Top Reasons to Go

Getting in Touch with Nature: Exotic birds are prolific in the Blue Mountains and North Coast regions, and Canberra isn't known as the "Bush Capital" for nothing.

The Great Australian Bite: There are lots of fine restaurants in the Hunter Valley and in the North Coast towns of Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. Fish-and-chips on the beach is a must.

Outdoor Adventure: The region's mountains and national parks offer opportunities for walks and hikes, horseback riding, rappelling, canyoning, and rock climbing.

World-Class Wineries: The Hunter Valley has an international reputation for producing excellent Chardonnay, Shiraz, and a dry Sémillon.

Deserted Beaches: The coastline has some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in the country. Most of them are wonderfully undeveloped and crowd-free, with hardly a skyscraper in sight.