Outdoorsy Escapes in New South Wales

Most New South Wales adventures begin in the city: Sydney is a tough one to miss. The region is also, however, famed for its many natural wonders; a gorgeous coastline, the magical Blue Mountains, and the picturesque wine country are all brilliant. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple or with family and friends, it's well worth exploring the possibilities of this vast state, where activities abound, and mesmerising landscapes await at almost every turn.

Outdoorsy types can expect to hike, bird watch and mountain bike through ancient forests and along dramatic ridges, or glide above sparkling ocean waters on surfing and sailing holidays. Byron Bay is a creative coastal favourite, whilst the wine country will delight ramblers, cyclists and keen foodies. Whether you're craving a rural escape or simply eager to hide away amidst glorious landscaped gardens, this superb part of Australia really does have it all. We've put together a selection of the best outdoorsy escapes in New South Wales — ranging from three-bedroom B&Bs to expansive mountain and coastal resorts, perfect for kick-starting the trip of a lifetime.

For a Tranquil B&B

Sensom Luxury B&B has just three spacious suites, each decorated largely in white and facing the property's six acres of leafy gardens. The lounge with fireplace is shared, as is the saltwater pool. An adults-only B&B with great gourmet breakfasts, tucked away near Coffs Harbour.
Copeland House is another three-suite B&B, this time close to the Copeland Tops State Forest. Pick this place for a nature focused escape, with rambling and bird watching opportunities galore. In-suite breakfasts are served each morning, dinners can be arranged, and the vibe is low-key and relaxed.

For a Mountain Hideaway

Lilianfels, nestled in the spectacular Blue Mountains National Park, has airy, elegant guest rooms with stunning Jamison Valley views. Unwind at the serene spa, sink into indoor and outdoor pools, or play a game of tennis after days of hiking and rock climbing. A luxurious country escape with a classic feel and a fabulous restaurant.
Echoes Boutique Resort, another Blue Mountains escape, has a more contemporary feel. Lavish guest rooms and suites face the Jamison Valley, and there's a gourmet restaurant, two swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym, sauna and spa. One for families as well as couples.
Blackbird Byron, with its three hip pavillions and a refreshing pool, is hidden on Mount Koonyum. Built from reclaimed materials, these modernist spaces are individually designed with mesmerising views from frames of wood, steel and glass. Gourmet breakfasts and three-course dinners await. Rejuvenating massages complete the restful honeymoon experience.

For a Rainforest Retreat

Crystalbrook Byron, on 45 acres of lush rainforest near Byron Bay, has light, airy suites with balconies, well-equipped small kitchens and big sink-into bathtubs. Interiors are cool and contemporary, and there are two restaurants as well as a serene spa. Unwind with daily yoga classes, cycle along forest-fringed paths and enjoy guided nature walks.

For a Tented Escape

Paperbark Camp offers 12 glamorous tented guest rooms, hidden amongst eucalyptus and paperbark trees. Spaces have double beds, private terraces and big bathtubs, as well as soothing forest views. Borrow bicycles or canoes to explore pathways on land and water, returning for sensational seasonal fare. A glamping favourite.

For Seaside Seclusion

Capella Lodge, hidden on Lord Howe Island, boasts nine superb contemporary suites in the shadow of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird. Expect a real sense of Australian beach house luxury, with elegant interiors, a soothing spa and delicious dishes crafted from garden-grown produce and fresh seafood. An exceptional island escape for romantics and keen explorers.
Elements of Byron borders Belongil Beach, offering an appealing sense of seclusion yet within easy reach of New South Wales' famously hip surf haven. With 50 acres of verdant grounds, the resort will delight travellers looking to unwind. Scandi-cool interiors have floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, clean lines and modern art pieces. There's a spoiling spa, yoga classes and wonderful restaurant, too.

STILL NOT SURE?

Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in New South Wales.
Alternatively, check out our list of Six Seaside Hotels in New South Wales.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

9 Outdoorsy Escapes in New South Wales

Paperbark Camp

New South Wales (Australia)

Glamping has never been so glamourous as at this eco-retreat. Twelve luxurious safari tents sit amongst eucalyptus and paperbark trees, each with a deck area or veranda. There's a restaurant and communal kitchen on the premises, and free bikes and canoes available for exploring the area.

Eco break - A fabulous eco-retreat with gorgeous glamping tents, plus organic, fair trade and free-range restaurant fare & more
Back to Nature - Hide away in a forest of paperbark and eucalypts, spottong kangaroo & flitting birds on walks or canoe rides
Canoeing - Take the Paperbark Challenge and canoe to Huskisson & back, pausing for a picnic on the edge of the creek
Wildlife Area - Spot kangaroos in the early morning as you follow trails through the trees

from £297 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Capella Lodge

Lord Howe Island (Australia)

A collection of 9 elegant suites offering inspired by the Australian beach house aesthetic. Dazzling views of Mounts Gower & Lidgbird await. Think chic, contemporary luxury, with an indulgent spa, cracking cuisine & the island's wonders just steps away. Exceptionally intimate & romantic.

Foodies - Foodies will delight in savouring a Pacific-inspired menu of dishes crafted using home-grown ingredients and the day's catch
Honeymoons - A sophisticated take on the Australian beach house concept, perfect for indulgent honeymoons in superb sea-facing suites
Trekking - Clamber to the peak of Mount Gower - 875 metres above sea level - with an expert guide for unbeatable panoramic views
Surfing - Surfers can ride the waves at Blinky Beach - reputedly one of the best breaks in Australia

from £380 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Echoes Boutique Resort

New South Wales (Australia)

Situated in the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains, this luxury hotel offers spectacular guest rooms & suites with views out to the Jamison Valley. A gourmet eatery, gym, sauna, two swimming pools and spa make for a restful & rejuvenating stay. An ideal base for exploring this stunning region.

Families - Suites offer space for families, who will also appreciate the tennis courts, two swimming pools & adventurous activities aplenty
Spa breaks - Unwind in style at the spa, with two swimming pools, a sauna and steam room, plus rejuvenating massages
Trekking - Trek through the magnificent landscapes of the Blue Mountains with an expert guide
Tennis - Play a game of tennis with friends and family on the hotel's floodlit courts

from £219 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Crystalbrook Byron

Byron Bay (New South Wales)

Set in 18 hectares of tropical rainforest just minutes from the beach, this luxury hotel offers comfort and style just outside town. Suites are light, airy — all have private balconies, kitchens and huge freestanding bathtubs. Great facilities include daily yoga, a swimming pool & soothing spa.

Hideaway - Tucked in 45 acres of lush rainforest, this attractive hideaway has a pool, spa & great restaurants — you wont want to leave!
Romantic Break - A romantic escape with spacious, rainforest-facing suites boasting big bathtubs & cosy nooks, plus a hip restaurant & spa
Great walks - Guided nature walks or cycles through the rainforest will delight keen birdwatchers & plant-spotters
Surfing - Head across to the coast for Byron Bay's famous surf scene — perfect for honing your skills

from £180 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Lilianfels

New South Wales (Australia)

A charming country escape in the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park. Guest rooms are large & light, with fantastic views across Jamison Valley. The serene spa, indoor & outdoor pools, tennis courts & award-winning restaurant add to the luxury appeal for guests of all ages. Absolutely lovely.

Learning - The Buunyal tour, an authentic Indigenous experience, offers a fascinating insight into the world of the Blue Mountains
Country Escape - A beautiful mountain escape offering a plethora of activities for guests of all ages - also a romantic hideaway
Foodies - Savour innovative cuisine created using fresh, seasonal produce at the award-winning Darley's Restaurant
Trekking - Hike the 19km Grand Cliff Top Walk for fantastic views of the mountains

from £171 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Elements of Byron

Byron Bay (Australia)

An eco-conscious and stylish resort set on 50 acres of lush grounds bordering Belongil Beach. Interiors have a distinct Scandi-cool feel with ligth & airy bedrooms, and boast beautiful spacious bathrooms. Featuring a top notch restaurant, poolside bars, spoiling spa facilities and yoga. Fabulous!

Beach Life - A sensational beach break, with private villas & fabulous facilities at one end of Belongil Beach
Birdwatching - Discover rare bird species on guided tours of the expansive grounds and the Belongil Estuary
Families - A family favourite with multi-bedroom villas & stacks of activities on land and water
Yoga - Wake up your senses with mindful movement at teh resort's superb sunrise yoga classes

from £225 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Blackbird Byron

Byron Bay (Mullumbimby Creek)

A beautiful rural retreat, with hip pavilions & a refreshing pool on Mount Koonyum. Built using reclaimed materials, the three modernist pavilions are dazzling small spaces of steel, wood & glass. Gourmet breakfasts & multi-course dinners await, along with soothing massages. Honeymoon bliss.

Honeymoons - A beautiful hideway for romantic honeymooners, who will appreciate the sense of tranquility, gourmet fare & big pavilions
Birdwatching - Mount Chincogan is home to some stunning rare birds, and scenic rambles with a pair of binoculars are very rewarding
Eco break - An innovative, eco-conscious escape, built from reclaimed materials & using energy-saving technologies
Local markets - Find fresh produce at Mullumbimby Farmers’ Market on Fridays, or crafts at the Mullumbimby Community Markets each Saturday

from £468 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Copeland House

New South Wales (Copeland)

A three-suite B&B promising a tranquil retreat alongside the marvellous Copeland Tops State Forest. Individually appointed suites are cosy & comfortable, with decks & whirlpool tubs. Big breakfasts are served in-suite each morning & dinners can be arranged. A delight for rambling & birdwatching.

Birdwatching - Walk the stunning Basin Loop track for sightings of lyrebirds, kookaburras and myriad other species of birds
Back to Nature - A tranquil retreat for ramblers and birdwatchers eager to explore the Copeland region's ancient forests
Hideaway - With just three suites, this is an ideal spot for quiet couples keen to escape the city for the weekend
Local markets - The Gloucester Farmers Markets, held on the second Saturday of each month, are brilliant for sampling produce from local growers

from £225 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sensom Luxury B&B

New South Wales (Coffs Harbour)

An indulgent three-suite B&B hidden in six acres of glorious landscaped gardens with a lotus-filled lagoon. Tranquil suites are clad in white & blue with decks, sitting areas & lots of light. There's a cosy fireplace in the lounge, plus a saltwater pool & gourmet breakfasts. An adult-only gem.

Romantic Break - A romantic escape with three suites & a selection of celebratory packages, perfect for anniversaries, birthdays & proposals
Total relaxation - A tranquil adults-only spot set within gorgeous manicured gardens, perfect for those dreaming of absolute relaxation
Great walks - Follow the White Bluff Walking Track from Sapphire Beach for beautiful coastal views — even better with a picnic
Diving - Hone your diving skills as you discover rich underwater worlds at Solitary Island Marine Park

from £183 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

9 Outdoorsy Escapes in New South Wales

For a Tranquil B&B

For a Mountain Hideaway

For a Rainforest Retreat

For a Tented Escape

For Seaside Seclusion

STILL NOT SURE?

9 Outdoorsy Escapes in New South Wales

Sign up to our weekly newsletter