Sydney & the Legendary Pacific Coast

Dynamic Sydney is a world-beater; an effervescent, multicultural and vibrant city filled with sights to see and things to do. Marvel at such iconic landmarks as the Opera House and the Rocks on your Sensational Sydney cruise, on a 52-foot motor yacht no less, wander the picturesque waterfront areas of Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, and hop on the ferry to Manly for classic harbour views. Take a trip to the perennially popular Bondi Beach, where backpackers and sun-worshippers hang out with the rich and famous and top it all off by climbing the great arch of Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Accommodation at 4* The Ultimo

Admire the rugged landscapes of the Blue Mountains, watch the indigo-hued mist emanate from the eucalyptus forests and discover what gave these dramatic peaks their name. Park yourself in one of the various lookout points for fabulous views – try Echo Point in Katoomba where you’ll be able to see the Three Sisters and all the way down the Jamison Valley. If you’re feeling more energetic, take a hike along the various walking trails or hire a mountain bike. And don’t forget to try out the tea and cakes in one of the quaint local cafes.

Accommodation at 4.5* Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains - Mgallery by Sofitel

Visit some of Australia’s finest boutique vineyards in the stunning Hunter Valley. Sup on an assortment of wines, from dry whites to sparkling and even fortified varieties. You won’t go hungry either, with tasty cheeses, spiced olives and artisan chocolate all offered up for tasting. With plenty of activities to choose from, the Hunter Valley is not just for wine enthusiasts –perhaps join in carriage rides, golf, horse riding and cooking classes, all just a couple of hours from Sydney.

Accommodation at 4* Rydges Resort Hunter Valley

Swim in peaceful coves and bask on wide sandy beaches in Port Stephens, an area dubbed the ‘Blue Water Paradise’, and for good reason. Its gorgeous marine scenery, calm waters and sheltered bays spread across 19 miles of clean white sandy beaches, making it the perfect seaside haven. Activities range from swimming in peaceful coves and basking on wide sandy beaches, to fishing, water sports and whale watching (June to November). For something a little bit different, Stockton Beach, which in some places is nearly a mile wide, is backed by a rolling row of golden sand dunes, where sandboarding, quad biking and tobogganing are popular.

Accommodation at 4* Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

According to Australian science organisation the CSIRO, Coffs Harbour enjoys the ‘most liveable climate’ of all Aussie locales. With an enviable position between Sydney and Brisbane, the lifestyle is liveable, too. Go rafting in Dorrigo National Park, camping at Nambucca Heads or fishing at Macksville, and don’t miss posing for a photo by the Big Banana. The only concern around Coffs is the ‘Pub With No Beer’ – a drinking hole west of Macksville made famous by Australian country singer Slim Dusty.

Accommodation at 4* BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort

Tucked away in the northeast corner of temperate New South Wales, Byron Bay proudly retains its scent of incense and hemp beneath its overtones of herbal teas and artisan cookies. The breathtaking beaches, rugged hinterland and coastal bush landscapes have attracted gatherings of people from Indigenous days to the hippie 70s. A visit to Byron Bay is an artistic and holistic experience sure to renew body and spirit.

Accommodation at 5* Elements of Byron MGallery by Sofitel