Welcome to the April issue of NSW Uncovered, Tourism New South Wales' regional tourism update.

Looking for some ideas not too far from home, then read on.

Flying high at Byron For the perfect start to another day in paradise, try hot air ballooning at Byron Bay. Spectacular coastal and mountain views are guaranteed when you take to the skies for three to four hours at dawn. www.byronbayballooning.com

New luxury in the Hunter Valley Stylish 4.5 star Grand Mercure Apartments are just part of The Vintage complex at Rothbury in the Hunter Valley. The Vintage boasts a Greg Norman designed golf course, health and fitness centre, great dining with the beauty of the Brokenback Ranges as a backdrop. www.accor.com

Grand old sheds tour Smell the lanoline, hear tales of wool folklore and enjoy the peace and quiet of some of the state's grandest old woolsheds on this quirky tour. Departing from Hay on 23 April, the tour visits Tupra Woolshed and Shearers' Quarters, Uardry Station and Burrabogie Shed and Shearers' Quarters. For details of this unique pastoral heritage tour go to www.shearoutback.com.au

The best of Orange at the Bank (pictured) A new cellar door and wine bar has opened in Orange, Central NSW. Featuring wines from Belgravia vineyard as well as the pick of Orange's best wines, plus great food from one-hatted restaurant Lolli Reddini, Belgravia at Union Bank is the new `it' place to visit in Orange. Accommodation is also available at Belgravia Cottage on the vineyard. www.belgravia.com.au

Exclusive coffee plantation tour Be part of a special behind-the-scenes tour to learn about one of the world's finest single-estate speciality coffees. Mountain Top Coffee Estate is located near Mount Warning in northern New South Wales, famous for its rich volcanic soils and perfect coffee growing climate. To run on September 23 during harvest, the tour is restricted to just ten participants. Contact Amanda at Chocolate Espresso for details on 0422 001 905. www.mountaintopcoffee.com.au

Winter retreat in Byron The Byron at Byron is offering a very special Spa, Health and Lifestyle Retreat from 2-6 July. Meditate in a soothing rainforest setting, enjoy a hot stone massage and Vichy shower, eat healthy food and get your mind-body relationship on track. www.byronatbyron.com.au

New direct Jetstar to Byron Jetstar has announced direct flights between Ballina/Byron and Melbourne, enticing travellers with low cost airfares to the tropical, laid-back ambience of Byron and surrounds. See www.jetstar.com for details of special online deals.

Fine fare in the Blue Mountains Famous for its crisp apples and juicy fruit orchards, Bilpin now has a new café serving wood-fired pizzas and delicious contemporary cuisine. Contact Apple Bar on 4567 0335. On a sweeter note, Café Josophan's in Leura has just taken out the Champion Chocolate Award at the Sydney Royal Fine Food, Wine, Cheese and Dairy Produce Show. Phone 4784 3833.

For more information about travelling in New South Wales go to www.visitnsw.com.au