Upper Hunter

Cellar doors, champion mares and World Heritage wilderness. Only a few hours north of Sydney, the Upper Hunter is a gateway to world-famous wine country, stunning natural attractions and some of the world’s leading horse-breeding areas.

Street view of the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre

Scenic Drives

Explore the local delights on one of the scenic drives through this beautiful area. Begin your journey at Muswellbrook, where you can explore the extensive collection of influential Australian artists in the Max Watters Collection at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre. The cellar doors around Denman and Sandy Hollow are a short drive away.

cheese board at Hollydene Estate Wines and Vines Restaurant in Denman, Upper Hunter

Taste local flavours

Thriving vineyards and delicious food and wine experience abound in the Upper Hunter’s rolling green hills. Sip and dine at acclaimed vineyards such as Hollydene Estate Wines, Two Rivers Wines and the boutique Small Forest cellar door. Discover famous local flavours with handmade cheese at Hunter Belle Cheese and olive oils at Pukara Estate.

Kangaroos in the vineyard at Two Rivers Wines, Denman

Natural Wonders

Bordered by World Heritage wilderness and the beautiful Liverpool Range, you’ll find horse riding tours. In Burning Mountain Nature Reserve a 5,500-year-old coal seam fire is woven into Aboriginal Dreaming stories. Lake Glenbawn boasts one of NSW’s best freshwater fishing spots, and you can get up close to Tasmanian Devils at Aussie Ark.

King of the Ranges Stockman's Challenge and Bush Festival in Murrurundi, Upper Hunter

Events

Check out the region’s festivals in the exciting events calendar, including the Scone Horse Festival in Scone, horse capital of Australia, and the King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival in Murrurundi. Enjoy the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces, or embrace Aberdeen’s Scottish heritage at the Aberdeen Highland Games.

Getting there and where to stay

Three hours’ drive north of Sydney, or a scenic two hours and 20 minutes’ drive from Newcastle. Take a scenic train trip to Scone via Newcastle and Maitland. You’ll find plenty of places to stay, from luxury retreats to farm stays. Camp at Washpools campground in the Towarri National Park, among pockets of rainforest, snow gums and casuarinas.