Whether you want to immerse yourself in the bush in the Blue Mountains, indulge in wine tasting in the Hunter Valley, or explore the South Coast towns of Kiama and Berry, there are plenty of options for a memorable day trip from Sydney. 

West to the Blue Mountains 

A 90-minute drive west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a nature-lover's paradise. Here you'll find charming towns such as Katoomba and Leura surrounded by the rugged bush of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. Head to Echo Point lookout, near the town of Katoomba, to see the iconic Three Sisters sandstone rock formation. Tackle one of the many bushwalking tracks throughout the national park and refuel at one of the many cafés and restaurants in the region's villages and towns. Seeking a little luxury? Spend a night or two at Spicers Sangoma Retreat or Lilianfels Resort and Spa, or head another hour further west to the stunning Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley resort at the foot of the mountains. 

North to the Hunter Valley 

Australia's oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley is only a two-hour drive north of Sydney. This picturesque region is best known for its semillon, but wineries here also produce excellent red wines and other white varietals. You can taste world-class wines at more than 150 cellar doors across the valley. And you can also tuck into the region's delicious local produce at acclaimed restaurants such as Muse Restaurant, at the Hungerford Hill winery near the town of Pokolbin, and Bistro Molines at Mount View. Make a weekend of it and stay at the luxe Chateau Elan or Spicers Guesthouse, both of which are near Pokolbin. Then pack up the wine you've snapped up and make your way back to Sydney via the oceanside Lake Macquarie, largest saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere, or the lovely beaches of the Central Coast. 

South to Kiama and Berry 

The seaside town of Kiama, around two hours' drive south from Sydney along the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive, is best known for its world-famous blowhole. Once you've experienced the power of the ocean as waves are forced through a narrow opening in the town's rocky headland, you'll find the surrounding area is home to magnificent coastal walks, scenic rainforest trails and pristine beaches. Spend the night and stay at Nova Kiama, a boutique hotel in the heart of town, or at The Sebel Kiama Harbourside overlooking Kiama Harbour. 

A 20-minute drive from Kiama, or just over two hours from Sydney, the pretty village of Berry has long been a favourite country getaway for Sydneysiders. Browse the shops along Queen Street or pop into one of the many cafés and restaurants in town. You'll find locally sourced delicacies at Flavours of Shoalhaven, and sourdough bread and pastries at the nearby Milkwood bakery café. And if you're in town on a Thursday, stock up on picnic supplies at the farmer's market at Berry Showground. Make the most of the visit by staying at Bangalay Luxury Villas, a 15-minute drive from Berry. This luxury resort on Seven Mile Beach is home to Bangalay Dining, an innovative fine-dining restaurant that highlights Australian native ingredients. 

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