Danielle McCarthy
International Travel

10 reasons you should visit Lake Macquarie in 2017

Few parts of Australia are as perfect for a weekend escape as Lake Macquarie. From the beaches to the bushland beauty, trails, cultural hotspots and everything in between, this gorgeous corner of the Hunter is perfect for a holiday. Here are 10 reasons you should go to Lake Macquarie in 2017. 

1. Redhead Beach – A favourite with families and surfers alike, Redhead Beach has stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and an iconic shark tower. The beach is patrolled in the warmer months and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.

2. Fernleigh Track – Constructed in place of the former Belmont railway line, Fernleigh track is a lovely stroll or cycle that gives you a chance to enjoy some of the region’s remarkable landscapes and views at a leisurely pace.

3. Warner’s Bay – Perfect if you’re looking for something to eat or to do a bit of local shopping, Warner’s Bay has a range of boutiques, cafes and restaurants featuring some of the most sumptuous local produce you can find in Australia.

4. Speers Point Park – If you’ve got grandchildren in tow, you’d be doing them a disservice if you didn’t visit Speers Point Park. Arguably, the best play space in Australia, this playground is full of incredible equipment for the littlies.

5. Lake Macquarie Art Gallery – Looking to take in a little bit of culture? Lake Macquarie Art Gallery features an enviable collection of travelling and permanent exhibitions for visitors to view, all set among lovely, leafy grounds.

6. Wallarah National Parks – Boasting some of the most incredible views in the Hunter Region, Wallarah National Park is a stunning pocket of coastal bushland. The panoramic ocean views from the scenic lookouts is worth the hike.

7. Rathmines Park – A serene spot to sit back and relax, Rathmines Park was once home to the largest seaplane base in the southern hemisphere during WWII. There’s no end of historical significant to revel in as you visit.

8. Watagan Mountains National Park – A favourite among locals (and for good reason), Watagan Mountains National Park has it all from winding walking trails to picture perfect campgrounds and some of the best lookouts in the Hunter.

9. Toronto Foreshore – If you want to have a nice meal with your nearest and dearest, head to Toronto Foreshow. Dine at one of the many incredible restaurants, with Lake Macquarie as a gorgeous backdrop to your meal.

10. Pelican Foreshore Reserve – Few places in NSW are as picnic-perfect as the gorgeous Pelican Foreshore Reserve. Beloved by locals, this picnic spot has shady grassed areas, useful BBQs and an easily accessible jetty for fishing.

What else would you add to the list? Share your tips in the comments below.

For more information about Lake Macquarie, click here

Related links:

Man fends off shark with garden broom

Oblivious surfer paddles straight into shark

Shark breaks into diver’s cage

Tags:
australia, travel, domestic, 2017, Lake Macquarie