The Upper Hunter region is one of NSW’s premier lifestyle and tourism destinations and for good reason. There are endless attractions to keep you entertained, active and inspired. Whether you’re into wining and dining, exploring, adventure or sightseeing, there are countless wonderful things to enjoy, all within an hour of historic Singleton.
- Pokolbin vineyards – Some of the state’s best-loved wineries are found in the area, offering up everything from wine tours and tastings to cellar doors and renowned restaurants.
- Newcastle – ‘Newy’ is having a moment right now, emerging as a fashionable albeit laidback city with a burgeoning culinary culture, a friendly local vibe and of course a host of great beaches like the famous Merewether.
- Lake St Clair – Nestled among the foothills of Mount Royal Range, the lake provides a glorious recreational attraction ideal for swimming, sailing, water skiing and camping. For the keen angler, NSW State Fisheries and local fishing clubs regularly stock it with fish.
- Vines at Hollydene Estate Wines – Head to nearby Jerrys Plains for a modern dining experience with a delicious seasonal menu, great wine, craft beer and one cracker of a view.
- Visit Denman – One of NSW’s best-kept secrets, this welcoming town near the banks of the Hunter River has all the charm of yesteryear, with a relaxed country atmosphere, fine food, outstanding wines, friendly people, excellent shopping and spectacular scenery.
- Darley Scone Cup Carnival – One of the biggest country race events on the NSW racing calendar and a half day public holiday in Scone, this two-day carnival incorporates the Darley Scone Cup Race Day and the Inglis Guineas & Coolmore Dark Jewel Race Day. Mark it in your diary!
- Newcastle Races – Horse racing has a long history in Newcastle. Founded in 1901, the Newcastle Jockey Club is one of the leading racing clubs in Australia, enjoying proximity to rich breeding areas. The track hosts 34 race meetings a year with the club’s Spring Carnival held over two days in mid-September.
- Mount Royal National Park – Camp, hike, 4WD and picnic in idyllic World Heritage-listed gondwana rainforest.
- Hot air ballooning – A number of companies run exhilarating local ballooning adventures, taking you sky high for a breathtaking birds eye view of the region.
- Hunter Valley Gardens – A place for the appreciation of nature and peaceful reflection, these beautiful gardens are a wonderland of exploration. The also host fun family activities such as Snow Time and the Christmas Lights Spectacular.
- TreeTop Adventure Park – Enjoy the bush like never before and get up close and personal with native wildlife as you climb, weave and fly through the gum tree tops on self-guided rope courses with rope ladders, wobbly bridges, tunnels, cargo nets and zip lines.
- Visit Dungog – Explore this historic town by the Williams River, near the spectacular Barrington Tops National Park, and enjoy bushwalking, gold rush heritage, markets and annual equine events.
- Ride Dungog – The Dungog Common Mountain Bike Park and a huge array of gravel and road bike adventures are found in the area, with a community of riders committed to building trails and preserving the natural environment.
- Visit Morpeth – A bustling port in colonial times, this historic town on the Hunter River is accessible via boat from Newcastle. Here you can sample local wines and browse shops in heritage 19th century buildings, including the bakehouse where the Arnott’s biscuit dynasty began.
- Stockland Green Hills Shopping Centre – The region’s premier retail destination has undergone a multimillion dollar transformation, creating a dynamic hub of shopping, entertainment, food, fashion and more.
- Maitland Regional Art Gallery – Housed in an historic building, MRAG has 11 exhibition spaces and a wonderful program of exhibitions, events, lectures, workshops, book launches, concerts and more for the whole family, making it a must-visit for culture lovers.
