New South Wales Travel Guide

New South Wales, Australia — Things to Do

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Skiing

Australia's winter playground is in the peaks of the Snowy Mountains, about 315 miles (500km) south of Sydney, where there are more than 145 miles (230km) of ski-trails, graded from beginner to championship level. The ski season lasts from June to October. The ski resorts are known for their warm hospitality, spectacular scenery, and their apres-ski entertainment. The largest resort is Perisher Blue, which is actually four resorts united to form a Mecca for snow-seekers. Another, at the foot of Mount Crackenback, is the resort of Thredbo, which is a recreation of a European Alpine village and features Australia's longest ski run, known as the Funnelweb.

Surfing

Surfing in Australia has become more of a culture than a sport, the long coastline providing countless beaches with a diverse spread of wave scapes, from giant storm to perfect point breaks at Kirra and Ragland in Western Australia, and fun beach breaks. No matter what time of year, there will be good waves somewhere in Oz, whether it be on the big-city beaches of Sydney, a seaside town in Victoria, along the Queensland Gold Coast or somewhere more remote like in the north west.

Bridge Climb

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a unique experience which thrills visitors and locals alike. Climbers are carefully prepared with a briefing and safety demonstration, and take on the bridge in groups of 12 at 10-minute intervals from early morning to evening every day. Climbers can choose between two guideded experiences, the Bridge Climb or the Discovery Climb: the original Bridge Climb takes visitors along catwalks and up ladders to the summit, while the Discovery Climb allows a closer look at the workings of the bridge. Most popular climb time is at twilight, when the breathtaking view from the top of the bridge is enhanced by sunset. The entire operation from preparation to descent takes three and a half hours. Each climber receives a certificate and a group photograph as a souvenir of the experience. Booking ahead is recommended to ensure you don't miss your preferred date and time.

Sydney Tower Skywalk

The Sydney Tower Skywalk is the city's highest open air adventure, situated at 853 feet (260m) above the ground. The open air viewing platform is only accessible as part of a tour, and allows thrill seekers to step out onto the glass floor and literally walk on the roof of the city. Participants are attached by harness to the external walkway and are accompanied by a guide, providing colorful commentary of Sydney from a unique perspective.