Short getaways after visiting Vivid Sydney

Short getaways after visiting Vivid Sydney
Edited by Travel Weekly


    With the Vivid Sydney festival well underway, now’s the time for agents to point travellers to more sights in New South Wales and keep the adventure going with these getaways from Destination NSW.

    Head to the coast of Australia.

    Head to the coast of Australia.

    Seven short getaways from the city:

    1. Blue Mountains (1.5hr drive): The Blue Mountains is named for the beautiful haze that hangs over the sleepy villages, ancient rock formations and bushland. Guests hike in the fresh mountain air at golden hour, taking in the expansive valleys atop a lookout or cable car.
    2. Central Coast (1hr drive): Here travellers can find a relaxed beach lifestyle with kilometres of sand and Pacific Ocean to explore. There are also national parks abound, and calm waterways ideal for throwing in a line, or conquering with a kayak.

      Kayaking along Australia's central coast.

      Kayaking along Australia’s central coast.

    3. Hunter Valley (2.5hr 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. Guests can wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley Gardens, or picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce.
    4. Kiama, Jamberoo and more (2hr drive): This adventure lets participants the sea spray hit their 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.
    5. Newcastle (2hr drive): An unbeatable mix of golden beaches, luscious food and buzzing culture. Guests can take a dip at Merewether, dine overlooking the surf break and delve into the edgy boutiques and bars.

      Scenic views from a cable car.

      Scenic views from a cable car.

    6. Southern Highlands (1.5hr 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.
    7. Wollongong (1.5hr 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.
    Partake in delicious local cuisine.Partake in delicious local cuisine.

    Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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