Maitland

Maitland, in the heart of the Hunter Valley is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the many spoils of the Hunter region. Famous for its diversity; from the rich selection of fresh local produce, fine restaurants and dining, and boutique shopping to our historic architecture, landscapes and festivals, Maitland offers something for everyone and is the perfect base as you explore the Hunter. For a diverse shopping experience, Maitland will satisfy the most particular of retail explorers. Maitland City Centre, the picturesque riverside precinct, provides shoppers with a relaxed and friendly setting to shop. Antique collectors will admire the abundance of specialists trading in antiquities and visitors can enjoy the activity at the bustling Maitland Fair Markets, Australia's largest regional markets, with over 600 variety stalls shoppers will be able to find a bargain on the first Sunday of every month (except January). Accommodation in Maitland ranges from cosy B&Bs, luxury resorts, friendly hotels and motels to self contained cabins and cottages, there is a place to suit every budget. When the time come to indulge Maitland offers visitors a number of dining options sure to tantalise your taste buds, from the locally renowned fine produce driven cuisine at The Old George and Dragon Restaurant, a counter meal at one of the many friendly pubs in town or why not pick up some fresh local produce and a bottle of your favorite local wine on your way to a picnic by the River. Steeped in history Maitland gives visitors a chance to take a look back in time, from an ex-inmate guided tour of Maitland Gaol, formerly home to some of Australia's most hardened and notorious criminals, to a Heritage Walk of Central Maitland with 35 sites of significance including Grossman House, constructed in 1870-71 now opening its doors to visitors. If a relaxing afternoon is more your thing, Walka Water Works is just the place, completed in 1887 and formerly the main supplier of water to lower hunter, the National Trust Complex is now a popular picnic and recreation reserve with over 40 acres of picnic area with barbecue facilities, children's playground, a 2km mini railway, over 12km of walking trails and a 44 acre lagoon to which over 300 species of birdlife call home. Maitland is also home to a number of annual including: * Hunter Valley Steamfest- Australia's premier festival of steam, established to celebrate the Regions long steam history. Each year in April the area springs to life with the unmistakable sounds of steam engines as over 80,000 people help celebrate the fun filled weekend. * Cellar in the Cells- is a chance to experience the unique and iconic setting of Maitland Gaol, whilst savoring the finest food, wine and fashion that the Hunter has to offer. The event features the hottest fashions created by up and coming young Hunter designers. * Maitland Garden Ramble- Each Spring, a number of homes in the area open their stunning gardens to the public, in aid of the Maitland Black and White Committee, which raises funds for Vision Australia.