When it comes to our country’s most attractive cities, Sydney would most definitely be on the top of the list. With famous landmarks such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the beautiful Darling Harbour, it is the ideal place to visit to experience city life and the beautiful areas that surround it.
New South Wales has amazing contrasting landscapes and attractions, and many of these are extremely close to Sydney. It seems that every landmark is a starting point for exploring another, and the landmarks here are endless. Sydney is also a perfect stopping place for those travelling to the ski slopes south from Canberra, or the Blue Mountains, which are situated only an hour inland.
The climate here is very similiar to Mediterranean temperatures, and there are no major extremes in weather. Mid summer can sizzle to over 30 degrees, but winter chills are bearable as long as you remember to pack a warm jacket.
There are an abundance of good caravan parks on the outskirts of Sydney, but if you want to stay closer, Lane Cove Tourist Park is a fantastic choice. Located only 12 km from the city, and backing onto a national park, it is in an ideally peaceful setting which is perfect while planning your itinerary. There are even canoes and kayake for hire!
The city centre is a thriving metropolis of blended cultures, foods and sights. There are endless opportunities and attractions, with most opting to start with the harbour at the Sydney Opera House. Highly regarded as one of the most unique wonders of the work, it is a photographer’s dream, and at every angle is dazzling to look at or explore.
Under the just as famous Sydney Harbour Bridge is the Rocks shopping district, which is likened to an outdoor museum. It is one of the oldest features of the city and is visited by many tourists and locals alike. You will need at least half a day to wander through the alleys and side streets to take in everything the shops and boutiques have to offer.
On the other side of the harbour is another ‘must do’ for the whole family, the Taronga Park Zoo. This world-famous zoo is home to an amazing collection of native animals, including lions and giraffes, it is rare to find a zoo with such a view as Darling Harbour and the city skyline. The ferry ride is almost as enjoyable as the zoo, with fantastic sights on all sides. You can take in everything this amazing city has to offer. On your return you can’t miss the Sydney Aquarium, also teeming with life under the water, and filled with aquatic displays that will take your breath away.
The Royal Botanic Gardens are within walking distance of the Opera House and will finish your day off on a high. They are a perfect place for a picnic lunch, with majestic trees and brilliant flower displays open to the public all year.
The surrounding suburbs of Sydney are just as beautiful as the city itself. Manly is one of Sydney’s beach suburbs, and skirts the Sydney Harbour National Park. There are lookouts along the coast route, and further along North Head Lookout rewards you with panoramic views of the city.
Driving inland from the city, a popular day trip is to the famous Blue Mountains National Park. This amazing example of Mother Nature is most famously known for its amazing ock formation, The Three Sisters. It takes about 90 minutes to get there, and also has camping facilities, swimming holes, fishing and bushwalking trails. One thing to remember is you must bring your own water. You will absolutely fall in love with this area at first glance, so make sure you know the best places to park your campervan beforehand so you come prepared.
Alternatively, the Royal National park is just over 30km south of Sydney, and holds the impressive title as the world’s second oldest park. Although not large, it has diverse attractions, with walking, cycling tracks, beaches, forests and rich vegetation making this an unforgettable experience. This park is the ideal location for an afternoon of relaxing with the family!
The beauty of driving a campervan here is that you choose where you want to go, and how you do it. Travelling around the Sydney district is just as enjoyable on foot or from the comforts of your vehicle, and it can’t be done in just a few days. You will need to either stay for a while to take in all the sights, or plan to come back again as the choices are endless, and the memories will last a lifetime.
