Touring The Area
Gilmores Run Alpacas is situated in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Australia. The property is located a 2 1/2 - 3 hours drive from Sydney along the North Coast Highway (Highway 1). Visiting this picturesque property can include sightseeing of many other features in the area. Our farm is close to:

• Newcastle - 40 minutes drive south to Australia’s second oldest city. See live entertainment in a smaller, more easily accessible venue than Sydney, walk or ride a bike along the docks and have coffee or a meal on the boardwalk at the new el fresco dining. Historical building, art gallery, museum, movies, old Darby Street cafes or modern Beaumont Street restaurants. Explore the numerous famous beaches with great surf in a wonderful warm climate.
• Vineyards - 40 minutes drive north/west to see the largest wine growing area in New South Wales. Great wines, gourmet food, superb restaurants and cafes, rustic vineyards and romantic B&Bs. See the wineries on horseback, horse-drawn carriage, hot air balloon, bicycle or car.
• Morpeth - 20 minutes drive west to Australia’s oldest river port on the Williams River weaving its way to Newcastle. The town has been restored to its former glory and recreates the atmosphere of yester year with the little craft and curio shops where locals and tourists alike potter on weekends along the heritage precinct. Or visit an equally historical but much larger town of Maitland which is also on the river.
• Maddies – 15 minutes drive towards the delightful country town and surrounding area of Lorn, Maddies has a stunning restaurant. With appetizers and home-made chocolates petite, through to main courses that are equal to some of the most fantastic restaurants in the hub of Sydney’s eateries. Husband and wife team offer a cosy atmosphere with open fire, couches, books, linen and flowers on the table. The service is superb to match the cuisine.
• Clarence Town - 5 minutes drive is the closest small country township. The markets on the last Saturday in the month are a wonderful chance to mix with the local and spot a bargain. Crafts to chickens are for sale and you may get the chance to see some weaving of fleece. This town is situated on the banks of the Williams River and a picturesque spot to take a picnic or row a boat from the adjacent hiring cottage. Camping on the river is permitted and a nearby locally owned produce store ensures you have all your supplies. There is even a bakery and saddlery in town.
• Lake Macquarie - 45 minutes drive south offers a variety of things to do, from sailboating, houseboating, walking along the foreshore, sailboarding, peddle boats, cafes and restaurants, especially at Warners Bay. Nearby beaches are some of the best Australia has to offer.
• Barrington Tops – 45 minutes drive north/west features rugged mountains, gorges, waterfalls and dense forest. A place to go horseback riding, bushwalking, camping or 4WD tours.
• Port Stephens – 40 minutes drive away is the Port Stephen area. The highlight of this area for us has always been the five star resort nestled between rugged bush and the sea ‘Peppers Anchorage’ boutique retreat offers luxury seaside accommodation in the beautiful New South Wales region of Nelson Bay, Port Stephens. From your private balcony or verandah you can take in the fantastic sea views, breathe in the clean sea air and feel the salty breeze. Wander around the retreats marina and check out the action among the yachts and fishing boats. Relax on the neighbouring beach and watch the dolphins frolicking past. Take a cruise around Port Stephens bay, explore the waterways by sea kayak or visit one of the nearby surf beaches. Enjoy the freshest local seafood at Merretts Restaurant and finish it off with a nightcap at our Captains Bar or with a romantic stroll along the seawall before you retire to your accommodation. All rooms and suites at Peppers Anchorage have their own balcony or verandah, majority of the rooms have views over the sparkling waters of Port Stephens.
• Airport – 40 minutes drive away is a major airport with direct flights to most capital cities and also New Zealand. We will arrange pick up and return to the airport.

Links:
www.winecountry.com.au
www.huntertourism.com
www.portstephens.org.au
www.peppers.com.au

The Hunter Region – So Much, So Close…