Kosciuszko National Park, Snowy MountainsCredit: Destination NSW
Skiing at Thredbo in Kosciuszko National Park, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Get your skis strapped in and scoot out the front door at these ski-in, ski-out Snowy Mountains stays. The famous New South Wales snowfields are dotted with lodgings that are right on the snow, near the chairlifts and ready to welcome you into a cozy room after an action-packed day.
On-the-slope chalets at Thredbo
A stay on the Thredbo slopes means instant access to the longest ski runs in the country, a lively après-ski scene and a bulging calendar of winter events. Score the first chairlift of the day by bedding down at River Inn, right next to Friday Flat (where ski and snowboard lessons start) and close to the base of the Gunbarrel Express chairlift. Warm up post-ski by the crackling fireplace or with a drink at the rustic bar. Then crash with your team at the end of the day in self-contained rooms with bunk beds, fold-out couches and kitchenettes, or cosy up with your loved one in a king room.
Wake up in luxury as snow falls outside your window at Thredbo’s Ski In Ski Out Chalets, then suit up for a run on Crackenback Supertrail, which sits right at the base of the village (you can even see other skiers whisk past from your window). Here, you’ll find 25 fully equipped chalets with one to five bedrooms, fireplace-centred living rooms and balconies featuring your own barbecue. For extra indulgence, choose a chalet with a private spa or sauna for post-ski decompression.
Thredbo, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Group setting out on a snowshoe adventure through Dead Horse Gap, Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Thredbo, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Group setting out on a snowshoe adventure through Dead Horse Gap, Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains.
Thredbo, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Family crossing the bridge to Thredbo ski resort in the Snowy Mountains.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Thredbo, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Family crossing the bridge to Thredbo ski resort in the Snowy Mountains.
Take your pick of memorable stays at Perisher
Experience Perisher at its epic best, with an on-snow stay at a ski resort that opens onto 1,245 hectares of skiable terrain, including 47 lifts to ride across four main areas: Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega. During the day, the slopes may be bustling with other adventurers, but by sunset the day-tripping crowd will head down to Bullocks Flat, leaving you to take in the enchanting Snowy Mountains scenery in serenity.
Barely a two-minute walk from Perisher Valley’s Perisher Quad Express Chair is the stylish Corroboree Ski Lodge, which offers spacious rooms and a large lounge. Solo and spirited travellers can join the lively atmosphere at the bar, and families can give the kids an early meal before sending them to the games room for a movie while they enjoy a three-course meal without interruption.
You can’t get much closer to the ski lifts than the Perisher Valley Hotel. The modest hotel, just 100m from the base of the Village 8 Express chairlift, has rooms sleeping two to five, most with stunning views of the slopes. When you’ve retired for the day, join the après-ski crowd at the bar or recline while you pick your next run from your bedroom window.
Other memorable, atmospheric options include the family-owned Perisher Manor, which entices keen skiers and families with its proximity to the Village 8 Express chairlift, not to mention the scenic in-house Base 1720 Bar & Restaurant. At Barrakee Ski Lodge you can treat yourself to a three-course modern Australian meal after a relaxing stint in the sauna, all just 50m from the North Perisher T-Bar.
Outside of Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes village provides a more intimate scene; book into Smiggins Hotel and Chalet Apartments for easy ski lift access, a kids’ club and daycare. Or, immerse yourself more deeply in the mountain scenery at the cosy Guthega Inn in Guthega, where you can gaze upon Mount Kosciuszko as you eat breakfast.
Sunrise in Blue Cow, Perisher Credit: Perisher
Sunrise in Blue Cow, Perisher Snowy Mountains.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Sunrise in Blue Cow, Perisher Credit: Perisher
Sunrise in Blue Cow, Perisher Snowy Mountains.
Fresh powder and sunshine in Perisher Credit: Perisher
Fresh powder and sunshine in Perisher
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Fresh powder and sunshine in Perisher Credit: Perisher
Fresh powder and sunshine in Perisher
Escape to snowbound Charlotte Pass
The highest snow resort in Australia, Charlotte Pass is a ski-in, ski-out dream, with every door of every hotel opening onto the slopes. As it’s also encircled in snow over the winter (the only way to access it is over snow transport) and encompasses just four ski lifts, it has an intimate, slower-pace feel set up for families, romantic getaways and beginner skiers.
The stone walls and old-world charm of the Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel, launched in 1930 and rebuilt after a grand fire, lets you imagine what it would have been like skiing a century ago. Drop off little skiers at the complimentary kids’ club while you can tackle more advanced slopes, maybe followed by a hot toddy at the Adams Cocktail Lounge and a hearty meal at onsite fine dining restaurant Arches.
Knockshannoch Ski Lodge claims to be the smallest and friendliest lodge at Charlotte Pass. The people-focused ski-in ski-out lodging, built in 1940, has only six bedrooms but makes sure all skiers feel welcome with three hearty meals a day (kids are specially catered for depending on their age). Or book into Lucy Lodge, a no-frills but scenic stay that sits next to the Kosciuszko Triple Chair. Inside the building is China King, the local stop for deep-fried ice cream, chicken and corn soup, and a simple pie and chips. Other options include the Stillwell Hotel, a popular stay for summer hikers sporting modest rooms and a deck that welcomes non-guests for post-ski margaritas with views of the snow-draped mountains.
Charlotte Pass Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains. This is the high res copy of the image.
#feelnew #feelnsw
Charlotte Pass Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains. This is the high res copy of the image.
Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Woman enjoying a day of skiing at Charlotte Pass Ski Resort in the Snowy Mountains.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Woman enjoying a day of skiing at Charlotte Pass Ski Resort in the Snowy Mountains.
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
null
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
null
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.