Spring Flowers In NSW: Road Trip Itinerary

Morning: Coastal Walk in Royal National Park Start your day with an early departure from Sydney to the Royal National Park, which is only about an hour’s drive away! You’ll find plenty of nature spotting opportunities, and it’s a chance to stretch your legs before setting off on your NSW road trip to Shoalhaven.

Take a quick scenic walk along the park’s rugged cliffs first! Have your camera ready because you’ll find many coastal landscapes and vibrant wildflowers in full bloom.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting in Shoalhaven When you’re ready, continue your motorhome road trip over to Shoalhaven, which should take another hour. Head straight to any of the renowned local wineries for a wine-tasting tour.

Explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of Shoalhaven’s best wines. Popular options include Coolangatta Estate and Two Figs Winery. Whilst you’re there it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll want to stop for a light lunch and a cheese platter!

Evening: Make A Pitstop For Sunset at Jervis Bay If your holiday park is lenient on check-in times for the evening, make a detour to drive down to Jervis Bay and unwind by the water. If you’re lucky, you might spot some playful dolphins or other marine life. Sunset is the prime time for photo opportunities!

Consider having dinner at a local seaside restaurant such as The Gunyah Restaurant or The Huskisson Hotel, which has fresh seafood and stunning views.

Campsite recommendation: Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads

Jervis Bay, Destination NSW

Morning: Visit Fitzroy Falls Start your day with an easy road trip from Shoalhaven to Fitzroy Falls, which should take around 1 hour. These Falls offer a breathtaking view of cascading water tumbling over 80 metres into the valley below.

Stretch your legs with the easy walking track along the cliff edge for stunning views and opportunities to see native wildlife and wildflowers in bloom. We hope you charged your camera!

Afternoon: Floral Tours and Workshops in Goulburn Continue your journey to Goulburn and dive into the local flower scene with a guided tour or workshop. Many options focus on seasonal blooms, especially at the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre gardens, where you’ll find a variety of native and exotic flowers on display. You can also explore the history of the railway while enjoying the beautiful gardens.

Evening: Visit the Big Merino Stop by your campsite to check in for the evening before ending the day with a visit to the iconic Big Merino. This giant concrete merino sheep is one of Australia’s famous “big” things and offers a unique photo opportunity. Climb inside and make your way to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area and visit the gift shop for wool products and local souvenirs.

Afterwards, enjoy dinner at one of Goulburn’s local eateries. Options include the Roses Cafe for a cosy atmosphere or Tattersalls Hotel for a classic pub meal.

Campsite recommendation: BIG4 Governors Holl Carapark

Fitzroy Falls, Kramer Photography; www.kramer.photography

Morning: Riverside Picnic in Jugiong Start your day with a leisurely drive from Goulburn to the quaint town of Jugiong for breakfast! Jugiong is best known for its fantastic picnic spots along the Murrumbidgee River, so you’ll want to stop by for a peaceful riverside feast.

Pack a picnic basket or grab some local goodies from the Long Track Pantry, a beloved spot in town known for its artisanal products and gourmet treats.

Afternoon: Garden and Craft Fairs After your relaxing morning, check out local listings for any garden and craft fairs in the area. Jugiong often hosts events showcasing local crafts, produce, and flowers, providing a great opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts.

Wander through the stalls at your own pace and support the local artisans and farmers.

Evening: Farmers’ Markets and Wildflower Spotting in Harden Continue your journey with a drive to Harden, about 45 minutes from Jugiong. Once there, stop by some local parks and reserves for wildflower spotting. If you arrive early enough you might also find a farmers’ market where you can pick up fresh produce and local specialties.

The surrounding countryside is also perfect for a peaceful evening walk.

End your day with dinner at a local Harden pub or restaurant. For a classic country meal, consider the Carrington Hotel, known for its friendly service and hearty dishes.

Campsite recommendation: Harden Showground

Long Track Pantry, Destination NSW

Morning: Cherry Blossom Festival and Orchard Tours Start your day in Young, known as the “Cherry Capital of Australia.” In spring you’ll want to check out the local cherry blossom festival, which celebrates the beautiful blossoms with various events and activities.

If the festival is not on, many orchards in the area offer tours where you can see the cherry trees in bloom and even join in on the fruit picking. Popular orchards like Ballinaclash and Allambie Orchards offer guided tours and the opportunity to pick your own cherries or other seasonal fruits.

Afternoon: Visit the Lambing Flat Folk Museum After your morning among the cherry blossoms, head to the Lambing Flat Folk Museum. This museum will give you a sneak peek at Young’s history, particularly the turbulent gold rush era and the Lambing Flat riots.

The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s past. It’s an enriching experience that’ll add historical depth to your trip.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Young After your day of exploration, unwind in the evening with a wander around the town or enjoy a quiet evening at your accommodation. For dinner, consider visiting The Young Services Club or Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory, where you can enjoy a hearty meal or indulge in some sweet treats made from local produce.

Campsite recommendation: Young Tourist Caravan Park

Young, Destination NSW

Morning: Local Foods and Craft Fairs Begin your day by exploring Junee’s vibrant local food scene and craft fairs. Check out the local markets or craft fairs, where you can find artisanal goods, handmade crafts, and delicious local produce. Junee is known for its strong community spirit, so these markets often feature a wide variety of products made by local artisans. This is a great opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs or sample regional specialties.

Afternoon: Junee Liquorice and Chocolate Factory After the morning at the markets, treat yourself to a visit to the Junee Liquorice and Chocolate Factory. Take a guided tour of the factory to learn about the process of making organic liquorice and chocolate.

After the tour, indulge in some tasting, where you can sample a variety of their sweet creations. The factory also has a cafe where you can relax with a coffee and a chocolate treat, or you might want to pick up some goodies to take with you.

Late Afternoon: Garden Walks in Junee After your sweet experience, enjoy a peaceful garden walk in one of Junee’s local parks or gardens. Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens, where you can appreciate the seasonal flowers and serene environment. The gardens offer a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Evening: Visit Monte Cristo Homestead Finish the day with a visit to the Monte Cristo Homestead, known as Australia’s most haunted house. Take a guided tour of this historic homestead, where you’ll learn about its eerie history and the legends that surround it.

Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or simply enjoy historic homes, Monte Cristo offers a fascinating glimpse into Junee’s past. The tour is especially atmospheric in the evening, adding to the mystique.

If you’re up for more after your Monte Cristo visit, consider dinner at The Railway Cafe or The Red Cow Hotel, both offering a range of delicious local dishes.

Campsite recommendation: Junee Tourist Park

Junee Licorice and Chocolate, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Junee and Agricultural Fairs Start your day with a short drive from Junee to Coolamon, which takes about 30 minutes. Upon your arrival in Coolamon, visit any local agricultural fairs if they are happening during your visit. These fairs often showcase the best of the region’s farming practices, with displays of livestock, produce, and farming equipment. It’s a great way to get a feel for the local community and their agricultural traditions.

Afternoon: Seasonal Blooms and Wildflower Spotting After the fair, head to one of Coolamon’s local gardens or nature reserves to enjoy the seasonal blooms and spot wildflowers. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, where you’ll find a variety of native and exotic flowers in full bloom.

Look out for wildflowers during the day!

Late Afternoon: Coolamon Cheese Factory Visit Next, make your way to the Coolamon Cheese Factory, a must-visit for any foodie. Take a tour of the factory to learn about the artisanal cheese-making process. You’ll have the chance to sample a range of locally produced cheeses, each with its own unique flavour profile. The factory also has a shop where you can purchase cheese to enjoy later or bring home as a tasty souvenir.

Evening: Relaxation and Local Dining in Coolamon After your day of exploration, relax in the evening with a stroll around Coolamon or enjoy a quiet evening at your accommodation.

For dinner, consider dining at one of Coolamon’s local eateries, such as the Up-to-Date Store Cafe, which offers a cosy setting and delicious, locally sourced meals.

Campsite recommendation: Coolamon Caravan Park

Coolamon, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Coolamon and Arrival in Temora Begin your day with a drive from Coolamon to Temora, which takes about 40 minutes. Enjoy the scenic countryside as you head towards Temora, a town known for its rich aviation history.

Late Morning: Visit the Temora Aviation Museum Upon arrival in Temora, head straight to the Temora Aviation Museum, one of the town’s most famous attractions. Explore the museum’s impressive collection of historic aircraft, many of which are still operational.

The museum often hosts flying displays, so check in advance to see if any are scheduled during your visit. These displays offer a rare opportunity to see vintage aircraft in action.

Afternoon: Explore Temora’s Local Charm After the museum visit, take some time to properly explore the town of Temora. Wander through the local shops and cafes, and visit a local park or the Temora Rural Museum if time allows.

The Rural Museum offers insights into the region’s agricultural heritage, featuring exhibits on everything from vintage machinery to pioneer life. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture and history.

Late Afternoon: Relaxation and Scenic Walks Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with a stroll through one of Temora’s parks or natural reserves. Temora’s parks are well-maintained and perfect for a leisurely walk. You might spot local wildlife or enjoy the seasonal blooms in the gardens.

Evening: Dining and Relaxation in Temora End your day with dinner at a local restaurant in Temora. Consider trying the Temora Ex-Services Memorial Club, which offers a variety of dishes in a friendly, community-oriented setting. Alternatively, the Shamrock Hotel is another great choice for a hearty meal.

Campsite recommendation: Temora Caravan Park

Canola Trail, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Temora and Arrival in Griffith The next leg of your NSW road trip itinerary takes you from Temora to Griffith with a scenic drive through the Riverina region, known for its vineyards and agriculture.

Late Morning: Wine Tasting at Griffith Vineyards Begin your Griffith experience with a visit to one of the region’s premier vineyards. Head to a renowned winery like De Bortoli Wines or Calabria Family Wines for a guided tour and wine tasting. Learn about the winemaking process and sample a selection of the winery’s best offerings.

Afternoon: Scenic Drive and Local Exploration After your wine tasting, go for a trip through the surrounding countryside. Explore the Scenic Hill Reserve, offering panoramic views of Griffith. Visit the Hermit’s Cave, a historical site with fascinating tales of its former inhabitant. This is a great spot for some light hiking and photography. Allocate at least 2 hours for the drive and exploration of the Scenic Hill area.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Griffith Conclude your day with a relaxing evening in Griffith. Enjoy dinner at Limone Dining, where the menu focuses on local, seasonal ingredients, or try La Scala Restaurant for authentic Italian cuisine.

DAY 2 GRIFFITH

Morning: Visit Griffith Pioneer Park Museum Rise and shine! Start your day with a visit to the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum. This open-air museum provides a comprehensive look at Griffith’s history through its collection of historic buildings and artifacts. Wander through the recreated pioneer village, including a schoolhouse, blacksmith’s shop, and other period buildings that bring the past to life.

Afternoon: Local Markets and Produce Shops After the museum, explore Griffith’s local produce markets or specialty shops. Sample and purchase local products such as olive oil, fruits, and cheeses, which Griffith is known for. This is a great opportunity to interact with local vendors and enjoy fresh, regional flavours.

Late Afternoon: Relaxation and Leisure Spend your late afternoon relaxing, perhaps visiting a local park or enjoying a coffee at one of Griffith’s cafes. Take it easy and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant town. If there’s time, you might also explore additional attractions like the Cocoparra National Park, known for its rugged beauty and walking trails.

Evening: Final Dinner in Griffith For your final evening in Griffith, choose another local dining spot to experience more of the town’s culinary offerings. Consider dining at Zecca Handmade Italian, where you can enjoy a meal inspired by traditional Italian cooking with a modern twist.

Campsite recommendation: Griffith Caravan Village

Hermit’s Cave, Destination NSW

Late Morning: Scenic Adventures At Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre Upon your arrival in Cowra, you’ll want to explore some of the town’s cultural and historical attractions. The next stop on your spring NSW trip is the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, which will be full of stunning spring blossoms.

Afternoon: Cultural Exploration Spend the rest of the day learning about Cowra’s history during WWII at the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp site, which offers a sobering look at the past.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Cowra Wind down your day with a stroll through the town, visit local shops, or relax at your accommodation. For dinner, consider trying local favourites like The Quarry Restaurant, offering a menu that features fresh, regional produce.

Campsite recommendation: Cowra Van Park

Cowra Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Cowra and Scenic Drive to Orange Get ready for another big highlight on your NSW itinerary! Start your day with a drive from Griffith to Orange, taking your time to enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Central West region as you make your way to Orange, a town renowned for its cool climate wines, rich history, and beautiful gardens. Make sure you make plenty of stops along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Orange and Visit a Local Vineyard When you get to Orange, head to one of the town’s famous vineyards for a relaxing afternoon. Orange is known for its cool climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Shiraz.

Visit a well-regarded vineyard, such as Philip Shaw Wines or Ross Hill Wines, for a tasting. Learn about the region’s unique terroir and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Late Afternoon: Explore Cook Park and Botanic Gardens After your wine tasting, visit Cook Park, one of Orange’s most beautiful and historic gardens. Stroll through the Victorian-era gardens, featuring a variety of seasonal flowers, heritage trees, and a charming duck pond. If time allows, also visit the Orange Botanic Gardens, which showcases native plants and themed garden areas.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Orange Finish your day with a relaxing evening enjoying a meal at one of the town’s renowned restaurants. Consider dining at Lolli Redini, a one-hatted restaurant known for its innovative menu featuring local produce, or Ferment, the Orange Wine Centre, which offers a wide selection of regional wines paired with delicious food.

Campsite recommendation: Canobolas Caravan Park

Cook Park, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Orange and Arrival in Bathurst Start your day with a road trip from Orange to Bathurst, which takes about 50 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque drive as you head towards Bathurst, Australia’s oldest inland settlement, famous for its motorsport history and vibrant cultural scene.

Late Morning: Visit to Mount Panorama Begin your Bathurst experience with a visit to Mount Panorama, one of the most famous motorsport tracks in the world. Drive the Mount Panorama Circuit, where you can experience the thrill of this iconic track (note that it’s a public road when races are not on, so be mindful of the speed limits).

Stop at the Mount Panorama Lookout for panoramic views of Bathurst and the surrounding countryside. If you’re a motorsport enthusiast, consider visiting the National Motor Racing Museum located at the base of the mountain, which showcases the history of Australian motorsport.

Afternoon: Explore Bathurst’s Historic Sites After your motorsport adventure, dive into Bathurst’s rich history by visiting some of the town’s key historical sites. Start with a visit to the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, home to an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and a complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton.

Next, head to the Bathurst Courthouse, a stunning example of Victorian architecture, and then stroll around Machattie Park, a beautifully landscaped garden that offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the town.

Late Afternoon: Scenic Drive and Visit to Abercrombie House Take a short drive to Abercrombie House, a heritage-listed mansion located just outside Bathurst. Abercrombie House is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, with beautifully maintained gardens and a rich history. Take a guided tour of the mansion to learn about its past and explore the extensive grounds. The house often hosts special events, so check if any are scheduled during your visit.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Bathurst End your day with a relaxing evening and a delicious dinner in Bathurst. For a memorable dining experience, visit The George Hotel, which offers a contemporary menu featuring local produce, or Vine & Tap, known for its Italian-inspired dishes and extensive wine list.

Campsite recommendation: NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park

Mount Panorama, Destination NSW

Morning: Departure from Bathurst and Arrival in the Blue Mountains Start your day with a drive from Bathurst to the Blue Mountains, which takes about 1 hour. Enjoy the scenic drive as you approach the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains, known for their dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and cascading waterfalls.

Late Morning: Visit the Three Sisters and Scenic World Begin your Blue Mountains adventure with a visit to the iconic Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point. Take in the breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters, one of the most photographed landmarks in Australia.

Afterward, head to Scenic World, where you can experience the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway for unique perspectives of the valley and rainforest below. The Scenic Walkway through the ancient rainforest is a must-do for nature lovers.

Afternoon: Leura Village and Leura Cascades

After Scenic World, drive to the charming village of Leura, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and gardens. Stroll through Leura Mall, where you can browse local shops for unique souvenirs and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafes. Afterwards, visit Leura Cascades, a short drive away, where you can take a peaceful

Evening: Relaxation and Dining in Katoomba End your day with a relaxing evening in Katoomba, the main town in the Blue Mountains. Consider dining at The Carrington Hotel for a touch of old-world charm, or at Avalon Restaurant, known for its eclectic menu and retro decor.

DAY 2 BLUE MOUNTAINS

Morning: Wentworth Falls and Surrounding Walks Start your day with a visit to Wentworth Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. Take the walking trails around Wentworth Falls, where you can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding valley.

The Charles Darwin Walk is a popular choice, leading to the falls through beautiful bushland. If you’re up for more adventure, the National Pass offers a more challenging hike with rewarding views.

Afternoon: Final Exploration and Departure for Sydney After your morning hike, take some time to explore any final spots in the Blue Mountains that you may have missed. You might visit the Govetts Leap lookout in Blackheath for one last stunning view of the Grose Valley.

Enjoy a quick lunch before beginning your journey back to Sydney. Depart the Blue Mountains by midday to allow for a comfortable drive back to Sydney.

Campsite recommendation: Katoomba Falls Tourist Park

Blue Mountains, Destination NSW