Newcastle

Close to cafes and restaurants, this excellent modern complex of 38 apartments is right on Newcastle's coolest street. — Lonely Planet

A slick but sympathetic revamp has turned this grand old 1880s dame into an upbeat, modern place to stay above a great pub. — Lonely Planet

Newcastle's most upscale hotel, the Crowne Plaza, is in the trendy Honeysuckle Precinct and has the best location of any hotel in town. — Fodor's

This is a wonderful option for families or anyone looking for spacious budget accommodations. — Fodor's

A short stroll from the beach, this old pub has some lovely details and makes a romantic place to stay. — Lonely Planet

Set on sprawling grounds in the heart of the Valley's wine belt, Peppers is a nigh-on perfect base from which to explore all the Hunter has to offer. — Time Out

Part of the Peppers chain, this is a top-class resort right on the water. Private balconies offer sweeping views across the bay. — Time Out

Set about a kilometer from Newcastle's downtown, the Ibis is a value-priced chain hotel with parking and a restaurant. — Fodor's

It’s not a patch on the YHA but it’s cheap and offers free surfing lessons (board and wetsuit hire $25 for two hours), free dinners on Monday and Wednesday and free pick-up from the train station. — Lonely Planet

One block from the harbor, this hotel has a mix of apartments and suites, all fully equipped with kitchens, washer and dryer, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, DVD player and DVD library, and minibar. — Fodor's

The upstairs of this suburban pub has been transformed with nine flamboyantly appointed rooms featuring African-animal themes and wacky colours. — Lonely Planet

Ideally situated for Newcastle Beach, this breezy hotel seamlessly checks out the business guests on Friday morning and welcomes families that afternoon. — Lonely Planet

Offering genuine courtesy and a cosy atmosphere, this Federation-era home near the Beaumont St cafe strip makes for a characterful stay. — Lonely Planet

This large-scale luxury resort in the heart of Hunter Valley wine country is the kind of place where you can land your helicopter on the front lawn. — Condé Nast Traveler

An all-in-one, 72-room resort with pool, spa, billiard rooms and wedding chapel. — Time Out

This 38-room property also houses the Arrowfield cellar door and the Binnorie Dairy. — Time Out

Everything inside - from the quirky artwork on the walls to the achingly cool salt and pepper mills to the comfy slippers on your feet - is available to take home. — Time Out