Foster

Foster is a charming rural village in the Upper Hunter Valley, offering a genuine taste of Australian country life. Surrounded by rolling green hills, vineyards, and horse studs, it's a serene escape from the city with a strong equestrian and wine-growing heritage.

Highlights & What to See

• Hunter Valley Wine Country – Visit boutique cellar doors like Broke Estate and Margan Wines for tastings of Semillon and Shiraz, often paired with local produce.
• Horse Studs & Equestrian Events – Tour world-renowned thoroughbred studs such as Coolmore Australia (seasonal) and attend events at the Scone Race Club.
• Foster Barrington Tops National Park – Drive into the wilderness for bushwalking, swimming in crystal-clear rivers, and spotting platypuses.
• Local Produce & Farmers Markets – Stock up on artisanal cheese, olives, and honey at the weekly Foster Farmers Market or roadside stalls.
• Historic Village Stroll – Explore the main street's heritage buildings, antique shops, and the Foster Museum for local history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day to explore Foster and its surroundings, or base yourself here for 2–3 nights to truly unwind. Combine a morning wine tasting with an afternoon walk in Barrington Tops, then enjoy a long lunch at a vineyard restaurant. If you're on a self-drive itinerary, Foster makes a perfect overnight stop between Sydney and the Upper Hunter.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Scone – The 'Horse Capital of Australia', just 20 minutes north, with more stud tours and the Australian Stock Horse Show.
• Gloucester – A scenic town at the foot of Barrington Tops, great for outdoor adventures and heritage pubs.
• Dungog – Known for its historic main street and proximity to Chichester State Forest and the Williams River.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region – The main wine hub around Pokolbin and Cessnock, an hour south, with hundreds of wineries and fine dining.
• Barrington Tops National Park – A must for hikers, offering ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts.

Please check official sources for current details.