Maitland is a major rural service centre and tourism town located in the lower Hunter Valley New South Wales about 38 km from Newcastle and 200 km north of Sydney. Maitland boasts a diverse range of attractions, amenities, recreational facilities and local events to satisfy the needs of most visitors. There is a wonderful range of fresh produce to try and many fabulous wines and wineries to visit. Other activities include walking tours of the local nature reserves, enjoying Hot Air Balloon rides over the vineyards or and thrilling Tiger Moth flight over the landscapes. Maitland has a reputation as one of the gateways to the Hunter Valley that offers a plethora of activities including - heritage walks, extreme sports, mountain bike trails, local heritage and historic villages, markets, festivals,
museums, galleries, craft outlets, antique shops, vineyards, cellar doors and wineries, horse riding, cycling, canoeing, kayaking and rock climbing. The local attractions, activities and events include: # Richmond Vale Railway and Mining Museum # The Maitland Gaol # Walka Recreation and Wildlife Reserve # Hunter Valley Steamfest # Maitland Regional Art Gallery # Bitter and Twisted International Boutique Beer Festival # Antiques Trail # Wine Tours # Tocal Field Days.