Five great views near Sydney worth the drive
Sometimes you just want to jump in the car and drive to get away for a day or two, or more.Those based in Sydney have a wealth of options so if you want some spectacular views and things to see, grab the partner, kids and/or dog and give one of these drives a go.
Greater Blue Mountains Drive
If you live in Sydney and haven’t visited the Blue Mountains well, what are you waiting for? This 220km drive can be done in a day, but follow the itinerary, back off the pace and you might decide on a few nights away. Head west out of Sydney to Katoomba to see the Three Sisters, then onwards to Lithgow and the Jenolan Caves, returning via Bilpin (apples anyone?) and Richmond via the Bells Line of Roads. There’s bushland, history, geology, views, great dining and much more so put it in the diary, now.
The Snowy Mountains Drive
While ski bunnies head straight for the winter resorts, there is much more to NSW’s high country than just snow. This Snowy Mountains tour should take a couple of days, especially given the 400km loop starts in Canberra, a couple of hours from Sydney. Cross the Monaro Plains on the way to Bredbo and Cooma, head through Jindabyne towards the headwaters of the Murray River then up through the Kosciuszko National Park to Adaminaby. It’s the rooftop of Australia, the roads are steep and winding and adventure is guaranteed.
Waterfall Way, Coffs Harbour - Armidale
It’s a fair drive north to Coffs but worth the trip (not just to see the Big Banana!) especially if you continue westward along the evocatively-named Waterfall Way. This 212km drive via sleepy, scenic Bellingen includes plenty of views but more importantly, crashing cataracts such as Dangar Falls near Dorrigo or the 220 metre-high Wollomombi Falls. Pack a picnic and some walking shoes and end up in Armidale for a night or two.
Grand Pacific Drive, Royal National Park - Jervis Bay
Starting just south of Sutherland Shire in the Royal National Park, this 200km drive is a staple for holiday commuters but something of a grand adventure at a slower pace. The National Park has cliffs, rainforests and walks, then head down through the Illawarra to Kiama and its famous Blowhole. The destination is the sandy beaches and whale-watching opportunities of Jervis Bay, and along the way, wineries, fish and chips and coastal villages entice a pause.
Silo and Water Tower Art Route
NSW has at least 51 water towers and grain silos that have been transformed from industrial-sized eyesores into towering canvasses for colourful art. They are scattered from Bourke and Ballina in the north, down to Deniliquin in the south so visiting them all would cover thousands of kilometres. We suggest picking a region and making a day or weekend of it: remote country towns have their own charms and you’ll be surprised how friendly the locals can be to city slickers!
Related: Five towns near Sydney you should road trip to this weekend
Related: Five regional craft breweries near Sydney to explore
Related: Top tips for a weekend drive to Bathurst
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
