Day Itinerary
10 Activities
Day 1
69 mi3 mi
Hiking in the Bush and the Coolest Coastal City
Departing from Sydney, today’s part of the journey will help you get back to nature with a bush walk in Brisbane Water National Park and a swim in one of Newcastle’s ocean pools. Newcastle has previously won the title of ‘the coolest coastal city’, partly because of its trendy hospitality scene.
10:155 min
Staples Lookout
Start the day with a bushwalk, which is the Australian term for a hike. One of my favourite bushwalks just outside of Sydney is in Brisbane Water National Park. Drive to the viewpoint, Staples Lookout, where there is a car park.
The beginning of the trail, Tommos Loop Firetrail, is 350 metres south of the car park.
The beginning of the trail, Tommos Loop Firetrail, is 350 metres south of the car park.
1.7 mi
40 min
11:0030 min
Kariong Brook Falls
Walking through the rugged landscape of Brisbane Waters National Park, you'll be surrounded by magnificent eucalyptus trees and the echo of birds calling each other.
At the midpoint of the walk is Kariong Brook Falls — a waterfall that pools into a creek which you can swim in or just dip your feet.
Follow Tommos Loop Firetrail, then the Girrakool Loop Track until you reach the waterfall. To return to your car, head back the same way you came.
At the midpoint of the walk is Kariong Brook Falls — a waterfall that pools into a creek which you can swim in or just dip your feet.
Follow Tommos Loop Firetrail, then the Girrakool Loop Track until you reach the waterfall. To return to your car, head back the same way you came.
1.7 mi
40 min
12:155 min
Staples Lookout
Now that you've made it back to the car, it's time to head into the town of Gosford for lunch.
6.6 mi
14 min
12:451 hr
South End Social
Food
For a lunch, stop at South End Social in Gosford. This chic eatery serves tasty dishes with inspiration from around the world, such as lamb pita souvlaki and soba noodle salad.
38.2 mi
54 min
14:4530 min
Sea cave, Caves Beach
At the south end of Caves Beach are caves that have been eroded into the cliffside by the sea and wind. There is one large cave seen from the beach and behind it are smaller caves, interconnected by corridors. The caves can be explored at low tide and you can check the tidal levels on the NSW Government website.
When it's high tide, you can view the large cave from the outside, peer into rock pools and take a walk along the beach. Street parking is available.
When it's high tide, you can view the large cave from the outside, peer into rock pools and take a walk along the beach. Street parking is available.
16.8 mi
40 min
16:001 hr
Merewether Ocean Baths
Swim a few laps at Merewether Ocean Baths in Newcastle. The ocean tide fills this pool with sea water but the pool walls keep it sheltered from the swell.
Built in 1935, this is the largest ocean bath in the southern hemisphere. The baths are free to use and are open all year round, but closed once a week for cleaning. Check the cleaning schedule on the City of Newcastle website.
Built in 1935, this is the largest ocean bath in the southern hemisphere. The baths are free to use and are open all year round, but closed once a week for cleaning. Check the cleaning schedule on the City of Newcastle website.
1.1 mi
5 min
17:151 hr 30 min
Modus Merewether
Follow up your swim with a refreshing beer at Modus Merewether craft brewery Set in architecturally stunning warehouse that is bright and airy, Modus offers 36 beers on tap, ranging from Indian pale ales, lagers, sours, dark beers and a non-alcoholic selection. Beers are sold in five sizes (you can take home a 1.8 L growler) but typically in this part of the country, Aussies drink a 'schooner' (425 mL) or a 'pint' (570 mL).
Reservations can be made of the Modus Merewether website.
Reservations can be made of the Modus Merewether website.
2.2 mi
10 min
19:0030 min
QT Newcastle
QT is a string of luxury, boutique hotels that celebrate the whimsy of life through their design. Check into your room at QT Newcastle and freshen up before heading out to dinner.
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2.2 mi
10 min
19:451 hr
Limoo - The House of Persian Cuisine
For dinner, savour a taste of Persia at Limoo Café. The Persian Kitchen serves refined version of authentic, home style Iranian food. On the menu you'll find slow cooked stews infused with lots of flavour and a smogasbord of sides to share, such as pickles, dips, salads and falafel.
Book your dinner on the Limoo Café website.
Book your dinner on the Limoo Café website.
2.4 mi
15 min
21:0010 hrs 30 min
QT Newcastle
You'll feel like you're in a sleek, modern wonderland at QT Newcastle. Brushed copper and other metallic design details pay homage to Newcastle's industrial heritage, while pops of colour reflect the city's coastline. Rooms are decked out with bottled cocktails and wine from the neighbouring Hunter Valley region, as well as Dyson appliances.
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