posted on 8 June 2024
Home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, ancient forests, and World Heritage listed national parks, NSW road trips are a must for any adventure enthusiast. With scenic views that range from the Harbour city to Sea Cliff Bridge and snow capped mountains, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to be found on these unforgettable drives no matter which route you take.
If you’re looking for a road trip that promises breathtaking views, top attractions, and plenty of outdoor adventure, we’ve got you covered with 18 of the best NSW road trips.
New South Wales is famous for its road trips
With diverse landscapes that range from coastal beauty and the sparse open plains of the outback to the Blue Mountains with its eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and sandstone cliffs, NSW is a destination that’s known for its epic scenery and natural beauty.
With sealed and well-maintained roads throughout the region, a NSW road trip makes for a comfortable driving experience that takes you through some of Australia’s most iconic sights, landmarks, and natural attractions. You’ll find petrol stations and EV chargers conveniently located throughout the region, while camping options are also abundant for those who want to sleep under the stars.
Whether you’re looking for the cellar door wine tasting experience with a road trip in the Hunter Valley, want to explore the Big Sky Country with a trip to Broken Hill and Dubbo’s Western Plains, or want the scenery of the Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales is the perfect base to explore it all.
18 of the best New South Wales road trips
From heritage towns to ocean views and sprawling countryside, you’ll experience it all on a NSW road trip. We’ve rounded up 18 of the very best New South Wales road trips that are sure to satisfy your craving for adventure and breathtaking scenery.
1. Snowy Valley adventure:
- Driving time: 14 hours 46 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,290 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Wagga Wagga: 461 kilometres, 4 hours 46 minutes
- Wagga Wagga to Tumbarumba: 111 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Tumbarumba to Paddy’s River Falls: 15.2 kilometres, 14 minutes
- Paddy’s River Falls to Blowering Dam: 92.7 kilometres, 1 hour 16 minutes
- Blowering Dam to Yarrangobilly Caves: 72.8 kilometres, 1 hour 1 minute
- Yarrangobilly Caves to Tumut via Adelong Falls Gold Mill Ruins: 128 kilometres, 1 hour 53 minutes
- Tumut to Sydney: 409 kilometres, 4 hours 15 minutes
- Top stops: Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens, Courabyra Wines, Pioneer Womens’ Hut, Yarrangobilly Cave Tour and thermal pools, Adelong Falls Gold Mill Ruins heritage walk, Tumut River Brewing Co, Stockwell Gardens, and Bago State Forest.
- Best for: Nature lovers, foodies and history buffs.
The Snowy Valley is known for its stunning natural landscapes, but this road trip also combines outdoor adventure with the rich history of the region. Along with national parks and unique natural attractions, you’ll find charming country towns and opportunities for wine tasting.
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2. North Coast gems:
- Driving time: 13 hours 1 minute
- Driving distance: 1,157 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Coffs Harbour: 533 kilometres, 5 hours 30 minutes
- Coffs Harbour to Yamba: 133 kilometres, 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yamba to Sawtell: 143 kilometres, 1 hour 39 minutes
- Sawtell to Nambucca Heads: 43.6 kilometres, 33 minutes
- Nambucca Heads to Red Rock: 90.7 kilometres, 1 hour 10 minutes
- Red Rock to Minnie Water: 75.1 kilometres, 54 minutes
- Minnie Water to Woolgoolga: 78.6 kilometres, 54 minutes
- Woolgoolga to Bellingen: 60.1 kilometres, 51 minutes
- Top stops: Bellingen Brewery, The Old Butter Factory, Dorrigo National Park, Woolgoolga Beach, Minnie Water Beach, Yuraygir National Park, Shelly Beach, and Yamba Lighthouse.
- Best for: Beachgoers, surfers and outdoor enthusiasts.
These North Coast gems deliver spectacular beaches and secluded shores that are perfect for relaxing, soaking up the tranquil atmosphere, or enjoying some family fun. With charming coastal towns and plenty of national parks, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
3. Outback NSW expedition:
- Driving time: 14 hours 26 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,105 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Broken Hill to White Cliffs: 260 kilometres, 2 hours 49 minutes
- White Cliffs to Menindee Lakes: 244 kilometres, 2 hours 52 minutes
- Menindee Lakes to Kinchega National Park: 31.7 kilometres, 40 minutes
- Kinchega National Park to Mutawintji National Park: 352 kilometres, 4 hours 51 minutes
- Mutawintji National Park to Broken Hill: 217 kilometres, 3 hours 13 minutes
- Top stops: Mutawintji Historic Site, Darling River, White Cliffs Hotel, Living Desert Sculptures, and Silver City Mint and Art Centre.
- Best for: Photographers and outdoor adventurers.
With rugged landscapes and rich Aboriginal heritage, an Outback NSW road trip is a must for anyone looking to soak up the historic towns and unique natural attractions of the region. With vast open spaces, diverse landscapes, and unique geological formations, it’ll be an unforgettable journey.
4. Southern Highlands delights:
- Driving time: 4 hours 21 minutes
- Driving distance: 309 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Bowral: 118 kilometres, 1 hour 24 minutes
- Bowral to Kangaroo Valley: 39.7 kilometres, 38 minutes
- Kangaroo Valley to Fitzroy Falls and Carrington Falls: 44 kilometres, 43 minutes
- Carrington Falls to Robertson: 11.3 kilometres, 12 minutes
- Robertson to Bundanoon: 35.4 kilometres, 29 minutes
- Bundanoon to Mittagong: 37.5 kilometres, 32 minutes
- Mittagong to Berrima: 13.3 kilometres, 13 minutes
- Berrima to Moss Vale: 9.7 kilometres, 11 minutes
- Top stops: Corbett Gardens, Bradman Museum, Fitzroy Falls Lookout, Robertson Lookout, Lake Alexandra, and Berrima Courthouse.
- Best for: Couples seeking a romantic getaway.
With its picturesque landscapes and culinary delights, both nature lovers and foodies will enjoy this Southern Highlands road trip. With an abundance of lush greenery and national parks and top scenic lookouts, you’ll combine the outdoors with gourmet food and wine experiences making for a romantic weekend or relaxing getaway.
5. Coastal wilderness trail:
- Driving time: 9 hours 12 minutes
- Driving distance: 703 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Eden to Batemans Bay: 196 kilometres, 2 hours 27 minutes
- Batemans Bay to Ben Boyd National Park: 229 kilometres, 2 hours 56 minutes
- Ben Boyd National Park to Bermagui: 146 kilometres, 1 hour 51 minutes
- Bermagui to Mimosa Rocks National Park: 32.9 kilometres, 30 minutes
- Mimosa Rocks National Park to Narooma: 94.3 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Narooma to Montague Island: 3.9 kilometers, 6 minutes
- Top stops: Montague Island Lighthouse, Wagnonga Inlet, Australia Rock, Narooma Beach, Moon Bay, Camel Rock Beach, Boyd’s Tower, Murramarang National Park, Clyde River National Park, and Twofold Bay.
- Best for: Couples and solo travellers looking for hikes steeped in Aboriginal heritage.
With its rugged and untouched landscapes, diverse wildlife, and secluded beaches, the coastal wilderness trail is a special road trip for anyone that finds themselves passing through NSW. Along with lush rainforests and ocean views, you’ll find coastal walks rich with cultural significance for Aboriginal communities, with rock art and sacred sites throughout the area.
Tip from the author: Access to Montague Island is only permitted via one of the NSW National Parks & Wildlife contracted commercial vessel tour operators. These include Charter Fish Narooma and Lighthouse Charters. Bookings can be made online ahead of departure.
6. Hinterland Haven:
- Driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Driving distance: 192 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Byron Bay to Nimbin: 64.1 kilometres, 1 hour 10 minutes
- Nimbin to Nightcap National Park: 32.9 kilometres, 50 minutes
- Nightcap National Park to Lismore: 35.8 kilometres, 49 minutes
- Lismore to Bangalow: 31.6 kilometres, 28 minutes
- Bangalow to Mullumbimby: 19.5 kilometres, 18 minutes
- Mullumbimby to Brunswick Heads: 8.4 kilometres, 10 minutes
- Top stops: Cape Byron Lighthouse, Nimbin Village, Protesters Falls, Lismore Regional Art Gallery, Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens, Mullumbimby Farmers Market, and Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve.
- Best for: Families looking for a weekend getaway or relaxing break.
Known for its stunning natural landscapes, lush rainforests, and charming towns, the hinterland makes for a magical road trip that the whole family will enjoy. You’ll find picturesque regions offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
7. Murray River meander:
- Driving time: 2 hours 12 minutes
- Driving distance: 173 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Albury to Corowa: 57.4 kilometres, 44 minutes
- Corowa to Rutherglen: 12.9 kilometres, 12 minutes
- Rutherglen to Yarrawonga: 47.4 kilometres, 35 minutes
- Yarrawonga to Cobram: 37.2 kilometres, 26 minutes
- Cobram to Tocumwal: 17.6 kilometres, 15 minutes
- Top stops: Tocumwal’s Big Strawberry, Tocumwal Blowhole, Cobram’s Farm Gate Trail, Chinaman’s Island Nature Reserve, Rutherglen Wine Region, Corowa Whisky and Chocolate, and The Great Aussie Beer Shed.
- Best for: Foodies and nature lovers wanting to combine their passions.
With its rich history and stunning landscapes, the Murray River makes for a delightful road trip. Along with scenic views and picturesque towns, as you soak up the region’s wetlands and national parks, you’ll also find renowned wineries in the Murray Darling, where you can enjoy local wines and delicious foods. This drive does venture into Victoria, but it starts and ends in NSW!
8. New England escapade:
- Driving time: 7 hours 31 minutes
- Driving distance: 590 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Armidale to Glen Innes: 98.2 kilometres, 1 hour 7 minutes
- Glen Innes to Washpool National Park: 72.8 kilometres, 48 minutes
- Washpool National Park to Dorrigo: 198 kilometres, 2 hours 48 minutes
- Dorrigo to Dangars Gorge: 143 kilometres, 1 hour 46 minutes
- Dangars Gorge to Uralla: 36.5 kilometres, 33 minutes
- Uralla to Walcha: 41 kilometres, 28 minutes
- Top stops: Walcha Open Air Gallery, Apsley Falls, Dangars Falls, Dorrigo National Park, Petersons Armidale Winery and Guesthouse, Topper’s Mountain Wines, and Armidale Heritage Walk.
- Best for: Food and wine enthusiasts seeking scenic views, and a country retreat.
A New England road trip will see you take in highland scenery, many an historic town, and diverse cultural attractions that include plenty of gastronomic delights. From rugged landscapes and sprawling farmlands to beautiful wineries with farm-to-table dining, it’s a road trip particularly suited to foodies!
9. Central West circuit:
- Driving time: 6 hours 17 minutes
- Driving distance: 517 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Orange to Dubbo: 150 kilometres, 1 hour 46 minutes
- Dubbo to Wellington Caves: 58.5 kilometres, 45 minutes
- Wellington Caves to Narromine: 97.7 kilometres, 1 hour 13 minutes
- Narromine to Gilgandra: 82.2 kilometres, 55 minutes
- Gilgandra to Coonabarabran: 95.1 kilometres, 1 hour 7 minutes
- Coonabarabran to Warrumbungle National Park: 33.1 kilometres, 31 minutes
- Top stops: Orange Wine Region, Orange Botanic Gardens, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol, Osawano Japanese Garden, and Gilgandra Observatory.
- Best for: Foodies seeking an outdoor adventure and rich history.
This Central West road trip promises diverse landscapes and vibrant culture as you journey through historic towns and scenic countryside. From local vineyards to unique attractions and local museums, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Top stop: Located in the Pilliga Forest, Pilliga Pottery Creative Farmstay offers a peaceful getaway to relax, explore, and connect with nature and creativity. Wander over 50 km of bushwalks teeming with wildlife, join pottery classes, and enjoy German-inspired cuisine at the Blue Wren Bush Café. Families and dogs are welcome, with European-style accommodations and camping available for those who want to stay overnight. Guests can also enjoy feeding the resident pony and sheep, adding an extra layer of charm to this unique experience.
10. Sapphire Coast expedition:
- Driving time: 6 hours 9 minutes
- Driving distance: 410 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Bermagui to Mallacoota: 198 kilometres, 2 hours 29 minutes
- Mallacoota to Genoa Peak: 32.3 kilometres, 37 minutes
- Genoa Peak to Croajingolong National Park: 69.4 kilometres, 1 hour 21 minutes
- Croajingolong National Park to Cann River: 51.8 kilometres, 1 hour 1 minute
- Cann River to Cape Conran: 58.5 kilometres, 41 minutes
- Top stops: Montreal Goldfields, Mallacoota Coastal Walk, Genoa Peak, Point Hicks Lighthouse, Cann River Rainforest, and Cape Conran Nature Trail.
- Best for: Nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking charming coastal towns.
Known for its pristine coastline, sparkling crystal clear waters, and hinterland scenery, a Sapphire Coast expedition is the perfect road trip for those looking to savour the southeastern coast of NSW and venture into parts of Victoria.
11. Riverina Ramble:
- Driving time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Driving distance: 568 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Wagga Wagga to Griffith: 182 kilometres, 2 hours 5 minutes
- Griffith to Leeton: 56.6 kilometres, 44 minutes
- Leeton to Narrandera: 30.3 kilometres, 24 minutes
- Narrandera to Hay: 174 kilometres, 1 hour 50 minutes
- Hay to Deniliquin: 125 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Top stops: Narrandera Nature Reserve, Lake Talbot, Coolamon Cheese, Wiradjuri Walking Track, Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, and Leeton Heritage Trail.
- Best for: Wine enthusiasts, foodies, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers.
This road trip treats you to picturesque landscapes, many of which are charming country towns and the vibrant culture of southwestern NSW. With its meandering rivers, friendly local communities, and sprawling plains, there’s plenty of room to room.
12. Hunter Valley Discovery:
- Driving time: 4 hours 31 minutes
- Driving distance: 327 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Newcastle: 170 kilometres, 2 hours 6 minutes
- Newcastle to Pokolbin: 64.8 kilometres, 1 hour
- Pokolbin to Maitland: 34.3 kilometres, 31 minutes
- Maitland to Morpeth: 9.9 kilometres, 12 minutes
- Morpeth to Lake Macquarie: 48.3 kilometres, 41 minutes
- Top stops: Lake Macquarie Foreshore, Morpeth Heritage Walk, Hunter Valley Gardens, Nobbys Beach and Breakwall, Hope Estate, Brokenwood Wines, and Tyrrell’s Wines.
- Best for: Wine and food enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a peaceful weekend getaway.
Top stop: Spread across ten scenic acres in the charming locale of Lovedale, Bluebush Estate is a standout retreat in the heart of Hunter Valley. With views of a boutique vineyard and the majestic Molly Morgan Ranges, it’s a great base for wine tasting, family getaways, or even small events. Indulge in leisure activities like tennis, a refreshing dip in the pool, guided brewery tours, or simply unwinding with a glass of wine amidst the serene landscape. Follow them on Instagram at @bluebush_estate for a glimpse of what awaits.
The Hunter Valley is the go-to destination for those looking to savour the region’s world-class wineries and gourmet food, all while being treated to spectacular scenery. As Australia’s premier wine region, there’s plenty to explore. But it’s not all about the food – nature lovers will be equally entranced by the magic of the Hunter Valley!
13. South Coast Serenity:
- Driving time: 4 hours 27 minutes
- Driving distance: 333 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Kiama: 155 kilometres, 1 hour 50 minutes
- Kiama to Jervis Bay: 78.2 kilometres, 1 hour 9 minutes
- Jervis Bay to Huskisson: 46.9 kilometres, 42 minutes
- Huskisson to Shoalhaven: 20.7 kilometres, 21 minutes
- Shoalhaven to Milton: 32 kilometres, 25 minutes
- Top stops: Milton Theatre, Shoalhaven Zoo, Berry, Huskisson Beach, Booderee National Park, Hyams Beach, and Kiama Blowhole.
- Best for: Solo travellers looking for outdoor adventures in nature, and families seeking coastal views.
If you’re looking for tranquil settings and coastal scenery, you can’t look past the NSW South Coast. With its seaside towns, secluded beaches, and abundant national parks, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied on this road trip.
14. Northern Rivers Odyssey:
- Driving time: 5 hours 16 minutes
- Driving distance: 384 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Lismore to Grafton: 132 kilometres, 1 hour 35 minutes
- Grafton to Yamba: 63.6 kilometres, 51 minutes
- Yamba to Nimbin: 124 kilometres, 1 hour 41 minutes
- Nimbin to Byron Bay: 64 kilometres, 1 hour 9 minutes
- Top stops: Lismore Regional Gallery, Wilson Nature Reserve, Grafton Jacaranda Festival in October to November, Yuraygir National Park, Cape Byron Lighthouse, and the Byron Bay Hinterland.
- Best for: Adventure junkies looking for plenty of outdoor activities and families looking for a coastal getaway.
A NSW Northern Rivers road trip is known for its lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and secluded beaches. With plenty of things to see and do along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy hikes through stunning national parks, picnics along the beach or a spot of fishing, and plenty of cultural activities.
15. Blue Mountains discovery:
- Driving time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Driving distance: 313 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Sydney to Katoomba: 102 kilometres, 1 hour 26 minutes
- Katoomba to Lithgow: 38.1 kilometres, 41 minutes
- Lithgow to Leura: 39 kilometres, 42 minutes
- Leura to Wentworth Falls: 4.7 kilometres, 5 minutes
- Wentworth Falls to Blackheath: 17.4 kilometres, 17 minutes
- Blackheath to Sydney: 112 kilometres, 1 hour 33 minutes
- Top stops: Three Sisters, Govetts Leap, Wentworth Falls Lookout, Grand Canyon Track, Katoomba Cascades, Scenic Railway, and Leura.
- Best for: Adventurers, hikers, and families looking for an escape in nature.
As a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, the Blue Mountains demands to be seen. With dramatic cliffs, lush forests, unique rock formations, and deep valleys, you’ll be treated to stunning hiking trails, panoramic views of the region, and boutique stalls and cafes to savour along the way.
Want to secure the perfect vehicle for your New South Wales road trip? With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Find your drive on Turo.
16. Macleay Valley adventure:
- Driving time: 2 hours 6 minutes
- Driving distance: 144 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Kempsey to South West Rocks: 33.3 kilometres, 29 minutes
- South West Rocks to Hat Head National Park: 22 kilometres, 19 minutes
- Hat Head National Park to Crescent Head: 38.6 kilometres, 33 minutes
- Crescent Head to Trial Bay Gaol: 49.7 kilometres, 45 minutes
- Top stops: Crescent Head Lookout, Smoky Cape Lighthouse, Kempsey Riverside Markets, and Slim Dusty Centre.
- Best for: Families, friends, and nature lovers seeking a coastal retreat.
With charming towns, pristine beaches, and a thriving culture, a road trip along the mid-north coast of NSW to the Macleay Valley makes for an unforgettable adventure. With scenery around every turn and opportunities for fishing, bushwalking, suffering, and water sports, it makes for a great adventure the whole family can enjoy.
17. Snowy Mountains Escape:
- Driving time: 6 hours 13 minutes
- Driving distance: 434 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cooma to Khancoban: 170 kilometres, 2 hours 30 minutes
- Khancoban to Kosciuszko National Park: 83.6 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Kosciuszko National Park to Snowy River: 120 kilometres, 1 hour 29 minutes
- Snowy River to Thredbo: 60.2 kilometres, 52 minutes
- Top stops: Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, Mount Kosciuszko, Snowy Mountains, Khancoban Pondage, and Thredbo Village.
- Best for: Snow sports enthusiasts, adventurers, and families.
Breathe in spectacular alpine scenery with a road trip to the Snowy Mountains. With a diverse range of attractions, from hiking to skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking, you’ll be sure to find entertaining options to suit your travel preferences and needs.
18. Far West expedition:
- Driving time: 1,427 kilometres
- Driving distance: 18 hours 6 minutes
- Itinerary:
- Bourke to Lightning Ridge: 292 kilometres, 3 hours 8 minutes
- Lightning Ridge to Gundabooka National Park: 381 kilometres, 4 hours 46 minutes
- Gundabooka National Park to Wanaaring: 341 kilometres, 5 hours 4 minutes
- Wanaaring to Cobar: 413 kilometres, 5 hours 8 minutes
- Top stops: Cobar Miners Heritage Park, Fort Bourke Lookout, Wanaaring Heritage Trail, Mount Gundabooka, The Big Opal, Mungo National Park
- Best for: Outback adventurers and those wanting national parks and heritage towns to explore.
With varied, rugged landscapes and rich Indigenous heritage, a Far West road trip across New South Wales treats you to stunning views in the westernmost part of the state. Take in the beauty of the Australian outback as you discover World Heritage-listed Willandra Lakes in Mungo National Park and plenty of Aboriginal rock art.
Final advice for your NSW road trip of a lifetime
NSW road trips deliver unforgettable sights. No matter what route you choose, you’ll be treated to sprawling countryside, coastal scenery, charming towns, and national parks with an abundance of native wildlife. Whether you’re looking for an epic outback adventure or want to explore the legendary pacific coast, you’ll find natural wonders and iconic beaches just a short drive away.
Looking for more road trip inspiration? Dive into the best scenic drives from Sydney or go all out and tackle the ultimate East Coast Australia road trip.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
