5 Road trip ideas in and around Newcastle & Hunter Regions
​G'day, adventure seekers! Ready to hit the open road and explore some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes that New South Wales has to offer? Right here, on the doorstep of Newcastle, you'll find everything from world-class wineries to breath-taking coastlines and ancient, misty rainforests.​
We've put together some road trip options, all kicking off from Newcastle and venturing into the heart of the Hunter and beyond. Whether you're a connoisseur of fine wines, a beach lover, a bushwalking enthusiast, or keen to soak up some history, there's a journey here just waiting for you. We've even chucked in the ideal duration for each trip, so you can plan your escape like a pro.​
So, buckle up, chuck on your favourite tunes, and get ready to discover the magic of our backyard. Let's hit the road!
Hunter Valley Wine & Food Escape
Description: This is the quintessential Hunter Valley experience, focusing on its cracking wineries, top-notch tucker, and picturesque countryside. You can hit up cellar doors for a few sips, indulge in some fancy dining, suss out local produce, and maybe even take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards.
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Optimal Duration: 2-3 days
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Day 1: Arrive, settle into your digs, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, and visit a couple of cellar doors in Pokolbin or Lovedale.
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Day 2: Keep the wine tasting going, maybe check out a cheese or olive producer, and consider a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or a horse riding tour through the vineyards. Treat yourself to another ripper dinner.
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Day 3: Visit a few more boutique wineries, explore local art galleries, or just kick back and soak in the atmosphere before heading home.
Highlights: Wine tasting (Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay), gourmet restaurants, cheese and olive producers, Hunter Valley Gardens, hot air ballooning, horse riding.