The state of New South Wales is best known for the capital city of Sydney, a free-spirited and vibrant metropolis built around a beautiful harbor. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it's easy to see why it was chosen as the site of the XXVII Olympic Games. Sydney has all the attributes of a great cosmopolitan city -- a diverse mix of cultures, clean streets, good public transport, a strong commitment to the arts, lovely parks and museums, fine hotels, and restaurants -- and famous landmarks like the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The real charm of Sydney lies not in its grand houses or important public buildings, but in its small streets and intimate 19th century neighborhoods -- many of which are beautifully preserved.
Inland, it's only a short drive from Sydney to the Blue Mountains, which are a part of the Great Dividing Range, one of the largest mountain ranges in all of Australia. Just two hours north of Sydney is the Hunter Valley, a large picturesque area of gentle lowlands. The site of the first vineyards in Australia, a number of the wineries are still producing some of Australia's finest wines.
The northern stretch of coast in tropical New South Wales includes the Northern Rivers region. A natural paradise, its beauty lies in unspoiled beaches, volcanic mountains, lush countryside, and world heritage listed national parks. Cape Byron, Australia's most easterly point, is located here, along with Byron Bay, a popular tourist destination. The Byron Bay Hinterland offers an alternative lifestyle with great markets, homegrown food, and old-fashioned Australian hospitality.
Heading south towards Sydney, you'll discover Australia's Holiday Coast, which embraces beautiful beaches, dense, lush forests, and a myriad of rivers and waterways. |
