New South Wales
New South Wales is the most populous and diverse state in Australia, located on the southeastern side of the continent. It was first charted by Captain James Cook during his voyage of the coast in 1770.
New South Wales is home to Sydney, with its world-famous harbour and attractions, and to 5 impressive World Heritage sites. It has an enviable string of gorgeous sandy beaches and inland it also has Australia’s highest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko, offering excellent outdoor activities including snow sports. No wonder it is one of the world’s favourite destinations!
Apart from the cultural delights of the city of Sydney, the area offers national parks and forests, historic towns and scenic river valleys. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, everything from surfing and diving to bushwalking and mountain climbing is available in this beautiful state.
The Greater Blue Mountains are a popular place to explore with spectacular mountainscapes, rainforest and waterfalls. It is ideal mountain-biking country within two hours drive of Sydney. Sheer cliffs are popular for abseiling and rock climbing, whilst the picturesque towns and villages provide delightful places to shop, explore and dine.
The Hunter region around Newcastle, Australia’s second oldest city, is known for offering a slice of the good life, with excellent food and many gourmet restaurants. The local wineries and horse farms are great for visiting and exploring. Enjoy the scenery from a horse-drawn carriage or a hot-air balloon, for something completely different.
Just offshore, Lord Howe Island is known as the “Last Paradise”. The crystal clear waters have more than 400 species of fish and 90 species of coral. Bird watching, kayaking, cycling and reef walking can all be enjoyed on this World Heritage Site.
The rural northwest of New South Wales has a host of attractions from the cultural Academy Gallery at Wilderness to gem fossicking for sapphires on Frazer Creek. With the Gondwana Rainforests and the Willamdra Lakes in Mungo National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy in New South Wales.
Image: New South Wales Blue Mountains
