Sydney and its amazing sights

IF you are planning for a holiday, why not go to a place where the scenery is calming and outdoor activities are aplenty?

Sydney is a great choice, whether for a group of friends, a romantic couple or a family.

Within a few hours’ drive from Sydney, you’ll be able to see nature at its very best – sparkling waterways on the coast, World Heritagelisted national parks, cascading waterfalls, beautiful countryside, rolling vineyards and some of the most stunning beaches on the planet.

Talk about a truly enjoyable holiday, one that lets you connect with nature, here are some choice places to visit. 1. Blue Mountains The Blue Mountains National Park is a scenic region of forested ravines and pristine bushland about 90 minutes west of Sydney.

Enjoy fresh mountain air as well as a range of outdoor activities that include easy bushwalks, animalspotting and exploring Jenolan Caves, the world’s oldest open lime- stone cave. 2. Hunter Valley Located just two hours’ drive north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is Australia’s most visited wine region with plenty to offer visitors, including cooking classes, wine tasting, golf courses, luxurious day spas and hot air balloon rides over the lush vineyard. 3. Port Stephens Port Stephens, the so-called “dolphin capital of Australia”, is home to around 150 bottlenose dolphins.

South of Port Stephens, the Stockton Beach sand dunes offer a world of adventure from dune buggies to quad bike safaris. 4. NSW South Coast The spectacular Grand Pacific Drive and stunning South Coast of NSW is a perfect holiday destination with an endless list of enjoyable things to do.

A great place to start is at Jervis Bay, famous for its pristine, whitesand beaches such as Hyams Beach. 5. Byron Bay Byron Bay on the New South Wales (NSW) North Coast is a melting pot of bohemian chic, alternative philosophies, surf culture and outstanding natural beauty.

Take in the stunning vista from Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia’s most easterly point, and watch out for whales making their annual migration from May to November.

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