While overseas travel may be back in the question, sometimes, there’s nothing better than a local getaway. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or just want to escape, NSW has exactly what you’re looking for – and then some.
Here, we look at six of NSW’s finest spots.
#1 Hunter Valley
With their earthy hues and pops of green and blue, the suites and cottage at Spicers Guesthouse nod to the surrounding countryside of the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region 2 hours north of Sydney. Don’t miss a contemporary Italian meal at Eremo, headed by lauded chef Cameron Matthews.
And for a memorable outing, Usher Tinkler Wines offers indulgent wine tastings paired with fine meats and cheeses in a renovated church overlooking vines.
#2 Blue Mountains
Located 90 minutes west of Sydney, The Old Leura Dairy in the Blue Mountains town of Leura has a range of self-contained cottages: the Straw Vale House has five bedrooms and three bathrooms, made with recycled materials and filled with antiques.
Celebrate with a high tea and panoramic views of Megalong Valley at the Hydro Majestic, a 10-minute drive from Leura. Served in the opulent Wintergarden Restaurant, it includes petite sandwiches scones — add on a glass of sparkling wine.
#3 Orange
In the heart of Orange 3.5 hours west of Sydney, The White Place Home on Byng is a beautifully appointed cottage with four bedrooms, a full kitchen and living room, polished floorboards and a fireplace. All décor comes from homewares, fashion and lifestyle boutique The White Place, and everything you see is for sale.
With a modern, Scandi-chic vibe, Groundstone is the perfect choice for a relaxed brunch or lunch — the salads and burgers are particularly good. Sisters Rock Restaurant at Borrodell Winery is an elegant dining option, with ingredients either grown on the estate or supplied by regional growers and producers.
#4 Tweed Shire
A secluded sanctuary in the Tweed hinterland of far northern NSW, 9 hours’ drive north of Sydney, Mistere at Urliup features three two-guest villas surrounded by lush rainforest. Sink into a spa bath to the sound of birdsong, meditate in the Zen garden, stroll the sculpture walk or head to nearby Cabarita Beach.
While you’re at Cabarita, linger at the award-winning Paper Daisy restaurant within Halcyon House. A shared set menu is available for groups of eight to 16; dishes such as grilled fish with Meyer lemon and coastal herbs will make it a memorable day.
#5 Berrima
In the pretty Southern Highlands 1.5 hours southwest of Sydney, Bendooley Estate features luxurious cottages overlooking its vineyard, manicured gardens and lake. Order casual bites in the cellar door or enjoy seasonal fine dining in the restaurant.
Or head to Eschalot in nearby Berrima for dinner. This delightful restaurant takes home awards for its thoughtful menu, with much of the produce feature grown by the owners or sourced from local purveyors.
#6 Crackenback
Forty Nine Post Office Lane is a gorgeous, modern accommodation offering a formal lounge with a suspended fireplace and catering for up to 12 people. Located 5 hours southwest of Sydney, it’s five minutes from Kosciuszko National Park for warm-weather hiking, or equally close to Perisher’s Skitube if you’re keen to hit the slopes.
Crackenback Farm serves French farmhouse-style meals in a cosy setting; everything is made with local ingredients, including homegrown herbs and vegetables.
(Feature image credit: Destination NSW)
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