Upper Hunter

The Upper Hunter is the wild, rugged northern end of the Hunter Valley, where the rolling vineyards give way to dramatic national parks, gorges and horse studs. This is a region of big skies, quiet roads and authentic country hospitality, far from the crowds of the Lower Hunter. Here you can explore ancient Aboriginal rock art, spot kangaroos at dusk and taste small-batch wines from boutique cellar doors.

Highlights & What to See

• Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness of ancient rainforests, alpine plateaus and cascading waterfalls. Hike the Gloucester River walking track or drive to the Polblue Swamp for a picnic with a view.
• Hunter Valley Horse Riding – The Upper Hunter is horse country, with sprawling thoroughbred studs around Scone. Join a trail ride through rolling hills or visit a stud for a behind-the-scenes tour.
• Wineries and Cellar Doors – Seek out boutique producers like Briar Ridge Vineyard and Mount Pleasant, known for their semillon and shiraz. Many offer tastings in relaxed, rustic settings.
• Gloucester – A charming timber town with a historic main street, the Bucketts mountain range backdrop and the Gloucester River. Great for a coffee stop and a stroll.
• Aboriginal Rock Art at Baiame Cave – Near Milbrodale, this significant site features a large ancestral being painting. The walk is short and the cultural importance profound.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give the Upper Hunter at least two full days to appreciate its scale and diversity. Spend day one exploring Barrington Tops and Gloucester, then day two visiting wineries and horse studs around Scone. If you’re self-driving, allow an extra half-day for the scenic drive through the national park. The region is best visited in spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) for mild weather and vibrant foliage.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin – The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants and accommodation options just an hour south.
• Wollemi National Park – A vast wilderness of sandstone canyons and the famous Wollemi Pine, accessible from the western edge of the Upper Hunter.
• Port Stephens – A coastal playground with sand dunes, dolphin cruises and surf beaches, about 90 minutes east.
• Newcastle – A revitalised harbour city with a vibrant food scene, art galleries and surf beaches, roughly 90 minutes south-east.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A stunning network of lakes and waterways perfect for kayaking, fishing and birdwatching, two hours east.

Please check official sources for current details.