The great outdoors: Winter experiences in New South Wales

Meetings, corporate retreats and incentive programs don’t always have to revolve around the sea and surf. Winter in Australia brings a unique charm with its (mostly) sunny days and moderate temperatures, providing the perfect backdrop for a group recognition program or team building activity. 

With its breathtaking landscape, vibrant outdoor culture and world-class facilities, New South Wales offers a great mix of options for creating itineraries that will be truly remembered. 

Trail running
📍Location: Blue Mountains National Park
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 1 hour
Imagine your group navigating scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed area. Trail running in NSW is not just a great physical challenge but also an excellent opportunity for team bonding. It encourages perseverance, strategic thinking, and mutual support – skills that translate seamlessly into the corporate world. If running is not for you, then take in the majestic landscape via guided hike, the world’s steepest scenic passenger railway or glass-bottomed cable car ride. 

Mountain biking
📍Location: Ourimbah Mountain Bike Park, Central Coast
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 1 hour 10 minutes
For groups craving an adrenaline rush, mountain biking across rugged terrains provides the perfect blend of excitement and team collaboration. Ourimbah is known for its purpose-built downhill trails that cater for all levels of experience. Whether your team members are seasoned bikers or novices, the shared experience of conquering trails fosters camaraderie and motivation. Continue exploring this beautiful region with other group activities such as winery or brewery tours, Aboriginal cultural tours, obstacle courses or ziplining. 

Alpine Coaster
📍Location: Thredbo
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 5.5 hours (or 2.5 hours from Canberra)
The Alpine Coaster at Thredbo is a unique team-building activity that combines fun and friendly competition. Teams can race down the mountain on this gravity-fuelled 1.5km-long coaster, navigating twists and turns while enjoying spectacular alpine views. This activity is ideal for breaking the ice, enhancing team dynamics, and giving participants a shared sense of adventure and achievement. Carry on the high-energy levels with a snowmobile tour or après ski party, or unwind with a massage or day spa experience. 

Golf with a view
📍Location: Narooma, South Coast
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 4.75 hours
New South Wales offers some of the most picturesque golf courses in Australia and few compare to the stunning coastal views at Narooma Golf Club. Golf fosters patience, strategic thinking, and interpersonal communication – essential skills for thriving in a corporate setting. Plus, the scenic surroundings will provide your group a refreshing break from the usual office environment, promoting creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. For other group activity ideas, build in a visit the Glasshouse Rocks or explore the scenic coastal trails on an electric bike or by kayak. 

Skiing or snowboarding 
📍Location: Thredbo or Perisher Ski Resort
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 5.5 hours
Perisher and Thredbo are world-class ski resorts offering a range of activities from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and tobogganing. Perfect for corporate incentive trips, these snow destinations provide a luxurious yet adventurous experience: also on offer is tabogganing, scenic chairlift rides, or abseiling. 

Horse Riding
📍Location: Hunter Valley
🚗 Travel time from Sydney CBD: 3 hours 10 minutes
Explore the rolling hills of the Hunter Valley on horseback for a truly immersive experience. This activity fosters a deep connection between riders and their horses, encouraging teamwork and mindfulness in a serene setting. With nothing but the rhythmic sound of hoofbeats and gentle breaths filling the air, participants can fully embrace the tranquility of nature. Other activities on offer in this world-class wine region include e-Bike and segway tours, spa retreats, cooking classes, grape stomping, wine making, and decadent wine and food pairing.    

Ready to plan your winter program? Contact us today at enquiry@arinexgroup.com.