Short getaways after your visit to Vivid Sydney

Blue Mountains

Now that the festival is well and truly underway, and ahead of the June long weekend, we’ve curated some New South Wales highlights beyond Vivid Sydney, where visitors and locals alike can keep the adventure going once they’ve experienced the tastes, sights and sounds of the city.

You can find a detailed list of seven short getaways, perfect for daytrips as well a longer, more relaxed stay (and lists of things to do) here, but we’ve selected some highlights for you below. Blue Mountains (1.5 hours’ drive): Named for the beautiful haze that hangs over the sleepy villages, ancient rock formations and bushland, the magnificent Blue Mountains is one of Sydney’s favourite weekenders for good reason. There’s nothing quite like a hike in the fresh mountain air at golden hour, though taking in the expansive valleys atop a lookout or cable car comes close.

Central Coast (1 hours’ drive)

A stone's throw from Sydney, a million miles from a care in the world… that wraps up the Central Coast region in a nutshell. There’s an enviably relaxed beach lifestyle here – with kilometres of sand and Pacific Ocean to explore – but national parks abound, too, and calm waterways ideal for throwing in a line, or conquering with a kayak.

Hunter Valley (2.5 hours’ drive)

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its Sémillon and shiraz varietals, acclaimed wineries and restaurants, luxury resorts, world-class spas and championship golf courses. Wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley Gardens, or picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce.

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.

Newcastle (2 hours’ drive):

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.

Southern Highlands

Southern Highlands (1.5 hours’ drive)

Located midway between Sydney and Canberra, the NSW Southern Highlands provides a welcome relief to the hustle of city life – a meld of classic and contemporary country culture.

Wollongong (1.5 hours’ drve)

Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre that offers diverse appeal.