I had the same thing with my DP. We were together for two years, and during that time he was never very openly affectionate, i knew he loved me altho he didnt say it very often, but i just kind of accepted that was the way he was and learned to squish the feeling when we sat apart on the sofa, he didnt hug me when we met up, that sort of thing. Anyway, after the two years, we went through a funny patch and broke up (many factors but mainly his decision). I then realised how he didnt meet my needs in that way and how i had subconsciously resigned myself to receiving less affection, even though i still wanted it. After three weeks apart, he realised what he'd lost and we had talks and tried again.
And when we got back together, the change in him was unbelievable. He was really affectionate, told me he loved me spontaneously, cuddles, kisses, even wants to sleep cuddled up now whereas before he always wanted 'his own space' in bed when sleeping. He told me that during that time apart he really analysed the way he was and why he was responsible for the break up etc, and realised that his (non)relationship with his dad had caused a strange detatchedness (if thats a word) about him and a reluctance to want to commit emotionally. He had felt all those things (like love etc) before but hadn't allowed himself to let it out or show it, IFKWIM.
Of course this is all very cod-psychology and its just what we've talked about and 'worked out' between us. But he's still this new man nearly two years on, and it's like a light has been switched on. Or the 'emotion' switch. Not that it was awful before but not healthy in my eyes. I felt he could be quite cold, but not anymore.
I'm guessing some sort of break up/time apart might not be appropriate in your case if you have DCs for instance (we don't) and i fully realise that my situation was rather different but i suppose i just wanted to share my experience and say that it doesn't necessarily mean that's the way he'll be forever. I don't think 'a leopard never changes his spots' always applies, especially when talking about emotions/feelings and their expression.
You're not unreasonable to want hugs, you need to feel cared about by your partner.
HTH
xxx