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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. 

Apollo Team
/ Categories: AU Blog

Grey Nomads Guide to the NT

Alice Springs to Uluru

Originally produced by Tourism NT

If you are among the growing network of the grey nomads’ club (or are hoping to be) and looking to discover first-hand the unspoilt beauty, culture and character of the Northern Territory, there is no better time to set off on an experience of a life time!

With incredible specials on offer throughout the year you can afford to take your time – it’s all about the experience after all – so while planning is important, be sure to leave a few unplanned days up your sleeve so can make the most of your NT holiday.  If you are up for a outback adventure off the beaten track, the Adventure Camper is what you are looking for, offering 4WD for unsealed roads, extra fuel capacity and outdoor cooking features.

Let us help you plan your adventure with the Grey Nomads Guide to Alice Springs and Uluru.

Image Credit: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Day 1: Alice Springs

A short 5-minute drive from the Apollo branch, Alice Springs is a great starting point for your Top End itinerary. Once inhabited by the Arrernte people, Alice Springs is the spiritual heart of Australia and the gateway to some of Northern Territory landmarks, bucket list experiences and awe-inspiring landscapes.  While there is so much to experience nearby to Alice Springs, it’s worthwhile taking the time to explore the town itself when you arrive.  If you are looking for what to do in Alice Springs, there is a lot to experience.  Browse through art galleries showcasing traditional art work, explore museums, visit the Aboriginal fabric gallery, pick up groceries for your trip and enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Image Credit: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Day 2: Ellery Creek Big Hole

Travel time: 1 hour

Distance: 80 km

Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the most popular and picturesque places to visit in the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park and thousands of years of massive floods have carved out an incredible outback oasis surrounded by high red cliffs.  Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as you walk along the peaceful 3 km Dolomite loop (approximately 1.5 hours) before spending the afternoon swimming in the biggest and deepest water hole in Central Australia and enjoying a picnic lunch.

 

Day 3: Rainbow Valley and Yulara

Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes.

Distance: 97 km

Today you will be heading south along the Stuart highway to Yulara in preparation for ticking off your bucket list Red Centre experiences.  There is so much beautiful landscape to see and experience along the way and your first stop today is the Rainbow Valley Conservation reserve.

The Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve is home to incredible sandstone bluffs and cliffs which are impressive in the soft morning light so if you are looking for photographic mementos, make certain to get an early start.  Take your time exploring Mushroom rock, an interesting sandstone formation carved by wind and rain over millions of years which is well worth visiting as is venturing along the short 1.6 km claypan walk, with exceptional views of Rainbow Valley.

Head back along the Stuart highway and onto the Lasseter Highway, arriving at Yulara at the Ayres Rock Resort camp grounds where you can rest and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure!

 

Day 4 & 5: Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Uluru

Travel time: 37 minutes

Distance: 50.6km

Uluru and its lesser known sibling Kata Tjuta are among some of the top experiences which you can add to your Northern Territory itinerary.  We recommend taking your time and experiencing these incredible wonders over 2 separate days, however as they are located close nearby each other, they can be visited in one (full) day.  Most tours see tourists visiting Uluru in the morning so if you do decide to combine the two, we recommend that you head to Kata Tjuta first.

Image Credit: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Kata Tjuta

Kata Tjuta is a group of large ancient rock formations and while it may be the lesser known of the two, the tallest dome is higher than Uluru rising 546 metres above the plain. Walking is the best way to make the most of the experience, when you arrive set out on the 30-minute Kata Tjuta Dune trail and take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the domes at sunrise.  The Valley of the Winds walk has a few magnificent lookout points along the trail.  If you are spending a full day you can walk the full circuit (7.4 km) taking 3-4 hours, or simply head to the Karu lookout which is an hour return trip (2.2km) leaving you time to visit Uluru in the afternoon if that’s on the cards.  Find out more about Kat Tjuta walks HERE.

 

Uluru

Travel time: 45 minutes

Distance: 53km

Uluru is the ultimate bucket list item for Australians and tourists from all over the world.  There are several Uluru walking trails to explore and if you are planning to spend a full day, taking the full Uluru base walk 10.6km loop (approximately 3.5 hours) is an incredible way to appreciate the natural beauty of Uluru.  You can also take part in the free 1.5 hour ranger guided Mala Walk along Uluru’s base (2km return), where you can learn about traditional Anangu culture and rock art.  Aim to be there for either sunrise or sunset – or both – as watching the sacred rock change its colour to several hues of terracotta and crimson is an unforgettable experience.

Image credit: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Day 6 & 7: Kings Canyon

Travel time: 4 hours

Distance: 303km

A trip to the Red Centre is not complete without visiting Kings Canyon.  You can easily spend two or 3 days here with several spectacular walks and waterholes to explore.  When you arrive, we suggest you take a walk to Kathleen Springs (2.5km, 1.5 hours return) where you can enjoy lunch by spring fed waterhole which holds special significance to the local Aboriginal people.  In the afternoon take a walk along the South Wall (4.8km, 2 hour return), scaling the towering Kings Canyon and taking in the scenic landscape of rugged ranges and gorges as the sun sets over the Watarrka National Park.

Get an early start the next day and instead of hitting the road, enjoy a walk along the Kings Canyon Rim, a 6 km loop (3-4 hours) and enjoy watching the sun rise and exploring at your leisure. Camping is not allowed in the National Park however you can set up camp at the Kings Canyon Resort located nearby.

Image Credit: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Day 8: Kings Canyon to Palm Valley

Travel time: 7 hours

Distance: 214km

Day 8 sees you take the 214 kilometre scenic route driving from Kings Canyon to Palm Valley located within the Finke Gorge National Park which is of great cultural significance to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people and an important wilderness reserve that protects the Finke River which dates back to 350 million years and believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. The road is accessible via 4-wheel drive and as you will arrive late afternoon, it’s a good idea to set up camp so that you can relax after your drive and be ready to explore the next day.

 

Day 9: Palm Valley

Palm Valley is a maze of sandstone amphitheatres, pinnacles and gorges and home to the Red Cabbage Palm which are believed to have been established in the area as far back as prehistoric time when the climate was able to support a type of tropical rainforest in the region. The Arankaia walk (2km, 1 hour) and the longer Mpulungkinya walk (5km, 2 hour) is a must during your visit.  Both walks see you wandering amongst the palms bringing you back across the plateau to the carpark below.

The Kalaranga Lookout also located within the National Park offers an easy 20-minute climb (1.5 km / 45-minute return) and well worth the effort offering spectacular views of the sandstone amphitheatre.  The Mpaara Walk (5km, 2 hours return) introduces some of the mythology of Western Arrernte Aboriginal culture and here you will be rewarded with more incredible views of nature’s ampitheatre.

 

Day 10: Palm Valley to Alice Springs

Travel time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Distance: 127km

The last day of Part 1 of the Grey Nomads Guide to the Top End sees you on a leisurely drive back to Alice Springs where you can either add on the soon to be revealed Part 2 of our Northern Territory itinerary or onto your next Grey Nomad adventure.

If you have time to spare visit to the Owen Springs Reserve on the way to Alice Springs and a few minutes from town.  Lunch by the side of the Hugh River at one of the many broad sandy banks lined with beautiful River Red Gums watching the bird life and enjoying being surrounded by nature.

 

Ready to start planning your NT adventure? Click HERE to check availability!

 

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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.

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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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