The magnificent "City of Harbours," with its awe-inspiring skyline, miles-long sandy beaches, high-end shopping; can truly be said to offer a little bit of everything for everyone’s individual taste. Nevertheless, there comes the time when this almost five million people megalopolis feels just a bit overwhelming. But where to escape?
Blue Mountains
What better way to get away from the city crowd but to hop on the Western Motorway and let the road take you to the west. Whether you are travelling on your own, or you decided to take your entire family with you as well, World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park should be a must on every Sydney sider’s bucket list. Certainly, a car trip is always a more convenient option, but taking the train is an essential part of the adventure. Without having to focus on the road, everyone will be able to enjoy the natural blue haze, which is a result of a mixture of rich eucalypt forests known for releasing tiny droplets of oil and sunlight and vapour.
Katoomba
If you continue to climb to Katoomba, you will have a spectacular view of the Three Sisters rock formation, and also get a chance to ride world’s steepest inclined railway in a glass-floored cable car, straight to the ancient forest. This epicentre of Australia’s natural attractions is no more than 2 or 3 hours train ride from Sydney. It provides a 360-degree view of the stunning Jamison Valley, but we do have to admit, it might not be the perfect vacation for those scared of heights. Still, there are innumerable walking trails that lead through lush rainforests, straight to some of the most exceptional lookouts and stunning views of the Blue Mountains.
Shoalhaven
Comprised entirely of white sand beaches, farmland and national parks, little seaside Shoalhaven towns represent the unspoiled Australian attractions. South of Illawarra, this no-small region stretches from the mists of Kangaroo Valley to the Pretty Beach, so a muscle car hire in Sydney is essential if you wish to discover all of its secrets. If you’re not really looking for a place to relax, but rather work those muscles which are used to 8-hour sitting, you can test your ability to climb, jump and swing at Trees Adventure in Nowra Park. The zip lining takes place parallel to Shoalhaven River, so you’ll be gliding down the dense forest, over the rocky escarpments and green river banks.
However, it is important to note that Shoalhaven is not for those who are used to a never-ending summer, since its weather is not so consistently perfect, but it’s precisely what makes it ideal for avid surfers.
Byron Bay
Situated in the north-eastern corner of New South Wales, almost 800 kilometres out of Sydney, is a small beachside town which boasts its magnificent beaches. It is an ideal destination for those who don’t see the charm in Shoalhaven’s occasional drizzles, as even in winter, this place offers peace and quiet for those looking to relax in the sun and recharge their batteries. Also, this place is not all about the beaches – if you take a ride a bit more to the inside of the continent, you can exhibit rich wildlife of Cape Byron Marine Park.
Bowral
In the end, people who enjoy the mild, spring and autumn climate, will appreciate a fashionable holiday destination such as Bowral. Widely-known for its one-of-a-kind tulip festival, it features a multitude private gardens, authentic streets and antique shops. Whether you enjoy fly-fishing or a soothing game of golf, Bowral is the ideal place to escape the stress of everyday life. Many refer to it as Australian Hamptons, since it is commonly occupied by wealthy Sydney siders.
Would you like to share your favourite place from the west coast? Let us know in the comments section about a hidden gem we haven’t yet discovered.
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