Wildlife galore, ‘painted cliffs’, sweeping plains, tranquil forests, dazzling white sand beaches, fossils, UNESCO world heritage listed settlement sites, epic rock climbs… no matter what your interests or style of walking, the fascinating Maria Island Walk hits the mark as one of the world’s best hiking experiences. The idea of luxury excursions into the wilderness is nothing new. Who’s it for? View 16 property photos, floor plans and Mascot suburb information. Of all the walks in these pages, this is the most remote. Who’s it for? Bushwalking, nature, wildlife, birdwatching, Lace up your runners for a trail with a stunning view of the city and the, . Wilderness Expeditions has year-round tours (you carry snowshoes in winter). Who’s it for? It’s a particularly great choice if you’re travelling with children or need wheelchair accessibility. While we wouldn’t suggest swimming there now, you should keep an eye out for the inscription of ‘Ladies’ in the rock to mark the old ladies’ changing area from the early 1900s. It is never safe to drive, ride or walk through flood waters. The views are worth it, but you’ll definitely have to work for it. Time Out editors review the best glamping sites in NSW. The Wallaby Track around the Macedon Ranges is, in fact, a subsection of the Goldfields Track, which in itself is a subsection of the Great Dividing Trail. Everybody. If attempting the whole trail without assistance then you must organise food and water drops. To explore Sydney’s lush bushlands, follow the Western Escarpment Track. Start your walk at the Anzac Bridge that will lead you to Blackwattle Bay where you can experience the Sydney Fish Market. The best time to head out would be mid-spring when the temperature is perfect for a walk and the wildflowers are in full show. So whether you’re looking for intimate couples accommodation in country NSW, a beachfront retreat along the coast, or large group accommodation near Sydney, you’ll find the best getaways & luxury escapes in NSW right here. It’s a gorgeous morning walk in particular, or if you’re not much of an early riser, it’s just as lovely during the afternoon or sunset. Or combine your wilderness walks with a stay in a luxury lakeside spa resort. There’s limited phone reception here, and it’s best to bring water and snacks with you and use the toilet before you set. 01 BLUE MOUNTAINS & WEST COUNTRY NSW 02 SOUTH COAST NSW 03 BYRON BAY & NORTHERN NSW FIND YOUR GETAWAY The ascents and descents are the equivalents of scaling Everest three times, so most sane walkers tackle only a few stretches at a time. It is relatively well marked, but you’ll need a good map and compass. This is the most leisurely and indulgent way to experience Tasmania’s beautiful natural environment. It’s not very long and can be undertaken by people of most fitness levels without any bushwalking experience, but it’s still considered a moderately challengingwalk. Steps four and five: Walking and cardio exercise. The coastal walk is only 23km long but traverses pristine white sandy beaches, rocks rusty with lichen and coastal scrubland. While walking, you’ll have extraordinary views of the harbour and Sydney Opera House, as well as South Head, Rose Bay, Shark Island and Bradleys Head. If you’re keen on even more hiking (and maybe biking) holidays. Discover the natural beauty of NSW on walking trails and tracks in magnificent national parks, along the dazzling coastline and across the striking Outback. If four hours sounds a bit too long for you, you can always tackle a smaller section. The Top 10 unforgettable walks and adventures is part of our special issue: 100 Incredible Experiences (right here in your backyard). The section of the trail through the Adelaide Hills is perhaps the closest experience to an old English ramble that you can have in Australia. Yes, but plan, plan, plan. Book online or email or call Urban Walks on (02) 9437 8899. Be careful when hiking. Everybody. Bring sun protection, swimmers, food and plenty of water. The most comfortable experience is the award-winning guided walk, which begins on the pristine beaches of the southern end before exploring the rare cloud rainforests of Mount Maria in the north. All rights reserved, Views of Sydney Harbour from Bradleys Head - Mosman - Sydney, Rip Curl Narrabeen Classic presented by Corona, The Glebe Foreshore walk starts at Bicentennial Park and ends at the. Queensland National Parks maintain eight campsites on the trek. Also please remember that Wedding Cake Rock is highly unstable, so stay behind the fence. If anyone knows that, it’s us… The nearest airport is Newcastle, 21.1 miles from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. Go early in the morning for a spectacular sunrise and a full day to explore the city. Byron Bay Beach Houses can accommodate up to 32 guests, yet still offer the ultimate privacy and luxury when booked separately. After a day exploring come home to Spicers Retreats, your Blue Mountains luxury accommodation. Freycinet Experience Walk - walks available from December 1, 2020. This stretch of sand is often less busy than Cronulla Beach , so it's a great place for you and your dog to let loose and unwind. However, it’s not ideal for parents with prams, since the track is a bit rough. Beginning at Watsons Bay ferry terminal, you’ll follow a sidewalk along the beach until you pass through beautiful Camp Cove. The beaches are fabulous and there are plenty of campsites. With a three-day glamping session, a four-day deluxe explorer trail, and either the eight-day end-to-end session (choose from classic, ultimate and base camp). Most of all enjoy New Zealand’s great walks! Yes, but campers should book via Parks Victoria. Tony Townley Tony Townley is a luxury lifestyle specialist and owner of Luxury Adventures based in Auckland, New Zealand. Ocean vistas, a day bed dotted deck, a clifftop spa and a private Hamman steam room are just some of the perks you can enjoy at this unique property. Tip: Finished the walk but don’t feel ready to call it a day? Sunshine Coast - QLD (2) Spicers Tamarind Retreat Western luxury, Eastern Tranquility, Maleny QLD Spicers Clovelly Estate French inspired luxury, Montville QLD. Flooding impacts have resulted in widespread closures of NSW national parks, campgrounds and some roads. Tip: Go early in the morning for a spectacular sunrise and a full day to explore the city. This multi-day walking tour is available as a 2, 3 or 5-day adventure. Tip: Bring a swimming costume in case you want to stop and swim at one of the secret beaches along the way, and don’t forget to pack water, snacks, a hat and sunscreen. Nestled in a quiet corner, a few minutes’ walk from Mollymook beach, guests can choose between luxury suites, or go all out with a group of 6 people and book the Cameron Kimber Penthouse. This trip operates with experienced and knowledgeable guides so we can offer easier and more challenging walk options along the way. For a scenic walk that will lead you into the city, give Anzac Bridge to Pyrmont Bridge a go. You’ll be hiking through Point Hicks, Gipsy Point and Mallacoota. It provides views of. Yes, it is easily done as a series of day walks. Every school holidays, the same problem emerges... where do we take the kids? Region: Rose Bay and Vaucluse The Hermitage Foreshore Track is a beautiful coastal walk that can be found right on Sydney Harbour and offers stunning views of the water and Sydney’s biggest landmarks. New member: Blue Mountains Grand Traverse by Auswalk, NSW. The actual walk is a circuit so you can reach it via a connecting track from one of the many lovely waterholes that Litchfield is famous for (and that are hence also popular with busloads of tourists). Go in late autumn when both day and night temperatures are at their mildest. Start at Taronga Zoo Wharf and make your way around the coast to, . It’s a particularly great choice if you’re travelling with children or need wheelchair accessibility. The entire Wilderness Coast Walk is substantially longer than this leg (100km from Sydenham Inlet in Victoria to Wonboyn in NSW); however, this is the most spectacular section and will give you a good idea of whether you want to attempt the entire 100km. Stop off at Gordon’s Bay along the way. Food and accommodation is included as part of the tour. On the second day, you’ll be hiking through Mount Kosciuszko National Park and into the Australian Alps (a 13-kilometre return). Start your walk at the Anzac Bridge that will lead you to, . With six nights in total and spending five of those nights camping. Walkthrough Mt Giles as well as Ormiston Gorge (roughly 42 kilometres in total). Villa Camp Cove . But this is the most primitive landscape you may ever see, which makes the track one of the most-wanted by serious walkers. Another longer, more rugged track, this isn’t so much a casual stroll as it is a real nature walk. The second day tackles the highest point of the trek, which also passes through tunnels and along scraggy cliffs. Located just off the East Coast of Tasmania, it’s a veritable Noah’s Ark of Australia and one of the best … Auswalk brings it up to a seven-day walk through the high peaks of Kosciuszko National Park. Stunning Luxury Cottage Accommodation Australia wide. It’s an ideal walk to enjoy with friends or take a date for the day. You’ll traverse beautiful beaches and freshwater … There is no single track but rather a series of 5-10km day walks around south-east Queensland’s beautiful Scenic Rim. For two evenings you settle into the permanent camp at Spicers Canopy, and for the final evening, you get to indulge in the luxury of Spicers Peak Lodge, topping your experience off with a seven-course degustation dinner. Maria Island Walks operate from mid-October to the end of April. Phone: (02) 9975 4553 After Hours: 0457 002 482 Email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au; Monday - Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday - Sunday: Closed; Subscribe to our newsletter Be the first to find out about special deals. You can experience it in numerous ways, from a one-day walk upwards. 52 Weekends Away: Australia's best mini-breaks in NSW The best weekends away in NSW Starting at Apollo Bay and stretching all the way to the 12 Apostles, passing the Great Otway National Park and Cape Otway Lighthouse along the way, the superb views from this walk are a great option if you have already tackled the iconic Great Ocean Road. No-one returns unchanged. After you’ve sampled the wares of the Sydney Fish Market continue to Darling Harbour across the Pyrmont Bridge. Go pack-free (only guided) while they carry your bags (ahh relief), and discover the beauty that is Fraser. Length: 961km over 54 days without a blister. You can have a fire at about 2/3 of the campsites at certain times of the year though. Country NSW is a vast region in New South Wales which offers plenty of exciting activities and unique holiday choices for all ages. An outdoor swimming pool is available on site and both hiking and cycling can be enjoyed within close proximity of The Boathouse Luxury Apartments. If you love exploring cliff tops, rock formations, and ocean views but you’ve already tried most of the Harbour and beach walks, try the Botany Bay Coastal Walk. . WALKING THE THREE CAPES: Guests can meet this tour at our Life’s An Adventure Premises: 29/6955 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur. Length: 65km over four days (DIY) or six days (guided). Please check NPWS Alerts and Live Traffic NSW for up-to-date information before visiting a national park. Cruise, walk, fly, eat and drink your way across Australia with this comprehensive guide to the most unique and iconic destinations and experiences this country has to offer. Along the way, there are plenty of lookouts and seating for you to soak up the views. The Reserve itself is a stunning, multi-level park with over 75,000 native plants and trees within its lush gardens. Oh and Inspiration Outdoors now runs many accommodated tours on the track – multiple sections and a ‘best of’ that takes in parts of the Cape to Cape Track and the Bibbulmun Track. Sydney Harbour, ocean and parkland views, nature, picnics, historical sites, dogs, The main path starts at the Hickson Road entrance and encircles Barangaroo Reserve before finishing at the Towns Place roundabout on the other side, but there are several paths branching through the Reserve that you can (and should) stop to wander through along the way. The rock star of Australian walks starts in the ancient and mesmerising Flinders Ranges – Parachilna Gorge to be exact – and finishes at Cape Jervis, but only the crazy would walk its entire length in one attempt. Sydney Harbour, ocean and parkland views, nature, picnics, historical sites, cycling, If you’re after a well-shaded coastal walk packed with family-friendly beaches and historical sites, try this one. Start from Acron Oval in St Ives and traverse dense bushland through Garigal National Park. The closer you get to the end, the better the walking. It can be difficult, so it’s best for people with at least a moderate level of fitness or some bushwalking experience. The trail is divided into five sections starting from the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre 30km from Katherine and ending at Leliyn (Edith Falls). This is another one for the late June-July and August-October whale watching aficionados. Length: Depending on how you carry your tiara, this eco-luxury walking experience lasts up to four indulgent days. Who’s it for? Along the way you can get a closer look at traditional Aboriginal engravings, artworks and even a historic occupation shelter. Picture mesmerising sandstone cliffs, coastal lookouts, and seasonal flowers that will lead you to this treasured Sydney beauty. Most walkers start the 40km loop at Mulligans campsite in the Gibraltar National Park. Located just outside of Sydney on the Bouddi Peninsula, Killcare Heights is an under-the-radar holiday destination with beaches, shops, and plenty of walks ready at your disposal. It’s also ideal for solo walkers who want a relaxing stroll with quiet spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. The transom is walk-thru, of course. © Copyright 2021 Destination NSW. The trail is a mix of old logging roads and trails, and it skips from one photogenic site to another. 2/01/2020 Tim Ashelford. No. After you’ve sampled the wares of the Sydney Fish Market continue to, across the Pyrmont Bridge. Auswalk’s seven-night walk includes a night’s stay in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage at Cape Otway. (more…)... With Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex heading to Australia this month for Sydney’s Invictus Games, we thought the couple migh... There’s no shortage of things to do in Australia. 13 Cheyne Walk, Castlecrag, NSW 2068. The entire walk takes in well-known highlights such as Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Walker Creek, with secluded wanderings through savannah, pandanas and secluded oases. Whether you’re after a peaceful amble or something a bit more intensive to get your blood pumping, you’ll find a top Sydney stroll right here. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Flourish on Bull is a loft-style apartment available for short term accommodation in Cooks Hill, Newcastle. Glamping NSW: luxury tents for rent near Jervis Bay! For information from National Parks, go to the website. Botany Bay (26 walks) Bouddi National Park (19 walks) Brisbane Water National Park (38 walks) Garigal National Park (44 walks) Heathcote National Park (5 walks) Jenolan Karst Reserve (6 walks) Lane Cove National Park (57 walks) Manly Warringah War Memorial Park (Manly Dam) (2 walks) Royal National Park (57 walks) Sydney Harbour (north side) (45 walks) Keep in mind that although it can make for an amazing family day out, if you have younger children you might be better off going part-way (we like Bondi to Bronte), unless you’re willing to do a bit of carrying! WALKS in the Eurobodalla Bush walks and coastal walks are one of the true pleasures that the Eurobodalla Nature Coast offers. It’s a luxury version of Auswalk’s already popular Blue Mountains Traverse walking holiday. If you’re looking for a walk that’s short and sweet but still delivers top-notch views, give Fairfax Walk at North Head a try. Looking to avoid the crowds or try something a little different to your usual oceanside walk? You can make a full day of it by stopping at some of the many gorgeous beaches, cliff-tops, natural rock pools, and cafes along the way. Stunning views of the city, experiencing Australian wildlife, picnics, finding hidden beaches, Sydney Opera House, Chowder Bay, Clifton Gardens Reserve, South Head, Rose Bay, Shark Island, Bradleys Head. Cheers. Check with their team for more info on dates. From north to south (though most walk the opposite way), it starts at Ambers Gully and traverses plains with views of the city and sea, eucalypt forests, waterfalls, deep gullies, and the odd orchard and vineyard before it ends at Belair train station. The minimum size of the group is four so you can have the option of sharing the hike with only your closest and dearest. You can join expert guides on a range of walking and hiking … No other trail meanders through such lovely countryside – including five wine regions. Along the way, there are plenty of lookouts and seating for you to soak up the views. Comfort-seeking trekkers will love that the trail has been measured out so that each day ends at a town (with a beach) so you can resupply, refresh with a swim and sleep in a comfy bed. It offers windswept plains, beautiful snow gum glades, wildflowers in spring and pioneers’ mountain huts. Definitely, but the weather is variable (even in walking season, Nov 1-Apr 30). From Kalamanda, the track runs south to Albany, mostly through beautiful jarrah and karri forests; the last section skirts the coast. Start at Nielsen Park and finish up at Bayview Hill Road in Rose Bay. There are designated campsites and bush-camping areas next to creeks, but freshwater supplies need to be filtered, boiled or sterilised. Another longer, more rugged track, this isn’t so much a casual stroll as it is a real nature walk. It’s not too long, but the track gets steep and rocky, and it crosses through coastal heathland and bushes, so it can be demanding for the less experienced. Tip: Look up and, if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of sea eagles or kestrels circling above. If you’re around from late June to early July, it’s also a great opportunity to try to spot some whales. New South Wales is home to some truly world-class rainforest walks; from the tropical North to the misty canyons of the Blue Mountains, you’ll be in constant awe of these natural wonders. There are days when nothing beats a no-frills Aussie pub, but sometimes we want the best of both worlds. You'll begin in Margaret River , a region known for its wine and wilderness. Narrabeen NSW 2101. Come during late June or early July and you might be able to spot some whales! . Spence. alking through the bush, some steep sandstone stairs and up hills, A decent workout, sightseeing, bird watching, whale watching. Flooding impacts have resulted in widespread closures of NSW national parks, campgrounds and some roads. Check out the National Parks guide on the track. It’s also dog-friendly, with sections of the walk and its parks being off-leash, so this is a great walk to enjoy with your furry friend. We’ve handpicked a collection of the best luxury accommodation in NSW including spa retreats, holiday homes, boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Route. The Glebe Foreshore walk starts at Bicentennial Park and ends at the Sydney Fish Markets, with 27 hectares of beautiful parkland and reserves to enjoy along the way. You’ll also stumble across a lightkeeper’s cottage, old military cannons and sandstone gun emplacements. Luxury Adventures – Tailoring luxury travel in New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific Islands since 1999. The spacious walking path runs alongside Rozelle Bay and Blackwater Bay, making for fantastic views of the bays and the Sydney CBD, Sydney Harbour, and Anzac Bridge. Life’s An Adventure offers a “luxury” hiking experience where guides carry your bags and cook your dinner for you, talk about being pampered. Finished the walk but don’t feel ready to call it a day? This is a great walk if you’re visiting during the hot summers and are travelling in a group. Explore Spicers 5-day Scenic Rim Trail, a luxury walk taking in mountains, plains, woodlands and rainforests, millions of years in the making. Light To Light Walk. The Larapinta Trail stretches along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges, from the Old Telegraph Station in Alice Springs to its highest point and trail end at Mt Sonder, via some of the most spectacular landscapes in Australia. Some are even near Sydney. The Kidman Trail (not to be confused with NSW outback 4WD trail the Kidman Way) is a multi-use track shared by horses, trekkers and mountain bikers. Situated above the owner's interior design studio, the two bedroom rental apartment has separate access and is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, parks, beaches and galleries. The best way to do the walk (aka the Solitary Bay Walk) is to head in from Angourie in the north then make your way to Wooli. Glamping in Australia combines the best of sleeping under the stars, with modern conveniences such as bathrooms, comfortable bedding and deck areas. Maria Island Walk - walks available from December 1, 2020, with some departures available from October 26. Guests can also enjoy the amenities in the resort such as a new outdoor pool, a hot tub, and two squash courts. Tip: There’s not much parking at Bradley’s Head, so if you’re driving then definitely start from the Taronga Zoo end. This trail plays to all of the NT’s strengths – lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls and calming, mystical (croc-free!) Linger around Watsons Bay for a while before you depart and try one of its amazing restaurants, or lounge around the park. A family and dog-friendly stroll suitable for people of all fitness levels, you can make it an all-day picnic or just stop by to see it the next time you’re in the city. Grab a shuttle bus from the resort to and from the trailheads and sit down to a gourmet picnic lunch to refuel. The landscape is classic Blue Mountains – sheer sandstone cliff faces and escarpments with awe-inspiring vistas of valleys, fern glens, river crossings over suspended bridges… with a soundtrack of whip birds. Parts of it, but not with the same level of pampering. It is not a walk for the novice, with extended day walks and rough-and-ready tracks. Read More 10 of Australia’s Best Spa and Wellness Experiences Operated by Gippsland High Country Tours, this Croajingolong National Park Tour takes up seven days. Bring a swimming costume in case you want to stop and swim at one of the secret beaches along the way, and don’t forget to pack water, snacks, a hat and sunscreen. Anyone looking for a short, peaceful Sydney walk with beautiful bay views and verdant, wide open parks. Start your journey at Pioneers Park in Malabar where you’ll make your way through an island of preserved bushland that will lead you to 360-degree views over Malabar Headland National Park, Maroubra Beach and Botany Bay. Viator offers a six-day Snowy Mountains and Sapphire Coast departing from Canberra. Highlight Trail – The Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk covers one of Tasmania’s most celebrated and photographed locations and one of the world’s most recognised but beautifully isolated beaches. Destination New South Wales (Corporate site). Spicers Sangoma Retreat Tranquil bush luxury, Blue Mountains NSW. People who want both the coastal and bushwalking experience in one short, sweet walk. NSW South Coast, Tasmania, Byron Bay, Queensland and more! Look out for some of the park’s wildlife, such as burrowing frogs, Rosenberg’s goannas and kookaburras. By luxury camping in Byron Bay, glampers will take full advantage of this naturally rich piece of Australia. Nature lovers who are looking to do some bushwalking in the wilderness, away from the crowds. We’ve handpicked a collection of the best luxury accommodation in NSW including spa retreats, holiday homes, boutique hotels and luxury resorts. From there, take the cobblestone pathways that will lead you to the historic. You’ll make the most of it if you stop to explore the park and take in the incredible views of Sydney Harbour. Sydney.com is the official tourism site for Destination NSW. Several operators cover sections of the walk, particularly in the Flinders Ranges. It’s usually less crowded than the main beaches, and features an underwater nature trail that’s perfect for snorkelling. With such popularity, the trail is strictly managed so you have to book your walk and pay a track fee to National Parks Tasmania. As one of the most idyllic locations in Australia, New South Wales boasts luxury resorts that are ideal for holidaying with family, as a couple, with friends or alone. Less welcome fauna is the native giant white-tailed rat, which can be a pest if you don’t secure your food at night. This coastal walk features views of small sand dunes, hanging swamps, Boat Harbour Aquatic Reserve and the Cape Baily Lighthouse. If you’re around from late June to early July, it’s also a great opportunity to try to spot some whales. The trek usually begins at Long Gully. Easily. For info, go to the NT website. There are some stairs, but it’s a fairly easy walk with many places to stop along the way, so it’s suitable for people of all fitness levels. Glamping sites combine the luxury of hotel rooms with the adventure of sleeping under the stars. The Blue Mountains walks are 45% easy, 35% moderate, 20% more challenging. All houses sleep 8 guests each at a time. Yes, but visit your doctor first. Yes, check out the National Parks website. Green sea turtles and dugongs feed in the sea offshore and are often spotted during an afternoon swim, particularly around Nina Bay. Tip: There’s limited phone reception here, and it’s best to bring water and snacks with you and use the toilet before you set. Lace up your runners for a trail with a stunning view of the city and the Sydney Opera House. Stay in the same comfy lodge every night and get driven to the trail each day. While we wouldn’t suggest swimming there now, you should keep an eye out for the inscription of ‘Ladies’ in the rock to mark the old ladies’ changing area from the early 1900s. The trail is divided into 12 stages, most taking a day to complete. People who want both the coastal and bushwalking experience in one short, sweet walk. The trail is highly protected – only 40 permits are granted at a time for walkers, to minimise the environmental impact. You’ll be amazed by the UNESCO World Heritage areas, including the Blue Mountains and the ancient Gondwana Rainforests. The walk starts at Dili village on the east coast of the island. While in the Blue Mountains it is a must to visit Scenic World and discover the thrill of a 52 degree incline riding the steepest passenger railway in the world. Tas Walking Co. offers a three-night experience, walking from Launceston to Mt William National Park, the Bay of Fires and a kayak session on the last day. The trek is characterised by the huge variety in the landscape. Yes. It starts at Scots Peak Road and ends at Melaleuca, which has no road access, so either continue walking the South Coast Track for another six days or arrange a boat or flight out. So whether you’re looking for intimate couples accommodation in country NSW, a beachfront retreat along the coast, or large group accommodation near Sydney, you’ll find the best getaways & luxury escapes in NSW right here. You’ll walk through an old angophora forest filled with wildlife and ancient trees, and then find yourself on a track that eventually opens up to the.