Living in Sydney is exciting and full of adventure, even if it’s your hometown. Nightlife, museums, theaters, parks, and everything else that a big city offers are right there and waiting for you. That’s not to say all that flare can be a little too much, especially if you have a lot on your plate already.
Good thing is that this Australian metropolis doesn’t fail to deliver on its promise of having it all. As a result, you will discover the most relaxing places for a weekend getaway around Sydney that will take your mind off everyday work. Let’s see what awaits you!
A thought-provoking getaway in Canberra
Although an urban environment, Canberra is full of nature with Lake Burley Griffin in its center named after the architectural duo of husband and wife who designed the city. Galleries, museums, and memorials attract people who want to know more about Australian history, like the Australian War Memorial and the Museum of Australian Democracy.
If you can choose a date to come to Canberra, let it be in September or October so you can attend the biggest city festival Floriade dedicated to flowers. Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre — Questacon hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year, as does the National Gallery of Australia here. The nearby Mount Painter, Mount Ainslie, and Black Mountain will charm you with their scenic views of the city, while you can hang out with platypuses, kangaroos, and koalas at the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
Vineyards and vistas of Hunter Valley
The most famous for its wines, Hunter Valley is full of vineyards and picturesque landscapes only a couple of hours drive from Sydney. This is the best destination for foodies to try locally-produced honey, olives, cheese, and chocolate, as well as high-end restaurant cuisine. Hunter Valley accommodation offers from cozy two-bedroom places, like Millfield Garden Cottage to luxurious villas, like Hunter Treehouse making them fit for anyone’s budget.
Fans of active holidays can take a relaxing hike on one of the many scenic trails, cycle the country roads, or play golf. Hot air balloon rides are an interesting way to admire magnificent vistas from above, especially at dawn or right before sunset. Alternatively, Hunter Valley Zoo, Hunter Valley Gardens, and local spas make ideal stops for those who want something more relaxing to do.
Invigorating nature of Blue Mountains National Park
For many visitors, it’s hard to believe that Blue Mountains National Park is only an hour away from Sydney. This UNESCO World Heritage site is especially popular during summer to escape the city heat, although winter makes it equally interesting for snow lovers. Probably the most famous spot is the Three Sisters rock formation named after an Aboriginal legend of sisters Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo from the Katoomba tribe.
The brave among you can take the Scenic Walkway above the Jurassic rainforest and ride a train on the steepest railway in the world. Hiking is still the No. 1 activity here, with trails dating back to the early 19th century, like the National Pass. It takes hikers by the waterfalls of the Valley of the Waters and over the handmade Grand Stairway. If you are interested in historic spots then exploring Jenolan Caves should be on your list, especially the Lucas Cave and its musical concerts in the Cathedral chamber.
Wilderness, wildlife, and pie of Kangaroo Valley
Some two hours away from Sydney, Kangaroo Valley is full of hiking trails, wildlife, and waterfalls, like the Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park. While you will definitely spot kangaroos in the wild, keep your eyes open for the occasional wombat.
Considering Kangaroo Valley is a historic spot you can learn a lot about the first settlers at places like the Pioneer Village Museum. It has natural bushland tracks intended for hiking, artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries, and a barbeque area, among other things. When you are done exploring and sightseeing, make sure to have a piece of freshly-baked pie at the Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop, which promised to be the best in the country.
Water sports and whale-watching at Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour may be a longer ride from Sydney, around five hours, but it’s a gorgeous destination for a prolonged weekend break. This is the spot to try all the water sports your heart desires, like surfing and kayaking.
Whale-watching is a big thing here from May to November during the migrating season, or you can stop by the Dolphin Conservation Park and hang out with different types of marine mammals. Hiking is also a big deal here with the majority of trails located on the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, named after wedge-tailed shearwater birds that breed here during summer.
If you are interested in unique sights, visit the Butterfly House which has more than 400 of these insects flying and interacting with you. The Big Banana Fun Park is an amusement park in the shape of a banana plantation only with a huge water slide, 4D simulator, laser tag, and arcade. Close by is Diggers Beach ideal for beginner surfers and light swimmers considering that it’s a rare beach in Coffs Harbour with moderate waves.
Finally
When considering what would be the most relaxing places for a weekend getaway around Sydney for you, think of what you want to experience and see. New South Wales is full of history, nature, wildlife, and locally-farmed products that you can spend every weekend in the year traveling here. That’s why we recommend you plan your itinerary based on festivals and events that will make your stay here even more fun.
