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Seven Short Getaways from the City After Vivid Sydney

Seven Short Getaways from the City After Vivid Sydney

Seven Short Getaways from the City After Vivid Sydney

Submitted by Vivid Sydney

14 Jun 2022
This is an image of the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains

There’s plenty more fun to be had after you’ve finished exploring the lights, music and ideas of Vivid Sydney. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the iconic harbourside city reveals even more adventures. Hike into the mountains, glide down golden sand dunes or taste wine from the barrel. And the best thing? These hand-picked micro breaks are less than three hours’ drive from Sydney. 

 

The Hawkesbury | 2.5 hours’ drive 

There’s something perennially peaceful about the Hawkesbury region. Far from crashing surf and the city bustle, you’ll wind down almost immediately to a soundscape of birdsong and river ripples. Breathe in fresh air on a bushwalk, taste the freshest produce from fruit trees or get Zen meditating by the river.  

Things to do 

This is an image of Shields Orchard in Bilpin

 

Blue Mountains | 1.5 hours’ drive 

Home to the famous Three Sisters rock formation and the steepest incline railway in the world, the magnificent Blue Mountains has long been a drawcard for adventurers, with bushwalking, rock climbing and a cooler climate with altitudes of up to 1,000 metres. Take a selfie at a lofty lookout, discover secret waterfalls and stay in luxury accommodation. 

Things to do    

This is an image of Scenic World in Katoomba

 

Southern Highlands | 1.5 hours’ drive 

By its very nature, the Southern Highlands is a place of classic and contemporary country culture. Innovative winemakers immersed in traditional methods. Morning truffle hunts evolving into modern degustations. Pack your gum boots and head off to stay in an ivy-draped country manor or an architecturally designed farmhouse.  

Things to do 

This is an image of Centennial Vineyard in Bowral

 

Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive 

Newcastle is a popular weekender out of Sydney for many reasons. It’s got an unbeatable mix of golden beaches, luscious food and buzzing culture that makes you feel high on life. Have a dip at Merewether, dine overlooking the surf break and delve into the edgy boutiques and bars. This coastal hub is also in a sweet spot with the Hunter Valley less than an hour west. 
 
Things to do 

This is an image of the Newcastle Memorial Walk, The Hill

 

The Hunter Valley | 2.5 hours’ drive 

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its semillon and shiraz varietals, acclaimed wineries and restaurants, luxury resorts nestled among vineyards, world class spas and championship golf courses. Wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley gardens, picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce and don’t miss spying the lush Hunter from above in a hot-air balloon. 

Things to do 

This is an image of Hot Air Ballooning in the Hunter Valley

 

Port Stephens | 2.5 hours’ drive 

Port Stephens has 26 golden beaches, a bay more than twice the size of Sydney Harbour and many beautiful inlets. Outside the shelter of the bay you’ll find the rolling surf of stunning One Mile Beach, and further south, Australia’s largest coastal dune system where you can explore ancient Indigenous sites on a quad bike cultural tour across Stockton Sand Dunes. 
 
Things to do 

This is an image of Sand Dune adventures in Port Stephens

 

Kiama, Jamberoo and more | 2 hours’ drive 

Feel the sea spray hit your skin at the blowhole at Kiama, only 30 minutes south of Wollongong. Away from the famous rock formations, epic waves and grassy seaside slopes, Kiama is a place of nature hikes, fancy seafood feasts on waterside decks and unique adventures. Take yourself on a wild and wonderful trail winding through windswept headlands and extraordinary beaches. 

Things to do 

This is an image of Illawarra Fly

 

 

 

 

 

 

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