14 Hunter Valley Airbnbs for a Winery Escape

Sift through our top Hunter Valley Airbnb picks for a mix of romantic, luxury, family, pet-friendly and group getaway options close to the wineries of the Hunter Valley.

As well as providing an escape to the country, the best Hunter Valley Airbnbs offer proximity to wineries and great places to eat and drink. They also cater to an ever-changing demographic of travellers. There’s the couple who insist on an outdoor bath. The family who wants a pool and cook’s kitchen. Then there are the friends who insist on a fire pit. And the influencers who are looking to create compelling content from a recycled shipping container. Whatever your definition of luxury accommodation, here are some of the best Airbnbs in the Hunter Valley to bookmark for your next holiday.

1. Tiny House 888

Despite the fact Tiny House 888 treads lightly on the land, the small, self-contained studio seems to maximise a sense of place. And because everything in the mini one-bathroom, one-bedroom tiny home is mini and has its place, the interior feels deceptively roomy.

the property exterior of Tiny House 888 — Tiny House 888 is a peaceful retreat in the woods.

The Tiny House 888 is located on the award-winning Vintry property, and, from here, you can make excursions to nearby wineries or simply stay put and chill. City folk will appreciate sitting around the fire pit under a star-lit sky and seeing flash mobs of kangaroos each morning.

an al fresco seating spot outside Tiny House 888 — Take time to relax and take in your surroundings during your stay.

Although Tiny House 888 sleeps only two guests, there are five luxurious tiny homes dotted around the Tuckers Lane property in the heart of the Hunter Valley.

the bedroom at Tiny House 888, Hunter Valley — The bedroom is perfect for two.

2. Billy’s Hideaway

Need a break? Billy’s Hideaway can play a small part in facilitating this thanks to this thoroughly modern rabbit hutch of a cabin that is deeply embedded in the Wollombi wilderness.

the bed and cabin at Billy’s Hideaway, Hunter Valley — Escape from the city noise and tuck yourself into Billy’s Hideaway.

Some of the best accommodation in the Hunter Valley is stand-alone and this particular cabin is on a six-hectare parcel of land overlooking a billabong.

a couple relaxing in the outdoor tub at Billy’s Hideaway, Hunter valley — Soak in the outdoor tub while sipping wine.

It’s bathed in light throughout the day and its vast stacker doors open to the rambling forest outside. The luxury two-bedroom cabin blends country comforts with designer furnishings and fitting and features a wood-fired hot tub and fire pit, solar-powered heating and a hot rainwater shower. Check out Huch House on Instagram for inspo. Sleeps four.

a couple sitting by a small fire setup outside Billy’s Hideaway, hunter Valley — Spend the evening by the fire pit making s’mores.

3. Barefoot at Broke

An escape to the country never looked so contemporary. Bring Rover along for the ride to the pet-friendly Barefoot at Broke retreat, which provides guests with the ultimate Hunter Valley getaway. The property is set on 10 hectares of bushland and walled on one side by the Yengo Mountain Range, which jacks up into a craggy peak.

From here you can explore the nearby vineyards in the Broke Fordwich region, find a picnic spot near the property’s pond or simply curl up in barefoot luxury and listen to the creaking of the trees. The contemporary Airbnb sleeps six guests, and has an open-plan living area and kitchen.

4. Livy Lou’s Cottage

Livy Lou’s Cottage is paradise for families with fur babies. The boutique Hunter Valley accommodation has three bedrooms and a pretty picket fence that is best suited to small dogs who do not care to try and escape. For lovers of fine food and wine, the cottage is perfectly located near to one of the main Hunter Valley hubs for wine tasting.

the property exterior of Livy Lou’s Cottage — Step into the countryside charm of Livy Lou’s Cottage.

Curl up with a book in the open-plan living area, set the kids up with Netflix and roast marshmallows around the large stone fire pit under a sky scattered with stars. Amenities include an outdoor BBQ and coffee machine with complimentary pods. The pet-friendly stay sleeps six guests.

the sofa at Livy Lou’s Cottage — Relax on the sofa with a book in hand.

5. Nerreman Cottage

Despite being located just a 10-minute walk from the historic village of Wollombi, a stay at Nerreman Cottage affords a down-to-earth get-away-from-it-all experience.

the property exterior of Nerreman Cottage — Nerreman Cottage is a beautifully appointed holiday home.

The charming cottage, built circa 1919, has been given a new lease of life and it appears that even the grassy paddocks that surround the renovated holiday home have received a fresh coat of green paint.

the living area at Nerreman Cottage — The charming cottage is filled with vintage finds.

Bring back a few bottles of wine from the nearby vineyards and get creative in the country kitchen preparing a paired feast to enjoy while dining on the outdoor deck.

the outdoor terrace at Nerreman Cottage — Spend slow days on the terrace.

The three-bedroom cottage features original hardwood timber floors and French doors and is located near to the bubbling Wollombi Brook.

the bedroom at Nerreman Cottage — Nerreman Cottage is built with hardwood timber floors and French doors.

6. Maggie’s Cottage

You can make the most of the Hunter Valley’s bounty by stocking up on wine and cheese and enjoying a civilised picnic on the expansive grounds surrounding Maggie’s Cottage in the Wollombi Valley.

an aerial view of Maggie’s Cottage, Hunter Valley — Stay amongst expansive greenery at Maggie’s Cottage in the Wollombi Valley.

Drive through the corridor of eucalypts that lead to the 40-hectare property, which is mere minutes from Wollombi and a handful of Hunter Valley wineries. Maggie’s accommodates four adults and four kids comfortably.

the bedroom at Maggie’s Cottage — The comfy bed at Maggie’s Cottage guarantees a good night’s sleep.

There’s no wi-fi, so go old school and play charades around the fire pit, or bounce on the trampoline.

the trampoline at Maggie’s Cottage — Let your kids bounce off their energy on the trampoline.

7. Camellia Cottage

Camellia Cottage is a fairy-tale cottage with lots of heritage throwbacks as well as contemporary touches just 10 minutes from Hunter Valley wineries and a short stroll to the main strip of Cessnock.

the interior of Camellia Cottage — The French-inspired interior of Camellia Cottage evokes a whimsical feel.

From its French doors to its sash windows, stained glass and pretty lilac trim, the charming holiday home is full of surprises. An indoor fireplace, flower-filled vases, and a pretty camellia garden are all welcome additions. The well-equipped kitchen and porch for outdoor dining also makes this a haven for groups of friends dreaming of investing in their own fixer-upper. Sleeps six.

the property exterior of Camellia Cottage — Settle into this charming holiday home.

8. The Old Church House

An impressive approach through a poplar-lined dirt road will lead you to The Old Church House , which recalls this building’s history as a place of worship.

bonfire at The Old Church House — Gather around the fire pit and witness the skies change into fiery hues at dusk.

It follows that this guesthouse, originally built in 1880, is furnished with church pews and features arched windows and vaulted ceilings that nod to that heritage.

the bedroom at The Old Church House — The Old Church House features the original arched doors and windows.

Best suited for a sophisticated gathering of gourmands, The Old Church House has been sensitively converted for entertaining. A quick scan of the reviews indicates epicureans also rejoice at the fact the 4.8-star-rated retreat is near to award-winning Margan Estate and Krinklewood Winery, two of the most acclaimed vineyards in NSW’s wine country. Sleeps eight.

a white-painted interior at The Old Church House — The white-washed interior at The Old Church House.

10. Rosebook Eco Tiny Home

This tiny home that lies on a hillside in the Hunter gives considerable attention to the environment with its architectural design leaving a small footprint on the land. The tiny home, which has views over the Hunter River, has just one bedroom, making it perfect for couples who want a secluded boutique stay in the NSW countryside.

the Rosebook Eco Tiny Home at sunset — Rosebook Eco Tiny Home is tucked on a secluded hillside in the Hunter.

Pick up some provisions in Pokolbin and then settle into Rosebrook with its fully equipped kitchen, premium linen, Tempur Cloud bed and bathroom with eco-friendly toilet.

an outdoor bathtub at Rosebook Eco Tiny Home — Spend time in nature while soaking in the tub.

An outdoor bath, deck with fairy lights, BBQ and fire pit set the scene for romance and there’s a dedicated workspace for wannabe digital nomads. Sleeps two.

the outdoor deck at Rosebook Eco Tiny Home — The outdoor deck is festooned with fairy lights.

10. Forever Sunday

Plug the lower Hunter region into Airbnb and Forever Sunday will undoubtedly pop up. The pretty Paterson homestead is an off-grid sanctuary with a pool that sleeps eight on an 85-hectare property in the Hunter Valley. As the name suggests, Forever Sunday is about extending the joy of a lazy sleep-in to an everyday occurrence.

the property exterior at Forever Sunday — Step into this impressive homestead.

The property will of course appeal to those who want to visit NSW’s wine country. But it’s also so self-contained that you could travel here for pleasure and not need to leave for the entire weekend.

the magnesium pool at Forever Sunday — Swim a couple of laps in the magnesium pool.

In addition to the magnesium pool, there’s an infrared sauna, BBQ, pizza oven and fire pit and luxurious surrounds that invite idyllic bush walks.

a self-contained accommodation Forever Sunday — Schedule in some time in the onsite infrared sauna.

11. Handcrafted Cabin in the Vines

This boutique Hunter Valley Airbnb was designed and built by an Austrian master craftsman. And it shows. It’s the kind of contemporary log cabin that you might expect to find while wandering through flower-filled meadows over summer in the Alps.

a bed facing the window at Handcrafted Cabin in the Vines — Stay at Handcrafted Cabin in the Vines for a change of scenery.

Whether you’re looking to spend the weekend visiting wineries or want to hunker down to enjoy a change of scenery, the two-bedroom cabin will give you all the lumberjack-level inspiration you need to inspire a visit to the Hunter Valley.

the outdoor terrace at Handcrafted Cabin in the Vines — Take in views of the vines from the deck.

The cabin is fitted out with hand-crafted timber furniture and includes a cosy sandstone fireplace, large picture windows, a fully equipped kitchen, private patio and even a soccer field.

the dining at Handcrafted Cabin in the Vines — This contemporary log cabin offers a memorable stay.

12. Talits Estate Vineyard

This French-inspired homestead in Fordwich overlooks the beautifully manicured gardens and vineyard of award-winning Talits Estate . Designed by French architects, Talits nods to a replica of a château in Aix-en Provence through the judicious use of shuttered French doors, pretty parterre gardens and rustic stone and stucco walls.

the property exterior of Talits Estate Vineyard — Talits Estate Vineyard looks like a château in Aix-en Provence.

Pass the vibe check by grabbing your fave posse of pick-me girls and matching your wardrobes with the spectrum of white, creams, blushes and pastel pinks.

the French-inspired interior at Talits Estate Homestead — Talits Estate Homestead takes pride in its charming French interior. (Image: @Brooketunbridge for The Freeman Journal)

Venture beyond the elegant homestead to the cellar door to sample wines produced by Daniel Binet, twice nominated for The Wine Society’s Young Winemaker of the Year. A votre sante.

a person holding a glass of wine with charcuterie board on the table at Talits Cellar Door — Head to the Talits Cellar Door to sample wines during your stay.

13. The Treehouse at Cedars Mount View

Those looking to get away from the hustle of the Hunter Valley but still be within close proximity to the cellar doors can camouflage themselves in the canopy of The Treehouse at Cedars Mount View . The contemporary accommodation with pinch-me-now views is one of five villas located on the 38-hectare property that was recently purchased by French owner-operators Christelle Chardin and Gilbert Ponlot.

The pair engaged Newcastle-based interior designer Juliana Martin to project manage the multimillion-dollar renovation of Villa Lorea and The Treehouse and oversee the new build of Villa Stella – now so luxurious it is difficult to drag yourself away. A further two existing villas have undergone a soft refurbishment and are next in line for a full makeover.

a private tub with scenic views at Cedars Mt View — Soak in your own private tub at Villa Lorea.

14. The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain

The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain is one of two cottages on a property in the heart of the Hunter Valley that forces you to disconnect. Cobbled together in the 1990s from a range of salvaged and recycled materials, the building was once used as an artist’s studio and later as a retail space for the owners’ lavender farm.

the bedroom interior at The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain — Check into The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain to disconnect from the outside world.

The Studio is still a working farm with cattle and horses dotting the surrounding fields. Hemmed in between groves of trees, The Studio is situated in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region with wineries and concert venues just minutes away. Amelies is the sister property to the Studio.

the bed at The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain — Bed down at The Studio on Pokolbin Mountain.

For more insider tips and must-do experiences, read our Hunter Valley travel guide.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

14 charming Airbnbs in the Hunter Valley for a weekend getaway