Best driving roads near Sydney, NSW
Sydney drivers are spoiled for range. The Old Pacific Highway, Galston Gorge, Putty Road, Macquarie Pass and the Royal National Park all sit within a weekend drive of the CBD.
- 01
Audley Road
NSWSecondary1 km21 km away1 grey spot8.7RQS - 02
Mimosa Road
NSWSecondary0 km83.4 km away8.7RQS - 03
Pringles Road
NSWResidential3 km95.9 km away8.4RQS - 04
Chilvers Lane
NSWUnclassified1 km48.6 km away8.4RQS - 05
Nioka Road
NSWTertiary0 km23.6 km away8.1RQS - 06
Deakin Street
NSWUnclassified0 km141.6 km away8.1RQS - 07
Greenwich Meadows Road
NSWUnclassified1 km138.5 km away8.1RQS - 08
Ferndale Road
NSWResidential1 km22.2 km away8.1RQS - 09
Bass Road
NSWUnclassified0 km20.5 km away8.1RQS
The Blue Mountains run west from the city with the Bells Line of Road and Darling Causeway carving through sandstone country. South of Sydney, Macquarie Pass and Jamberoo Mountain Road drop sharply to the Illawarra. Heading north, Putty Road and the Old Pacific Highway have been the benchmark Sydney rider routes for decades.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best driving roads near Sydney?+
Contour's top three scored roads near Sydney are Audley Road (NSW, RQS 8.7/10, 21 km away); Mimosa Road (NSW, RQS 8.7/10, 83.4 km away); Pringles Road (NSW, RQS 8.4/10, 95.9 km away). All are within a two-hour touring drive of the city.
How far should I drive from Sydney to find a great road?+
The nearest excellent-rated road (RQS 8+) is Audley Road, about 21 km from Sydney. Plenty of good options sit closer if you don't want the full drive.
Are there good motorcycle roads near Sydney?+
Yes. Audley Road scores 8.7/10 for motorcycles and sits 21 km from Sydney. Several other strong rides sit within the same radius.
Are there any dangerous sections on roads near Sydney?+
Contour has identified grey spots on 1 roads within range of Sydney - sections where the posted speed limit does not match the road geometry. Audley Road has 1. Take extra care in wet conditions.
When is the best time to drive near Sydney?+
Fog on the Old Pacific after autumn nights; wet roads in the Blue Mountains between June and September call for extra care.
Scores are based on road geometry, surface quality, traffic density, and crash history. Always drive to conditions and follow local road rules.