The next long weekend is approaching and it’s a chance for us to help communities that were badly affected by the bushfires.
This fire season was awful. We saw towns and communities devastated by the searing fires around them. But we also saw a rise in the great Australian spirit. Of people rallying together, saying “how can we help”.
Now some of the fires are completely out, some of them under control. So what can you do to help those communities who lost out on the yearly tourism influx? Drive there, spend the weekend, and help to replenish the tourism spend they lost out on.
We’ve put together a quick guide to the regions to visit that are within a few hours’ drive from Sydney.
Shoalhaven, NSW
From Nowra down to Batemans Bay– this usually very popular tourist destination was hit very badly by the surrounding Currowan fire. However, the fire is now completely extinguished so this area is open and ready for business. Within a few hours, you can be somewhere spectacular. Whether that’s a coast town or inland a little.
Places to eat
There are many delicious places to enjoy some tucker down here. From homely tea shops like The Berry Tea Shop to the Pilgrims Vegetarian Café. Or boutique wineries like Cupitts set between Milton and Ulladulla, Cambewarra Estate winery in Bangalee, or Lyrebird Ridge Organic Winery in Nowra.
Places to stay
It really depends on what sort of long weekend away you want. If you’re looking for a camping adventure, there are some breathtaking spots to pitch your tent – Honeymoon Bay in Jervis Bay or Shoalhaven Zoo Camping Reserve. For those that like something a little more luxurious like a farm stay, retreat or lodge, take a look at the Crystal Creek Meadows Luxury Cottages in Kangaroo Valley, or Black Forest Retreat just outside of Berry.
For more ideas of where to eat, play, and stay, visit Rejuvenate in the Shoalhaven.
Blue Mountains, NSW
The Blue Mountains is normally a thriving hub of tourism, all year round. Unfortunately, the devastating fires of this summer have seen visitor numbers down across those areas directly affected, and also those not.
Places to eat
Pack your appetite before you set off because there are lots of choices for dining. From Echoes Restaurant where you’ll dine with a view over the escarpment, to the Katoomba Family Hotel. Or, if you fancy a little cider Aperitif, why not head to Bilpin to help pick some fruit and see how they make their famous pure, fresh apple and pear ciders.
Places to stay
When you’re in the Blue Mountains, you can choose between iconic, timeless hotels like The Carrington and Hydro Majestic, boutique heritage properties like the Palais Royale or Kurrara Guest House, or self-contained cottages like Veronica Cottage and farm stays like the Bilpin Country Lodge.
For more information go to visitbluemountains.com.au