Whether you’re looking for alpine adventures or luxe retreats, the best winter towns in NSW have something for everyone. From outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes to quaint walking trails, charming inns, and lovely scenery, the winter season brings out the very best in these picturesque spots. Conveniently located near Sydney, these fantastic locations make for excellent wintertime getaways with a range of cosy activities and attractions on offer. Here are some of the best winter towns within driving distance of Sydney.
1. Katoomba
Katoomba is a well-known territory for anyone chasing an unforgettable getaway from Sydney without a passport. The mountain town offers a fun-filled mix of natural beauty and cultural activities including museums, cafes, historical spots, and a thriving food and drink scene, just a short 1.5-hour drive from Sydney. Surrounded by towering mountain views, the Blue Mountains’ flagship city is a must-visit during the chilly season and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Some spots to add to your itinerary include Scenic World where you can ride the world’s steepest railway and enjoy rainforest and mountain views, the Katoomba night-lit walk where you can soak up the lush surroundings under the moonlight and meandering walks through town featuring vibrant street art and local eateries. Find your weekend itinerary to Katoomba here.
2. Oberon
A short and scenic 3-hour drive from Sydney will bring you to the picturesque town of Oberon. The town lives up to its name which is taken from the King of the Fairies in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. Offering the perfect mountain escape, Oberon benefits from 4 distinct seasons but is especially lovely after a fresh dusting of snowfall. It’s replete with some of the state’s best natural wonders including the oldest caves in the world, one of the world’s largest cool climate gardens, and delicious winter truffles. Located around 1,113m above sea level, Oberon gets seriously cold in the winter season so it’s ideal for those hoping for a true blue winter getaway.
3. Leura
Leura is often referred to as the prettiest town in the Blue Mountains and a stroll down its main street will tell you why. Lined with blooming trees, charming cafes, and eclectic shops, the town easily stands out from its counterparts. While particularly tranquil in spring, the town is steadily gaining a reputation as a winter town thanks to its enchanting indoor culture that includes eateries with fireplaces, flea markets offering eclectic jewellery, fashion, homewares and hot treats, and lovely boutique stores. Some can’t-miss spots to visit include the photogenic Everglades Garden and the charming Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms.
4. Orange
Orange is extra special in winter with fabulous vineyards, charming cottages, snug accommodation options and even snow-dusted scenery on some days. Additional draws include winter festivals, a great shopping scene, wholesome farm-to-table food offerings, and excellent wine tastings. Time your visit to coincide with the Winter Fire Festival for a huge celebration that includes mulled wine, great food, fire pits and live performances. Orange is also close to surrounding towns like Carcaor, Millthorpe and Capertee if you want to go exploring. You can get here within a 3.5-hour drive on a picturesque route via the Great Western Highway.
5. Mudgee
Like Orange, Mudgee is also a popular getaway for Sydneysiders after a wine-filled weekend. Also a 3.5-hour drive from Sydney, Mudgee is the place to go if you’re looking for some R&R and a laidback environment. It’s an underrated winter destination but worth the drive out if you want to escape the peak-season crowds. While not exactly an alpine escape, Mudgee offers plenty of winter activities including markets with excellent shopping and seasonal treats like Mudgee Makers’ Market and the Mudgee Farmers’ Market, picturesque heritage streetscapes and plenty of museums and galleries to hunker down in on a chilly day. It’s also close to national parks like Wollemi National Park and Goulburn National Park if you like to get amongst nature in the cooler months.
6. Mount Victoria
One of the highest and oldest villages in the Blue Mountains, Mount Victoria offers a wonderful blend of historical charm and natural wonders. Located a short 90-minute drive from Sydney, this is one of the best winter towns in NSW with lookouts, bushwalks and charming cottages. It’s lovely to visit in autumn but shines bright in the winter months too with walking trails like Mitchell Point Hike, historic buildings like Imperial Hotel, St Peter’s Anglican Church and Gatekeeper’s Cottage and the Mount Victoria Museum. Places located higher up like Mount Victoria and Blackheath also offer a shot at seeing snow in the Blue Mountains so try and time your visit accordingly.