9 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.
- Sensom Luxury B&B Sapphire Beach,, New South Wales 3 rooms from $234
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Copeland House New South Wales 3 rooms from $288
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Lilianfels Katoomba, New South Wales 85 rooms from $219
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Echoes Boutique Resort Katoomba, New South Wales 14 rooms from $281
  
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  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
  Recommended by  -  Fodors, Kiwi Collection
  
  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. See More
  
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- Blackbird Byron Byron Bay (Mullumbimby Creek) 3 rooms from $600
  
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  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
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Crystalbrook Byron Byron Bay (New South Wales) 92 rooms from $231
  
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  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
  
  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. See More
  
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- Paperbark Camp Woollamia, New South Wales 12 rooms from $381
  
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  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
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Capella Lodge Lord Howe Island from $487
  
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  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
  Recommended by  -  Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Elements of Byron Byron Bay (Australia) 202 rooms from $288
  
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  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
  
  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! See More
  
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