Blackheath Lookout. Image via sydneytoptours.com

Sydney is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, but even the most urbanite city dwellers need a break from the hustle and bustle once in a while. Luckily, there are many options for weekend escapes just a short drive from the city, including spots perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket.

Within easy reach of Sydney, you can find World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, gorgeous country towns, scenic mountain peaks, lush valleys, and sun-kissed beaches. Families looking for affordable weekend getaways will find plenty of kid-friendly activities to enjoy and picture-perfect picnic spots. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend getaway, an epic road trip, or just looking for short breaks for solo travellers, our list of the best weekend getaways from Sydney has got you covered.

Berry

Located only 1.5 hours south of Sydney, Berry is a historic town situated between the stunning Kangaroo Valley and the pristine beaches of the South Coast, making it a truly one-of-a-kind destination. With easy access to both mountains and beaches, visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim, explore the scenic bushwalking trails and indulge in wine tastings and acclaimed restaurants in town. It is a short drive to the renowned coastal town of Kiama and nearby Jerrara, where you’ll find the region’s first Eco Tourism unique accommodation provider, Cicada Luxury Camping, offer a luxurious and low carbon footprint glamping experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Berry offers the perfect balance of both, and provides an ideal base for a variety of accommodation and sightseeing options.

Blackheath

Only two hours away from both Sydney and Orange, the bohemian town of Blackheath boasts some of the most beautiful stone buildings and nostalgic weatherboard cottages in the state. Perched atop the Blue Mountains, it is surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping lookouts and views, and is the perfect starting point for exploring the area's breathtaking mountain trails. Blackheath also offers a variety of cuisine style, from fine dining to trendy cafes and local bars, as well as an eclectic shopping scene starring the local and retro, with quality antiques and collectibles in abundance. If you're visiting on the second Sunday of the month, be sure to check out the Growers Market and pick up some of Blackheath's famous rhododendrons.

Bowral

Bowral is the largest and most prosperous town of the Southern Highlands, renowned for its colourful tulip displays, rich cricket history, award-winning vineyards, and outstanding culinary offerings. Visitors can indulge in a range of activities from fly fishing, to exploring local galleries and up-market boutiques. In fact, one of the best experiences in Bowral is packing a picnic basket at Bendooley Estate with the local produce on offer, then hiking it up to Mt Gibraltar Reserve on the outskirts of town for some truly spectacular views atop a collapsed volcano. Bowral and the surrounding towns are indeed charming destinations for those seeking a fascinating blend of heritage, culture, and natural beauty, and all conveniently located under two hours of both Sydney and Canberra.

Central Coast

The Central Coast region, located just north of Sydney, has been quietly experiencing a renaissance in recent years, bringing sophisticated venues heaving with city-worthy bars, cafes, live music and a range of budget to Hatted dining options. From headland to hinterland, visitors are spoilt for choice with an array of lively town centres linked by waterways, each with their own hidden gems for travellers to discover and explore. Pristine beaches make for a relaxed seaside vibe common to each town, abundant with natural beauty and opportunities for water sports and activities, while a number of National Parks, with lakes, walking trails, camping grounds, waterfalls and conservation areas promise a paradise of outdoor adventuring. A host of upmarket hotels (like Toukley’s Miami-style ‘Beachcomber’) and attractions (like Ourimbah’s thrilling ‘Treetops Adventure’) draw visitors aplenty to the area, and many from major cities nationwide make the move to name the Central Coast their home.

Hawks Nest

Just under three hours north of Sydney lies Hawks Nest, a classic Australian seaside destination with a handful of impressive cafes, restaurants and galleries. Situated between the Tasman Sea and the Myall River, and at the mouth of the Myall Lakes National Park, it is the perfect base for an outdoor enthusiast. Excellent surfing, fishing, boating, water sports and bushwalks present themselves in and around the National Park, with unforgettable dolphin and whale watching opportunities in nearby Nelson Bay.

Hunter Valley

While the Hunter Valley, conveniently just two hours out of Sydney, is well-known for being the birthplace of Australian wines and a fabulous destination for concerts amongst the vineyards, there's much more to explore in NSW’s most notorious wine country. For a change of pace, head to historic Wollombi, where you can indulge in its 19th century architecture and well-preserved streets, or get involved in some great bushwalking, camping, and mountain bike trails in the nearby World-Heritage listed Yengo National Park. Alternatively, pack a picnic blanket, lay back and relax at one of the region’s many vineyards and lawns. Don’t forget to grab some local produce for your basket and pick up some goodies at The Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop in Pokolbin!

Hyams Beach

Hyams Beach, famous for its pristine, powdery white sand and fringed by National Park bushland, is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after beaches in the Jervis Bay region. During the summer months, families flock to the gentle waters of this paradise to swim, dive, snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, fish and birdwatch on the nearby beach trails. Hyams Beach is also part of the globally recognised White Sands Walk. Conveniently located just under three hours south of Sydney, Hyams Beach is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Kangaroo Valley

This secluded oasis, one of the most peaceful and leafy destinations in the state, is nestled between the Jervis Bay area and the Southern Highlands and is conveniently located just two hours away from both Sydney and Canberra. The Kangaroo River runs through the valley, providing nature-loving activities from kayaking and camping to horseback riding and hiking. Additionally, the area boasts indulgent experiences like spa retreats, plus local wineries and markets for visitors to explore. If you're in the mood for a scenic outing, Fitzroy and Gerringong Falls are less than 20km away and provide the perfect setting for a picturesque riverside picnic.

Oberon

For an unforgettable adventure playground in the Greater Blue Mountains region, make your way to the town of Oberon, 2.5 hours out of Sydney. Experience the seasons at their best; Oberon winters receive an enchanting layer of snow (and snowmen!), pleasantly mild summers, an explosion of colour in autumn, and daffodils blooming in spring. Here you'll discover some of the state's best horse-riding opportunities, scenic valley views, and exhilarating bike trails. If you're visiting in January, don't miss out on the opportunity to go glamping, row boating and book a picnic at Mayfield Garden, the largest privately owned cool climate garden in the Southern Hemisphere. And with the spectacular Jenolan Caves (the oldest caves in the world) a mere 30km away, Oberon is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an escape into nature.

Wolgan Valley

Nestled in the Blue Mountains, just a short 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, is picture-perfect Wolgan Valley, a World Heritage listed site that serves as both a conservation and wildlife reserve. The valley is also home to Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, a carbon-neutral resort that offers a luxury yet environmentally conscious experience. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region, savour locally sourced cuisine, and partake in various outdoor activities, including mountain biking, horse riding, bushwalking, wildlife safaris, and conservation work.

Ten best weekend escapes under three hours from Sydney