Best Hotels in Newcastle

Newcastle is Australia's second-oldest city and one of its most underrated destinations. Perched on the Pacific coast two hours north of Sydney, it offers spectacular beaches, a revitalised harbour foreshore and easy access to the Hunter Valley wine region.

The city has been reinvented in recent years — old industrial buildings now house craft breweries, art galleries and restaurants. Merewether and Nobby's beaches rival Sydney's best, without the crowds. The Bathers Way coastal walk connects harbour to beach in a stunning six-kilometre trail.

Newcastle is also the gateway to the Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine region, just 45 minutes' drive inland.