Sydney is a true global city, attracting more than 2.7million international visitors annually and known worldwide for its iconic harbour and Opera House. Sunny, sexy and sophisticated, Sydney is unique amongst cities for its urban beach lifestyle. As Australia’s major city, there’s a huge choice and range of accommodation, tours and attractions for any budget and taste.

 

What is perhaps lesser known is that beyond Sydney, the state of New South Wales is a region possessed with incredible beauty and diversity. Experiences cater to gourmet lovers, adrenalin-junkies, hopeless romantics, culture-vultures, intrepid explorers and beach babes and boys. New South Wales promises some of Australia’s most unforgettable experiences and is a destination tailor-made for a honeymoon.

 

Sydney is one of the most eclectic food capitals in the world. Its famous fresh produce, creative chefs and multicultural flair have made the city a world class food destination. From restaurants with harbour views in Circular Quay, regenerated waterfront  dining precincts like Woolloomooloo Wharf, Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay Wharf or King Street Wharf), or  casual seafood fare at city beaches like Bondi, Coogee and Balmoral Beach, its hard not to be tempted at every turn.

 

There's always a palpable buzz in the air in Sydney. You’ll feel your senses are truly alive enjoying a Mojito at sunset at the Quay, an ice-cold beer at a pub in The Rocks, or your favourite tipple in at an intimate late night lounge or bar.

The pubs of Balmain and Paddington have retained their traditional facades, friendly atmosphere and emphasis on good times. If clubbing is your thing, the sometimes gritty, sleek, inner city enclave of Darlinghurst is the place to be.

A perfect intro to your honeymoon in New South Wales: 

Wake late and head across to Rose Bay for a flight and lunch package with Sydney Seaplanes. When you’ve come back down to earth, get a different perspective of Sydney with the Sydney BridgeClimb Of course you’ll then need to celebrate your achievements with drinks at Opera Bar overlooking the harbour…..Indulge in some blissful Sailing on Sydney harbour and then let’s see... tomorrow there’s the beach, sailing, a bicycle or Harley Davidson tour of the city, shopping. Hmmm. Lets think about it over dinner!

 

As if the city itself wasn’t enough, within two and a half hours of Sydney there is much more to explore.

Ninety minutes north west of the big city buzz of Sydney for example, you’ll find World Heritage wilderness, adventure and unique and boutique lodgings in the Blue Mountains, a spectacular plateau overlooking vast eucalypt valleys carved out by the sea over millions of years. Why not spend a few relaxing nights at the renowned Lilianfels and indulge yourself with the wonder of this stunning region.

Two and a half hours north is the Hunter region, an  adults playground of indulgence replete with day spas, golf courses exceptional food, luxury resorts  and of course over 110 wineries.

An hour east of the Hunter lays Port Stephens, a vast sheltered bay popular with Sydney-siders in need of a weekend break, and home to a permanent population of dolphins and Australia’s most reliable whale-watching.  There are some great small group tours available taking in the best of the wineries, mountains and dolphins or if you prefer your independence, hire your own set of wheels. Sydney’s Surrounds are easily accessible either way.

 

The Pacific Coast Touring Route stretches north from Sydney to Queensland, and is a combination of magnificent coastline and spectacular hinterland. Best tackled over a minimum of five days, North Coast New South Wales is about romance, freedom and the open road, peppered with lots of little indulgences along the way

The route crosses the spectacular and labyrinthine Hawkesbury River and then passes through a succession of idyllic coastal towns, many of them linked by a vast stretches of National Park. Myall Lakes National Park – a vast, beautiful lake system is definitely one of the region’s best-kept secrets.

 

Further north, Coffs Harbour is the epicentre of land and water-based adventure and a very popular holiday spot for Aussies. If you prefer less strenuous pastimes, then keep on north to Byron Bay, were celebrities, travellers and Bohemians rub shoulders in a heady mix of beach culture and new-age lifestyles. Sun worshippers will be spoilt for choice and the many national parks, rivers and rainforests will keep nature lovers happy. For boutique accommodation why not consider Byron at Byron Resort & Spa and luxuriate in the unique appeal of Byron Bay.

 

South Coast New South Wales

The dramatic coast between Sydney and Melbourne is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. It can take three days or two weeks to drive depending on how much time you have to get off the beaten track and explore. As well as enjoying the great natural beauty of the region, visitors can enjoy local cool climate wines, the freshest seafood and fine local produce from farmers’ markets or restaurants. Highlights include the Five Island micro Brewery at Wollongong, the Seacliff Bridge, which arcs dramatically out over the ocean, Jervis Bay, reputed to have the whitest sand in the world at picturesque Hyams Beach, hand-feeding kangaroos on Pebbly Beach, and  unique accommodation like Paperbark Camp’s tented safari lodges.  

 

Less than two hours flight from Sydney or Port Macquarie on the North Coast, lies the World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island. The visual impact from the air is breathtaking; unspoilt beaches, a crystal lagoon bordered by the world’s most southern coral reef. Green fields and tracts of bushland rising at each end to the towering mountains of Mt Gower and Mt Lydgbird

 

Staying at the ultra-indulgent Capella Lodge above picturesque Lover’s Bay, the island is best explored on bicycle or foot. Go snorkelling, diving, stake your claim to a secluded beach or simply laze on the verandah with a good book. You wont be disturbed as the island accommodates a limit of 400 visitors at any one time!

If you want an idyllic location for your wedding - consider Lord Howe Island as the ultimate destination for your truly memorable ceremony.

 

 

email: australia@joewalshtours.ie