NEWCASTLE

Australia's second-oldest city is located just 45 minutes drive from Hunter Valley, bound by a working harbour and glorious surf beaches, was forged from coal, timber and sweat but has moved on from that rough-and-tumble era to embrace a new outlook.

Clever repurposing has transformed heritage buildings. Former railway workshops house Newcastle Museum; a sandstone bank is now a French-inspired bar sparkling with chandeliers; a brewery's 19th-century grain and keg warehouse now showcases craft beers.

Arts projects, festivals and events have transformed five inner-city precincts. Come and explore Civic, Cooks Hill, East End, West End and the harbourside Honeysuckle development. Their makeovers are all part of a 25-year plan to revitalise Newcastle, shoring up its position as a vibrant regional centre and gateway to Hunter Wine Country.

A top ten city in Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel 2011', this is where bohemian culture coexists with surf culture; where hip cafés and award-winning restaurants flank an industrial port; where the land meets the sea.

This is Newcastle – a city of contrast, change and endless possibility.

visitnewcastle.com.au

CENTRAL COAST 

Fun Starts on NSW's Central Coast, just one hour scenic drive north of Sydney.  Arguably  NSW's adventure capital.  From mild to wild, experience one of the many Australian adventure activities awaiting discovery - including meet and greet with iconic Australian animals, hiking, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, horse riding, quad biking and zip lining.

visitcentralcoast.com.au

LAKE MACQUARIE

Welcome to Lake Macquarie, the city that boasts the largest coastal saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere.

At twice the size of Sydney Harbour, the Lake takes centre stage as the vast blue centrepiece of our natural playground, flanked by golden beaches in the east and lush green mountain ranges to the west.

With over 90 towns and villages to explore, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Quality coffee, delectable dining and boutique shopping all await in our vibrant town centres, or simply stop to catch your breath by the Lake in one of our many quaint, waterfront villages.

Lake Macquarie is a water-lover’s paradise. With 30 kilometres of pristine coastline. and four patrolled beaches, there’s plenty of space for everyone to find their own patch of sand. On the Lake, you can set sail on a yacht or catamaran, hire a tinnie boat for the day and explore, paddle a kayak, try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, even enjoy the rush of a jet boat thrill ride!

Back on land, there’s many more great ways to experience Lake Macquarie. Hike through superb pockets of bushland, or enjoy a family stroll on one of our shared pathways. Nature lovers don’t miss the Watagan Mountains, a forest escape full of scenic lookouts and waterfalls. 

visitlakemac.com.au

MAITLAND

‘Scenic beauty, heritage buildings, unique villages, welcoming people, an attractive lifestyle and convenient location are just some of the factors that lead visitors and residents alike to Maitland. At the heart of the city is Central Maitland, with its full range of shopping, business and civic functions as well as education, cultural and recreational services. Maitland is one of the oldest and heritage rich regional centres in Australia, built on the banks of the Hunter River that brought life and trade to the early city.

Follow the river as it meanders downstream and you will come to the historic river port of Morpeth. Wander the streets of the village to discover unique shopping, dining and artisan treasures.

Whether you are here for a visit, a short time or a lifetime, the one thing you can be sure of is that you're welcome in Maitland.’

mymaitland.com.au