Seven Next-Level Escapes in NSW for When You Just Need to Disconnect from Reality

You will find Australia’s largest telescope about a six-hour drive out of Sydney. Located in Coonabarabran, Siding Springs Observatory is the place to be for any stargazer. The observatory has a range of tours and events to work with your schedule and budget. Enjoy an hour-long self-guided walking tour through the app led by astronomer Fred Watson for just $7.50 (used across up to three devices). Or, get inside the telescope and see the amazing portal to outer space up-close in a 90-minute tour for $30 per person.

While the observatory is closed after dark, you can still appreciate the magical night sky within the greater Warrumbungle Dark Sky National Park. Check out pristine night skies free from light pollution and gaze upon an unforgettable sea of stars with an After Dark tour for $30 per person.

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Dorrigo National Park is home to waterfalls, 600-year-old trees, a shaded walking track, colourful flora and fauna and an elevated boardwalk with breathtaking views. The best way to explore this lush World Heritage-listed rainforest is via the popular Wonga Walk. It’ll take you about two hours to complete the 6.6-kilometre loop, passing by the cascading Tristania Falls and Crystal Shower Falls.

Take the Lyrebird link track from the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre that leads onto the Wonga walk. The walk is fairly easy but has some steeper sections and boulder crossings so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

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Check out some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes from an extra special viewpoint. Byron Bay Ballooning will give you the experience of a lifetime as you catch the sunrise while floating over the coastline or hinterland. You can enjoy a one-hour sunrise flight followed by breakfast at Three Blue Ducks’ The Farm for $319. Or, if you really want to impress a special someone, check out the VIP Flight where you will fly alone with just your date and the pilot.

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There are plenty of ways to explore the Snowy Mountains, no matter what time of year you visit — from overnight horse treks to taking a dip in a thermal, spring-fed pool. If you want to see the region from above, though, Snowy Mountain Helicopters has you covered. Flights range from a speedy zoom over Lake Jindabyne ($110 for ten minutes) to extended flights to some of the region’s highlights, including Valentine Falls, Mt Jagungal and the ski resorts ($570 for 60 minutes).

To combine a few itinerary must-dos in one trip, sign up to one of the more immersive helicopter experiences. Each starts with a scenic flight over Kosciuszko National Park before taking you to the activity of your choice — you might wish to enjoy a gourmet picnic at a remote cabin, go fishing for trout, or sample locally made tipples at Wild Brumby Distillery or Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery.

Not really one for heights? If you prefer something a little more on the relaxing side, staying in a Bubbletent is something you didn’t know should be on your bucket list. There are three secluded tents to choose from, each offering a plush bed, a telescope, a fire pit, an outdoor hot shower and woodfired hot tub and beautiful vistas of Capertree Valley. A night of romantic glamping will set you back around $695 and you can book here.

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If learning to scuba dive has been on your bucket list for a while, consider this your sign to finally tick it off. Pristine diving locations and marine reserves are dotted all along the NSW coast, but the far south coast is our pick for its vibrant sea life. Venture beneath the big blue of the Sapphire Coast to check out weedy seadragons, octopuses and maybe even a few seals with Dive Eden.

The local company has all experience levels covered, whether you are a complete novice, need a refresher or are a veteran diver wanting to learn how to free dive. Gear is also available for hire if you need it.

Image: Max Gillespie 

Glamping is a nice change of pace but if you’re looking to truly leave the luxuries of everyday life behind, go on a good ol’ fashioned bush adventure in Kinchega National Park, about a 90-minute drive from Broken Hill. Here, you’ll find fascinating wildlife, majestic river red gums, the Darling River and a rich Indigenous history. Be sure to pay a visit to the historic woolshed and complete the 2.3-kilometre Homestead billabong walk.

Make Emu Lake campground your base for exploring the park. It’s pretty bare-bones here, so be prepared to take everything you need. There are picnic tables, barbecue facilities and non-flushing toilets on-site, plus hot showers and bore water are available at the nearby Shearers’ Quarters. Make sure to book in advance and keep an eye out on park alerts.

Image: Destination NSW