Hunter Attractions

Great wines, gourmet food, superb restaurants and cafes, rustic cottages and romantic beachside retreats. Get away from it all and relax on a houseboat on Lake Macquarie, or explore the broad ocean beaches and extensive forests nearby.

For a taste of culture and nightlife drop into Newcastle, Australia's second oldest city. Hunter Valley Wine Country is a mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. Explore the wineries by horse-drawn carriage, hot air balloon or bicycle. Meander through Maitland's elegant heritage precincts or visit historic Morpeth, Australia's oldest river port.

Visit the cellar doors of some of the famouse wineries, such as McGuigan, Tyrrell, Tulloch and Drayton, whose families have been making wine for generations. Explore the galleries, antiques and specialty stores in Morpeth or go bargain hunting in the historic villages of Wollombi and Broke.

While wine and food enthusiasts can join a winery tour to sample some of the gourmet delights, others may prefer to enjoy in pampering at a day spa or play a game of golf at one of the region's three championship golf courses.