These 7 charming NSW towns are made for your ultimate winter road trip

Undoubtedly a favourite winter pastime is to lean into the hygge (the Danish concept of getting cosy) and go on a road trip. If you’re welcoming the cooler weather you might be searching for some cute small towns to venture to – and we’ve got some pearlers to add to your list. Dotted across NSW, these quaint towns will give you all the warm fuzzies including history, pubs with fireplaces and perhaps a tipple of mulled wine or two.

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Blackheath 

Come wintertime, Sydneysiders lace up the boots and head into the Blue Mountains in search of a speckle of snow. Travel beyond the tourist hotspots of Katoomba and Leura in favour of the positively lovely Blackheath. Stop by the Little Piggy Deli for a moreish baked treat, pick up an antique gem at The Victory Theatre, set off on one of the many picturesque hikes (of varying difficulties) and end the day at Frankie & Mo’s wine bar.

Yass

If you’ve ever driven to Canberra from Sydney it’s hard to stop the compulsion to scream “yasss queen” as you pass the turn-off to Yass. Make this the year you actually head into town because you’ll be tickled to find a truly wonderful day ripe for the picking. Rich in history, Yass offers tourists an opportunity to go back in time at the Yass Railway Museum and the District Museum. There are also plenty of nature hikes like the Hume and Hovell Track, and wineries to boot.

Braidwood

Around three hours south from Sydney, and about an hour east from Canberra, you’ll find Braidwood in the Southern Tablelands. As a National Trust–classified town, the streets of Braidwood feel distinctly old-world Australiana – in fact the 1970 movie Ned Kelly was filmed here. A day in Braidwood is for the history buffs, the antique lovers and the bleeding creative hearts. Browse Studio Altenberg, shop at one of the many cute boutiques and grab a hot pizza from Casanova’s.

Berry

There’s a reason why Berry is firmly on everyone’s winter road trip list – it really is hard not to be charmed by this lovely town. You can’t miss the world-famous Berry Donut Van and once you’ve had a warm cinnamon treat it’s time to explore. Head off on a wine tour, visit one of the town’s many heritage sites or simply pull up stumps at South on Albany for a culinary experience not to be missed. Situated two hours south of Sydney, Berry is a very doable day trip – or stay for a few nights. You’d hate to miss out on a booking at Lou Lou Berry day spa.

Tilba Tilba 

If you’re searching for a winter escape that will warm you with some good old-fashioned explorin’ – Tilba Tilba has just what you’re looking for. Around five hours south from Sydney, you’ll find this heritage town that celebrates all things arts and nature. The Gulaga Mountain Walk is a 14km summit trail walk that offers spectacular views of the countryside below and is well worth the graft. It is graded as a ‘hard’ walk on the Visit NSW website so be sure to pack all the necessities needed for a safe day out. After you’ve traipsed Gulaga Mountain (or perhaps in lieu of!) head into town and explore the beautiful art on display that includes street work and artisan creations at many boutique stores. 

Kangaroo Valley

The picturesque rolling hills of Kangaroo Valley would be enough to capture your interest but if you need more convincing then listen up. Around two hours south from Sydney, Kangaroo Valley is perfect for a road day trip but we reckon you’ll be wanting to stay for a few more days to take it all in. The Yarrawa Estate winery is a must-visit and there is plenty to see in town including a stop in at The Friendly Inn where they put on an outdoor bonfire in the wintertime – marshmallows anyone?

Yamba 

Given that Yamba is a coastal town you might expect to see this one popping up on our must-visit summer destinations hit list. While yes it certainly is glorious during the warmer months, it’s just as charming in the cooler ones too. There’s something ultra-cosy about rugging up by the seaside and there are so many opportunities to do so in Yamba. Seven hours north of Sydney will land you in Yamba and our hot tip is to book a few nights’ stay and hunker down at the Pacific Hotel to watch the whales migrate just off the shoreline – it’s as close to magic as you’ll get this time of year.

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