Toronto

Lakeside lifestyle 

The western side of Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake is a popular spot for sailing, rowing, fishing and cycling. Join locals on the 3.6km cycling and walking path between the The Royal Motor Yacht Club Toronto and Fassifern Railway Station to discover a petrified forest with trees created by volcanic ash 250 million years ago. 

The Royal Motor Yacht Club Toronto, Toronto - Credit: Ron Bouhan

Lake Macquarie Cruises offers a fantastic way to explore the stunning waterways surrounding Toronto, with scheduled public cruises and private charters allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views and spot local wildlife while discovering the charm of this picturesque lakeside town. 

Lake Macquarie Cruises, Lake Macquarie

Mark your calendars for Lakefest, which celebrates the area's aquatic lifestyle every February. Food and wine enthusiasts won't want to miss the Lake Mac Festival, featuring a series of exciting events and activities for the whole family, including community gatherings, sailing regattas, live entertainment, and outdoor adventures.  

Lakefest, Lake Macquarie

Culture & heritage

The Kurra Kurrin fossilised pines in Blackalls Park are culturally significant to the local Aboriginal people, who have Dreaming stories about the ancient stone forest. You can learn more about local Aboriginal history and cultural heritage by visiting the Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie (MAC)’s fine Indigenous collection. 

Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), Lake Macquarie - Credit: Lake Macquarie Tourism

Art lovers should visit Dobell House, the former home and studio of William Dobell, a famous local artist who won the Archibald Prize for portraiture three times. Take a detour to Rathmines to visit the Catalina Memorial Park – once the largest seaplane military base in the Ssouthern Hhemisphere and a World War II base for Catalina flying boats. 

Outdoor hikes 

Mount Sugarloaf Lookout, located just a short drive from Toronto offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Macquarie and the surrounding Hunter Region, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can choose from several walking tracks to the summit and longer loop walks that allow for exploration of the area's natural beauty. With picnic facilities and barbecue spots available, it's an ideal location for a family outing in nature. 

Mt Sugarloaf Range, Keepa Keepa, Sugarloaf Range Road - Credit: Michael Van Ewijk/DCCEEW

Where to eat & drink 

Toronto offers a delightful range of dining options suitable for all visitors. Casa Nova Italian Restaurant and Bar serves handmade pasta and woodfired pizza in a cozy setting perfect for families. For modern Australian cuisine paired with stunning lakeside views, head to Emerson's on the Lake at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset. Additionally, don’t miss the bustling Lake Macquarie Farmers Market, held on the first Saturday of each month, where you can sample local produce and artisanal goods. 

Where to stay 

Accommodation options in Toronto include a variety of hotels, motels, apartments and lakeside holiday parks to suit every traveller. The historic Toronto Hotel, built in 1887, boasts stunning views of Lake Macquarie and a lively bistro and beer garden making a charming stay in this lakeside town. 

The Brighton Apartments, Newcastle - Credit: Newcastle 360

Getting there  

Toronto is a two-hour drive north of Sydney and around 40 minutes from Newcastle. You can also take the train up the coast to nearby Fassifern Station, which takes just under three hours, or fly into Newcastle Airport.