The 10 best weekend getaways from Sydney to explore NSW

Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 42 minutes

A weekend trip to this magical region a few hours south of Sydney feels like a journey back in time. Stock up on fresh farm goods from a village market or roadside stall, and spend your days between the sea and the sand at one of the 100+ beautiful beaches that line the coast.

Distance from Sydney: 90 minutes

Just ninety minutes north of Sydney, the Central Coast is one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations for Sydneysiders looking for an escape – and for very good reason. Come for dreamy beach days, dizzy days at idyllic distilleries and wineries and exceptional dining – all without the back-aching drive time. 

Distance from Sydney: 1 hour 40 minutes

While you may only know Lake Macquarie for its expansive body of water, this unassuming region sandwiched between Sydney and Newcastle has a lot to offer city folk looking to slow down and get back to nature.

Distance from Sydney: 57 minutes

For some, a trip to the Blue Mountains holds the promise of seclusion and serenity among the gum trees. For others, it’s about conquering mountain trails and spontaneously teaming up with other avid adventurers to explore the bush waterfalls, scenic vistas and swimming holes.

Distance from Sydney: 2 hours

Drive only two short hours south of Sydney and you’re in an adventure playground. Destination surfing spots, climbing cliffs, and coastal treks draw in those who relax by doing, but if you prefer to recline and dine, there’s fresh seafood, local produce and a burgeoning dining scene to ensure all your relaxation goals are met. Keep driving and you'll reach Shoalhaven, so it's possible to tick off two spots in one weekend.

Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 37 minutes

Drive through cherry blossoms, lurid wattle and gold mine adjacent creeks (that still yield a nugget or two) to find some of Australia’s most interesting wines and meet the passionate makers. The food and wine scene here is next-level. 

Distance from Sydney: 2 hours 37 minutes

Here you can walk a World Heritage convict road, sample locally brewed cider or go horseriding. Winding through it all is the river, a place for fishing, watersports or a lazy cruise amid stunning scenery. Want a super luxe stay? This riverside lodge gets our vote. 

Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 10 minutes

Ah, wine country. Proud growers, wine makers and vintners from this region have been squeezing the good stuff out of grapes for close to 180 years, and it has earned the Hunter solid street cred on both Australian and international vinous scenes. With plentiful hot air ballooning, cheese and crazy good food on offer, this idyllic green corner of NSW deserves our attention. 

Distance from Sydney: 3 hours 36 minutes

‘Mudgee’ comes from the Wiradjuri word ‘Moothi’ which means, romantically, ‘Nest in the Hills’. It has a climate several degrees warmer than the surrounding high country, which, along with sandy loam soil, makes the area attractive to viticulturalists. 

Distance from Sydney: 5-7 hours 

This one's for those keen to head a little further afield for a dose of adventure. NSW is home to some spectacular ski resorts and snow fields (including the largest in the Southern Hemisphere). You can hire all your gear at any of these spots (think skis, snow jackets, helmets – anything) and can even do it all in one day and be back home for dinner with these transfers. Want to visit in the summertime? Tackle a section of this epic four-day hike.