Escape To The Hunter

Day 1

Home - Harbour Cruise - Newcastle
After flying into Newcastle, our Brisbane travellers will join our Sydney, Central Coast and Hunter travellers for a picnic lunch at Blackbutt Nature Reserve. This afternoon, board our cruiser to view the vibrant city of Newcastle from the water and hear about the history and industry of the city. Later, unpack and relax for the next five nights just a short distance from the water.

Day 2

Newcastle Headland - Fort Scratchley
Our day starts with a short walk along the Anzac Memorial, offering superb views from high above the Newcastle Headland. Christchurch Cathedral, also located high above the city, is one of the most impressive cathedrals in the state with construction dating back to 1817. The history of the city continues at the Newcastle Museum - don’t miss out on the BHP exhibition with hot steel. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the foreshore before taking in more breathtaking views from Fort Scratchley.

Day 3

Maitland Gaol - Hunter Valley Gardens - Hunter Vineyards
Today our coach follows the Hunter River west to Maitland, where a local guide will entertain you with stories of the more colourful characters who occupied the Maitland Gaol prior to its closure in 1998. Next, explore the Rose Spectacular at the breathtaking Hunter Valley Gardens, with over 2 million rose blooms, 35,000 rose bushes in over 125 different varieties. After lunch in the Garden Terrace restaurant, taste some of the Hunter’s renowned wines.

Day 4

Maitland Markets - Morpeth - Billabong Buffet
Our first stop is the heritage town of Maitland and home to New South Wales’ largest outdoor markets. Upon arrival in Morpeth we’ll visit the Morpeth Museum for an introductory talk and free time to wander around and purchase your own lunch. A local guide will then come on board. Immerse yourself in the heritage buildings, try some old fashioned ginger beer, fudge and
sourdough. Spend the late afternoon reflecting on some of the art installations at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery. Dinner tonight will be at the Billabong Buffet, offering a large array of sweets, treats and sumptuous cuisine from here and abroad.

Day 5

Nelson Bay - Port Stephens Harbour - Williamtown
Heading north today, pass over Kooragang Island and the wetlands towards the sand dunes of Nelson Bay. Board our luncheon cruise past the glorious beaches of the Port Stephens
Harbour. Watch for the bottlenose dolphins which call this area home. Drop into the local brewery to taste some of the local hops on the way to Fighter World located on the edge of
Williamtown RAAF base, home to the Number 2 Squadron, the oldest in the world.

Day 6

Newcastle Maritime Museum - Ash Island - Home
Our day starts near the old Australian Agriculture Office located on what was the old wharf. Learn more at the maritime museum, before visiting the boardwalk at Ash Island. This walk, perched above the tidal mangroves, makes its way around to the old radar station and farmhouse. Enjoy a hot lunch at a local club before saying goodbye to your fellow travellers, flying home to Brisbane or returning by coach to Sydney.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner