As winter wraps its freezing arms around us, you’re probably thinking of the coziest-possible getaway you can have. The beach is probably a bust, but you still want to keep things relatively local. May we present to you: the Hunter Region.
The Hunter is a regional wonderland that goes beyond its famous wineries. Sure, the vino is delicious, but there’s a whole lot more to uncover here. There are some lesser-known treasures in the Hunter that will still enchant you, and they’re just waiting for you to explore this winter.
Get Lost in Majestic National Parks
Step away from the vineyards and immerse yourself in Hunter Region’s national parks. You can travel to Barrington Tops National Park, a World Heritage-listed park (i.e. this place is so beautiful, damaging it is punishable by law). There are also plenty of scenic trails and hikes you can take that, once you conquer, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views and your Instagram/TikTok game will truly surge. Plus, working up a sweat is a great way to keep winter frost at bay.
A Feast Beyond Wineries
The Hunter Region’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. Prepare your taste buds for a luxury eating experience at an affordable price at Stockland Green Hills. You can get everything your stomach could want, from as little as under $10, in one, bustling place. Traverse various Asian cuisines with Lorong Malaysia, Lee’s Kitchen, and Kinn Thai, or even try some modern Australian cuisine at Rashay’s. But don’t let your sweet tooth go unsatisfied, as Stockland Green Hills also have a myriad of dessert eateries for you to treat yourself with, like local legends Cupcake Espresso and Tella Balls Dessert Bar, or even C9 Chocolate and Gelato.
In fact, coming soon you’ll be able to build your own feast, with Stockland Green Hills’ Tastes of Winter event playing host to a series of cooking demos. While you’re there, pick up a Winter of Food magazine and you can go into the draw to win 1 of 500 Stockland gift vouchers.
Unearth the Region’s Rich History
A large part of the Hunter Region’s magic is its commitment to preserving history wherever it can. You can wander the cobblestone streets of Morpeth, a riverside village straight out of a storybook — good luck resisting the urge to travel in a horse and carriage. Heading to the heart of the Hunter — Maitland — you can explore the iconic (and just a little scary) Maitland Gaol. Yes, you can do ghost tours there. No, I will not be joining!
Unwind and Let Your Worries Melt Away
Just because it is bloody cold doesn’t mean you can’t melt your worries away in the Hunter Region. In fact, you can literally pamper yourself at Stockland Green Hills, with the Alloom Beauty Lounge and Beauty Salon both ready to give your look a zhuzh. Really lean headfirst into relaxation mode by hitting up Zen Healing Massage, and then decompress that little bit further with some retail therapy — Swarovski, Lorna Jane, Decjuba, and more are right there. What’s cozier than chic coats and fluffy PJs after all?
The Hunter Region invites you to relax and explore, so don’t put off waiting to experience the winter magic that the area, and Stockland Green Hills, has to offer.
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