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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. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Time to Visit Victoria

Ready to explore but not sure what time of the year to visit Victoria? With vastly different seasons and weather across this Australian state, make the most of your road trip holiday by planning your travel itinerary around these must-see Victoria events, seasons, and important timings.

 

The weather in Victoria

Ah, the weather. There is a reason why queries like ‘What is the best weather in Victoria, Australia?’ are frequently searched online – the weather can have a very positive impact on your Victoria road trip. However, unlike some states in Australia, Victoria doesn’t have a specific dry season so if you’re wondering when the rainy months in Victoria are, it’s not quite as clear cut in this southern state. Ranging from hot, balmy days to snow fall, the weather in Victoria is highly changeable. February in Victoria is generally the warmest time of the year. However, this differs across the state as you’re more likely to experience hot and semi-arid temperatures in north-western Victoria where it will still be cooler and temperate along the coast. 

In winter, Victoria High Country’s snowfall makes it popular for skiing and snowboarding and while many ask what is the best month to visit Melbourne, Melbourne weather is famous for literally changing by the hour (although October tends to be Melbourne’s wettest month). So, if you’re asking ‘What is the best season in Victoria?’ the answer really depends on what type of a holiday you are after and that’s why we’ve broken down how to make the most of each season in Victoria below.

 

The busiest time for travel in Victoria

As December to February tends to be the warmest time in Victoria and, of course, hosts the summer school holidays, this is often the most popular time for travel in Victoria. If you’d rather escape the crowds, it’s a good idea to aim for spring and autumn Victoria road trip holidays as the weather tends to be cooler and slightly wetter, thus quieter. You may need to pack an extra jumper or two, but you’ll be able to enjoy your family motorhome holiday with less people around.

 

The cheapest time for travel in Victoria

If you want your dollars to stretch further, the cheapest time to travel to Victoria is in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. Winter is also a great season for the budget conscious traveller as less people around tends to equal cheaper prices. As a general rule, Victoria holiday parks are usually cheaper outside of summer and the Australian and New Zealand school holidays.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out on Apollo motorhome and campervan hire specials, including our long hire discounts.  

 

Things to do in Victoria in Spring

Attend Cherry Hill Blossom Festival

If you’re road tripping Victoria in spring, you cannot miss the Cherry Hill Blossom Festival. Experience the Cherry Hill Blossom Festival magic with flower displays, workshops, craft stalls and food vans. Be sure not to leave without a scoop of their famous cherry ice-cream.

 

Watch the Massive Murray Paddle

November brings the Massive Murray Paddle event to Victoria. Held each year to fundraise for local charities, the Massive Murray Paddle is a phenomenal 5-day padding race down the Murray River. Starting in Yarrawonga and finishing in Koondrook Wharf, ensure your Victoria road trip coincides with enroute race watchpoints at Tocumwal, Moama, Echuca, Gunbower, and Koondrook towns.

 

Things to do in Victoria in Summer

Attend the annual event Feastival

Celebrate the Victoria region’s country character at the three-day summer festival ‘FEASTIVAL.’ Held at Falls Creek in High Country Victoria, enjoy music, art, comedy, food, markets, and even stargazing expeditions. Sing, dance, and laugh your way through the weekend festival with performances from both the internationally renowned and local talent.

 

Hit the water to cool off

There’s no doubt that summer is the best season in Victoria for swimming. So be sure to include some of the best beaches and waterholes to cool off in your summer road trip travel itinerary. If you’re hitting Victoria’s beaches, from the famous surfing Bells Beach to Melbourne’s St Kilda Beach and Brighton Beach, remember to always swim between the flags, and if you’re exploring inland be sure to include Lake Bolac in Eastern Grampians, the famous Murray River, and Rock Steps in Yarra Valley to your summer swim list.

 

Things to do in Victoria in Autumn

Enjoy the Gippsland wine region

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Victoria in Autumn is Gippsland. Located in the south-eastern part of Victoria, Gippsland Vic is renowned for wineries and delicious produce. From the Cannibal Creek Vineyard, found just an hour out of Melbourne, to the award-winning Gippsland Wine Company, you can spend a few days working your way through the delectable food and drink of the Gippsland region. Just a friendly but obvious reminder to secure your campervan at its night destination before visiting the wineries and not drink and drive.

 

Visit the farm gates in High Country

Foodies rejoice, for the farm gates in the High Country Victoria are just waiting to welcome you. Take your motorhome through the Victoria High Country and indulge in the region’s best produce. Enjoy cheese from the Little Cedar Farmhouse and olives from Gooramadda Olives before partaking in cooking classes at Black Barn Farm and berry and cherry picking with the kids at High Grove Berry Farm. We guarantee the High Country farm gates have something for everyone – even the pickiest of eaters.

 

Things to do in Victoria in Winter

Attend Mansfield Lantern Festival

Winter may mean longer nights, but in Victoria they celebrate this with the Mansfield Lantern Festival. Held on the longest night of the year (also known as the winter solstice) this free entry festival is set at the base of the beautiful snow-capped Mt Buller in High Country Victoria. Watch the lantern parade and enjoy brilliant live music and performance. After you’ve indulged in all the tasty local food and drink, your Apollo campervan (and warm bed!) is only a short distance away.

 

Enjoy the snow

If you’re visiting in winter, make the most of the weather and head to the Victoria ski resorts! Victoria boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding conditions in Australia and the popular Mount Buller Ski Resort and Falls Creek Ski Resort see thousands of visitors each winter. Pick up your Apollo motorhome in Melbourne and head to the High Country. Here there is something for all skill levels, from the well-seasoned cross-country skier to those starting out with skiing and snowboarding lessons. Got little ones that aren’t ready to ski? Every Victoria High Country mountain has room for snowball fights, snowmen and tobogganing making it the perfect family winter road trip destination.

 

Where to stay in Victoria

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Inverloch

Situated just 90 minutes from Melbourne, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Inverloch is the perfect base for exploring both the Anderson Inlet and the nearby Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory. This family friendly motorhome and camper park features an indoor heated water park (complete with tipping bucket!) and pump track for bikes and scooters.

 

BIG4 Albury Tourist Park

While you may be hopping just over the border into New South Wales for this one, the BIG4 Albury Tourist Park is near the famous Murray River, making it a fantastic base for the northern Victoria region. Hosting a range of powered sites, a heated pool, and a barbeque area, keep the kids entertained at the BIG4 playground and enjoy a relaxing sunset at the nearby Hume Dam.

 

BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park

To tick off the best things to do and places to visit in Melbourne, you need a base and that’s where BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park comes in. With powered and unpowered sites along with a variety of cabins, this BIG4 park is located just 9km from the Melbourne CBD so you can enjoy the famous Melbourne coffee scene plus family friendly Melbourne tourist attractions like the Melbourne museum.

 

Need an itinerary for your Victoria adventure?

Now we’ve established the different types of holidays waiting for you at each time of the year in Victoria, it’s time to plan your perfect road trip. First, make sure you’ve got a list of everything you want to see. Our best things to do in Melbournethe best stops along the Great Ocean Road and how to make the most of Melbourne as a family guides can help you.

Rather follow a pre-made travel itinerary? We’ve got you covered with our 3 days on the Great Ocean Road itinerary or our longer Great Ocean Road and Grampians road trip itinerary

 

Explore more of Victoria with Apollo

So, whether you visit in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, make the most of your Victoria adventure by hiring an Apollo campervan and starting your Victoria road trip adventure.

 

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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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