Ace Rental Cars Blog

From coastal cities to national parks, a road trip through New South Wales offers a range of experiences for every traveller. If you’re unsure of where to start, take a look at our guide of the best spots to stop, sit and savour along the way. Ready to go? Pick up the keys to your Ace rental car and let the feeling of the open road keep you company on your journey.

• Sydney
• Blue Mountains
• Newcastle
• Hunter Valley

Sydney

• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Sydney Opera House
• Circular Quay
• The Rocks

Attracting over eight million visitors per year, there’s a reason that Sydney is dubbed the unofficial capital of Australia. With landmark attractions, cosy corners and a bustling, waterfront atmosphere, your New South Wales adventure begins in the State’s capital. Your time here will be well spent exploring the main attractions - the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House - while also taking time out for moments of connection and relaxation at the Botanic Gardens and The Rocks. Adventurers can scale up to 134m high on the BridgeClimb to get 360-degree views of the harbour, while theatre fans can take a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the most iconic buildings in the world at the Opera House. There’s a wealth of delicious dining options on the Harbour for everyone to enjoy, and live entertainers frequent Circular Quay, making it a bustling hub of culture. For those who enjoy strolling through cobblestone streets and discovering charm around every corner, venture out to The Rocks. Just outside of Circular Quay, The Rocks sits in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge, offering visitors laneways and art galleries to journey through and admire.

Blue Mountains

• Grand Canyon Track
• Scenic World
• Giant Stairway
• Greater Blue Mountains Drive

Two hours out of Sydney, a world of wonder awaits at the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park, and there are many ways to see the best of the scenic landscapes. On foot, hike the 5.8km Grand Canyon Track loop trail to journey through the sweeping valleys, admire cascading waterfalls and soak up breathtaking views you won’t get anywhere else. Be sure to prepare for muddy conditions if visiting after rainfall. The town of Katoomba is centrally located in the heart of the Blue Mountains, making it the perfect place to set off and discover the area. At Scenic World, choose between the scenic railway, cableway, walkway, or skyway to look over the picturesque Jamison Valley. From the Echo Point Lookout, you can admire the Mountains’ famed ‘Three Sisters’ rock formation and descend the 998 stone steps of the Giant Stairway to get a closer look at the towering structures. Put the rental car to good use with the Greater Blue Mountains Drive that encompasses sights such as the Katoomba Falls, Leura Cascades Park and Wentworth Falls.

Newcastle

• Newcastle Beach
• Bathers Way Walk

Known for its beautiful beaches, Newcastle is the perfect place to put your bathers and towel to good use and head out on a beach day. The Newcastle main beach offers scenic views of the coast and ideal surfing conditions attract visitors from all over. Enjoy a day spent on the shore during your holiday and take a moment to soak up the feeling of vacation. One of the best ways to discover a new city is to set off on foot, and the Bathers Way Walk allows you to do just that. Starting from Merewether Beach, the 6km trail passes through beaches along the coastline, the Strzelecki Lookout, and ends at Nobbys Beach where you can see the iconic Nobbys Lighthouse in the distance. This trail provides ideal opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and picturesque spots to capture memories for your photo album.

Hunter Valley

• Tyrrell’s Wines
• Restaurant Cuvee
• Leaves and Fishes

It wouldn’t be a New South Wales Road trip without a visit to the Hunter Valley - one of the country’s oldest wine regions, renowned for its premium varieties. An hour inland from Newcastle, Pokolbin is the epicentre of the Valley, hosting the most wineries in the region. At Tyrrell's Wines, a number of tasting experiences are on offer. With everything from Single Vineyard tastings to cheese platters with a view, wine lovers are spoiled for choice at Tyrrell’s. Visit here for a taste of their renowned Shiraz, Semillon and Chardonnay and take in the views of the vineyard. When taking part in wine tastings, remember to appoint a designated driver. After all that driving, it’s time to indulge in a delicious meal and in the Hunter Valley region, the choices are endless. From a continental breakfast with the works at Restaurant Cuvee to casual dining at Leaves and Fishes, there’s a cuisine to suit every taste and you’re blessed with a beautiful scenic setting to dine in.

With views to be envied, delicious dining options and landmark experiences, a solo trip through New South Wales is a feast for the senses. Though travelling solo, you won’t feel alone when comforted by the region’s charm and hospitality.