Transcription

1

2 SYDNEY HUNTER VALLEY PORT STEPHENS CENTRAL COAST Escape the hustle and bustle to experience NSW s best city, country, coast drive, just 2.5 hours north of Sydney. You can immerse yourself in everything that is classically Australian, from stunning coastline and awe-inspiring natural wonders to rich history and culture. Experience a diverse array of mouth-watering food and wine and even the blood rush of high adventure among the clouds or beneath the ocean. SYDNEY You can easily fly into Newcastle Airport from Melbourne, Brisbane or the Gold Coast and self-drive to discover the splendour that awaits you in the Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Newcastle and Port Stephens.

3 25 MINUTES SOUTH OF AIRPORT 30 MINUTES NORTH OF AIRPORT TOP 5 THINGS TO DO Early morning swim in the famous open air ocean baths Take in the spectacular coastline and city views on the newly built Memorial Walk Enjoy the thriving dining and cultural scene along Darby Street Browse through local artisan made goods at one of the many shops along Hunter Street Mall Enjoy a craft beer or local wine overlooking one of the world's busiest working harbours at Honeysuckle Bordered by sun-drenched beaches and infused with an easy, relaxed lifestyle, the city of Newcastle is experiencing a renaissance that has the streets bursting with quirky bars and cafes, galleries, theatres and a host of unique artisan shops. The city is also rapidly becoming a major event destination, hosting a number of significant festivals, including Surfest, Newcastle Writers Festival, the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship that is coming to the streets of Newcastle in November 2017 as well as many sporting, music, cultural and food festivals. From relaxing beside the sparkling harbour to catching a show at the majestic Civic Theatre, Newcastle has something for every taste TOP 5 THINGS TO DO Discover the Worimi Sand Dunes, which includes 32kms of the longest moving sand dunes Sail the waters that are home to 140 resident dolphins Sit back and enjoy a meal of fresh local seafood Walk to the top of Mount Tomaree and enjoy the spectacular view from the top Scuba dive at Fly Point's Underwater Gardens Regarded by many as the perfect holiday destination, Port Stephens is a water wonderland, with 26 pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and a hinterland brimming with spectacular views and Australia s unique wildlife. You can spend your days cruising the ocean-top to see migrating whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Or you visit the Worimi Conservation Lands (Stockton Bight Sand Dunes) cover 4,200 hectares...1,800 of which are forest as well as 32kms of the longest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. These lands form part of an important cultural landscape with special significance for the Worimi people - the traditional owners. Today the landscape features an extraordinary number of culturally significant sites such as burial grounds, campsites and middens, many pre-dating the arrival of non-aboriginal people. There s something for everyone in Port Stephens.

4 HUNTER VALLEY 1 HOUR SOUTH OF AIRPORT 45 MINUTES WEST OF AIRPORT TOP 5 THINGS TO DO Australian Reptile Park Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures Dive Ex-HMAS Adelaide Reserve Walk the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Great North Road Daily pelican feeding at The Entrance There is so much to explore on the Central Coast. One hugely popular stop is the Australian Reptile Park where you experience first-hand some of the unique Australian animals, including koalas, wombats and the magnificent kangaroos. For more action, you can experience the thrills of the TreeTops Adventure Park or, for a deep-sea adventure, dive NSW s first artificial military reef formed by the scuttling of HMAS Adelaide, a former naval warship. To wind down, indulge in some of the region s finest fresh seafood, served daily at a selection of excellent restaurants dotted along the coast TOP 5 THINGS TO DO Visit over 150 cellar doors famous for Semillon and Shiraz Alfresco cafes and fine-dining overlooking vines Tour in carriage, convertible, limousine or bike Play 3 international-class golf courses Hot-air balloon or private helicopter flights Along with some spectacular country scenery, the Hunter Valley is famous around the world for its superb wines. You can visit over 150 cellar doors to sample award-winning Semillon or Shiraz or perhaps choose to try them alongside a delicious meal from one of the many alfresco cafes and fine dining restaurants. To complement your culinary journey, you will be tempted by a vast range of gourmet delights, from olives to jams and chocolate to cheese, all locally produced. You can soar above the vineyards in a hot-air balloon or helicopter flight, play a round of golf at one of 3 championship courses or, simply soak in the valley s serenity before nestling in front of a crackling fire and even more irresistible food and wine.

5 FOOD & WINE ODYSSEY HUNTER VALLEY DAY ONE Take a short detour off the M1 and stop by the Old Wyong Milk Factory and indulge in the local tasty offering from Little Creek Cheese and Luka Chocolates. Watch the mastery of the chocolate making process through their viewing window. Browse the galleries, boutiques and shops along Newcastle s famous Darby Street and lunch in one of the many quirky cafes, sleek restaurants or popular bars. Take in the sights of Newcastle's coastline and city along the newly built Memorial Walk, commemorating local soldiers who have fought for our country; and finish up at Merewether Beach for a caffeine fix in the sea breeze. If all that sea air is making you hungry, and you like your seafood very fresh, head to Holberts Oyster Farm. View through large windows the professional oyster shuckers at work, then either takeaway or eat alfresco style onsite looking over the stunning views of Port Stephens. Dinner Enjoy degustation dinner at one of the many award winning restaurants offering fantastic combinations of local wines and sensational local produce. Overnight Check in at one of the many wonderful accommodation providers in Port Stephens including waterfront resorts, centrally located hotels and spacious holiday parks. CONTINUED...

6 HIGHLIGHTS Darby Street Precinct Boasting quirky cafes, popular bars, artisan stores and large scale street art, Darby Street is a hipster's delight. Darby Street is also home to Newcastle Art Gallery, containing one of the largest and most significant collections in NSW. Holberts Oysters Oysters are shucked fresh every day by our team of highly qualified oyster openers under strict guidelines to ensure the best product is presented to the consumer. Hunter Valley Wine School Hunter Resort Hunter Valley offers the total Winery Experience. The onsite winery is by far the largest, and most advanced in the Hunter Valley. The Wine Tasting Cellars are open every day to try the fruits of their labour. DAY TWO Breakfast Boasting a picture perfect view, clear turquoise water and an endless sandy beach, you will not find a more stunning location in Port Stephens than Crest Birubi Beach. HUNTER VALLEY Take time to visit the local farm gates of Medowie. Farms include mushroom, tomato, honey and macadamia as you travel across to the Hunter Valley. Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes located at a winery. Take part in a tour of a winery and discover what winemaking is all about and learn the processes involved in getting the fruit from the vine into the bottle. HUNTER VALLEY DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. 1 SYDNEY

7 GET BACK TO NATURE HIGHLIGHTS Hunter Valley Gardens Nestled at the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges, in the heart of the Hunter vineyards, you will find the magnificent Hunter Valley Gardens - over 60 acres of spectacular international display gardens that will amaze you with sensational sights, colours, fragrances and adventures. Dolphin & Whale Watch Tours Something to spout about...with over 140 bottlenose dolphins calling Port Stephens home, it s no wonder these friendly locals are sighted so often. And, from May to November, the waters off Port Stephens play host to the magnificent migrating humpback whales. HUNTER VALLEY DAY ONE Take a break and get up close and personal with Australian animals at the Australian Reptile Park. HUNTER VALLEY Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes located at a winery. Arrive at the Hunter Valley Gardens and explore Australia s largest display garden, spanning over 60 acres of 10 stunning themed gardens. Overnight Stay the night at one of the hotels set within the vineyards of the Hunter Valley. CONTINUED... Newcastle Memorial Walk Breathe in the fresh air and stroll the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a 450m walkway traversing the cliff top from Strzelecki Lookout to Bar Beach. A tribute to local men and women whom have served at war, the walk incorporates interpretive signage and memorials along the way, and boasts spectacular views of the city and ocean. This is also popular spot for an early morning or evening walk among locals, and for whale spotting during migration season (June to November).

8 DAY TWO Explore the Worimi Conservation Lands the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy a unique and exhilarating Beach and Dune Tour to see how people live on the dunes at Tin City and observe the pippi habitats as well as catching and releasing them. DAY THREE Absorb spectacular views of the city and ocean on Newcastle Memorial Walk. This 450m walkway traverses the cliff top from Strzelecki Lookout to Bar Beach and is a tribute to local men and women whom have served at war. Cool off after your walk and take a dip at nearby Bar Beach. Enjoy fresh barramundi straight from the farm at Cookabarra Restaurant at Bobs Farm. The hydroponic vegetable farm growing fresh produce on-site is served fresh on the plate. Learn about the local population of dolphins or the majestic whales on your dolphin or whale watching cruise. You can see the dolphins all year round and the whales May to November. Enjoy lunch and a drink at one of the many popular cafes and restaurants at Honeysuckle, perched on the edge of one of the busiest ports in the world. After lunch head back towards Sydney enjoying a detour to take in the daily 3:30pm pelican feeding at The Entrance. Overnight Port Stephens has a range of accommodation to offer. Try the fantastic holiday parks which offer self-contained cabins close to the waterfront. HUNTER VALLEY DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. 1 SYDNEY

9 CULTURAL EXPERIENCE MAITLAND MORPETH DAY ONE Explore the local area of the Central Coast through the lens of Australia s leading landscape photographer Ken Duncan, as you visit his renowned gallery. Enjoy lunch and superb coffee on Newcastle's hipster street, Darby Street, with a range of quirky sidewalk cafes to choose from. Learn about Newcastle's past and present and how it came to be the city it is today at the Newcastle Museum. Evening Enjoy entertainment at Lizotte s Newcastle accompanied with a delicious meal and wine. Lizotte s presents a year round calendar of live music and comedy shows from local and internationally acclaimed artists. Overnight The beachside city of Newcastle has a range of accommodation for you to choose from. CONTINUED...

10 HIGHLIGHTS Newcastle Museum Situated in the newly redeveloped Honeysuckle precinct, Newcastle Museum houses three permanent exhibitions and hosts travelling exhibitions year round. The Museum is a great way to learn about Newcastle's history and how it became the city it is today. Morpeth Morpeth has a rich heritage and was instrumental in the development of the Hunter Valley. Morpeth is National Trust - classified and is a living museum with beautifully preserved buildings. Explore the range of heritage sites and buildings or wander the Morpeth Heritage Walk at your leisure. DAY TWO MAITLAND Discover historic Maitland Gaol. With a vibrant history spanning more than 150 years this former maximum security prison is now open for you to explore. MORPETH Make your way to historic Morpeth to enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many cafes or local pub. Morpeth is a town to explore through narrow laneways, beside sandstone gutters and into heritage buildings. It has fascinating history and a beautiful position on the river. Explore the many boutique shops then to take in the history and uniqueness of one of the Hunter Valley's most treasured locations. HUNTER VALLEY 4 2 DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. 1 SYDNEY

11 FUN AND ADVENTURE HUNTER VALLEY DAY ONE TreeTop Adventure Park consists of 85 challenges in the tree tops, where participants can slide down Flying Foxes, move from tree to tree on suspension bridges and enjoy many other exciting activities up to 15 metres above the forest floor! The Springs Golf Club at Peats Ridge offers amazing views and an excellent dining experience. The unique industrial interior is sure to impress. HIGHLIGHTS TreeTop Adventure Park Get up-close and personal with native Australian wildlife and magnificent Gum trees, as you climb, weave and fly through the tree tops on self-guided rope courses. Balloon Aloft A sunrise balloon flight over the Hunter Valley is sure to impress with views of endless vineyards, picturesque farmland, mountain ranges and national parks all on display. HUNTER VALLEY Pick up a bike or hop on a Wild Ride Tour and explore the valley visiting a number of local food producers to sample fresh handmade cheeses, chocolates, olives and olive products, local fruit jams, pickles or honey. Visit a working fruit farm to purchase seasonal stone fruits, table grapes and other delicious produce. (Seasonally dependant). Overnight Large country houses are made for sharing; smaller properties are perfect for a romantic weekend away. Hunter Valley has a unique experience for everyone! CONTINUED... Quad Bike Tour Live the adventure that promises you a ride that no one else can. Experience the Stockton Beach Sand Dunes like never before, riding safely from bush to beach on a 400cc Arctic All Terrain Quad Bike.

12 DAY TWO HUNTER VALLEY & Start the day with a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Hunter Valley vineyards, followed by a celebratory breakfast before heading off to Port Stephens. Arrive at the Worimi Conservation Lands and join a sandboarding or a quad bike adventure tour. Take your pick of eateries along the waterfront. Bay and Beach Discovery - Port Stephens is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and diverse wildlife. Cruising the bay, you will have the opportunity to spot some of our local dolphins and other wildlife before stop off at one of our pristine beaches. DAY THREE Enjoy a walk to the top of Mount Tomaree and experience some of the most beautiful views on the East Coast of Australia or join a guided mountain bike adventure through Tomaree National Park, 161m above the Port Stephens entrance. From the top, you can even see as far as Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah Islands. Relax and enjoy the best water views in the bay from the all-weather alfresco dining areas around the foreshore of Port Stephens. Irukandji Shark & Ray Centre - Experience the true nature of sharks, rays and the weird and wonderful world of the ocean. This unique experience is a lifetime opportunity to interact with marine life by joining them in their world. Overnight You ll be pleased to know that the high standards and levels of excellence in Port Stephens can accommodate your every whim, from camping on Broughton Island to luxuriating in a penthouse overlooking Shoal Bay. HUNTER VALLEY DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. SYDNEY

13 DAY ONE FAMILY FUN See koalas, wallabies, emus, wombats, birds and more in the serene Blackbutt Reserve, and enjoy morning tea by the duck pond. Enjoy lunch at Hamilton's Greenroof Hotel, famous for its delicious meatballs. Choose from lamb, beef, chicken, pork or vegetarian balls, and a range of mouth watering sauces. The hotel also offers a play room for the kids. Swing from the trees at TreeTop Adventure Park Newcastle, offering four high ropes courses and flying foxes for differing skill levels. Evening The Depot on Darby Street has something for all tastes with a tapas menu and main meals. Then walk to nearby Coco Monde Chocolateria chocolate café for dessert. Overnight Newcastle offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families, including Travelodge Newcastle, The Ibis Hotel and Quest Newcastle Serviced Apartments. CONTINUED...

14 HIGHLIGHTS Blackbutt Reserve Get up close and personal with native Australian animals such as koalas, wallabies, emus, wombats, birds and more at Blackbutt Reserve, a 182 hectare wildlife sanctuary in the middle of the city. Stockton Sand Dunes Tackle the largest moving sand mass in the southern hemisphere, Stockton Sand Dunes via camel, sand board, 4WD or quad bike. DAY TWO Take an adventure on the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Sand board down 30 metre high dunes or take a ride on a camel. An experience you will always remember. Port Stephens is known for its beautiful surf beaches. Take a surfing lesson and learn beach safety tips as well as basic board and surf skills. Enjoy take away fish and chips or purchase fresh seafood and cook it on the barbeques supplied at picnic areas around the waterfront. Share the fun and meet the locals. Sail in the calm waters of Port Stephens and watch the dolphins in their playground. Port Stephens is a great place to explore by bike! From rugged mountain biking to coastal tracks to family friendly cycle paths. Join an organised tour or hire a bike once here. 1 2 DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. SYDNEY

15 CLASSIC EXPERIENCE DAY ONE Depart Sydney after a leisurely breakfast. Arrive at Murray s Brewery for beer or wine tasting followed by lunch. Murray's Craft Brewing Co. is one of Australia's leading craft beer brewers. Beer is a key ingredient in many of the dishes, and all of the meals have recommended beer and wine matches. Explore the magnificent sand dunes in the Worimi Sand Dunes. Enjoy a camel ride, sand dune tour or sandboarding. Overnight Anchorage Port Stephens offers a luxury accommodation experience, nestled by the white sands of the beautiful port. CONTINUED...

16 DAY TWO Dolphin Swim Australia - the only permitted wild dolphin swim in NSW! Nothing can prepare you for this absolute adventure of a lifetime: a beautiful sunrise tour heading out into the open ocean to swim with either short-beaked common, or oceanic bottlenose, dolphins. Have an early lunch at Little Nel Café. The setting is casual, with funky music and a great leafy deck with views to the Bay. Venture south to Newcastle and visit Newcastle Museum for an introduction to Newcastle's past and present. The Museum houses three permanent exhibitions detailing Newcastle's history, the story of BHP, and the steel industry in Newcastle, and an interactive science exhibition. The Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions year round. DAY THREE Enjoy breakfast at one of the many quirky cafes along Newcastle's eat-street Darby Street.Take a tunnel tour of Fort Scratchley, the only coastal fort in Australia which returned fire at an enemy during World War Two. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Mediterranean inspired restaurant Rustica, overlooking Newcastle Beach. Get up close and personal with native Australian animals including koalas, wombats, kangaroos and emus at Blackbutt Reserve, and enjoy afternoon tea by the duck pond. Depart Newcastle for Sydney. Overnight Check in to your inner city accommodation. Enjoy drinks and dinner on the water s edge as you watch the sun set over Newcastle's famous harbour. 1 2 DISCOVER MORE OF AUSTRALIA Drive from Sydney via road and fly to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast from Newcastle Airport. SYDNEY

17 AIRPORT Newcastle Airport is an easy 25-minute drive from both Newcastle city and Nelson Bay and is ideally located to make the most of your time in the Hunter. Europe Singapore/Asia China/Japan It s possible to arrive at Newcastle Airport in the morning and be at your destination before lunch, or enjoy a full day in the region before heading off to your next destination in the evening. Serviced by QantasLink, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Regional Express, and FlyPelican to destinations including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Ballina/Byron Bay, and Sydney it s easy to discover another part of Australia before or after your Hunter stay. No matter what brings you to the Hunter region, Newcastle Airport offers easy accessibility for everyone. All major car hire companies operate from Newcastle Airport. Public buses service Newcastle, Port Stephens, and Maitland. Affordable and reliable airport transfers can be arranged through the Airport s Transport Information Desk. Hawaii USA New Zealand Pacific Islands Current airlines Codeshare airlines

18 FURTHER INFORMATION ACCOMMODATION visitnewcastle.com.au or portstephens.org.au For more information on where to stay, visit the following websites: Newcastle Port Stephens Central Coast Hunter Valley newcastleairport.com.au For more information on transportation options within the region please contact Newcastle Airport Information Services on or nais@newcastleairport.com.au /transfers