Sarah Sol takes us through the best local and regional activities for your winter holidays. She’s got everything covered – from nature, to food, to adrenaline rushes. You’ll be a certified NSW resident in no time!
PUBLIC TRANSPORT FRIENDLY
BridgeClimb Sydney
ADDRESS: 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
INFO: Expert climbing will keep you safe and entertained during this long three and a half hour climb. A variety of packages to choose from – you can select the best for your needs and enjoyment.
ADVICE: Who doesn't want to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge? While it is pricey and time consuming, it is an experience you will never forget. (Do not recommend it for those who have a fear of heights).
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
ADDRESS: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
INFO: 30 hectares of beautiful landscapes located in Sydney. With free entry, you can explore a breathtaking heritage-listed garden, taking in 35,000 different plants. The garden is open from 7am to 4:30pm every day and can take up to half a day to explore the entire thing.
ADVICE: Often there are events held here which may require tickets, but otherwise it is a lovely garden with the convenience of being in the city. Most beautiful in spring and summer where you can watch the flowers bloom, watch the ducklings swim in the lake and even spot a possum or two.
Watsons Bay and Camp Cove
ADDRESS: 23B Victoria Street, Watsons Bay
INFO: Only a short walk from Watsons Bay ferry wharf. This beach is a family friendly beach known for its calm waters, thrilling sites and possible snorkelling activities. Located opposite to the Sydney Harbour National Park you get a view of the city while relaxing on the sand.
ADVICE: Not the best swimmer? Camp cove is known for its calm waters where you can enjoy a walk in the shallow end of the water without being swept away. There is no shade at this beach so bring hats and umbrellas for yourself and your friends.
Paddington Reservoir Gardens
ADDRESS: 251-255 Oxford St, Paddington
INFO: This garden was not always a garden. It was once responsible for holding the entire city's water supply. In 2009 the abandoned water supply was functioned into a garden, retaining many of its original structures and transforming it into a place where you can relax.
ADVICE: A cute and unique way to look at Australia's history and only a short walk away from the shops. Do I need to say more?
Bondi to Coogee Walk
ADDRESS: Coogee NSW 2031
INFO: This coastal walk is six kilometres and takes roughly two to three hours. The path offers spectacular views of many beaches, parks, and rock pools along the way. There are toilets, cafes and resting stops alongside viewing points.
ADVICE: The starting point begins at Bondi Beach. While the track can be walked in reverse, it is ultimately better beginning at Bondi. Don't forget comfy shoes, a hat, a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen.
Art Gallery of NSW
ADDRESS: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
INFO: Open 10am to 5pm most days and features some of Australia's best works. The art gallery of NSW has been a leading gallery for visual art and grants free entry.
ADVICE: The gallery offers beautiful views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and is only a short walk away from St Mary’s Cathedral. Enjoy the free activity then grab some lunch nearby.
Sandringham Garden
ADDRESS: 110 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000 (Located in Hyde park)
INFO: The garden contains decorative bronze gates, between sandstone walls and a circular garden. These gates were a memorial to King George V and VI after the passing of King George VI which occurred shortly after he was ment to visit Queen Elizabeth. The garden was originally meant to celebrate the visit between the king and princesses but was quickly altered. These sculptors were commissioned by Lyndon Raymond Dadswell and architect Henry Epstein, who excellently executed their task.
ADVICE: While the park is beautiful any day, during mid-September the wisterias absolutely bring this park to life. Not only do you get a chance to wander around Hyde Park, picnic, and watch the wisterias bloom, it also offers a wonderful view of St Mary’s Cathedral and is a short walk from the Art Gallery of NSW.
Angel Place, Sydney
ADDRESS: Angel Place, Sydney
INFO: A small but decorative alleyway off George Street, Angel Street holds one of the most Instagrammable art installations, displaying many mismatched bird cages hanging in the air. These changes are representative of 50 different species of birds which once inhabited the city but were forced out with European settlement. While walking down the alley you may hear unfamiliar bird songs which is a piece called “forgotten songs” to emphasise the loss of these birds.
ADVICE: While you can explore this part of the city on your own there are many tours which explore heritage sites and art hiding in the open.
ROAD TRIPS
Mayfield Garden
ADDRESS: 530 Mayfield Rd, Oberon NSW 2787
INFO: Mayfield Garden occupies 15 hectares featuring many water gardens and is open 363 days of the year. Mayfeild seasonally combines with the Hawkins private garden which is an additional 50 hectares. Mayfield is a two hour drive from Sydney with many great sights along the way.
ADVICE: I recommend going early to ensure you have plenty of time to explore the entire garden, especially if you're visiting during the seasonal festivals. Trust me, you will need the time. While the garden is most popular for its autumn colours there is nothing like spring blooms which bring the garden to life. Make sure to wear enclosed shoes and bring a cute outfit and a good camera for insta-worthy pictures. If you're only going to do one road trip, this is the one you need to do (yes it's even above Kiama.)
Kiama Coastal Walk
ADDRESS: Beginnings at Ninnorma Train Station
INFO: This walk is divided into three main sections: the north section which features the Minnamurra River to Kiama Blowhole, the middle section which features the famous Kiama blowhole and ends in Loves Bay, and the south section which begins at Loves Bay and finishes in Gerringong.
ADVICE: This is an excellent way to explore Kiama, visiting the iconic blowholes and much else. Public bathrooms and food spots are also located along the way. Ensure to bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
Kiama Blowhole
ADDRESS: Blowhole Point, Kiama 2533
INFO: Kiama’s Blowhole is the largest blowhole in the world. With a two and a half metre opening, its plumes of water have been recorded to be over 30 metres high. The blow holes can be seen from a variety of points and are located close to the train station. Public bathrooms and food locations are also nearby.
ADVICE: Can you really visit Kiama without visiting this icon blowhole?
Yarrangobilly Caves
ADDRESS: Yarrangobilly Caves, Yarrangobilly NSW 2720
INFO: The Yarrangobilly Caves are a segment of the northern Kosciuszko National Park which features six magnificent limestone caves open to the public. Above ground there is an outdoor thermal pool which naturally stays at 27 degrees all year round.
ADVICE: While you can explore these caves by yourself there are daily tours available to ensure you appreciate the significant elements of these caves in a safe and sensible manner.
Berowra Waters Inn
ADDRESS: 1 Calabash Point, Berowra Waters
INFO: Berowra Waters Inn is considered one of Australia’s best restaurants and is open Fridays and Saturdays. A six course meal costs $220 per person and can accommodate most dietary requirements.
ADVICE: this place is pricey but if you're looking for a fine dining experience this is the place to go! Not only do you get a taste of the most incredible Australian food with sunset views, but the ferry ride is breathtaking as it is only accessible by water.
The Press Shop
ADDRESS: 391-397 Bong Bong Street Bowral
INFO: Their seasonal menus cater for most dietary requirements (Their açai bowls are the best) and are organic and locally sourced. It is open Monday through to Sunday 7am to 4pm.
ADVICE: If you're spending the day in Bowral and find yourself there in the morning there is no better place than The Press Shop. After a nutritious breakfast you can roam the stores nearby, visiting antiques, high end fashion, bakeries and garden shops.
THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Grand Canyon Track (The Bright Angel Trail)
ADDRESS: Blue Mountains National Park, Evans Lookout Rd, Blackheath NSW 2785
INFO: An average level hike involving some semi-ledges but no proper hiking equipment is needed. The views include sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and rainforests. This trail offers bathrooms, shade and water and is the perfect trail to experience the grand canyon without experiencing the danger of other tracks.
ADVICE: Please stick to this trail especially if you are an inexperienced hiker as other trails are more difficult and can be dangerous. Wear comfy shoes, sunscreen and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Katoomba Three Sisters
ADDRESS: Echo Point Katoomba, 2.5 kilometres from the Great Western Highway.
INFO: The Three Sisters walk is a relatively easy walk that takes an average person 45 minutes, (an hour if you stop to take pictures like I do). This walk offers some of the most iconic views within The Blue Mountains where you can spend your day surrounded by Australian nature.
ADVICE: Wear comfy shoes and plenty of sunscreen. This is Australia. One of the most iconic places in The Blue Mountains, there is nothing like staring at some rocks that screams Australia more.
Bakery Patisserie Schwarz
ADDRESS: 30 Station St, Wentworth Falls NSW 2782
INFO: For over 24 years, the Schwarz family have gained their famous reputation for their cakes, pastries and coffees, quickly becoming popular for their traditional German recipes. Open 7am-5pm everyday and public transport friendly, located opposite Wentworth Falls train station.
ADVICE: Cold winters day? Go and enjoy a warm meal and a pastry at the best bakery in NSW. Pack an umbrella and explore local antiques and bookstores nearby. Only a short walk away from a beautiful picnic area and the Wentworth falls track itself.
Blue Mountains Tour (Blue Mountains Adventure Company)
ADDRESS: 26 Parke St, Katoomba NSW 2780
INFO: A safe way to actively explore The Blue Mountains. Have the freedom to explore The Blue Mountains while actively participating in rock climbing, canoeing and abseiling into unique canyons.The Blue Mountains Adventure Company allows you to experience the best of The Blue Mountains while safe and supervised.
ADVICE: Not sure where to begin your Blue Mountains journey? Head to their website and sign up for one of their many tours so you can ensure you are safe and supervised while getting the best of The Blue Mountains.