For a slice of the good life, look no further than the Hunter, just north of Sydney. Great wines, gourmet food, superb restaurants and cafes, rustic cottages and romantic beachside retreats.

Get away from it all and relax on a houseboat on Lake Macquarie, or explore the broad ocean beaches and extensive forests nearby.

For a taste of culture and nightlife drop into Newcastle, Australia's second oldest city.

Hunter Valley Wine Country is a mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. Explore the wineries by horse-drawn carriage, hot air balloon or bicycle.

Meander through Maitland's elegant heritage precincts or visit historic Morpeth, Australia's oldest river port. Singleton and the Upper Hunter reflect Australia's rural heritage with small country townships and farm stays. The area also offers wineries, horse studs, forests and a wealth of outdoor activities. Or for a change, experience Barrington Tops which features rugged mountains, gorges and dense forest. It's a magnet for horseback riders, bushwalkers, campers and 4WD tours.