Whether you’re winding along the Great River Road, exploring the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains, gazing at the starry skies in Parkes or uncovering the natural beauty of Barrington Tops National Park, regional NSW is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Use this guide to plan your journey, map out your must-see stops and hit the road for an adventure through the heart of NSW.
The Snowy Mountains
Kick things off with a selfie at the Big Merino in historic Goulburn, about two and a half hours southwest of Sydney, before heading another two hours down the road to Cooma. Here, you can experience a thrilling virtual fly-over of the Snowy Mountains at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.
Once in Jindabyne, hit the slopes at Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter or, in the warmer months, challenge the family with rock climbing and mountain biking adventures.
While in the region, seize the opportunity to walk to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, or head two hours north of Jindabyne to explore the mind-blowing Yarrangobilly Caves where stalactites, stalagmites and underground pools create a magical natural wonder.
For those keen to extend their journey, the Great River Road offers a scenic drive from the base of the Snowy Mountains along the Murray River, winding through picturesque towns and stunning landscapes that showcase the beauty of the region. Check out all the scenic lookout points you can find along the route ahead of time so you don’t speed past any of those breathtaking mountain views.
The Murray Darling Region
Cruising through the Murray-Darling region offers a journey rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting in Albury, where the mighty Murray River flows, travellers can soak in the town’s heritage along the Yindyamarra sculpture walk.
Winding through Howlong and Corowa, there’s no shortage of charming stops, from whisky tastings in a historic flour mill to leisurely paddle-steamer cruises in Echuca Moama.
Further west, Balranald boasts some of the state’s best fishing, thanks to the convergence of the five rivers. Not far away, Mungo National Park transports visitors to ancient landscapes and deep Aboriginal heritage.
The adventure ends in Wentworth, where the Murray and Darling rivers meet, perfect for a winery visit at Trentham Estate or a starlit glamping experience on an almond farm.
Central Tablelands
Nestled on the banks of the Macquarie River, Bathurst is a vibrant regional city brimming with history, natural beauty and the thrill of Australian motor racing.
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Mount Panorama, also known by its Wiradjuri name, Wahluu. This world-famous racing circuit is revered by motorsport enthusiasts of all ages and hosts the renowned Bathurst 1000, drawing crowds from around the globe.
A short drive from Bathurst is the charming town of Orange. Known for its cool-climate wines and stunning seasonal scenery, Orange is a haven for food and wine lovers alike.
For those seeking a closer connection to nature, Pinnacle Reserve and Lookout offers awe-inspiring panoramic views, lush eucalypt forests and tranquil walking trails.
Further along the road, Parkes is home to a fascinating mix of science, history and pop culture. Best known for “The Dish,” its world-famous radio telescope, Parkes played a pivotal role in broadcasting the Apollo 11 moon landing and continues to contribute to astronomical discoveries.
The Riverina
Whether you’re spotting koalas in the River Red Gums at Narrandera Nature Reserve, coming face-to-face with lions at Altina Wildlife Park or diving into Australia’s shearing heritage at Shear Outback, the Riverina offers something for every kind of family.
In Wagga Wagga, you can wander through the serene Botanic Gardens, unwind at Wagga Beach along the Murrumbidgee River or admire world-class contemporary art at the National Art Glass Gallery.
Just a short drive away, Whitton Malt House serves up local ales and fresh regional produce, while Coolamon Cheese offers a behind-the-scenes look at expert cheesemakers in action.
History buffs can take a self-guided tour of the Gundagai Gaol. And if your kids love planes, they won’t want to miss the historic aircraft soaring through the skies at the Temora Aviation Museum.
A little farther west, Griffith showcases the region’s rich agricultural heritage, where visitors can sip award-winning wines at Baratto Wines (it’s important for Mum and Dad to relax, too!) before setting off on a scenic nature walk in Cocoparra National Park.
Down on the banks of the Murray River in Albury, stroll through the lush Albury Botanic Gardens. Take in sweeping views from the Monument Hill War Memorial or enjoy water activities along the mighty river itself.
Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley, known as the birthplace of Australian wine, is the perfect destination for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. While the region is famous for its wines, there’s more to discover beyond the cellar doors.
Families can enjoy scenic hot air balloon rides for sensational views of the valley, explore local food markets and indulge in artisanal cheese and chocolate tastings. The region’s rich farming heritage offers opportunities for unique paddock-to-plate experiences and kids will love visiting working farms.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are scenic horse riding trails and plenty of space to explore. The Hunter Valley is also home to beautiful parks and golf courses, perfect for a day of family fun.
Blue Mountains
Just 90 minutes west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a stunning escape filled with rugged cliffs, ancient rainforests and cascading waterfalls. This World Heritage-listed region boasts endless adventure, from scenic hikes and thrilling rock climbs to snuggly winter retreats.
The iconic Three Sisters at Echo Point provide breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley, while Scenic World’s cable cars and the world’s steepest railway give visitors an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the terrain.
Nearby, the Jenolan Caves reveal a maze of limestone formations and underground rivers, while Wentworth Falls rewards visitors with spectacular scenery and walking trails.
Further west, Lithgow and the Seven Valleys invite exploration with the historic Zig Zag Railway, the glow-in-the-dark magic of the Glow Worm Tunnel and panoramic views from Hassans Walls Lookout.
Northern Rivers
Beyond Byron Bay’s iconic beaches lies the hinterland, rich in natural beauty and artisanal Australiana culture. A short drive from Byron stop at the Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park and visit the picturesque waterfalls and rainforest walks.
The Angourie Blue and Green Pools, located near Yamba in New South Wales, are natural freshwater swimming spots formed in former quarries that intersected underground springs.
These pools, situated less than 20 meters from the ocean, are separated by mounds of quarried rock and earth. The Blue Pool is approximately 15–20 meters deep, while the Green Pool is slightly shallower, so stick to the Green Pool swimming with kids.
Venture inland to Kyogle, a town nestled at the base of the Border Ranges. The nearby Border Ranges National Park features ancient rainforests and volcanic landscapes, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
The Northern Rivers region is celebrated for its local produce. The Bangalow Market, held on the fourth Sunday of each month, is a popular spot for local crafts and produce.
Get a dose of culture (and maybe a touch of eccentricity) at the Nimbin Rocks, where ancient indigenous heritage meets the quirky vibes of Nimbin. This town isn’t just known for its rich arts scene but for its laid-back, alternative lifestyle that’s as colourful as its murals.
See Regional NSW
From the Snowy Mountains to the soft sandy beaches of the Northern Rivers, there’s something for every type of traveller in regional NSW.
Whether you’re after exciting outdoor adventures, rich history or quirky artistic flair, this region beckons with countless hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Pack up the car and hit the open road to create memories that will last you a lifetime as you uncover the wonders of this vibrant nook of Australia.
Sponsored Content
The above article is paid content, and any information presented should be independently verified before making any decisions as a result of the content. This article does not constitute advice of any kind, nor does it represent the opinions of the website publisher.