Hiking in the Bush and the Coolest Coastal City

It's time to depart for your Aussie east coast road trip. Let's hit the open road and start driving north towards the city of Newcastle.

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.

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.

Now that you've made it back to the car, it's time to head into the town of Gosford for lunch.

Pinochios is a place purpose-built for being social and sharing with loved-ones. Much of their menu is designed to be shared — think bitesized antipasti, gourmet pizzas, wine by the bottle and banquet menus for two.
Book your table online.
Tuesday — Thursday: 16:00-20:30 Friday — Saturday: 12:00-15:00, 16:00-20:30 Sunday — Monday: Closed South End Social is a good alternative if visiting on a day that Pinocchios is closed for lunch. This chic eatery serves tasty dishes with inspiration from around the world, such as lamb pita souvlaki and soba noodle salad.

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.

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.

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.
Monday — Thursday: 12:00-Late Friday: 12:00-00:00 Saturday: 11:30-00:00 Sunday: 11:30-22:00

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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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.
Tuesday: 17:30-21:00 Wednesday — Saturday: 11:30-14:00, 17:30-21:00 Sunday — Monday: Closed

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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