Holiday houses in Hunter Region

The Hunter Region is part of New South Wales, north of Sydney. The Hunter Valley is one of the largest river valleys on the NSW coast, and is known for its wine region — the oldest in Australia. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, undulating vineyard landscapes, more than 150 cellar doors, award-winning restaurants, and innovative paddock to plate produce, this is a wonderful region to explore.

The Hunter Valley is divided into seven subregions, each with its unique character. The main hub is the Pokolbin/Rothbury region, where many of the largest wineries are located. Newcastle, the valley's largest town, has a popular seafront promenade. Beyond wine, the Hunter Valley is also famous for its picturesque vistas, elegant day spas, golf courses, and the World Heritage wilderness areas and national parks.

The climate in the Hunter Valley is moderate year-round. Autumn months are the most popular time to visit the Hunter Valley as temperatures are comfortable, and there is less rainfall. There are also some great festivals such as the Cessnock Stomp Festival, where you can take a turn mashing grapes with your feet, and a number of music and food festivals.

Winter temperatures can dip quite low, especially during the night. During the winter, region producers put on some fantastic epicurean events at the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival.

When the weather warms up, spring is a wonderful time to visit the Hunter Valley gardens, which are in bloom. Summer, another peak season, can be quite delightful as well, with its warm but occasionally rainy weather. Summer is also the beginning of harvest season in the valley.

Hot Air Ballooning

Rise well before the sun one morning and float above Australia’s oldest wine region in a balloon. Go aloft to survey the valley’s singular scenery from above and experience the magic of an early morning sunrise. From here you’ll be able to see miles of sprawling scenic vineyards and maybe even some kangaroos bounding through paddocks.

Barrington Tops National Park

Preserving one of the largest temperate rainforests in Australia, Barrington Tops National Park, in the upper Hunter Valley, is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. The park offers a vast network of hiking trails, including the 1,500-meter-high Aeroplane Hill Walking Track, which weaves through wetlands and woodlands in the subalpine region of the park and offers stunning views. The park is also popular with birders, and you may spot wildlife like swamp wallabies and grey kangaroos.

Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Housed in a beautiful federation gothic building, the Maitland Regional Art Gallery is a bright, contemporary space that showcases works from well-known Australian and international artists. The museum's focus is works on paper, but also includes sculptures, installations, and photographs. There’s also an area of the museum dedicated to children and offers free kids' art activities and workshops.