Why You Should Visit Outback NSW In Winter

Winter in the outback will leave you awestruck, so what are you waiting for?

From underground dugouts in the desert to quirky museums, old-school watering holes, and the dusty roads in between, we share why Outback NSW should be at the top of your travel bucket list this winter.

Silverton welcome sign in outback NSW — Outback NSW is the place to be this winter. (Image: Matt Cheok)

1. To wander underground dugouts in the desert

Since the 1880s, miners, hobbyists and other fortune-seekers have descended on White Cliffs to pursue opals.

And although the township seemingly appears abandoned with mounds of earth, holes in the ground and old ‘blower trucks’ in every direction, its residents actually live in underground dugouts to avoid the extreme summer conditions and keep temperatures between a pleasant 16-26°C.

Should you desire, it’s possible to visit an underground dugout or join a mine tour to experience the fossicking process and learn about the town’s history.

In addition, around dawn or dusk, we recommend going on a self-guided walking loop to Sullivan Hill and strolling to Turleys Hill for a spectacular vantage point.

Aerial view of White Cliffs — White Cliffs seemingly appears abandoned, but its residents actually live in underground dugouts. (Image: Matt Cheok)

2. To explore a lunar landscape at dusk

Traversing the corrugated path to Mungo National Park is a bumpy but memorable journey where clay and sand pinnacles stand in the desert, and the Walls of China highlight one’s visitor experience.

It’s here that Mungo Man and Lady Mungo were discovered – the oldest human remains found in Australia laid to rest over 40,000 years ago.

People walking in Mungo National Park, NSW — Mungo National Park is a bumpy but memorable journey. (Image: Matt Cheok)

You’ll encounter ancient burial sites including the world’s oldest-recorded cremation site, stone tools, and old fish bones remaining fixed in the sand. Today, the land is maintained by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and representatives of the local Barkindji, Ngyiampaa and Mutthi Mutthi communities.

To wander beyond the Walls of China viewing platform, you must join a sunset tour. We strongly recommend doing one with Mungo Lodge or National Park Aboriginal Discovery Tours to get up close and personal with these formations.

Accommodation options inside the park are plentiful and cater to all budgets, ranging from the no-frills Main Campground to Mungo Shearers’ Quarters and the high-end Mungo Lodge.

Walls of China, Mungo National Park — To wander beyond the Walls of China viewing platform, you must join a sunset tour. (Image: Matt Cheok)

3. To discover silo and water tower art in Bourke

Not only are the outback murals enormous in stature, but they also offer insight into our rich country town history and the stories about the people who came from them.

Bourke’s hometown hero, Percy Hobson, is portrayed high jumping an impressive 2.11 metres to claim gold at the 1962 Perth Commonwealth Games – the first Indigenous Australian to do so.

By transforming silos and water towers into visual art pieces, these repurposed structures are often significant drawcards for communities, bringing tourism opportunities to the region and breathing new life into the local economy.

Percy Hobson Mural, Bourke — Percy Hobson is portrayed high jumping in the mural. (Image: Matt Cheok)

4. To encounter quirky museums and Aussie galleries

Chances are your film fanaticism is far from the level of Adrian and Linda Bennett, who moved their family from Northern England to the remote town of Silverton to set up the Mad Max Museum .

The carefully curated space features an extensive collection of original/replica vehicles, costumes and memorabilia that must be seen to be believed.

Mad Max Museum, Silverton — The Mad Max Museum features an extensive collection. (Image: Matt Cheok)

While you’re in Silverton, stop by John Dynon’s Gallery and studio. The facade is enough to turn heads with paint-splatted cars, bicycles and sculptures canvassing the entry point. Dynon’s artwork beautifully captures the feel of the outback with his renditions of emus, shacks and local rivers. And if you’re curious about his work, you can chat with him in person.

When you’re done exploring Silverton’s offerings, continue the drive to the Mundi Mundi Lookout for a view of the Barrier Ranges and relive the film set of an iconic Australian classic.

John Dynon Gallery, Silverton — Stop by John Dynon’s Gallery in Silverton. (Image: Matt Cheok)

5. To visit old-school watering holes

Our country town pubs are full of charm and larrikins and are often a great source of information about a region’s hidden gems and recommendations.

Couple that with the hearty feeds, the refreshing cold beverages, beer gardens and heritage architecture, and that’s a recipe for success. Our favourite watering holes include the Palace Hotel in Broken Hill, The Great Western Hotel in Cobar and the Tilpa Hotel in Tilpa.

The deck of the Palace Hotel — Sit in the sun on the deck of the Palace Hotel in Broken Hill.

6. To admire sculptures in the desert

About a 15-minute drive from Broken Hill’s centre, 12 impressive sandstone sculptures stand triumphantly inside the Living Desert State Park.

The interplay of light, especially at sunset, gives these structures new life and purpose, so we recommend visiting in the late afternoon. Amidst this dramatic landscape, visitors can access numerous walking trails and fascinating flora and fauna sanctuaries.

Living Desert State Park, Broken Hill — 12 impressive sandstone sculptures stand triumphantly inside the Living Desert State Park. (Image: Matt Cheok)

7. To marvel at a forest of drowned trees

Black box trees rise from the ephemeral lakes along the Darling River, offering an eerie yet captivating view stretching kilometres.

The major highlight of any trip to Menindee Lakes is a camping experience on the shores of Lake Pamamaroo as the sun goes down. Caravans, 4WDs, tents and swimmers line the banks, and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to stay here – it’s actually free.

Although our Outback can be very desolate and unforgiving, regional NSW’s hidden gems prove that some of the best travel destinations in the world are right under our noses. We urge you to adventure there this winter!

Menindee Lakes, NSW — Black box trees rise from Menindee Lakes. (Image: Matt Cheok)

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

7 reasons why you should visit Outback NSW this winter