New South Wales

Australia’s most visited state, New South Wales partly owes its popularity with visitors to the glamorous city of Sydney. The sparkling harbor is the focal point of the city with iconic landmarks of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Beyond the glow of Sydney, New South Wales becomes a sweeping landscape of national parks, bushland, beachside resort towns, vineyards and alpine hideaways. From stunning natural beauty to sophisticated culinary delights, there's a lot to love about New South Wales.

Explore New South Wales

Sydney

Sydney (Aboriginal name: Warrane; pronounced: wah-rang) is an exciting cosmopolitan city built around a picturesque natural harbor. Among the most photographed landmarks in the world, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are architectural icons that define its skyline. Natural beauty is woven throughout the city, from palm tree-lined beaches to lush national parks and inviting green spaces. Sydney’s vibrant arts scene shines through its galleries and world-class performances, while its exquisite food and wine culture offers a diverse and eclectic mix of restaurants. Whether you’re strolling through colorful neighborhoods or people watching on Bondi Beach, you'll be taken with the sophisticated yet relaxed urban energy of Sydney.

Blue Mountains

Easily accessible from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a naturalist, art lover's and adventurer’s delight. Learn about the centuries-old Aboriginal culture through storytelling and cave paintings, marvel at the Three Sisters rock formation, visit charming villages to take in the arts scene, play hide-and-seek with the elusive echidna on a bush walk or gear up for a thrilling 4WD eco-tour. A wonderland of waterfalls, winding rivers, cheerful cottages and cavernous canyons, the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is named for the bluey-green hue of the eucalyptus trees that flourish in its valleys.

Hunter Valley

As the birthplace of Australian wine and home to the largest display garden in the Southern Hemisphere, the Hunter Valley invites you to indulge both your palate and your senses in an unforgettable experience of fine wines, exquisite cuisine, and enchanting gardens. An escape to this pastoral paradise is a gourmet lovers getaway of fine dining and casual restaurants, as well as numerous specialty shops selling cheese, chocolates and olive oils—all nestled among more than 150 world-class wineries in a locale that seems worlds away, but is conveniently only 90 minutes from Sydney. Visit the Hunter Valley Gardens 35 acres of themed garden displays with walking paths, rides, shopping and dining woven throughout. Pick up a piece of distinct jewelry or fine glassware from a local artisan. Soar above the quilted landscape on a sunrise balloon ride before returning to earth for a champagne toast. A visit to Australia’s Hunter Valley promises to be a feast for all your senses.

Lord Howe Island

Escape to the breathtaking paradise of Lord Howe Island, where lush rainforests meet crystal-clear lagoons and towering volcanic peaks rise above golden beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem offers a rare blend of adventure and tranquility—snorkel vibrant coral reefs, hike to panoramic lookouts like Mount Gower, and unwind in secluded luxury. With visitor numbers limited, you'll feel like you have this untouched island all to yourself, making it the perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful island bliss.

Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers

A sanctuary of sun, sea, nature and laid back luxury, the tranquil hinterland and vibrant coastal regions of Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers is a haven of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and eclectic towns. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, the region boasts award-winning dining and a flourishing arts and wellness culture. Here, you can be among the first to watch the sun rise over Australia from Cape Byron Lighthouse, perched on the easternmost point of the continent. Spend your days surfing, biking, hiking and horseback riding—or enjoying spa treatments, relaxing poolside and indulging in fresh, local fare. Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers are the perfect blend of nature, nourishment and that ultra-cool Aussie vibe.