The Hunter Valley is Australia’s birthplace of wines, with a variety of red and white wines on offer.
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine-growing region and is the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. With over 150 wineries, it is famous for its signature semillon wines.
Whether you have a day or a few days to explore the region, there are plenty of things you can do with friends and family. Choose from wine tastings, wildlife experiences, or even a hot air balloon ride.
How to get to Hunter Valley
The best way to get to the Hunter Valley is by car or on a tour. From Sydney, the drive is over 2 hours, but Newcastle is closer with about an hour’s drive.
While a car is a great option, it can limit your ability to enjoy multiple wine tastings. This is where a tour is ideal, as it will take you around parts of the Hunter Valley. You will get the chance to fully immerse yourself in the food and wine culture.
Things to do
-
Wine tasting
With the endless selection of wineries to visit, you will be sure to find cellar doors offering wine tastings. Most of the cellar doors will charge a small fee for tasting, but it is recommended to book ahead to avoid missing out.
-
Breweries and distilleries
Although the Hunter Valley is renowned for its wine, there are still options for those who are not wine lovers. The region has a selection of award-winning breweries and distilleries where you can sit down for a drink or enjoy a tasting.
-
Eateries
Along with the wineries, there are plenty of fantastic dining options in the Hunter Valley. Enjoy fine dining restaurants, pub feeds, and dessert bars, often with a view of the vineyards. During busy periods, be sure to book early, as these places can book out quickly.
-
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
Perfect for the whole family, the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park features animals from around the world. The park is home to a range of mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are several animal encounters suitable for different ages. Get up close to giraffes, meerkats, lions, squirrel monkeys and more.
-
Hunter Valley Gardens
The Hunter Valley Gardens spans more than 60 acres of beautiful and themed gardens to explore. The Gardens are also known for the remarkable Christmas Lights Spectacular, a glowing wonderland featuring over 4 million lights!
-
Hunter River
The Hunter River meanders through the Hunter Valley, flowing from the largest coastal catchment in New South Wales to the sea. The river creates picturesque landscapes across numerous towns. Along the river, you will find golf courses, or you can take to the water to go sailing.
-
Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop
Dating back to 2004, the Smelly Cheese Shop has become a Hunter Valley favourite! Here, you can find a range of local, Australian, and imported artisan cheeses to try and buy! Not only is there a selection of cheese, but the Smelly Cheese Shop also produces some of the finest gelato!
-
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is one of the region’s most popular attractions. The Chocolate Company crafts high-quality, delicious chocolate, with plenty to try. In addition to chocolate, they offer fudge and gelato! Be sure to visit the factory cafe to sample a selection of cakes, desserts, and their famous hot chocolate.