Dreaming of blazing sunsets spent gazing over the vines? The Hunter Valley is the ultimate mini-break destination with award-winning wineries, acclaimed restaurants, luxury accommodation, plus a full calendar of festivals and events. Now is the time to visit the Hunter Valley.
Just two hours north of Sydney, you’ll fall in love with Australia’s oldest wine region, responsible for producing some of the best wines in the world, such as the iconic Hunter Valley semillon. With more cellar doors than any other wine region in Australia, you’ll barely scratch the surface during your wine weekend.
Are you ready to delve into the very best things to do in the Hunter Valley? Here is how to make the most of your next Hunter Valley getaway.
Top things to do in the Hunter Valley
With over 150 cellar doors to visit, there are over 150 reasons to return to the Hunter Valley again and again. From big-name wineries to boutique bottlers, Australia’s oldest wine region has it all. As frequent travellers to the region, we’ve rounded up the must-visit Hunter Valley wineries to help you narrow down your winery itinerary, or you could always join our pick of winery tours, too.
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of destination, and non-wine drinkers won’t be disappointed. From rising with the sun in a hot air balloon or winding your way through 14 hectares of manicured gardens to a chocolate and cheese trail followed by an indulgent list of day spas to test out, the list of things to do is long and varied.
And if you think you’ve seen it all, there are still hidden gems to discover, like this Hunter Valley road trip that skips Pokolbin and shows you a different side to the Hunter.
Where to eat and drink in the Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s finest dining destinations. Find award-winning restaurants serving up seasonal produce with creative flair and a growing collection of cafes run by the next generation of talented young chefs – expect high-quality, farm-to-table, produce-driven dishes served alongside the region’s best wine and espresso.
The food scene is easily matched by an innovative uprising of gin distillers and brewers. We’ve rounded up the must-try distilleries and the ultimate ale trail of pubs and breweries to punctuate your vineyard visits.
Best Hunter Valley accommodation
Getaways to the Hunter are all about embracing a slower pace; ending the day gathered under a star-lit sky by a fire pit and waking to curious mobs of kangaroos. It’s the antithesis of city life. With plenty of accommodation woven alongside the region’s wineries, you can also savour the Hunter Valley terroir in situ. From elegant Aibnbs, glampsites with vineyard vistas to family-friendly resorts like Rydges Hunter Valley and luxury accommodation aplenty – there’s an option to suit every type of traveller.
