Newcastle City Guide

5 Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Region, Newcastle is located approximately 2 hours drive north of Sydney and is in close proximity to the popular Hunter Valley Wine Country and Port Stephens blue water paradise, making it the perfect base to experience the best the region has to offer. Newcastle is fast making its name for its strong cultural scene, with a broad range of dining offerings, artisan stores and galleries dotted throughout the city. Many local establishments offer craft beer on tap, and source wine from the local Hunter Valley Wine Country; while Newcastle’s coffee scene is one of the best in Australia. The city is bordered by eight surfing beaches, linked together by a 5km coastal walk known as Bathers Way. The recently built Memorial Walk, a homage to local men and women who have served at war; is one of the most popular attractions in Newcastle and traverses the cliff from Strzelecki Lookout to Bar Beach, offering spectacular views of the city and ocean. Newcastle is undergoing a renaissance, with a range of new developments planned for the city in coming years. The University of Newcastle City Campus opened its doors in 2017 in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD, offering the latest technology in innovation and teaching; and Newcastle Council will invest significantly in the installation of smart city technology throughout the city, including widespread WiFi and interactive visitor signage. Newcastle Airport has recently completed infrastructure to become an international airport, while The Port of Newcastle is in the midst of upgrades to Newcastle’s cruise terminal that will cater for larger cruise ships and allow for greater frequency of cruise visits. Event goers will revel in Newcastle’s busy events calendar with the city hosting a range of international sporting matches, concerts and festivals each year. From 2017–2021 Newcastle will host the hotly anticipated Coates Hire Newcastle 500 annually, which will see the city transformed into a racetrack for some of the nation’s best supercar drivers. Newcastle is the recipient of many accolades, including being named a world smart city to watch by National Geographic in 2017, a top 10 Australian travel destination by Experience Oz in 2016, and a four time winner of the prestigious International Festivals and Events City Award (2012, 2014, 2015, 2016). For more information on Newcastle and all your trip planning needs go to www.visitnewcastle.com.au