Driving along the Pacific Highway was much less of a stress than I thought it would be. The roads were well maintained, everything was clearly sign posted and the police presence kept everyone on their toes with regard to speeds, the covering of trailers and remembering to rest and revive.
It was very calming driving along endless, almost empty roads that cut through mountains, wandered over water and wound through national parks. Maintaining the legal speed limit of between 80 - 110 km/h added to the fun.
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Newcastle City Hall |
Newcastle is around 2 hours out of Sydney and the weather was glorious when we arrived. It is famous for many things - beaches, Silverchair, shipping, mining and really friendly locals. It's Lanelle of Luscious Llama's home town. Sorry, Lanelle - I think we're 'sharing' blog post titles (Road Trippin') a little today.
The historic buildings created the most amazing skyline and I almost got run over a couple of times as I snapped away.
But, first things first. We were starving. H and I downed our matching new iPhones and our sunnies and wolfed down lunch at Bogie's Cafe.
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A massive hamburger with egg and beetroot. |
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Chicken Caesar Salad. |
We had lots of things to do so I didn't get to sight see much. I missed out on taking photos of the ships in the harbour or exploring Honeysuckle. Next time.
I did get to the city centre.
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Newcastle Court House |
Besides preserving the past, there is also a strong presence of more contemporary art in Newcastle. The apartments we stayed in were in the centre of museums and theatres.
The beach! We couldn't drive all this way without getting to the beach!
There are at least 4 major beaches along the coast and they are all beautiful. There is very limited development along the beaches and this really helps preserve both the environment and the joy of being at the beach to just swim, surf or be at one with nature. Being on the beach in Newcastle really feels like being on the beach. There are no high rises and no out of control crowds. Just crystal clear water and soft golden sand. And good food and coffee a short walk away if you want it.
It was so relaxing spending even just one day outside of Sydney at the beach in Newcastle. I can't believe my week of is just about over and that I'm back at work tomorrow.

That looks so relaxing and beautiful. What a perfect way to end your holidays! I've been back at work for 4 days now and my holidays feel like they're a dream away.... sigh.....
ReplyDeleteDear SSG,
ReplyDeleteI have a very urgent and important question that needs to be answered immediately: are beets a common condiment in burgers in Australia? Are they pickled or fresh? Do they replace pickles/pickled cucumbers?
Oh, btw Newcastle looks gorgeous. (I was confused and thought you were referring to the one in England in previous posts, brother in UK and things) I like the mix of history, nature and the growing arts scene.
-Tracy
Mez: thank you. I'll be you this time next week....
ReplyDeleteWB: beetroot is pretty common. Usually canned. Some of us have both pickle and beetroot!
SSG xxx
I like the look of Newcastle.
ReplyDeleteGlad your trip was great! How was the shopping?
It is also the home of one of my other fave bands, The Screaming Jets.
Carly: you will be amazed. The only shop I went into was Coles. Did a huge grocery shop with my brother.
ReplyDeleteWe also went to Taree for bit. Really lovely too.
SSG xxx
Ahhh lovely :)
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you had a wonderful time in my tres lovely hometown of Newcastle :)
The beaches are the bestest!
Looks like a wonderful trip. Great photos as always!
ReplyDeleteMust stop reading your blog when I am hungry! Food and surrounds look lovely.
ReplyDeleteL
xx
Aww SSG I am originally (originally) from Newcastle! A post that made my hear ache for the coast :) xx
ReplyDeleteHi girl...
ReplyDeleteWhen you talk of Newcastle the only thing that comes to my mind is Silverchair...LOL ...:)
Looks like you had a very nice time:)
Thanks for sharing
Your Newcastle looks lovely, I like our Newcastle too but it's not quite the same. I have given you a Stylish Blogger Award, SoFrenchSoChic gave me one, please drop by my blog to see detailsXX
ReplyDeleteWow sounds like you had an amazing time! I loove newcastle! you're so lucky that it's only a 2 hour drive away (for me it's a 5 hour drive - boo!) I so wanna get away somewhere with a beach now :) xx
ReplyDeleteAnd just because Blighty gave you one I think I have to do the same! Doubly stylish!
ReplyDeleteI have nominated you for a Stylish Blogger Award! Check out my blog for more details: http://misskitty-catgoestotown.blogspot.com/2011/01/stylish-blogger-award.html
I love a good road trip. However after our recent drive to and from Melbourne I think I am done for the moment. That salad looks fantastic though... Really very good.
I loved seeing Newcastle from your perspective SSG! I grew up there and love it.
ReplyDeleteCathy: hello and thank you for stopping by!
ReplyDeleteSSG xxx
You know, I've never been to Newcastle. This is the second post I've read in as many weeks about Newcastle. It sounds like it would be a cool place to visit. xx
ReplyDeleteLove your 'new' post! I really like Newcastle - it's a great blend of city and coast. And I love your iPhone cover.
ReplyDeleteThanks for Rewinding at the Fibro!