Upper Hunter

Endowed with rolling plains and rugged mountains, the Upper Hunter Valley has an interesting rural history - and a taste for the good life. Boutique wineries in pretty valleys produce fine wines, while elegant restaurants and farmers' markets showcase delicious local produce.

Barrington Tops National Park has World Heritage-listed subtropical rainforest, subalpine woodlands and vast stretches of wilderness. Adventure seekers can choose from hiking in national parks and fishing, waterskiing and kayaking in the area's rivers and lakes.

There are plenty of accommodation options, from farmstays and B&Bs in towns such as Muswellbrook, Scone and Denman, to scenic campsites throughout the region's national parks.