Come checkout the Macarthur Region, NSW!

Sitting about an hour from the Sydney CBD, Sydneysiders can visit and explore the Macarthur region in a day, from sunrise to sunset. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney in the morning to explore the lush green, open spaces this area has to offer, yet it is close enough to arrive back home in time for dinner.

The Macarthur region, named after Australian wool industry pioneers, John and Elizabeth Macarthur, is an area recognised as the birthplace of Australian Agriculture. The Macarthur family’s country residence, Camden Park House, which is still home to the family's descendants has an open day every September which I happened to visit this year.

There is plenty to do and see here in the Macarthur region, just check out the official tourism website’s ‘What’s On’ calendar. Your itinerary can start with an early morning trip to Picton for some hot air ballooning, followed by breakfast at one of the cafés in Camden.  Then how about heading off to Australian Botanic Garden in Mount Annan – Sundial Hill has amazing views over Sydney and to the Blue Mountains.  Whilst you are here you should also check out The Australian Plantbank which houses a seedbank vault that holds lots of plants seeds for many Australian plant species.

Head into Campbelltown to visit some heritage-listed buildings and wander to the Japanese Gardens and Teahouse located within the Campbelltown Arts Centre for some time out and some lunch.  After lunch the girls can head off for some shopping at Macarthur Square whilst the boys can enjoy some golf in one of several golf courses the region has to offer.

Perhaps you’d like to head off on a bushwalk through the Dharawal National Park and be awed by the landscape, wildlife and gorges or enjoy the countryside on horseback. After a well-earned break, finish off the day by dining in one of the region’s many restaurants before heading home or maybe even stay the night in one of the hotels or motels.

And I'm sure you'll be back, perhaps to enjoy the AnnanROMA Food and Wine Festival - the highlight of the Macarthur region's event calendar each year. The festival showcases the region's best food and wine and best of all it's a free event. Come and taste your way around the Lakeside at The Australian Botanical Garden, Mount Annan next April.

If I haven't convinced you to visit the Macarthur region yet, then perhaps this video might entice you!