Articles / Expert tips

6 Regional NSW Road Trip Destinations to Explore Post-Lockdown

7 December 2021

After several months of lockdowns in New South Wales, we’re all finally free again to leave our homes and enjoy the beautiful state around us once again.

With travel constraints lifted, leisure isn’t about couch-sitting anymore. Everyone’s looking to hit the road again and explore. You’ve probably missed the feeling of the open road ahead, the wind in your hair and the golden days outdoors. That’s why it’s high time to reconnect with nature and support the local communities too.

So, buckle up. We’re going on a road trip! While the whole state of NSW has so much to offer, here are our top 6 picks to put on your destination list over the next few months.

Let’s start with your own roadmap to freedom

How long has it been since you’ve planned an itinerary? It’s probably been a while, so let’s get reacquainted with the basics.

Aside from packing extra clothes, a first-aid kit and preparing your favourite road trip music (check out our O'Brien^® Roadtrip playlist on Spotify!), you also need to think about your car. Remember – it’s important to have a safe and reliable vehicle, especially if you’re heading out on a long drive.

Don’t forget to ensure you’ve had your car serviced recently to avoid any problems down the track. Also, check your front windscreen, side windows and side mirrors for any chips or cracks – you don’t want to set off, hit a bump and have a cracked windscreen ruin your trip. If your windscreen is chipped or cracked you can contact us to have it repaired before you leave. Or, if it happens during your road trip you might find one of our many nationwide branches along the way.

All set? Ok, now you just need to choose your destination!

New South Wales is full of great regional places to visit – so, to help you get started, we’ve compiled some of the travel gems the state has to offer.

6 Post-Lockdown Road Trip Destinations in New South Wales

Mudgee

The sophisticated country life in Mudgee makes it a great escape destination. Cruising through this town will give you an eclectic mix of heritage buildings, modern cafes and countless picturesque scenery!

For those with equally sophisticated palates, you can also find a feast at many local places such as High Valley Cheese Co, the Farmhouse at Blue Wren Farm and The Zin House Restaurant. Of course, as a renowned wine-producing town, Mudgee offers visitors a list of boutique local wineries to sip and swirl their latest drop. And, no trip is complete without a stop at the family-owned Mudgee Brewing Company. Only 3 hours from Sydney, Mudgee is a definite must-see for everyone.

Lightning Ridge

For a bit more of an ambitious road trip, Lightning Ridge is around an eight hour’s drive from Sydney, bordering the south of Queensland. As one of the most interesting places to visit in Australia, you’ll find eccentric characters such as Stanley the Emu ornamenting the not so typical outback.

Lightning Ridge is also home to the iconic Black Opal. You can set your sights on mining for gems or try your hand at fossicking! The roads in this town are paved and while the way to the mines is moonlike in appearance, you can still drive through easily. It’s essential, however, that you’re using a vehicle suitable for long drives and rougher roads.

Batemans Bay

Nestled on the far south coast of NSW, Bateman’s Bay is just four hours from Sydney and 2 hours from Canberra. The coastal activities against a picturesque backdrop make Batemans Bay definitely trip worthy. You can also take a detour through the Royal National Park or go via the coastal city of Wollongong for a bite of fresh seafood while looking out at the lighthouse and local beaches. For the cyclists amongst us, you can enjoy the flatways leading to Birdland Animal Park and scenic waterfront picnic areas.

Bathurst

If you haven’t been to Bathurst, make sure to put it on your list. The total drive time from Sydney is just under 3 hours and there are lots to see along the way and of course when you arrive. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, make sure you still have the energy to drive through the iconic Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit. Here, you can experience the closest you can get to a professional racing event – albeit with speed limits.

Dubbo

Dubbo is home to the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo. It’s a place where you can enjoy a family adventure while getting close to hundreds of beautiful, rare and endangered animals. Or, if you’ve already had your fill of driving, learn more about the local history and culture at the Heritage in Dubbo and Western Plains Cultural Centre.

Once the day starts to set, why not head to somewhere unique for dinner. Church Bar, transformed from an old church schoolhouse, offers an extensive woodfire pizza menu that will suit every taste.

Kiama

Soak in a showcase of breathtaking seaside views while driving across the picturesque Sea Cliff Bridge toward Kiama. This laidback vacation destination is great for families looking to relax on the beach and indulge in its local food spots.

Thrill-seekers can set their sights on the world-famous Kiama Blowhole and surf the magnificent waves that the local beaches have to offer. Kiama is ideal if you want a short road trip with lots to see and do.

Batemans Bay

How to hit the NSW roads with no worries

These are just a few of the many regional towns to see if you’re feeling tentative about venturing overseas just yet.

Did any of these inspire you to set out? Are there any other regional NSW destinations you’d love to see? We’d love to hear yours!

Just don’t forget that, since Australia’s landscape is notoriously harsh and unpredictable, our friendly reminder is to always check your windscreen, car windows and side mirrors for any damage. With such beauty to see, a clear windscreen and windows is a must of course!

Nevertheless, if you find yourself in need of windscreen services, don’t worry. No matter where you are in Australia, you can contact us and we are likely to have a branch or technician near you to help. That way, you’ll be back on the road in no time.

Travel safe with the experts at O'Brien^®

With over 95 years of experience, our expertise in quality service makes us Australia’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement company.

We understand our clients more than anyone else. So, feel free to start your road trip with a visit to a nearby O'Brien^® branch for speedy and professional vehicle glass services.

For more information about our services, call us on 1800 059 829 or visit our website.