5 Dreamy NSW Day Trips That Feel Like a Mini Holiday

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5 Dreamy NSW Day Trips That Feel Like a Mini Holiday

From Bridgerton-style country towns to national parks blanketed in wildflowers, these dreamy escapes are all within roughly a two-hour drive of Sydney's CBD.

Spring is about to arrive in NSW, and there's no better time to plan a day away from the city. As the days grow longer and the weather warms, the beautiful countryside surrounding Sydney puts on a spectacular show. From storybook villages to wildflower-filled national parks, these five day trips are all close enough to make a spontaneous spring adventure that still gets you home by bedtime.

The Southern Highlands

About 90 minutes from Sydney

If spring had a postcode, it would probably be somewhere in the Southern Highlands. Just 90 minutes southwest of the city, this idyllic region is all rolling green hills, historic towns, grand gardens and cool-climate wineries — and spring is when this storybook landscape truly bursts into bloom.

Begin your day in Bowral, strolling through the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens before heading to the charming village of Berrima for a relaxed lunch. If you're after more nature, head to Fitzroy Falls, where an 81-metre waterfall plunges into the valley as wildflowers colour the surrounding bushland. Want to splash out on a longer stay? This Saltburn-coded manor house is ideal for a group getaway, while the recently reopened Milton Park is perfect for a romantic countryside escape.

Don't miss: The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Falls and a wander around Berrima.

The Blue Mountains

About 90 minutes from Sydney

You can't go wrong with the Blue Mountains — but spring gives you even more reason to head west. This World Heritage-listed region is carpeted in wildflowers, and its thundering waterfalls, eucalyptus forests and famous sandstone escarpments make a spectacular backdrop for a day outdoors.

For the ultimate Blue Mountains checklist, base yourself in Katoomba (the Three Sisters views are unbeatable); for a cuter day out, head to Blackheath, where you'll find easy access to the state's most popular walking trail, a handful of lovely cafes and bookshops, a family-run wine bar and a magical Japanese-style bathhouse. For something more horticultural, detour to the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah, where the cool-climate garden is especially rewarding in spring.

Don't miss: A glimpse of the Three Sisters, a glass of wine at Frankie and Mo's, and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah.

The Central Coast

The Central Coast is so close to Sydney you might forget you've left the city — until you're gazing at the sparkling Pacific from a deserted beach, your shoulders dropping with a deep sense of calm. Spring is the perfect excuse to head north, when the weather is warming but the beaches haven't yet hit peak summer crowds.

There's plenty to fill a day, but nature lovers should make a beeline for Bouddi National Park. The Bouddi Coastal Walk offers dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches and fresh sea air, while the shorter walk to Maitland Bay is an easier option. Or head to Wyrrabalong National Park and take in the views from Crackneck Point Lookout before continuing to The Entrance for a waterside lunch. Making a weekend of it? This divinely rustic Airbnb is our current favourite in the area.

Don't miss: The Bouddi Coastal Walk, Maitland Bay and Crackneck Point Lookout.

Wollongong and the Illawarra

The drive south is half the fun. Take the scenic route through Royal National Park and along the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, stopping at Bald Hill for knockout coastal views before continuing to Wollongong.

Once you arrive, there's plenty to do: swim at North Wollongong Beach, explore the city's galleries, or detour to the peaceful Nan Tien Temple. For more greenery, head inland towards the Illawarra escarpment — spring is a lovely time to explore the region's lush bushland. Don't miss: Fish and chips from Rosie's (our favourite in the state) and a drink in the sunny garden at Frank's Wild Years in Thirroul.

Kangaroo Valley

About two hours from Sydney

For days when you want to feel truly far from the city, Kangaroo Valley is hard to beat. About two hours south of Sydney, this impossibly green pocket of the Southern Highlands is framed by dramatic escarpments, rolling farmland and dense rainforest — and spring makes the whole place feel especially fresh.

Start with Fitzroy Falls before winding into the valley, where you can stop at the historic Hampden Bridge, explore the tiny village, or kayak the Kangaroo River. If you'd rather admire the scenery than paddle through it, take the scenic drive and stop at Mannings Lookout for sweeping views, then head to The Friendly Inn for a perfect pub lunch.

Don't miss: Fitzroy Falls, Hampden Bridge and Mannings Lookout.