The best thing about NSW? You don't have to choose between excitement and escape. Spend your days uncovering the vibrant neighbourhoods, culinary gems and cultural experiences of Western Sydney, then swap city streets for a long weekend getaway tailored to your mood. Whether you lean towards luxury, adventure or complete relaxation, there's an experience waiting for you. And with a packed line-up of cultural and sporting highlights still to come, there's plenty to add to your NSW itinerary.

Treetops Adventure’s Western Express 

Treetops Adventure’s Western Express has launched in Western Sydney, set to be the largest all-zipline course in NSW. The new complex features 17 ziplines, with over 450 metres of cable, the longest stretch measuring 65 metres and equivalent to five tennis courts. Western Express’ addition will bring the total number of ziplines at Treetops Adventure Western Sydney to 37.

Stanley, Manly

Stanley has officially opened its doors at Manly Wharf, marking the highly anticipated Sydney return of award-winning chef Louis Tikaram. The menu brings Stanley’s ethos of ‘great food, friends, fishermen and farmers’ to Sydney, celebrating exceptional Australian seafood, premium meat and seasonal produce through the traditions and techniques of Cantonese cooking.

The Grand Saddles Lodge, Central Coast

Opening this spring, The Grand Saddles Lodge is a new luxury accommodation, fine dining and wellness destination within the Saddles Mount White precinct. The 20 private villas will include separate living spaces, an open fireplace, private terrace and plunge pools, all overlooking surrounding bushland.

Clayfields, Hunter Valley

Set within 30 acres of secluded vines and bushland in Pokolbin, Clayfields Hunter Valley is a new luxury retreat designed exclusively for couples. With two self-contained villas on the estate, each is strategically positioned to offer a quiet, undisturbed sanctuary, providing access to the region’s premier cellar doors.

Already home to some of NSW’s most diverse food, adventure and cultural experiences, Western Sydney is continuing to evolve as a must-visit destination. And with major new attractions such as the Powerhouse Parramatta and landmark developments like the Western Sydney Airport on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to head out west. 

From city escapes to beach breaks, country retreats and more, New South Wales offers a variety of experiences primed for the upcoming October long weekend. Relax, reset or test your adventurous spirit with one of these short-but-sweet getaways.

David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)

22 October 2026 - 24 January 2027 

Step into the vibrant world of David Hockney, one of the most celebrated artists of our time, with Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), a breathtaking immersive experience by Lightroom London, presented by Carriageworks and Andrew Kay & Associates with Lexus.

Repco Bathurst 1000

8 - 11 October 2026

This bucket-list event is a must for sports fans both new and old. Come and reflect on the past heroes and moments in time that have made this the iconic event all that it has become and witness the new-generation rivalry of Camaro vs Mustang as they take each other on at the Mountain for the first time.

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to Uncovered, Destination NSW’s newsletter featuring Sydney and NSW news, story ideas and updates for travel media.

If you no longer wish to receive Uncovered from Destination NSW, unsubscribe here.