If you’ve ever soaked in the soothing waters of an onsen in Japan and are longing for a taste of it now, we’ve found just the thing.
Picture this: you’re soaking in an outdoor thermal pool – the water is a balmy 27 degrees Celsius – steam rises slowly, and a blanket of snow covers the valley and surrounding mountain peaks. It’s not Japan. You’re in Australia’s highest mountain range, floating in Yarrangobilly thermal pool , hidden within Kosciuszko National Park.
A natural thermal pool, fed by a spring around one kilometre below the surface, sounds like a dream. It might feel like one too, as the pools are often accompanied by platypuses and water dragons. Reaching 2.5 metres deep and 20 metres long, the Yarrangobilly thermal pool offers a unique experience and one that will be hard to forget.
Yarrangobilly thermal pool
In winter, the steaming waters and snow-blanketed surroundings will transport you to Japan. (Image: Getty Images/Katharina13)
In the summer, this pool might be a cool escape from the heat, but in winter, the steaming waters and snow-blanketed surroundings will instantly transport you to Japan . It’s no secret Australians are obsessed with the island country (nearly 1 million of us visited Japan in 2024), but we especially love their onsen culture, the ancient practice of bathing in natural hot springs, without clothes and often experienced during a stay at a ryokan (a Japanese inn). Just be sure to keep your clothes on at Yarrangobilly. But you absolutely can bask in the pool’s heated waters as you’re transported to an unexpected winter wonderland. With a picnic area, change rooms, and bathrooms that are easily accessible, this pool is easily one of Australia’s most under-the-radar winter experiences.
Depending on the time of day, Yarrangobilly’s local animals can put on quite a display. Nearby to the pool lies the Yarrangobilly River, where you might spot lyrebirds, superb blue wrens, crimson rosellas, and king parrots bouncing between trees. Closer to the ground, waddling wombats and lazing water dragons can be seen throughout the park. If you didn’t catch a look at a platypus by the thermal pools, you might get one (only during sunrise or sunset hours!) surfacing the river to briefly say hello. Better yet, if you look closely, you might spot tiny critters—the endangered smoky mouse—who are rare sights, but impossibly cute and worth spotting.
What are the Yarrangobilly Caves?
There are six caves at Yarrangobilly, too. (Image: Destination NSW)
The thermal pool isn’t the only reason to visit. There are six breathtaking caves to explore, too! Yarrangobilly Caves are exquisitely decorated with natural stalagmites, stalactites and cave corals. These 440-million-year-old caves are strikingly unique and open to visitors year-round.
The largest in its region, the South Glory Cave, lets you soak in its grandeur at your own pace, with self-guided tours available to the general public. Fancy an official tour? Visit the Jersey and Jillabenan Caves for a 90-minute walk-through, where your personal, expert tour guide will unravel the history and secrets of this natural phenomenon. Ancient formations, intimidating overhead crystals and alluring limestone structures await inside these prehistoric wonders.
How do you get there?
Bask in Yarrangobilly thermal pool’s heated waters. (Image: Getty Images/Katharina13)
The Yarrangobilly Caves and thermal pool can be reached from a few points in New South Wales, but these are the recommended routes.
From Cooma, travel south for around seven kilometres until you reach the Snowy Mountains Highway. Continue for approximately 110 kilometres and turn left into the Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance Road.
From the Hume Highway (outside of Canberra/Ngambri), take the Tumut exit and follow the Gocup Road to Tumut. There, you can find the Snowy Mountains Highway and continue on for 110 kilometres to find the Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance Road to the left.
How much does entry cost?
In the summer, this pool is a cool escape from the heat. (Image: Jpatokal)
If you plan on spending the day (of which I highly recommend), the Yarrangobilly Caves entry is $4 per vehicle, with an additional $22 per adult and $18 per concession.
True to its name–derived from the Indigenous term yarangu-bili, meaning “flowing stream"–Yarrangobilly offers a range of flowing waters. Whether that’s underground, in the water, or along scenic trails, these waters bring true meaning to Yarrangobilly. Whether you’re exploring the atmospheric caves, spotting curious wildlife, or soaking in the dreamy onsen-like thermal pool, Yarrangobilly’s natural wonders are definitely worth the trip. Be prepared to add this to your brag list, because the Yarrongobilly experience doesn’t get any better than that.
NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.
Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.
Winter on the NSW South Coast
Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.
Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.
See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)
Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.
Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.
Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)
Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.
Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.
End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .
Sleep by the harbour.
Winter on the Mid-North Coast
A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.
First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.
Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)
Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.
Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.
Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)
The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.
Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.
At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.
Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.
Winter on the Central Coast
On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.
The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.
Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.
Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.
If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.
Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.
Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)
As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.
Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.
Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)
Winter in Wollongong
Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.
If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.
Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.
Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)
Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.
The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.
Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)
As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.
Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.
