I know I’m biased, but New South Wales is my favourite state. Home to the bush-cloaked Blue Mountains, sugary sands of the South Coast, historic twisted vines of the Hunter Valley and cosmopolitan Sydney, where some of Australia’s best restaurants, beaches and bars are found, it’s as vast and diverse as it is beautiful. And while overseas trips are exciting, travelling in our own backyard via road trips and train adventures is often more fulfilling and cost-effective than hitting the runway. Now, the team from World Atlas, a global travel publisher, has ranked the eight most fairy-tale-like small towns in NSW. How many have you been to? And, more importantly, when’s your next holiday?
Bowral
Located in the Southern Highlands, around 1.5 hours from Sydney, Bowral looks like it’s been plucked straight from the world of Bridgerton, with its historic manors, vintage shops and gardens bursting with a kaleidoscope of colours. The annual spring tulip festival, Tulip Time, held every September to October, is a highlight, with more than 80,000 flowers in bloom, plus market stalls and entertainment. The picturesque Centennial Vineyards also hosts music, food and wine festivals throughout the year. Be sure to check out Dirty Janes Bowral, a haven for antique lovers, and for an elegant stay, Peppers Manor House and Berida Hotel will do the trick.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay may seem like a mega holiday town filled with barefoot celebrities and traffic jams, but with a population just over 10,000, it retains a laid-back feel. With gin-clear waters, frothy waves perfect for carving, tropical flowers and excellent eateries, it’s no wonder its popularity lives on. For top-notch sips and snacks, head to Bar Heather. For a lunch that you’ll remember forever, Raes on Wategos is my pick. And, of course, did you really visit Byron if you didn’t lace up and tackle the lighthouse walk? If you don’t want to drive (see earlier note about traffic), Beach Suites, found right across from Main Beach, is as good as it gets.
Jervis Bay
If you haven’t been to Jervis Bay yet, you gotta. Found on NSW’s South Coast, the coastal bay boasts grid-worthy natural beauty, pristine beaches and charming villages. Plan ahead and book a couple of nights at Green Patch Campsite, which will take you from tent to ocean in minutes. Huskisson Bakery & Cafe is where I go when I have a craving for a cracking pie (which, admittedly, is often). And take a dip at Hyams Beach, world-famous for its sugar-white sand, bright blue water and surrounding bush. It’s as idyllic as it sounds.
Crescent Head
Found on NSW’s Mid North Coast, Crescent Head is a popular holiday destination for families, friends and couples – and for good reason. There’s lots to see, do and eat, but as it’s just under a five-hour drive from Sydney, this is definitely one place to visit once your annual leave has stacked up. Be sure to bring your surfboard – Racecourse Beach, Crescent Head Point and Back Beach all pump. Killick Creek is a tranquil river to fish, swim and play in. And tackle the Big Hill Rainforest Walking Track and enjoy views of rocky headlands, lush rainforest and the big blue. BYO snacks, hats and plenty of water.
Merimbula
Oyster lovers will know Merimbula well – it’s the birthplace of some of the country’s finest rock oysters: sweet, creamy, salty and fresh. But the dreamy small town, found on the Sapphire Coast, has got lots more going for it, including being an excellent spot for water-babies: activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming and whale watching. And don’t just stop at oysters – there’s a bounty of fresh seafood waiting, from big and juicy prawns to sea-sweet crabs.
Katoomba
When the weather starts to chill, I start dreaming of a weekend getaway to the Blue Mountains – one filled with a crackling fireplace paired with creamy cheese and red wine, trickling waterfalls, crisp mountain air and hot bubble baths. Be sure to spend a few hours checking out all the small towns, including pretty Leura and Blackheath, and base yourself near Katoomba. Visit the most Instagrammable waterfall in Australia, the towering Wentworth Falls, and get your steps up with the most popular hike in the state, the Grand Canyon track. And book a special dinner at father-and-son wine bar, Frankie & Mo's and fire-powered Ates. If you happen to be there on the first Sunday of every month, Leura Produce & Artisan Market is a delightful place to pick up fresh bread, trinkets, colourful necklaces and homemade chutney.
Narooma
Narooma is one of NSW’s best-kept secrets. With some of the bluest water I’ve even seen, flaming-golden sunsets and secluded beaches, it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to. Add a colourful small village, playful seals, and great little eateries, and it’s little wonder locals like to keep it all to themselves. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better breakfast than the one they serve at Salt. If you’ve never been, the annual Narooma Oyster Festival, held each May, is shucking good fun. Come for that.
Eden
The South Coast town of Eden is one of NSW’s most charming towns. It’s the most southerly town in New South Wales, making it a popular stop on relaxing, windswept road trips. The great bushwalking trails in Beowa National Park and Twofold Bay boast excellent whale-watching opportunities. Deep dive into the whale world even further at the Killer Whale Museum. Visit the historic Green Cape Lighthouse, and pack a picnic lunch and an umbrella to spend the afternoon at Aslings Beach. It’s also home to one of the most awe-inspiring ocean rock pools.
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