If you are planning to holiday in NSW, here is our top 5 list of attractions to add to your itinerary.
- Sydney Harbour – This includes Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the bay itself, which offers an amazing view at night. The largest steel arch bridge spans what is a natural harbour; You can’t visit Sydney and not walk the iconic Harbour Bridge – you can climb if you have the nerve, or even cycle across and take in the amazing view. Enjoy fine Hunter Valley wine while dining waterside at one of the many classy eateries surrounding the bay, and dance the night away on one of the party boats that anchor in the bay.
- Blue Mountains – Majestic with a shade of blue in the shimmering sunlight (caused by eucalyptus trees), the Blue Mountains have much to offer the nature lover. Located just 50km from the capital, visit the Blue Mountains National Park, where you will see koalas and kangaroos. You can book a day tour and experience guided hikes with incredible views and enjoy lunch in a mountain village. Enjoy dinner at one of the 5-star Italian restaurants in Camden and reflect on a remarkable day.
- Hunter Valley –Probably the most fertile region in the country, Hunter Valley is where the best vineyards are located and the wine is excellent. You can enjoy a fine lunch at a top resort, with a wine list to die for! The Hunter Valley Wildlife Park is a must if you like the idea of feeding giraffes and kangaroos, while observing Tasmanian Devils; cheetahs and alligators (from a safe distance).
- Whale watching – Depart Sydney Harbour and head out to sea where you can observe the annual migration of the humpback whale; experienced skippers quickly locate these majestic creatures and they position the vessel to give you the best close-up view of surface behaviour. If you are lucky enough to be near when a humpback breaches, it is a sight to behold and one that will be etched in your memory forever. Use Google and learn about the diverse range of surface behaviours and what the scientists think they mean, make sure you bring a waterproof jacket; book online and the tour operator will inform you on how best to prepare. At least 3 hours of whale watching and in the very unlikely event you don’t see any whales, you get another free tour. This is the very best of aquatic tours.
- Port Stephens – A natural harbour in the Hunter region of NSW, this is the place to go if you’re into extreme activities. Sandboarding the dunes is a unique experience that doesn’t differ too much from surfing and if that doesn't excite you, ride a quad through the dunes for the ultimate thrill.
NSW has so much to offer the visitor, you need a few months to appreciate the wonders of this spectacular part of Australia.