Why the Hunter Valley is one of NSW's Most Livable Regions

The Hunter Valley has a certain magic that invites you to slow down, inhale a little deeper and reconnect with what matters most. 

Framed by rolling vineyards, national parks and pure country air, this area has developed much beyond being just a weekend getaway. Today, it’s capturing the hearts of those who want more than just a home. In the Hunter, you don’t just live — you belong. And that makes all the difference.

Is The Hunter Valley a Good Place to Live?

People are drawn here because it’s the kind of place where neighbours know your name, school drop-offs come with a smile and weekend mornings are spent relishing a slower, more meaningful pace. 

With Newcastle, the Central Coast and Sydney all within easy reach, it’s got everything professionals, families and retirees could want and so much more. 

Beyond the stunning surroundings, the Hunter Valley boasts a vibrant culture and gastronomic scene. Locals can savour long lunches at top wineries, weekend markets, boutiques shopping, art trails and plenty of outdoor activities.

Hunter Valley Restaurants: The Best Places to Eat

Boasting some of the finest restaurants in New South Wales, the Hunter Valley offers something for everyone:

Muse

Nestled at Hungerford Hill Winery, Muse is a fine dining treasure with a seasonal menu honouring locally grown food. The dishes look as divine as they are delicious, and you can enjoy them paired with the region’s best wines. It’s no wonder that this exquisite restaurant has two Chef Hats to its name. 

Amanda’s On The Edge

Overlooking vineyards and rolling farmland, Amanda's On The Edge presents modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed, romantic setting. You can treat yourself to freshly caught seafood, slow-cooked meats falling off the bone and decadent homemade desserts.

EXP. Restaurant

Bold flavours and innovative dishes await you at Oakvale Winery, home to EXP. Restaurant. The EXP. in the name stands for ‘experience’, and when you step foot inside, you’ll see why. The chef’s tasting menu is ever-evolving, showcasing the region’s best produce, while the open kitchen creates an intimate dinner theatre experience that feels personal and exciting every time you visit. 

Margan Restaurant

For true paddock-to-plate, you can’t go past Margan’s Restaurant. Using ingredients from their kitchen and orchard, the food is fresh, bursting with flavour and deeply connected to the land. Sustainability has never tasted this good. 

Esca Bimbadgen

Esca at Bimbadgen Estate delivers on modern Australian cuisine with refined style. You could expect a menu with standouts like potato gnocchi, kingfish ceviche and braised short ribs. If you’re up for a surprise, the ‘Feed Me’ menu presents a curated selection of seasonal delicacies complemented with wines from Bimbadgen’s extensive cellar.

The Gates Restaurant at Leogate

A must-visit for a sophisticated lunch or dinner, award-winning French-inspired cuisine awaits you at The Gates. Highlighting locally sourced ingredients and a selection of fresh seafood, The Gates is perhaps best known for its dry-aged Black Angus beef, aged on site for 6-8 weeks to achieve exquisite tenderness and flavour. 

Restaurant Botanica

Set within Spicers Vineyards Estate, Restaurant Botanica offers farm-to-fork dishes full of flavour for lunch and dinner. Guests can savour à la carte options or indulge in thoughtfully curated tasting menus, including vegan offerings, thoughtfully accompanied by an award-winning wine list.

Family-Friendly Attractions in Hunter Valley

While the Hunter Valley is internationally renowned for its vineyards and gourmet experiences, locals know that its true charm lies beyond the cellar doors. For families living in the region, the Hunter is a brilliant place for families looking for enriching and entertaining activities right on their doorstep — perfect for creating meaningful moments without straying far from home. Here are some top attractions:

Watagans National Park

Active families will find great beauty in Watagans National Park near Lake Macquarie. It offers walking trails for all levels, relaxing picnic and BBQ areas and outstanding views from the lookouts. Kids can wander through the tall gum tree rainforest paths with stunning waterfalls and native animals to look out for. The Boarding House Dam Look Walk is also great for little explorers.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

A hot air balloon trip over the Hunter Valley is an amazing experience. Local companies provide family-friendly flights (for ages 7 and up), followed by breakfast. It’s an awesome opportunity to view the valley from up high and capture some incredible images. 

Hunter Valley Zoo

The Hunter Valley Zoo is sure to be a hit with the entire family. This hands-on zoo lets you get up close with amazing creatures like koalas, lions, meerkats and monkeys. Your children will love feeding the kangaroos, and the daily keeper talks and shows are entertaining and educational. With picnic areas and BBQ facilities, it makes for a fun day out. 

Hunter Valley Gardens

No ordinary garden, Hunter Valley Gardens is truly special. The Storybook Garden brings nursery rhymes to life with larger-than-life characters and captivating displays. The Sunken and Rose Gardens are home to vibrant blooms that change with the seasons. Make sure you head down during school holidays and festive times for unique events like Snow Time in the Garden and the Christmas Lights Spectacular.  

Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures

Based in the lovely Hilltop area, there are guided horse riding trails for all levels, including pony rides for young children. Older kids and adults can also explore the area on quad bikes.

Werakata National Park

Located near Cessnock, Werakata National Park is another great spot for those who can’t get enough of the outdoors. Perfect for walking, cycling and birdwatching, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Regent Honeyeater or some wallabies. The Astills Picnic Area is great for family get-togethers, with plenty of open space to relax and enjoy some time in nature.

Build Your Dream Home in The Hunter Valley With Eden Brae

As you can see, the Hunter Valley isn’t just a destination — it’s a lifestyle. Families residing in or moving to the area will find the ideal balance of family-friendly facilities, vibrant community spirit and natural beauty.

With that in mind, we think it’s also a fantastic place to build!