Broken Back Range

The Broken Back Range is a striking escarpment that forms the dramatic backdrop to the Hunter Valley wine region. Its rugged sandstone cliffs and eucalyptus forests offer a stark contrast to the manicured vineyards below, rewarding hikers and nature lovers with panoramic views and a sense of wild isolation just a short drive from the cellar doors.

Highlights & What to See

• Pulbah Island Nature Reserve: Accessible by boat from Morisset, this is a great spot for birdwatching and spotting kangaroos in a bushland setting.
• Watagans National Park: Offers several walking trails, including the popular Boardwalk Nature Walk and the more challenging Gap Creek Falls track.
• Mount Warrawolong: The highest point in the range, with a lookout that provides sweeping views over Lake Macquarie and the coast.
• Hunter Valley Gardens: Located at the foot of the range, these formal gardens are a colourful contrast to the wild landscape.
• Broken Back Lookout: A short walk from the car park at the end of Watagan Forest Road, offering a classic vista of the valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least half a day to explore the range. A morning hike followed by a picnic lunch at one of the lookouts is ideal. If you're combining with wine tasting, start early so you can be back in the vineyards by early afternoon. For serious bushwalkers, a full day allows you to tackle longer trails like the Great North Walk section that passes through the range.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin: The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors and restaurants.
• Lake Macquarie: Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and sailing.
• Cessnock: A historic coal-mining town with a vibrant main street and a gateway to the vineyards.
• Maitland: Known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and the Maitland Gaol museum.

Please check official sources for current details.