Byron Bay © Andy Hay

To the north of Sydney is the Pacific Coastal route, which passes beautiful coastal scenery, laid back seaside communities like Byron Bay, and excellent surf, with nearly 249 miles (400km) of beaches to explore. Whale watching is popular in season and the region is also dotted with numerous national parks and nature reserves that offer activities from hiking to kayaking in the Myall Lakes. The Waterfall Way is one of the most scenic drives in the world that leaves the Pacific Coast Drive and winds up to the New England Tablelands with its colourful history and the vineyards of the famed Hunter Valley. To the south of Sydney is Australia's only alpine habitat in the Snowy Mountains where winter skiing is the main attraction. In summer the mountains become a playground for white water rafters, fishermen, kayakers and hikers.