One of the most diverse states in Australia, New South Wales offers a huge array of options to break the mid-year rut of work and house duties, and refresh your brain with a short break. Sydney has plenty of tourist options, but true refreshment can be found in the more rural areas. Winter holidays are usually cheaper than summer getaways, with off peak rates on accommodation from Port Macquarie to Petersham, and plenty of special prices for activities. Today we are looking at New South Wales' top holiday destinations for the winter months.

18 degrees during the day sounds heavenly when you're getting out the hose to de-ice your windscreen for work in the morning! This is a major drawcard for Port Macquarie holidays - year-round, the climate is quite mild. Especially for those accustomed to Sydney or Melbourne weather, Port Macquarie hotels offer a comfortable climate and relaxed atmosphere.

Get away from your Port Macquarie accommodation and check out some activities like:

• Surfing - Yes, it is winter, but Port Macquarie offers beautiful winter time temperatures for being in the ocean. The best swells are in wintertime, also
• Fishing - Check out the Co-op wharf and Settlement Point Reserve, and catch some bream, whiting, jewfish, tailor and flathead to put on ice and bring back home.
• Wildlife experiences - Get your fill at the Billabong Koala & Aussie Wildlife Park

Port Macquarie accommodation is very reasonably priced, and you can expect things like live bands on the weekends, heated pools and gymnasiums and secure undercover parking for surprisingly little impact on the wallet at Port Macquarie hotels.

What would a review of New South Wales winter holiday destinations be without one of Australia's most famous ski spots? Holidays to Thredbo are colder, more expensive and need a lot more equipment than vacations in warmer spots … but some people live for it every year! Check out:

• The Thredbo Bobsled - A luge-style bobsled adventure that even kids are safe participating in.
• Thredbo Valley Distillery - For adult trips, this niche schnapps distillery offers a delicious and light headed afternoon
• National Park - Even when there's no snow this national park is stunning

In the winter months, this area is one of the warmest in the State. Towns are becoming smaller and more remote, but still have plenty of facilities to cater for hordes of tourists that make the trip every year. Accommodation here is much more expensive than Port Macquarie hotels - expect to pay well over $170 per night for four star accommodation. While you’re there, you can break your work-traffic-cleaning mindset completely with activities like:

• Hiking - The Nightcap Ranges have beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife that hasn't been too conditioned to stay away from humans!
• Nude sunbathing - Just because you can - check out Tyagarah Beach near Byron Bay
• Day spas - the luxurious subtropical climate will make you feel pampered, and you can top off the experience with a delicious massage, body scrub and moisturizing treatment.