Upper Hunter

Leave the world behind

The verdant rolling hills of the Upper Hunter are horse country, and you won’t want to leave this quiet, peaceful patch without settling into a saddle and meandering the luscious landscapes. There’s wine here, too, and great food experiences, and the region is bordered by World Heritage wilderness and mountains – where it’s very very easy to leave the world behind.

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

Hollydene Estate Wines and Vines Restaurant, Denman

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

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

King of the Ranges Stockman's Challenge and Bush Festival

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 annual Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces, or embrace Aberdeen’s Scottish heritage at the Aberdeen Highland Games.

Getting there

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.

Highlights

Plan your trip

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