Hunter Valley
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The Hunter Valley is a region of New South Wales, approximately 160 kilometers north of Sydney, Australia with an approximate population of 700,000 people, most of which live in the Newcastle Metro area including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland city councils.
It is the valley of the Hunter River, one of the major eastwards-flowing rivers of South-Eastern Australia. The Hunter Valley is one of Australia's most famous wine growing regions, known for both its red and white wine varieties. The most important economic activity in the valley is coal mining, mostly for export. Other major industries include power generation, dairy farming and beef cattle farming. Newcastle, situated at the mouth of the Hunter River, Lake Macquarie at the south most point of the Hunter is the valley's biggest city, combined Newcastle and Lake Macquarie are the world's largest coal export area. Other major cities of the Hunter Valley are Port Stephens, Maitland, Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Singleton, Scone and Muswellbrook.
The Hunter Valley is thriving both economically and culturally. New residential areas are being developed throughout the region to accommodate people attracted to the area by work opportunities, the family-friendly environment and affordable housing prices. The state government is working with local government to plan for further growth which is expected to continue for several decades.
Activities and services for families and children are excellent and suitable for the local population and the many visitors the region.
The Hunter Valley Wine Country is a mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. Explore the wineries by horse-drawn carriage, hot air balloon or bicycle. Hunter Valley accommodation choices range from luxury guest houses, bed & breakfasts to spectacular retreats and hotel style accommodation.
There are regular events held in the Hunter for visitors, including the Hunter Vally Steam Trains running the first 3 Sundays of each month, regular scenic cruises on the Hunter River and Lake Macquarie, Scottish Country dancing and also Music in the Park every Sunday. If you're a bored tourist of the Hunter Valley, it's mostly due to a lack of effort.
The Hunter Valley is also very popular because of its abundance of art and craft. Catering to lovers of both contemporary and traditional art, you can browse through galleries full of antiques, art and beautifully crafted pieces.