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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

Matty Wilson's 4 Day Melbourne Return Trip
Louise Wright
/ Categories: AU Itineraries

Matty Wilson's 4 Day Melbourne Return Trip

Keen adventurer Matty Wilson, his wife Jessica, and their two young children love a fun-filled family road trip, and their recent roadie in the comfort of an Apollo motorhome was one worth sharing!

The family spent four fantastic days travelling from Melbourne to Marysville and back, enjoying Healesville Sanctuary, the Yarra Ranges National Park, and more. Along the way, they explored wildlife parks, took scenic drives, and enjoyed exploring beautiful walking trails.

Their four-day itinerary is perfect for families with littlies, with plenty to see and do for everyone in the family. Follow along to discover the best way to explore Melbourne’s stunning surroundings and hidden gems on an Apollo adventure.

Day 1: Melbourne - Marysville

Matty and his family kicked off their four-day getaway by picking up their Apollo Euro Deluxe from the Apollo Melbourne Branch. Perfect for families, this luxurious six-berth motorhome has loads of interior space for your gear and comfy beds for a good night’s sleep (and daytime naps!). There’s also a fully equipped kitchen for meals and snacks on the go. And of course, when you’ve got toddlers on board, having your own bathroom is a big bonus – no more worries about finding public toilets for those urgent stops!

After packing up the motorhome and getting everyone settled, the Wilsons hit the road, ready for an exciting journey ahead.

Their first stop was the Healesville Sanctuary, a fantastic spot for the kids to see their favourite animals up close. The family spent the day exploring the sanctuary, spotting koalas, platypuses, colourful parrots, and a variety of other native Australian wildlife.

When you’re travelling with kids, it’s important to plan a few pit stops for leg stretching, a quick snack, and some photos. With that in mind, Matty and Jess took their time exploring the iconic Black Spur Drive on their way to their campground. Known for its towering trees and fern-filled gullies, this scenic route has plenty of picnic stops and picturesque views.

For their stay, the family parked up at Marysville Holiday Park. This family-friendly park is the perfect base for exploring everything on offer in the region. It’s well set up for kids too with a recreation room, jumping pillow, and plenty of space to run around and play.

 

Day 2: Marysville surrounds

Matty and his family started their second day with a visit to Gallipoli Park, a top spot for families looking for a day out in nature.

This great park has a cool playground, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing frames. Nearby, you’ll find Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden, featuring over 200 whimsical sculptures by artist Bruno Torfs.

For Matty and his family, the next stop was the Tree Fern Gully Trail. This 3.4 km trail offers a peaceful and scenic walk through lush fern gullies and waterfalls. It’s a relatively easy trail, making it suitable for families with young children.

For lunch, you can’t go past a picnic at Keppel Lookout. The lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including Marysville below, the peaks of the Cathedral Ranges, and the Black and Blue Ranges. The view over Marysville and to the Cathedral Ranges is especially stunning, and during winter, the occasional snowfall adds a touch of magic to the scenery.

Day 3: Yarra Ranges National Park

Matty and his family began their third day by diving into the natural beauty of the Yarra Ranges National Park. This mountainous cool temperate rainforest is best explored by taking a drive along the stunning Lady Talbot Drive where you’ll enjoy some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region.

Their first stop was the Beeches Rainforest Walk, an enchanting trail that winds through ancient myrtle beech trees and stands of mountain ash. It's a short and easy walk, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some resident lyrebirds. These fascinating birds are renowned for their ability to mimic all sorts of sounds – so keep your ears open too!

One of the highlights of the day was exploring the trails in the historic township of Cambarville. The area has a rich gold-mining and logging history, and there are still remnants of old buildings and machinery scattered among the towering trees. A must-see while you’re there is the 88-metre-high Big Tree, the tallest Mountain Ash in Victoria.

Day 4: Marysville – Melbourne

On their final day, Matty and his family began their journey back to Melbourne, but not without squeezing in a few more stops along the way.

If you’ve got keen cyclists in the family, be sure to stop by the Great Victorian Rail Trail. This trail is perfect for a family bike ride, offering a mix of art, history, and beautiful landscapes. The kids will love exploring the trail, riding through the historic Cheviot Tunnel, and taking in the stunning views of the Trawool Valley. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air before the drive home.

If cycling isn’t your thing, a visit to Lake Eildon is a fantastic option. This beautiful lake area is perfect for some fun on the water. Stop for a refreshing swim or hire a kayak and spend an afternoon paddling the calm water. You might also like to take a hike on one of the many short trails available. In winter, these trails offer lovely, crisp walks, and in spring, the area bursts into life with wildflowers. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and echidnas, which are often spotted in the area.

Plan your own Melbourne road trip with Apollo

Inspired by Matty Wilson’s four-day motorhome road trip? Why not plan your own unforgettable adventure exploring the outskirts of Melbourne? Perfect for families, couples, friends, and solo adventurers, Apollo’s motorhomes and campervans make travelling easy. With spacious interiors, comfy beds, fully equipped kitchens, and onboard bathrooms, you’ll have everything you need to discover Victoria’s highlights and hidden gems. Take the first step and book your Apollo motorhome online today

 

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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