Valentine's day drives and getaways
Few dates on the calendar bring the mixed emotions of Valentine's Day. For many, it's an acceptably cheesy occasion to act loved up and celebrate a relationship, but for others, it's forced, commercial and a drain on the wallet.
If the 14th falls on a weekend, we like the idea of escaping the Hallmark Cards, booking some time and hitting the road to experience a romantic road trip. It'll be great for your car and your relationship!
Local to Sydney
Palm Beach
Sydney's most northern beach is more than just the setting for Home and Away, it's a picturesque ending to a long stretch of beaches - Bilgola, Avalon and Whale are all worth a mention - and a fitting spot to finish a drive with a swim and a walk.
Complete privacy may be hard to find, especially with the area's popularity this time of year, but there's plenty of spots to have a picnic, and a walk up Barrenjoey Head to the lighthouse shouldn't be missed.
Harbourside areas
If getting pounded by waves isn't your idea of a nice day with your valentine, a swim at one of Sydney Harbour's small and more private beaches may appeal.
North of the bridge you'll find Chinaman's Beach near Mosman and the busier Balmoral Beach further up the road. Manly's Shelly Beach can be crowded, but if you're already in Manly for a swim it's well worth a visit.
South of the bridge, excellent options include Readleaf Beach, Milk Beach and Shark Beach which is popular for snorkelling.
Short trips from Sydney
Kangaroo Valley
South of Sydney lies a handful of beautiful drives, but arguably none are more spectacular than Kangaroo Valley. It's ideal to spark your relationship as you move through quiet towns dotted amongst the native vegetation and wildlife.
For those keen to explore on foot, there are 23 walks in the valley, from gentle sightseeing strolls to challenging backpack experiences.
Hunter Valley
As one of Australia's premier winegrowing regions, renowned for the quality of its wines, there are dozens of wineries, large and small, scattered throughout the Hunter Valley. It may seem cliche to head to the Hunter for a romantic weekend away, but the stereotypes exist for a reason - it's that good.
If you're not deterred by the cold, there are certainly advantages to a winter visit, including the region's wine show, yet around Valentine's Day features a nice balance weather-wise. For some, it's tempting to try and visit the Hunter Valley as a daytrip. Our advice? Don't rush the experience and stay for a weekend.
Blue Mountains
What has long been the most popular getaway for Sydneysiders, the Blue Mountains has not lost any charm. To get your journey off to the best possible start, avoid the freeway and take the Bells Line of Road. Your car will thank you for it and you'll take in a vast array of beautiful scenery on your way through Bilpin and Mount Tomah.
The obvious stops are Mount Victoria, Blackheath and Katoomba where you'll find umpteen accommodation spots and places to grab coffee or souvenirs.
Mudgee
The Mudgee district is an ideal getaway for lovers of wine and honey, and it's far less popular among weekenders than the Hunter Valley. The region, just a few hours by car from Sydney, is thick with displaced city-siders who have left the rat-race and set up in a winery, an orchard or restaurant.
Make sure your car isn't packed with too much luggage - visitors to the region are known to come back with crates of wine, local produce and a unique piece from a gallery. Feel free to take advantage of the closeness between Mudgee and Orange and enjoy your weekend away.
Grand Pacific Drive
One of the country's most spectacular coastal routes is the Grand Pacific Drive. It's an easy day drive from Sydney, or you can make a weekend of it and take the long way there, twisting your way through forgotten hinterland valleys and exploring the back roads of Southern Highlands.
Most people do the cliff section of the drive heading south, but in the spirit of saving the best to last, and because the views are better heading north, you may get more from the journey by approaching the drive from the south.
If you're curious about what kind of ventures can be seen down south, head on down to Ulladulla. There's bound to be something you like.
ACT
Merimbula
Only three hours from Canberra lies the beautiful beachside suburb of Merimbula. While it's a longer drive than other popular destinations, the long beaches, wildlife, activities and accommodation options make it worth the extra time on the road.
This is an ideal time to visit and much of the area's beauty is found around the water, yet if you were to delay your trip until later in the year, you won't be disappointed. Just a few of Merimbula's drawcards are the annual jazz festival, orchid shows, food festivals and water sports such as kitesurfing and stand up paddleboarding.
Merimbula is also renowned for the locally grown oysters and mussels. If you're in the area for Valentine's Day, dining on some of the delicacies is bound to earn you some brownie points, but if not, don't fret. They're available all year round.
Namadgi National Park
Namadgi National Park and Brindabella National Park provide plenty of stops for picnics and walks of varying lengths. If you're keen on tackling a 4WD trail, Brindabella is your best bet.
Worried about how your car might go travelling distances? Book it in for an NRMA service.
