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Sydney and New South Wales

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Sydney slam dunks its reputation as a cosmopolitan, vibrant, diverse city. Glittering amongst its near-perfect setting, its incredible landmarks are your starting point before dialling it down a little and enjoying the beautiful National Parks and iconic beaches such as Bondi and Manly. Just outside the city, the Blue Mountains offer plentiful hikes amongst the eucalyptus and waterfalls.

Further afield, the drive to the north takes you via the plentiful vineyards of Hunter Valley past legendary surf beaches known for their Pacific rides and onto Bryon Bay – stop here for a feast of local artisan delights and foodie scene.

South leads to lovely tree-lined, eclectic Melbourne and the state of Victoria. Teeming with historic treats along the route, along with stunning coastline, national parks, it is obviously the Great Ocean Road that takes centre stage here – dramatic soaring scenery leading to Adelaide, one of the last outposts before the outback.

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Experiences in Sydney and New South Wales

The South of Australia boasts some of the countries ‘tick-box’ attractions; Sydney, great surf, incredible wildlife, delumptious wines, staggering scenery, it’s very difficult to fit it all in a small paragraph. We suggest 5 days in Sydney to really absorb everything there is on offer. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge for spectacular views of the city (age 8 or over), enjoy a harbour cruise, take surf lessons one of the most famous beaches in the world and top it off with a night at the opera.

The Blue Mountains are just over an hour’s drive outside the city. Breathtakingly beautiful, a day here will be spent exploring the waterfalls and hiking one of the many tracks. Perhaps take a ride on the funicular railway down the impossibly steep tree-lined tracks.

Hunter Valley is also a day trip from the city. Take a wine tasting and foodie tour, or visit the koalas and kangaroos at the wildlife centre. Or how about some chocolate or cheese tasting locally too?

Bryon Bay lies north – where the Sydneysiders head for their holidays. From July to October you can spot the migrating whales from the coastline, the rest of the year is a taste-sensation of local delicacies – so good it has a place firmly on any serious gastronomists map.

Heading South from Sydney you’ll find Jervis Bay – home to allegedly the whitest sand in the world, this pristine setting and clear turquoise waters are some of the safest in the country. Enjoy a whale or dolphin watching cruise and spectacular scuba diving, camp in the bush, or just wend your way along the beautiful coastline enjoying the sweet coastal villages.

Melbourne is leafy and relaxed, known for its cultural vibe, art galleries, exquisite shopping and fantastic restaurants. The cave-filled Grampians offer ancient rock art and stunning spring displays or take some time to visit Philip Island – an idyllic island sanctuary just 90 minutes from the city and filled with penguins, seals and stunning coastal walks.

The road from Melbourne to Adelaide is a bucket list adventure with views of the Twelve Apostles and the pounding seas a constant mesmerising and ever-changing vista. It’s well worth taking some time over the drive and enjoying some of the stop-offs along the way. Adelaide was once known as a sleepy outpost but has become known as one of the most ‘liveable cities in the world’. Its world-class art, funky hotels and a festival calendar stuffed to the brim attracts visitors all year. It’s also only a short flight from here to wonderful Kangaroo island. This beautiful island is full of wildlife and epic rock formations; walk among the sea lions, stroke the kangaroos and finish the day with a gourmet feast made from local products.

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