The Must-Do Hunter Valley Chocolate And Cheese Trail

Elevate all that liquid gold with the finest Hunter Valley chocolate and cheese.

Milk and cookies. Beer and burgers. Coffee and cake. Drinks just taste better washed down with their ultimate counterparts and when it comes to wine in the Hunter Valley, we’re spoiled for choice. NSW’s premier wine country has cottoned on plenty-fold, overflowing with sensational Hunter Valley chocolate and cheese either masterfully crafted locally or sourced from the most famous European producers. Here, we round up the most delicious chocolate and cheese retailers and experiences in the region.

Hunter Valley Chocolate Company

No visit to the Hunter Valley is complete without sampling local chocolate and these guys have been churning out the silky-smooth stuff for more than 20 years.

The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company prides itself on using the most premium Belgian ingredients blended with Australian fruit and nuts, and crowds can’t get enough of it. In fact, the team have expanded their operations with Twenty-3-Twenty, their boutique factory and chocolate-making facility where you can catch Willy Wonka himself, Peter the chocolatier, spin his magic and enjoy his treats in the comfort of an on-site cafe.

Peter the chocolatier at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company — Peter the chocolatier at work on his edible creations.

For the original experience, head to Petersons Champagne House where a quaint store overflows with edible art. Blocks, bark, bars, brittles – you name it, they nail it.

desserts and pastries at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company — The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company serves an array of desserts and pastries.

Bestsellers include chocolate-coated pretzels, chocolate-coated coffee beans and bags of rainbow-dusted ‘Speckles’ but there’s truly an option for every taste bud. Milk chocolate ginger, anyone?

Address: The original location remains at Petersons Champagne House, corner Broke and Branxton Roads, Pokolbin, and the other is a showroom off their new factory located at 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

Cocoa Nib

What started as a passion project for pastry chef Aymee Slaviero at Newcastle’s Olive Tree Markets blossomed into her very own shopfront in 2012.

Now selling her exquisite handmade creations out of a flagship store on Keith Tulloch Wine in the heart of wine country, Cocoa Nib ’s founder has built a reputation for crafting some of the most splendid sweets in the state.

artisan chocolates at Cocoa Nib in vivid colours — Cocoa Nib’s chocolates come in a range of vivid colours. (Image: Nikki To)

The Hunter Valley chocolate brand utilises a premium French couverture (that’s a word for bloody fancy chocolate, FYI) to whip up Cocoa Nib’s crowd favourite, melt-in-your-mouth artisan bonbons splashed Jackson Polloch-style with vivid colour, and an array of beautiful bites. Tarts, desserts, endless barks, bags of coconut rough, peanut brittle, honeycomb and so many more classics are just heavenly.

Address: Keith Tulloch Wine, 989 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin.

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

A smorgasbord of the world’s finest cheeses, Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop is a non-negotiable in wine country. Built with the only fromageries in the region and filled with a far larger range than any other Hunter Valley cheese retailer, it opened its doors in Pokolbin Village in 2004 and it wasn’t long before the passionate team began drawing loyal crowds.

Drop in to stack your charcuterie with the likes of blue (don’t miss the strong and sharp yet utterly melty Saint Agur), cheddar and hard and soft varieties including the standout Fromager d’Affinois Le Fromager in all its pudgy, buttery goodness.

Cured meats, top-notch olives, pastes, tapenades, pates and other delicious platter accompaniments can also be found and the team’s edit is so renowned that they’ve opened a second location within Roche Estate further down the road.

a look inside Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop — Shop the world’s finest cheeses and platter accompaniments. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: The original Smelly Deli is at Shop 3, Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin and there’s another outlet within Roche Estate Complex, 2144 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

Pokolbin Chocolate Company

Once you’ve stocked up on savoury, hop next door for your sweets. The Pokolbin Chocolate Company houses an impressive collection of Hunter Valley chocolate and it’s located one door down from the Smelly Cheese gang.

Putting smiles on dials for more than 21 years, these chocoholics sell a beautiful range of hand-painted Belgian chocolates, gooey fudge, jams and chutneys, chocolate-dipped fruits and nuts, classics like rocky road and truffles, and a handful of out-of-the-box products including chocolate pasta. They’ve also got an unusual range of sweet teas.

Address: Right next door to Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop at Pokolbin Village, 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

Sabor Dessert Bar

After winning hearts through their original Hunter Valley Dessert Bar in Lovedale, the team’s Sabor Dessert Bar on Broke Road’s Lambloch Estate has cemented their status as local confectionary and sweet pastry heroes.

Growing their inventive edit of Hunter Valley chocolate and desserts to a menu filled with 50+ creations, these local wizards are renowned for the award-winning Sabor Portuguese Chocolate Mousse plus other Instagram-friendly showstoppers.

Don’t miss the glistening Green Apple Royale or the Flaming Choc Caramel Brownie, which you can savour on-site in the Bar’s large seating area or take away for at-home indulgence.

They even offer a tasting plate of their favourites and a kids’ menu for the littlest of visitors. Large groups and parties (including hens’ celebrations) are welcome as set menus and packages are available to order with seven days’ notice.

Address: Lambloch Estate, 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin

Hunter Valley Cheese Company

The Melbourne-bred Curtis family is the brains behind the much-adored Hunter Valley Cheese Company . Located at McGuigan Wines on McDonalds Road and established by the late Peter Curtis and his wife Rose Lambert in 1995, it churns out its own seasonal handcrafted ranges that span the award-winning Hunter Gold Washed Rind, cheddar, gorgonzola, brie, goat’s cheese and more.

Leaving a busy city life behind them in favour of something entirely new, the team honed their skills in their very own factory and now attracts visitors from all over the world for their standout Aussie cheese crafted from local cow and goat milk.

Pop in for a tasting of five paired with olives and preserves or upgrade your visit by booking a two-person lunch tasting of their seasonal best paired with a range of delicious accompaniments.

people entering Hunter Valley Cheese Company — The standout Aussie cheese is available to purchase.

Address: McGuigan Wines, 447 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin.

Binnorie Dairy

Famed for its ultra-creamy, completely irresistible labna and multi-award-winning marinated feta, Binnorie Dairy is always a good idea before heading home with your wine haul.

The Hunter Valley cheese pit-stop was opened by cheesemaker Simon Gough in 2003 after he’d spent significant time making it in Europe and the Yarra Valley. His Hunter Valley digs are home to so many indulgences including those aforementioned superstars plus several goat’s cheeses, washed rines, a triple cream brie and homemade sweet treats.

a cheese plate at Binnorie Dairy — The specialty cheese plate. (Image: Destination NSW)

Drop in to see the team hard at work through a viewing window or grab a table on the deck to soak up the peaceful scenery before retreating.

cheese products available for sale at Binnorie Dairy, Lovedale — Cheesemaker Simon Gough is the mastermind behind Binnorie Dairy. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 25 Lodge Road, Lovedale.

Hunter Belle Cheese Room

Geoff and Tania Chesworth, a pair of passionate dairy farmers, bring a wealth of experience to their Hunter Belle Cheese Room . But it might just be the next Chesworth generation, led by Annie and Jason, who are really putting their mark on the region.

While Geoff and Tania run the wonderful deli, bar and cafe located right next to De luliis Wines on Broke Road, Annie and Jason produce Hunter Belle Dairy Company’s dairy range in a factory in Scone.

House-made bries, cheddars, yoghurts, fetas and more can be found at the Hunter Belle Cheese Room which offers multiple experiences including picnic packs, wine and cheese tastings, beer and cheese tastings, a very punny ‘High Cheese’ and relaxed dining in the licenced cafe.

There’s plenty of lush grass to laze upon if you choose the picnic route and you’re right next to the vines so every vantage point is quintessentially Hunter Valley.

Address: 1616 Broke Road, Pokolbin

D’Vine Treats and Fat Cow Cheese

Climb upstairs at Ben Ean Winery and stumble into a boutique Hunter Valley chocolate shop that offers tastings and a separate section dedicated to cheese.

D’Vine Treats , which has expanded with the introduction of Fat Cow Cheese, is packed full of handcrafted chocolate including liqueur varieties using hard stuff from Petersons Family Wines and Savannah Estate.

The Fat Cow Cheese portion of the store gathers some of the region’s finest cheese, cured meats, olives, olive oils and sauces while the sweets branch out to fudge, lollies, gelato and more. It’s a wine country pit stop that’s really got it all.

Address: Ben Ean Winery, Shop 1, 119 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin

Chocolate Escape Room at Sutton Estate

Inspired by the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory film, Sutton Estate’s Chocolate Escape Room is unlike any other chocolate-tasting experience you’ve ever encountered.

Locked in a room within Sutton Estate winery in Rothbury, you and your group of no larger than six people must decode a series of puzzles in 60 minutes to uncover your exit and some of those puzzles include tasting chocolate. Sounds bizarre? It is, and we’re here for it. A ‘love of chocolate’ is required to unlock clues and five tastings are included in each session which costs $60 per person.

With axe throwing, a smash room inviting you to literally smash stuff and electric bike rentals to be found elsewhere on the property, it’s clear to say these guys offer a totally unique take on the whole Hunter Valley experience.

Address: Sutton Estate Hunter Valley, 381F Deasys Road, Rothbury.

Wine and chocolate pairings

While they’re better known for fermenting and ageing than tempering, a string of vineyards offer ultra-delicious wine and Hunter Valley chocolate pairings.

Tulloch Wines stages a 45-minute wine tasting of five blends paired with five local handmade chocolates, priced from $30 per person.

Wild Wren Wines does a ‘Birds of a Feather’ wine and chocolate pairing which lasts for one hour and costs $22 per person. Treat yourself to three wines matched with French and Swiss truffles.

the bar counter at Wild Wren Wine Room — Pull up a chair at Wild Wren for a glass of wine paired with truffles. (Image: Wren Wines)

Binet Family Wines offers a wine and chocolate tasting at around $30 per person including four to five premium wines served with Cocoa Nib’s signature bon bons.

Glandore Wines does a one-hour chocolate and wine pairing experience priced at $30 per person that includes six wine samples and handmade chocolate to match.

chocolate and wine pairing experience at Glandore Estate Wines — Glandore Estate Wines offers a delicious chocolate and wine pairing experience. (Image: Time Out)

Address: Various wineries in the Hunter Valley

For more delicious dining options, make your way through our definitive list of the best Hunter Valley restaurants.

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.

The must-do Hunter Valley chocolate and cheese trail