldly sky show. With Outback skies unpolluted by light, the town of Broken Hill is the perfect destination to marvel at the Milky Way. On a stargazing experience with Outback Astronomy, sit back on a purpose-built stargazing dome and take in the view. Guests are provided with binoculars with some viewing through powerful telescopes. Your expert guide will narrate the view of the Milky Way galaxy. There’s a barbecue dinner provided, and drinks including a warming hot chocolate.
CYCLE A NEW FOODIE TRAIL
Truly savour the ‘Food Basket of NSW’, the moniker given to Orange and surrounds on a new cycling route, The Orange Villages Bicycle Trail. Tour the area by cycling one of the six new routes surrounding the Mount Canobolas, in total a 360km pedal, but it’s easy to tackle just one. Enjoy quiet roads, incredible views and friendly hospitality along the way. Highlights include a cycle to the picturesque town of Molong, through wineries, cideries, orchards and farming country. It’s a sensory journey with many rewards along the way including the incredible array of fresh produce and wines to sample from the fertile volcanic soil.
Captain Sponge's Magical Oyster Tour, Pambula River Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a tour with Captain Sponge's Magical Oyster Tours on Pambula River, Pambula.
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Captain Sponge's Magical Oyster Tour, Pambula River Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a tour with Captain Sponge's Magical Oyster Tours on Pambula River, Pambula.
Heifer Station, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Explore Orange and surrounds by bike.
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Heifer Station, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Explore Orange and surrounds by bike.
KAYAK SYDNEY HARBOUR AT SUNRISE
Be re-energised by taking to one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world on a sunrise Sydney Harbour kayak tour. Set off from the Royal Botanic Garden with qualified instructor and guide, Sophie Morgan and paddle along the sparkling waters passing the Sydney Opera House against a backdrop of ever-changing morning light. Glide under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and look up to view this engineering marvel from another angle. Nothing can prepare for the feeling of exhilaration at experiencing Sydney Harbour from the water.
TOUR ANCIENT LANDSCAPES
Stir your spirit with a guided walk amongst picturesque sandstone caves and spectacular overhangs in the Shoalhaven. Matthew Simms from Djiriba Waagura Cultural Tours takes you for a journey along Warigala Badha Ben's Walk and imparts wisdom on bush tucker and bush medicine passed down through his family and cultural mentors. Simms is a Wandi Wandian man who belongs to the Dhurga Language group from the Yuin Nation. Along the way, learn about the myriad ecosystems and feel a true connection to the land. The walk ends with a traditional dance to give thanks to ancestors.
WAKE UP ON SAFARI
Recharge by greeting the day with uninterrupted views of resident giraffes, zebras and eland on an African safari-like Zoofari Lodge experience at Taronga’s Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Each tented cabin affords an incredible vista over the vast savannah. An overnight stay at Zoofari Lodge includes all meals, a guided safari and zoo admission. Guests can also take part in an evening behind-the-scenes tour and animal feeding away from the crowds. The zoo will soon open a new Wildlife Hospital, providing state-of-the-art facilities to support sick and injured native wildlife.
Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Darling Harbour Credit: Sydney Harbour Kayaks
The Sea Kayaking Experience is no ordinary lap around the harbour.
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Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Darling Harbour Credit: Sydney Harbour Kayaks
The Sea Kayaking Experience is no ordinary lap around the harbour.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Credit: Destination NSW
Mother and daughter enjoying a stay in the Zoofari Lodge Accommodation at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.
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Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Credit: Destination NSW
Mother and daughter enjoying a stay in the Zoofari Lodge Accommodation at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.
Bouddi National Park, BouddiCredit: Destination Central Coast
Scenic coastal views from Bouddi National Park, Bouddi.
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What better way to keep the adventure going after your Vivid Sydney visit by exploring our natural wonders just outside of the city? A treasure trove of experiences await: hike into the mountains, taste wine from the barrel and walk among the treetops. And best of all, these trips are all within 2.5 hours’ drive of Sydney – perfect if you’re looking to extend a holiday for just a few days.
Blue Mountains | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
Named for the beautiful haze that hangs over the sleepy villages, ancient rock formations and bushland, the magnificent Blue Mountains is one of Sydney’s favourite weekenders for good reason.
There’s nothing quite like a hike in the fresh mountain air at golden hour, though taking in the expansive valleys atop a lookout or cable car comes close. Whether you adventure and abseil all day or focus on fine-dining and uncovering some stunning op-shop finds, soak off the day at luxury accommodation.
Things to do
- Take a sunset selfie at Three Sisters
- Ride the Skyway into the clouds at Scenic World
- Soak into true serenity at the Japanese Bath House
- Explore Jenolan Caves’ limestone labyrinth
- Embrace the wilderness at Turon Gates Mountain Eco-Retreat
- Learn about Indigenous culture on a walkabout tour
Central Coast | 1 HOURS’ DRIVE
A stone's throw from Sydney, a million miles from a care in the world… that wraps up the Central Coast region in a nutshell. There’s an enviably relaxed beach lifestyle here – with kilometres of sand and Pacific Ocean to explore – but national parks abound, too, and calm waterways ideal for throwing in a line, or conquering with a kayak. The coast with the most? You bet.
Things to do
- Take in the eight kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk
- Zip-line through the Ourimbah State Forest at Treetops Adventure
- Embrace First Nations knowledge and culture with a Girri Girra walking tour
- Have breakfast with alpacas
- Whale watch and explore coastal rainforest at Wyrrabalong National Park
- Catch a flick at the colourful Avoca Beach Theatre
- Stay at the idyllic The Boathouse Hotel Patonga
The Hunter Valley | 2.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
The Hunter Valley is renowned for its Sémillon and shiraz varietals, acclaimed wineries and restaurants, luxury resorts, world-class spas and championship golf courses.
Wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley gardens, picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce and don’t miss spying the lush Hunter from above in a hot-air balloon.
Things to do
- Try out top-drops from the historic Tyrrell’s, explore organic wines at Tamburlaine or biodynamic options at Krinklewood
- Visit a Provencal pocket at Bistro Molines
- Take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise with Beyond Ballooning
- Stay in luxury at the Crowne Plaza
- Ride through bushland and vineyards with Hunter Valley Horses
Scenic World, Katoomba Credit: Destination NSW
Cablecar at Scenic World, Katoomba
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Scenic World, Katoomba Credit: Destination NSW
Cablecar at Scenic World, Katoomba
Beyond Ballooning, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Couple arriving for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Beyond Ballooning in the Hunter Valley.
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Beyond Ballooning, Hunter Valley Credit: Destination NSW
Couple arriving for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Beyond Ballooning in the Hunter Valley.
Kiama, Jamberoo & More | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE
Feel the sea spray hit your skin at the blowhole at Kiama, only 30 minutes south of Wollongong. Away from the famous rock formations, epic waves and grassy seaside slopes, Kiama is a place of nature hikes, fancy seafood feasts on waterside decks and unique adventures. Take yourself on a wild and wonderful trail winding through windswept headlands and extraordinary beaches.
Things to do
- Get your Tarzan on and try the after-dark zipline at Illawarra Fly
- Swoosh down a waterslide at Jamberoo Action Park
- Enjoy breakfast with a beach view at Penny Whistlers
- Have a surf lesson with Surf Camp Australia
- Hike through Minnamurra Rainforest
- Stay in luxury at The Pause, Gerringong
Newcastle | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE
Newcastle is an unbeatable mix of golden beaches, luscious food and buzzing culture that makes you feel high on life. Have a dip at Merewether, dine overlooking the surf break and delve into the edgy boutiques and bars. This coastal hub is also in a sweet spot with the Hunter Valley less than an hour west.
Things to do
- Hop between cafes, museums and more at the waterfront Honeysuckle precinct
- Stay at the boutique QT Newcastle
- Take a long stroll along Bathers Way
- Visit Newcastle Art Gallery
- Dine on fresh seafood at Merewether Surf House
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, Minnamurra River Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
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Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, Minnamurra River Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle Credit: QT Hotels & Resorts
A selection of dishes from Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle
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Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle Credit: QT Hotels & Resorts
A selection of dishes from Jana Restaurant & Bar, QT Newcastle
Southern Highlands | 1.5’ HOURS DRIVE
Located midway between Sydney and Canberra, the NSW Southern Highlands provides a welcome relief to the hustle of city life – a meld of classic and contemporary country culture. Innovative winemakers immersed in traditional methods. Morning truffle hunts evolving into modern dégustations. Pack your gum boots and head off to stay in an ivy-draped country manor or an architecturally designed farmhouse.
Things to do
- Get back to nature with a forest bathing session at Osborn House
- See cutting-edge art in a restored dairy turned art gallery, Ngununggula
- Browse literary treasures at Berkelouw Book Barn
- Antique the afternoon away at Dirty Janes Bowral
- Enjoy sustainable wines at Tractorless Vineyard Cellar Door
- Visit picture-postcard village Robertson (the setting for Australia’s hit film Babe)
- Spend a night at the charming Old Bank Boutique Hotel
Wollongong | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE
Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre that offers diverse appeal.
Just getting to Wollongong from Sydney is a tourist attraction. Instead of taking the M1 Princes Highway, take the Grand Pacific Drive, a spectacular touring route through the Royal National Park to Stanwell Park and south over the Sea Cliff Bridge.
Things to do
- Spot fairywrens, herons and more at Puckey’s Estate Nature Reserve
- Dine at the award-winning Babyface Kitchen
- Spend an afternoon at Wollongong Art Gallery
- Explore the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist Temple, Nan Tien
- Take a guided tour of the historic Blue Mile
- Catch live tunes and good vibes at La La La’s
Looking to go further afield?
If you have time on your hands, NSW has plenty more wonders to explore. Head to the Snowy Mountains for some time on the ski slopes; venture west towards the edge of the Great Dividing Range for world-heritage wilderness and Mudgee’s wine region, or escape it all on the Sapphire Coast.
Plan your Vivid Sydney trip now: vividsydney.com
Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
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Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
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Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.