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Pokolbin Hunter Valley is a great choice for a sort break away

Hunter Valley Gardens Pokolbin is located in the Lower Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales Australia, an area famed for its vintners. Pokolbin is not a town but a rural area found between the towns of Cessnock and Branxton. Because of its famed wineries and vineyards, it is a popular destination for wine lovers. It attracts other holiday makers with its day spas, resorts and local art.

Wine tourism is the Hunter Valley’s mainstay and this brings numbers of people the area. Based here are the large multinational wine companies, small home vintners and everything in between. The countryside is primarily used for the growing of grapevines. Shiraz and Semillion predominate but one will also find Chardonay, Cabernet, Sauvignon and even a little Pinot Noir.

Vintage Hunter Wine and Visitor Centre is the nerve centre of the area’s wine tourism. It can be found at 455 Wine Country drive and one finds directions here to restaurants, Pokolbin hotels, resorts and public events. Of course, one can also find a directory and maps to the wineries and cellars. Some of those located in the Valley are Vinden Estate Wines, Thalgora Estate, Blueberry Hill Vineyard, Tyrrell’s Wines and Morgan Family Wine Growers.

Pokolbin Village is the heart of the Valley and serves as a starting point from which to explore the wine country. It is at the centre of Pokolbin and is located so that the area wineries can be reached by foot. Pokolbin Village is a resort designed like a rustic town, and has spacious grounds amidst which suites, villas and even a homestead provide lodging for extended stays. The staff will aid visitors in the arrangement of winery visits and can inform them of area events and festivals.

One may also visit or stay at the Hunter Valley Gardens. This is the creation of award-winning landscapers Bill and Imelda Roche. Twelve themed gardens lie upon over 25 hectares of land. Vacationers may stay at the Mercure Resort and participate in the varied events that are offered besides the daily garden tours.

Here can be visited the Rose Garden, a corkscrew patterned garden of over 8,000 roses of more than 150 kinds. Also the Sunken Garden, made to appear like a sunken grotto beneath a large waterfall and shaped around a pond the size of five Olympic swimming pools and planted with a variety of evergreen and deciduous trees. The Chinese Garden and the Oriental Garden feature Chinese, Korean and Japanese motifs such as moss covered rocks, bamboo stands, gardens of raked gravel, pagodas amidst gingko trees and lily covered lakes stocked with Asian fish.

Both a State Forest and a National Park, Barrington Tops allows visitors to partake of nature pursuits. Huge cliffs, rain forest and fishing streams proliferate. This World Heritage site rests atop a twenty-five kilometre plateau and is home to a great variety of flora and fauna, some of it very rare. Here one can engage in canoeing, kayaking, cycling and hiking on trails and mountains, bushwalking and camping.

Step back in history in Newcastle Australia

In New South Wales, Australia, one city remembers its links to early European settlements and the important role convicts played in its construction. Newcastle embraces connections to the past as well as its ongoing relationship with the sea that lashes its shores. Today, visitors come to be wowed by past and present attractions.

The Lock Up The Lock-Up presents a bleak view of past penal life with its tiny cells. Tourists may come away feeling saddened for the people imprisoned here, knowing that many suffered simply for the courage to voice an opinion. Tour museum relics and displays with your family or as part of a school group. Take the time to view art by many locals whose work is presented in bright contrast to their sad surroundings.

Christ Church Cathedral has shown its resilience against war and an earthquake, standing tall today for visitors to admire its grace and beauty. Many tall stained glass windows were designed and created by famous Pre-Raphaelite painters from England. This sacred building maintains a bright aspect, along with exquisite marble flooring. Materials came from Australia and Italy, the latter in particular when earthquake repairs were required.

No one knows where the Nobbys gets its name, but this oddly-dubbed island performs a serious role. While welcoming vessels into Newcastle Harbour, it also offers the protection of a lighthouse. Many ships have been wrecked along this coast and numerous lives lost. The most recent wreck of merely a few years ago ended well with the ship re-floating and no lives lost. Guides will show the curious resting places of many unfortunate vessels.

At Lee Wharf on Hunter River enjoy active displays run by the Maritime Centre. Gain a better understanding of important sea-based industry to the people of Newcastle since the city first became official around 150 years ago. Bogey Hole marks the spot of an odd, sometimes dangerous pass time. Residents like to jump into this busy bathing hole from the cliffs above, or risk the waves which rush in during a storm, holding onto chains or getting washed out to sea. During good weather, safely soak up some sun without getting sand in your bathing suit.

Fort Scratchley displays relics from its 1870s origins and action during the Second World War. Guns fired here to defend the city over sixty years ago remain for the perusal of interested visitors. Guide yourself throughout the museum or join a tour, but make sure you go up top. A wide view over the harbour and sea may afford a glimpse of whales or dolphins passing through.

Enjoy all kinds of snacks and cuisine during a wander along the city streets. Precincts combine art galleries, pubs, cafes and restaurants serving Greek, Italian and more. The pubs get pretty busy along here, so if you hope to meet other tourists like yourself, this could be the place to do it.

Stay on a severe budget with backpacker accommodation or bring your young family to a resort. Newcastle Hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts will locate tourists in the city or suburbs. All kinds of lodgings wait for your booking. Rent an apartment with friends helping to cover the cost. Visit a spa for some self-care. Opt for the tranquility of a vineyard retreat.

Take a few days off in Mollymook on the NSW South Coast

Mollymook Beach Pirates, aborigines and white settlers all found Mollymook idyllic in nature. Blessed with a treasure trove of temperate weather, mysterious caves and gleaming beaches, this little town located along the New South Wales coast is just waiting to be discovered by the individual or family looking for fun and adventure in a hedonistic setting.

Those afraid that such a place will be hidden too far off the beaten path will be pleased to discover that this bit of paradise is actually quite handily located almost equidistant from Sydney and Canberra a short and scenic three hour road trip. It is in the perfect spot to serve as a short get a way or as a longer family vacation.

While its is based around tourism retail and the lodging income, it creates no problem as anything one might need is available only five short minutes away in Ulladulla.

The beaches of Mollymook have already been discovered by those connoisseurs of great water, surfers. Each year sponsored festivals, contests and surfing competitions draw surfers from all over to take part. These clean and safe beaches also draw swimmers of all kinds as well as those less inclined to leave their comfy beach lounges preferring to enjoy to view and the sun.

They take care of their visitors with a plethora of Mollymook beach accommodation that take in preferences from luxurious, with 5 star hotels, to those who prefer to ‘rough it’ in the modern campgrounds available in the area. They haven’t forgotten the gustatory pleasures of a vacation either, providing familiar fast food, hearty buffets and even opulent dining experiences for those looking for an elegant night after an adventurous day.

The town enjoys the ease of such amazing neighbors as Morton National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and striking foliage and Pigeon House Mountain and Murramarang. These parks offer adventure, discovery and an unmatched opportunity to experience the land as it once was. Both parks offer bushwalking with choices for those who need an easier trail and for those who want a chance to explore caves, coal mines and climbing the cliffs.

It was Captain Cook who stepped onto the shores here in 1770 where he discovered the area already inhabited by Aborigines and reported that the natives "appeared to be of a black or very dark colour". Later the local caves and artifacts that have been discovered proved that, indeed, it had been called home by a number of diverse Aboriginal groups before the white settlers arrived in 1859. The name itself seems to have come from a local species of albatross called the ‘mollymawk’. There was also a community house built by these settlers known as the "Molly Moke", all of which could be differing spellings that have wound up today as "Mollymook".

This is a ‘don’t miss’ destination for everyone of any age. The beautiful drive alone, a ribbon of clear road stretching between breathtaking cliffs and sparkling water calls you to a different place, a different time, a different adventure. Next time you plan your family vacation, take a look at Mollymook.

Milton is a great place for a long weekend or a short vacation

South of Sydney on the eastern coast of Australia, lucky tourists will have discovered a small rural town steeped in agricultural tradition. Milton is small but has begun to spill over into towns like Ulladulla and Mollymook. Still it retains individuality including its own festivals and attractions.

Visitors and locals alike look forward to events which celebrate the agricultural background of Milton. Their March Agricultural and Horticultural Show looks a lot like a county fair, with a dog show and displays of livestock like sheep and cattle. Live music, a rodeo and rides provide plenty of enjoyment for the whole family. The Settlers Fair also honours a colourful past. Witness historic displays, sheep shearing, even some magic. Listen to story telling, watch street theatre, or take a history walk. You might find souvenirs to bring home too. The Scarecrow Festival offers similar opportunities, though this time the community comes together to celebrate harvest season.

Arrive at just the right time and take a look at a monthly village market. Find unique items for yourself or to give as gifts such as jewelry, crafts and clothing. Visitors will also have the chance to purchase produce at the market to nibble while exploring or to take back to their accommodation for later meals. Many craft shops line the streets here along with galleries that show off the skills of talented citizens. Some work with paints, others with pottery. View their displays and purchase their unique pieces.

For skill of a different kind, head to a vineyard. Cupitts Winery invites tourists to the cellar door for a taste of their varieties along with bottles for sale. Tourists can always just come and enjoy beautiful scenery from this location. They also serve food so arrive in time for lunch or supper. Visit the town for a south coast wine event featuring public tasting of products from numerous wine makers representing the region. Maybe sip a winner.

GZone Flower Farm always has something flowering. Witness the evidence of their environmental commitment including an intensive recycling policy. Here you can also explore a gift shop for more novelties and food.

If you love to get outside and keep moving, your location could not be better. In Morton National Park take a bush walk or climb Pigeon House Mountain. Lake Conjola provides a lovely location for swimming, water skiing, fishing or sailing. Should you prefer to watch rather than play, just dip your toes in the water and relax.

Many options exist for Milton accommodation. Set yourself up with self-catering or look to a bed and breakfast for shared facilities and personal treatment. Hire a room at an art studio. Opt for a camp site, motel, or restored heritage home. Whatever your choice, historic Milton rests only minutes away.

Take a walk through Milton yourself to admire historic buildings throughout. The National Trust has listed the town thanks to many preserved examples of early nineteenth century architecture, including several churches. Another option is to join a walking tour and learn more about Milton hauntings.

Only a short drive from Sydney experience Wollongong

Wollongong city in New South Wales is easily accessible from Sydney. It is a multi-ethnic city and is famously known as ‘the Gong’. Its name is synonymous with pristine beaches, breathtaking coastlines, beautiful parks, industries and coal mines. The meaning of the word Wollongong is believed to be ‘the sound of the waves’ in the native language.

The influx of settlers in the 1800s was followed by rapid town-building. The settlers came from all over the world- Britain, Greece, Italy, China and India, bringing their culture and festivals. Today, these immigrants, along with the native Aborigines, form a very vibrant society.

The city has several miles of breath-taking coastline and beaches. Its pristine beaches are legendary. They are the hubs of activity during the scorching summer. People indulge in all kinds of sports like swimming, fishing and surfing. The other summer hangouts include the various parks in the city like the MacCabe park and the Botanical Gardens. Their cool shade provides the walkers and joggers relief from the summer heat.

Wollongong Lighthouse The light houses are must-visit on the to-do list. Some of the buildings like the old lighthouse, St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Courthouse are heritage buildings. They are of historical as well as architectural importance and interest. A group of islands called he Five Islands are located off the city’s coast and they serve as a rich eco-hub with hundreds of species of wildlife.

The city has a vibrant social scene with all kinds of shows, folk festivals and sporting events. The Illawara folk festival is one such event where the shows are so popular that huge crowds throng the city. Other performing arts festivals like Viva la Gong are held yearly as mediums to showcase the city’s rich culture.

Another important thread in the fabric of Gong society is art. The beauty and scenic locales inspire the artists to create wonderful masterpieces that adorn the walls of some really fabulous galleries. The arts and crafts of the region draw heavily from the native Aboriginal culture. The city also has much to offer in terms of entertainment at the Performing Arts Centre, WIN Entertainment Centre for sporting events and its other malls, nightclubs and quaint cafes.

The city’s location on the coast serves as a blessing as it enjoys pleasant breezes throughout the year. However the summers, for the same reason, can be scorching, with temperatures as high as 35 degrees and a few times, they have known to have even touched the lower forties. Thankfully, the summer weather is interspersed with soft breezes. It is also common to have slight rainfall almost throughout the year. The city can easily be reached from Sydney by road, rail and air.

The residents display the famous Australian passion for sports and outdoor activities. Popular activities include surfing, mountain climbing and biking. People sharing these passion will have a very enjoyable vacation here. It is as ideal for a family holiday as for a personal break. Wollongong is at its best during the summer when all the festivals, events and activities are in full-swing.

If heading down south from Sydney for a few day find some good Wollongong accommodation nsw, attractions and other travel related information about the area.

Category: Central Coast  Tags:  One Comment
Orange Australia is a great choice for a sort break away

The glorious extinct volcano Mt. Canobolas is the setting for the city of Orange. The name Canobolas means twin shoulders or twin heads in native aboriginal language. The city has spectacular views and wonderful ambiance that one can greatly enjoy.

A rush of people found gold in this place and it grew the town as people tried to found their fortune. This occurred in early eighteen hundreds and after the gold the region became growers of pears, peaches, cherries, apricots, plums and lots of apples. While the name of the city implies that a specific fruit was grown here, in fact, the name came from people paying tribute to Prince Orange of Denmark.

With the amazing production of their fruit this region became so prolific that it produced ten percent of all the apples in Australia. The fruit still grows here and is used locally. The European nod its settlers has left a mark on the town itself as it has a certain European flavor and design to it. The town is like strolling down a cobblestone street in Europe.

There is nothing more enjoyable than watching seasons change. From the gorgeous leaves of the fall to the warmth of a summer day, this city has been called a colour city. Anytime of the year you can experience the beauty of the region and the love Mother Nature has shown here. Why not head here for a winter break and snuggle with your loved one while sipping hot chocolate. Or sit beside a lake and dangle your feet in cooling water as the sun beats down in the summer.

orange Because the proximity to Sydney is close it is a wonderful quick getaway spot. There are different festivals to enjoy especially the Food Festival that takes place in April. The Australia National Field Days is held here in October. This is an old agricultural fair that lets you see the history and wonder of products grown for food. This is one reason why the region has the distinction of being the Fruit Basket of Australia.

The town has a long history behind it that allows you to visit and learn while you enjoy a holiday. There is a place to pan for gold just like the settler did ages ago. Maybe you will find your fortune and can stay on a permanent vacation. Or you can simply walk the streets of the town and feel the ambiance that it offers.

Or spend some time breathing in cool, crisp, fresh air at the top of Mt. Canobolas. The hike there is gorgeous and exhilarating. Once atop the mountain take the scenery that lies below you. The man made Lake Canobolas gives you the opportunity to swim, camp, or simply lounge atop the water under a tranquil sky. With this region beauty abounds and you can find something to bring a smile to your lips.

The fruit growing is evident in over fifty vineyards growing around the area. Bringing the grapes in this fertile and agriculturally rich area is bringing a whole new type of attention to the town of Orange. There are so many tasting rooms that you can try every variety of wine available.

There are some good Orange hotels nsw options available so whether you have a long vacation or a short getaway the town of Orange will afford you all that you desire. Be active by hiking and swimming or simply wander through historic buildings and take in delicious food and wine. Whatever your choice a visit to Orange should be on your agenda.

Discover what Mudgee in Australia has to offer

Church in Mudgee Mudgee has the air of a quiet hamlet waiting to welcome you when you arrive. The name means nest in the hills in the aboriginal language. Nestled right up in the foothills it offers a pastoral and relaxing ambiance of warmth and agricultural. Take a seat and enjoy a glass of wine while the town shows you her beauty.

The wine culture of Australia is fast becoming important not only in New South Wales but in the world. That means that this little hamlet has a front row seat to some amazing new varieties of wine from the over forty wineries that make their home here. Where you have wine you have food. Mudgee delivers on that front too. The restaurants are filled with local agriculture more than just in your glass. All this is set in a town that boasts four National Trust of Australia buildings. Take a historic walk through the town before or after you enjoy your lovely meal.

With wine and agriculture brings new types of delicious goodies. The honey from this area is special and delicious. It is a great gift to bring back after your vacation away. Try also the olives and the olive oil that is a budding industry for this region.

The proximity to Sydney makes this the perfect spot for a weekend vacation. Go to the beauty of this area and unwind from the hustle and bustle of your world in one of the many Mudgee accommodation nsw options available. Enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious meal while you settle into the relaxing day in front of you.

The area is a plethora of not only wonders for the taste buds but sights for the eyes and spirit as well. For the adventurous there are many natural places to roam. The Coolah Tops National Park is the view to show the land below you and admire the beauty of the region. Or enjoy meandering the Goulbum River in a canoe and stop on the shore to enjoy a picnic lunch. There are four National Parks here so there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Mudgee Observatory is open to see more than just the landscape but peruse the skies above. The vistas are huge and the astronomers can fill you in on all the stunning stars, planets, and galaxies you can see.

Take a helicopter ride to survey the region, vines, and all the beauty of the land below you. Rent bikes and take a tour through the vines and stop to taste wine along the way. Maybe you want to sit back and relax and let someone guide you to wonderful wines. Pack a picnic basket with goodies like local honey and olives and enjoy a blissful day of delicious tastes.

Planning your getaway around the various festivals that occur here is another way to see the town of Mudgee shining. Savour the new and exciting varieties of wine at the Wine Festival that occurs in September. Or find your inner movie star at the Short Film Festival that happens in March. The Music Festival is in December to bring your year to a musical close.

Visit Katoomba to see the natural beauty and splendor of the Blue Mountains

This area has been drawing adventure seekers and nature lovers alike for over 150 years. No visit to New South Wales would be complete without seeing Katoomba, the home of the legendary Three Sister and Echo Point resting atop a 170 meter steep cliff.

When visiting the beautiful Blue Mountains, this is the perfect place to stay. With exceptional dining, shopping, lodging, and attractions everyone is bound to discover something in this area they enjoy. One popular choice for lodging is the relaxing Bed and Breakfast.

Katoomba Three sisters Bed and Breakfasts can be found from the cliffs of Echo Point, overlooking the exquisite Three Sisters, to the tree lined avenues of the city itself. This quaint little town is excellent for taking a relaxing stroll, shopping for antiques, or just enjoying the local bistros and wine.

During your stay at Blue Mountains there many good Katoomba cottage options available to the traveller for lodging. Some might enjoy getting closer to the outdoors by either camping or RVing. While others still might wish for a relaxing spa like retreat as a way to unwind. Wherever your taste fall on the comfort scale Blue Mountain has just the right room for you.

If you desire a unique way of seeing all Blue Mountain has to offer farm stays or cave renting are something you may want to check out. Farm stays offer a real life snapshot of life in New South Wales. As you stay at a local area farm and see firsthand the joy of simple farm life. During a farm stay you will have excellent accommodations but also gain an appreciation for a farmer’s way of life. There is also a cave, Hatters Hideaway, which can be rented the same as a hotel or resort room.

If it is history you seek, this region is rich in history. At the numerous assorted local antique and book shops. From Bygone Beauties in Leura to Mr. Pickwicks Fine Old Books in the heart of town; your imagination can soar to the mountain peaks as you are whisked back to the old days of this charming mountain village.

Blue Mountain has a great many modes of transportation available to its many visitors including trolleys, city rail, chartered buses, and local taxis. Chartered buses are the best way to see the sites for larger groups. Trolleys offer and excellent and relaxing way to take in the sites. One of the favorite off the beaten path ways to see a different view of the city are the ghost tours. This area is rich in mysteries and secrets many will be shared on the Blue Mountain Ghost Tour. Along with secrets this tour offers many of the less popular but very beautiful sites such as the rain forest and waterfalls. Sure to please any traveller, try your hand at the evening Ghost Tours available.

Whether your interests involve horseback riding, bush walking, rock climbing, or just spending time with nature, Katoomba has something for you. With interesting and friendly local people just waiting to accommodate you, your visit to scenic New South Wales Australia and gorgeous Blue Mountains will be the best trip you ever take to anywhere.

The great food and wine of the Hunter Valley

Located in the central coastal region of the Australian state of New South Wales, the gorgeous Hunter Valley (also known as the Hunter Region) is quite simply one of the most remarkable destinations within the country. With rich cultural traditions and ase-inspiring vistas, it has long been producing some of Australia’s best boutique wines, something which is delightfully matched by the region’s excellent gastronomical offerings: from premium beef as well as dairy products to a cornucopia of fresh fruits and veggies. All of this, topped off by the breathtaking settings which can be explored in various different and unique ways, make the Hunter Valley a natural choice as a top Australian destination (clearly attested to by the 2+ million annual visitors).
Cheese tasting - Hunter Valley

Fine dining is one of the defining features of the valley, strongly focusing on local products. With cattle raisers throughout the valley that supply many areas of the country, a good steak is always going to appear on the table of one of the outstanding restaurants visitors will likely get to know. Among such establishments are the Pokolbin area’s Casuarina and San Marino restaurants; the Lovedale area’s Mojo’s on Wilderness and Lynkeys of Lovedale restaurants; and the Mount Broke Wines’ Cow Cafe.

Following the gastronomical theme further, the valley’s many cheese farms are well worth a stop and will receive visitors warmly, offering up what all wine lovers know to be the best accompaniment possible to a tasty cup. Give your taste buds a real treat and liven up your day of touring by checking out places like the Smelly Cheese Shop, the Hunter Valley Cheese Company or Binnorie Dairy.

There are many world-class wineries waiting to receive visitors and indulge what is surely their top priority while exploring the Hunter Valley. Having been turned into the outstanding wine country which it is known as today by the Hunter River and its tributaries (constituting one of the nation’s principal river networks), the valley is particularly clogged with vineyards in the areas of Pokolbin, Wollombi Valley as well as Broke Fordwich. As you tour through the region, you’ll probably enjoy the exceptional flavors bottled by Tintilla Estate, the Adina Vineyard and the Private Moorebank Vineyard, among many more.

Your trip through the Hunter Valley could be that much more unique by opting to get around via less usual means, such as a hot air balloon ride, horse and carriage, in a luxury limo or even just on bike. Then, to end each day in the right way there are many exceptional Hunter Valley accommodation choices, from the Belford Cabins to the Capers Guesthouse and Cottage to much more.

Relax with a Weekend in the Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley GardensAs far as weekend trips are concerned, the beautiful Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia, has everything it takes for a perfect getaway. Plus, it’s only 2 hours north by car from Sydney, making it accessible to tourists from all over the world. In fact, every year, 2.5 million people visit the area to take advantage of the winery tours, hot air balloon, and many other attractions the Hunter Valley has to offer.

Hunter Valley Accommodation is easy to find throughout the entire region, no matter your budget or the type of occasion. But the three most popular places to stay are Pokolbin, Cessnock, and Lovedale.

Pokolbin
Pokolbin can be found at the heart of the Lower Hunter Valley wine region. This area is not only the oldest wine region in Australia, but it’s also one of the country’s most famous. It has over 120 wineries, the oldest of which are nearly 200 years old. Take a tour and try the acclaimed Hunter Valley Semillon or the popular Australian Shiraz that are made here.

In addition to wineries galore, you will also enjoy Pokolbin’s selection of more than 60 restaurants and have your choice of over 160 places to stay. Golfers can get a bit of exercise at one of the region’s world-class golf courses. Visitors to this area can also take a stroll through the southern hemisphere’s largest rose garden, which is found in the 60-acre Hunter Valley Gardens, along with shops, restaurants, a chapel, and other attractions.

Cessnock
The picturesque Cessnock area is Pokolbin’s neighbor. A group of the small towns Paxton, Millfield, and Bellbird make up this area, which was named after Scotland’s Cessnock Castle as a tribute to the area’s early Scottish settlers. Cessnock marks where the Hunter Valley wine region starts and is also visited for is collection of antique shops, craft shops, and art galleries.

Lovedale
Finally, you have Lovedale, which much like Pokolbin and Cessnock, is a great place for wine tours. But along with its many wineries, Lovedale also has exciting activities to offer, like hot air balloon and horseback rides, which are great for visitors looking to quench their thirst for adventure while taking in the breathtaking landscape.