Planning a midweek or weekend getaway to the Hunter Valley in NSW? Are you or your family celebrating a special milestone or are you longing for a break from the busyness of life?
Just a 2-hour drive from Sydney is the Hunter Valley, one of Sydney’s most popular getaway destinations for wine connoisseurs, foodies and a very popular family-friendly destination.
(Editor Update 2021)
If you enjoy wine the Hunter Valley Wine Country has over 150 cellar doors and is well known for its Semillon wine. You will be spoilt for choice when visiting Australia’s premier food and wine destination. The region offers the visitor outstanding beauty and breathtaking country views. There is nothing more relaxing than getting away from the busyness of the city and waking up to the sounds of the bellbirds or watch kangaroos grazing in the early morning light.
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COVID 19 UPDATE
We would recommend that you phone ahead for accommodation, restaurant bookings and check the opening hours for the Cellar Doors and attractions that we have included in our article for your Hunter Valley vacation.
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Contents
- 1 Best Time To Visit the Hunter Valley
- 2 Where To Stay in the Hunter Valley
- 3 Hotels in the Hunter Valley
- 4 Motels
- 5 Self Contained Accommodation in the Hunter Valley
- 6 Tourist Parks in the Hunter Valley
- 7 Top Things To Do in the Hunter Valley
- 7.1 Wine Tours – Pick up from your specified accommodation in the Hunter Valley
- 7.2 Day Wine Tours from Sydney – Pick up from Centrally Located Sydney Hotels
- 7.3 Flights Over The Hunter Valley Region
- 7.4 Lovedale
- 7.5 Cheese Tasting
- 7.6 Binnorie Dairy
- 7.7 Lovedale Smokehouse
- 7.8 Nulkaba
- 7.9 Hunter Valley Zoo
- 7.10 Pokolbin
- 7.11 Markets:
- 8 Hunter Valley Vineyards: Wine Tastings and Cellar Doors
- 9 Hunter Valley Wine Trails
- 10 Where To Eat in the Hunter Valley
- 11 How To Get To The Hunter Valley
- 12 Getting Around the Hunter Valley
- 13 Towns to Visit
Best Time To Visit the Hunter Valley
Spring (September, October, November) – see the new green shoots on the vines. The country gardens are in bloom.
Summer (December, January and February) – the vines are heavy with grapes. January is harvest time in the Hunter.
Autumn (March, April, May) – the winemakers are blending their wines.
Winter (June, July, August) – the vines are barren, it is a good time for tasting reds and enjoying hearty meals beside an open fire.
Where To Stay in the Hunter Valley
Hotels in the Hunter Valley
To Travel Too Top Tip: Check with the accommodation for ‘romantic Hunter Valley packages’ and ‘Hunter Valley weekend deals”.
Lovedale
Crowne Plaza Hotel Hunter Valley at 430 Wine Country Drive Lovedale
Deluxe accommodation in deluxe rooms, resort suites and villas just perfect for romantic getaways and family holidays. Visit their Ubika Day Spa for a relaxing spa treatment after a day of sightseeing and wine tasting.
Dining options are available at the:
- Redsalt Restaurant
- Lovedale Bar and Restaurant
- Vista Lounge
- Enjoy local craft beers at the Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley.
Facilities include an adults-only pool, golf and the Water Dragons Kid Club.
Nulkaba
Potters at Wine Country Drive in Nulkaba have 68 rooms, villas and suites available.
Their Bar and Brasserie open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Facilities include:
- State of the art gaming facility and TAB
- Micro Brewery – the Hunter Beer Company available for tastings and tours
- For children: Outdoor children’s playground
- Day/night tennis court
- Heated outdoor spa
- Two swimming pools
- Boules court
- Courtesy bus
- Live entertainment
- Heritage-listed beehive kilns
Click here for travellers recent photographs and reviews in Tripadvisor as well as the latest deals
Pokolbin
The Hunter Valley Resort at Hermitage Road, Pokolbin
The Hunter Valley Resort is suitable for couples, families, solo travellers and groups.
We enjoyed our 2 night midweek stay. We can also highly recommend the two tours that the resort offers which are complimentary for staying guests. Bookings are essential.
- Wine Theatre – 2 sessions daily at 10 am and 3 pm. The tour commences with a 30-minute video followed by wine tastings.
- Guided Vine Experience daily at 9 am followed by wine tastings.
The Matilda Bay Brewhouse is located at the resort. There are selections of 12 beers on tap as well as a stout and a local cider. You must try their beer tasting paddles.
Breakfast is served in the restaurant from 7.30 am to 10.30 am. Dinner is available daily from 6 pm with last orders at 8 pm. Bookings are essential.
Facilities: Swimming pool, tennis court, games room, massage centre, adventure centre, electric bikes, bushwalking trails, horseriding tours, Segway tours and a guest library.
Chateau Elan, Vintage Drive in Pokolbin
The award-winning 5-star Chateau Elan is a luxury resort with 100 luxurious appointed rooms and a 17 room spa. The private villas have breathtaking views over the countryside and have either balconies or terraces. The 5 Spa villas in the main building offer complete privacy with their own secluded courtyards.
Facilities include:
- 18 hole Greg Norman-designed golf course
- Swimming pool
- Gymnasium
- Tennis courts
- Hair and beauty salon
- Views over the golf course
- Legends Grill Restaurant
- 19th hole golf course bar – Spike Bar
Estate Tuscany at Broke Road Pokolbin
A boutique 4-star hotel that offers 26 Olive Grove Rooms and 12 Vineyard View Rooms.
Facilities include:
- Inground swimming pool
- Helipad
- Cellar door
- Breakfast room
The Mill Restaurant (click here for the latest reviews and photographs)
Brokenback Bar at the Estate Tuscany opens 7 days from 12 pm till late.
Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodation Hunter Valley – 2090 Broke Road Pokolbin
Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodation Hunter Valley has a range of accommodation to suit solo travellers, couples and families:
- Studio Rooms
- Executive Rooms
- Deluxe Suites
- Premier Suites
- 2 bedroom apartment
- 3 bedroom apartment
Facilities at Harrigan’s include:
- Burger Bar
- Bistro
- Sports Bar
- Bottle Shop
- VIP Lounge
- Outdoor swimming pool for hotel guests
Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens – Cnr. Broke and McDonald’s Road Pokolbin
The Mercure Resort is a 4.5-star hotel that offers 72 studio, superior, deluxe and suite rooms with either a private balcony or courtyard overlooking the gardens and the Hunter Valley. The Mercure Resort Suites offer guests a spa bath and a lounge area with a fireplace for that special romantic getaway.
Facilities include:
- Swimming pool
- Fitness centre
- Elements – the Signature Restaurant of Mercure Resort with a menu inspired by the flavours of France and Italy
The Convent at 88 Halls Road, Pokolbin
The Convent has 19 luxuriously appointed deluxe and superior bedrooms, a Premier Bedroom and a Garden Suite ideal for families and small groups.
Enjoy breakfast in Restaurant 88, dinner at Restaurant Circa 1876 and afternoon and high teas from Friday to Sunday.
Motels
Cessnock
Cessnock Motel at 13 Allandale Road Cessnock
20 ground floor units with ensuite bathrooms, reverse cycle airconditioning, Foxtel, swimming pool and bbq area.
Hotel Cessnock at the Junction of Wollombi Road and Vincent Street, 234 Wollombi Road, Cessnock
Accommodation, Restaurant and Outdoor dining facilities are available.
Self Contained Accommodation in the Hunter Valley
Broke Fordwich
Barefoot at Broke at 596 Milbrodale Road Broke Fordwich
Nestled at the foot of the Yengo Mountain Range Barefoot at Broke offers accommodation for up to 6 people on 23 acres with stunning mountain and bush views.
Accommodation includes:
- The main bedroom with ensuite on one wing
- Two further bedrooms on the other wing
- A large gourmet chefs kitchen
- Open plan living
- Outdoor entertaining deck
- Gas BBQ
- Free wifi
- Dog friendly
Nightingale Villas at 1239 Milbrodale Road Broke
There are 6 x 64 m2 luxury villas situated on 60 acres with:
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- Self-contained kitchens
- Wifi available
- BBQ facilities
- Continental breakfast
- On-site restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Spa
- Wheelchair access
For the latest traveller reviews and photos in Tripadvisor click here
Cedar Creek
Cedar Creek Vineyard Cottages at 1840 Wollombi Road Cedar Creek.
There are 4 self-contained 1 bedroom cottages and 3 self-contained 2 bedroom cottages with views over the vineyards. Accommodation includes:
- A Breakfast hamper of bacon, eggs, tomatoes, bread, cereal, freshly squeezed orange juice, Tea/coffee
- Spa bath
- Woodfire
- Verandah with vineyard and valley views
- Internet access
- BBQ
- Kitchen
- In house massage available
- 20% off at cellar door
- Late midday check-out
Lovedale
Adina Vineyard at 492 Lovedale Road Lovedale
3 x 3 bedroom self-contained villas overlooking the vineyards. Facilities include:
- Full kitchen facilities
- Outdoor settings
- BBQ’s
- Gas log fires
- A swimming pool.
Bluebush Estate at 196 Wilderness Road Lovedale
Bluebush Estate can accommodate up to 40 people in 4 cottages with views over the Molly Morgan Ranges. Suitable for wedding and guest accommodations, family reunions, golf weekends and small conferences and meetings.
Bluebush Cottage – up to 7 people in 3 bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen and entertaining area with BBQ facilities
Bluebush Chalet – up to 10 people in 3 bedrooms with ensuites, large lounge dining and kitchen area, billiard room and outdoor entertaining with BBQ
Bluebush Lodge – up to 12 people, 5 bedrooms (3 with private ensuites) large kitchen, full-size billiard table, large undercover entertaining area with BBQ facilities
Bluebush Country House – up to 11 adults, 5 bedrooms all with ensuite, large kitchen, snooker room, large undercover outdoor entertaining area with BBQ
For the latest reviews and photos of the accommodation at Bluebush Estate in Tripadvisor click here
Cottages on Lovedale at 636 Lovedale Road Lovedale
3 self-contained and separate cottages on 25 acres. Each includes:
- 3 bedrooms with that can sleep 6 and extra 2 people on a double sofa bed
- Gourmet kitchen
- 2 bathrooms
- Air conditioning and slow combustion fire
- Gas bbq
- Gourmet breakfast hampers on weekends
- Continental breakfast hamper midweek
For the latest reviews and photos of the Cottages on Lovedale in the Hunter Valley click here
Emma’s Cottages at 438 Wilderness Road Lovedale
Emma’s cottages consist of 2 x 2 bedroom cottages, a three-bedroom cottage and a four-bedroom cottage with views over the vineyards. They include:
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- Fully equipped kitchens
- Stylish bathrooms
- Log fires
- BBQ’s
- Outdoor settings
- Swimming pool
Mount View
Cottages on Mount View at 1329 Mount View Road Mount View
The Cottages of Mount View offer 4 x 4-star 2 bedroom cottages on 120 acres in a natural bush setting. 3 of the cottages have open-air spas and each sleeps up to 6 people. Facilities include:
- Fireplaces,
- BBQs
- Hammocks between the gum trees
- Private picnic tables
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Breakfast baskets
For the latest travellers reviews and photos of the Cottages on Mount View click here.
The Residence @ Elbourne Wines
The Residence is located at 540 Wilderness Road Lovedale.
Perfect for families and getaways The Residence is a 2-storey house for up to 10 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms.
Facilities include:
- Loft area with 2 sofa beds
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- BBQ
Pokolbin
Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard Accommodation at 750 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin
Three cottages are available in the Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard with breathtaking views over the vineyards and countryside:
The Mulberry Cottage offers luxury accommodation for 8 guests in 4 bedrooms with 5 bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen.
The Dairy Cottage offers accommodation for 4 guests in 2 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms with a fully equipped kitchen and indoor fireplace.
The Oakdale Cottage offers accommodation for 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen.
Beltana Villas at 186 Old North Road Pokolbin
Beltana Villas offer 1 and 2 bedroom villas with balconies overlooking the bush and vineyard.
Facilities include:
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- Fully equipped kitchens
- BBQs
- Woodburning fires
- 12m pool & spa (October)
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For the latest travellers and reviews of the Beltana Villas click here
Casa La Vina at 657 McDonalds Road Pokolbin
Casa La Vina offer guests 3 luxurious Santa Fe inspired villas for couples that are open plan with plush king beds.
Facilities include:
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- Gas log fireplace
- Free wifi
- Granite kitchenette
- Private courtyard with BBQ
- Full breakfast hamper on arrival
- The Grand Spa Villa has a large jacuzzi spa.
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For the latest travellers reviews and photos of Casa La Vina click here.
ChezVous Villas at 148 Debeyers Road Pokolbin
ChezVous Villas are more suited for couples, due to open ponds a dam. Accommodation includes:
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- 2 studio villas
- 2 x 1 bedroom balcony villas
- 1 self-contained 2 bedroom villa
- Swimming pool
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ChevVous Villas is a touch of provincial France in the Hunter Valley.
For the latest travellers photos and reviews of the ChezVous Villas click here.
Hanging Tree Homestead at 294 O’Connors Road, Pokolbin
The Hanging Tree Homestead offers accommodation for up to 8 guests in 4 bedrooms with 4 bathrooms. Facilities include:
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- Extensive fully equipped kitchen
- Living areas
- Wrap around deck
- Private tasting at the Hanging Tree Cellar Door
- 10% off Hanging Tree Wines
- Rose gardens,
- Duckpond
- Olive grove
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For the latest photos and reviews click here.
Misty Glen Cottage at 293 Deasys Road Pokolbin
Accommodation available is a 3 bedroom cottage with kitchen, lounge area, fire pit, airconditioned, laundry facilities and BBQ area. The cottage is dog-friendly.
For the latest reviews and photos from travellers click here.
Old Hillside Homestead at Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin
Old Hillside Homestead is a charming 100-year-old self-contained cottage set on 160 acres, just minutes from wineries.
Three bedrooms are available for up to 6 people and a sofa bed in the lounge for a further 2.
Unlax @ Hunter Valley at 47 Coulson Road, Pokolbin
Unlax accommodation is made up of 4 self-contained cottages with private balcony, BBQ facilities, kitchen and breakfast hamper. There is swimming pool access for all 4 cottages.
For the latest traveller reviews and photos of Unlax in Tripadvisor click here.
Vinden Estate Homestead at 138 Gillards Road, Pokolbin
Winner: ‘Best Accommodation, Hunter Valley’ Gourmet Traveller 2020 Cellar Door Awards
The Vinden Estate Homestead sleeps up to 12 people with views over 10 acres of vineyards.
Facilities include:
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- Large country kitchen
- Two open fireplaces
- Large dining and lounge areas with French doors that open out to spectacular views
- Laundry
- Two marble-finished bathrooms
- 10 foot high ceilings
- Swimming pool
- BBQ
- Tennis
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Rothbury
Talga Estate at 307 Talga Road Rothbury
Talga Estate accommodation offers a 1-bedroom villa and a 2-bedroom villa with 2 person spa bath. Facilities include:
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- Fully equipped gourmet kitchen
- Verandah with breathtaking views over the vineyards and the Brokenback mountain range
- Gas BBQ
- Outdoor seating
- Breakfast hamper on arrival
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For the latest traveller reviews and photos of Talga Estate in Tripadvisor click here
Hunter Homestead at 348 Talga Road Rothbury
348 Talga Road Rothbury
2 fully self-contained houses – the Homestead which sleeps 12 and the Cottage which sleeps 6. A large entertaining area with a gas BBQ on 20 acres in Lovedale surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
For the latest traveller reviews and photos of the Hunter Homestead in Tripadvisor click here.
Bed & Breakfast in the Hunter Valley
Abelia House at 745 Lovedale Road Lovedale
Accommodation is a private room in the homestead located on 5 acres.
Breakfast is served between 8.30 am and 9.30 am. In summer breakfast is served on the verandah and in winter beside one of the open fireplaces.
For the latest traveller reviews and photos of Abelia House click here
Tourist Parks in the Hunter Valley
Wine Country Tourist Park at 3 O’Connors Road Nulkaba
Wine Country Tourist Park facilities:
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- Powered caravan slab sites
- Powered camping sites
- 2 bedroom poolside cabins
- 3 bedroom cottage
- Swimming pool
- Camp kitchen and BBQ
- Laundry
- Pet friendly
- Family owned and run
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Top Things To Do in the Hunter Valley
Wine Tours – Pick up from your specified accommodation in the Hunter Valley
Day Wine Tours from Sydney – Pick up from Centrally Located Sydney Hotels
Flights Over The Hunter Valley Region
Lovedale
Cheese Tasting
Binnorie Dairy
Binnorie Dairy is located at the Corner of Lovedale Road and Lodge Road Lovedale
Opening hours: 7 days from 10 am to 5 pm
Binnorie Dairy specialises in cow and goat cheeses. Pop in and taste their award-winning cheeses with a glass of wine on their sunny deck.
Check out the latest visitors reviews and photos here.
Lovedale Smokehouse
The Lovedale Smokehouse is located at 64 Majors Lane Lovedale.
Not only do they sell their own products they run a cooking school and smoking and curing classes.
Cooking School – Asian cuisine – outdoor cooking class in the vineyard which includes recipes, a glass of wine or beer and a souvenir apron.
Smoking & Curing Classes – learn how to hot smoke a variety of produce
Products available for purchase (information taken direct from their website)
“Visit Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry for our cold smoked salmon, smoked rainbow trout, salmon gravlax, smoked trout pate, smoked mussels, smoked octopus, salmon pastrami, hot smoked salmon, bresaola, prosciutto, jamon, a huge range of salami, beef jerky, smoked kangaroo, smoked ham, smoked bacon, smoked speck, smoked chicken, smoked duck, smoked turkey, smoked cheddar, smoked gouda, smoked olives, smoked garlic, smoked tomatoes, smoked salts, duck pate, terrines and take home charcuterie platters. ”
Check out visitors latest reviews and photographs here.
Nulkaba
Hunter Beer is located at Potters Hotel Brewery Resort, Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba
Opening hours: daily 10 am – 5 pm.
Tours are available from Monday – Friday at 4 pm.
Tours are available on Saturday – Sunday at 12 pm and 4 pm.
Hunter Valley Zoo
The Hunter Valley Zoo is at 138 Lomas Lane Nulkaba.
The Zoo is open from Thursday to Tuesday 0900-1600
Closed Wednesdays
Open everyday school holidays
130 species of birds, mammals, primates, reptiles, lions, cheetahs, meerkats, ostriches, alligators, Tasmanian devils
Book up close and personal experiences with a tamarin, marmoset or meerkat.
Pokolbin
Hunter Distillery
The Hunter Distillery is located at 1686 Broke Road Pokolbin
1686 Broke Road Pokolbin
Check out visitors latest reviews and photos here.
Open daily 1000-1700
Taste a range of premium organic Vodkas, Schnapps, Liqueurs and Gin
Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
Visit the factory, shop and coffee lounge at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company at 2320 Broke Road Pokolbin.
Try 30 different varieties of fudge and the finest Belgium couverture chocolate.
Check out the latest visitor reviews and photos here.
Hunter Valley Cheeserooms
Hunter Valley Cheese Rooms at McGuigan Cellars 447 McDonalds Road Pokolbin
Cheesemaking workshops available duration of 2.5 hours.
Cheese Talks are run daily 11 am and 3 pm – free no bookings needed.
Tastings are held daily at 9 am – 5.30 pm.
Cheese and Antipasto boards available – all-day.
Check out visitors latest reviews and photos here.
Hunter Valley Gardens
Hunter Valley Gardens is located at Broke Road Pokolbin.
Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Closed on Christmas Day.
Facilities and events:
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- Amusement Rides
- Christmas Lights Spectacular
- Snow Time in the Garden during winter school holidays
- Dine in the Garden Terrace
- Shopping Village
- Hunter Valley Gardens Train
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Visit the themed Gardens: Sunken, Storybook, Rose, Formal, Border, Indian, Lakes Walk, Oriental, Chinese, Italian Grotto
Check out the latest visitors reviews and photos here.
Pokolbin Cider House
Visit the Pokolbin Cider House at 2342 Broke Road Pokolbin (Lambloch Estate)
Enjoy their range of ciders – 6 non-vintage and 4 vintage ciders.
Markets:
Handmade in the Hunter Markets
When: 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month
Where: Kevin Sobels Wines cnr Broke Road and Halls Road Pokolbin 0900-1500
Hunter Wine Country Markets
When: Saturdays
Where: at De Bortoli Wines in Pokolbin
Broke Village Community Market
When: first Sunday of the month
Wollombi Markets
When: 8 am – 2 pm (each public holiday long weekend Monday)
Where: Cattle Sales Yard Paddock Paynes Crossing Road Wollombi
Hunter Valley Vineyards: Wine Tastings and Cellar Doors
Broke Fordwich
Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard
Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard is located at 712 Wollombi Road Broke Fordwich
Open Friday Saturday Sunday 10 am to 4.30 pm
Cellar door features biodynamic wines for tasting and delicious organic cheeseboards. Wines available at the Cellar Door include Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Shiraz, Dessert Wines, Sparkling Wines and Rose.
Margan Wines
Margan Wines are located at 1238 Milbrodale Road Broke and are a family-owned award-winning winery. Margan Wines was established in 1996 by Lisa and Andrew Margan and have 100 hectares of quality vineyards.
Wines produced: Shiraz, Rose, Semillon, Chardonnay, Mourvedre, Blanc de Blancs, Cabernet Sauvigon and Ripasso.
Awards:
5 Star Winery James Halliday Wine Companion 2009 – 2020
Andrew Margan- Viticulturist of the Year 2015
Winner – Best Winery, NSW & Hunter Tourism Awards 2013, 2014, 2015 – Hall of Fame
Winner – Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year 2013 & 2018
Cellar Door is opened daily from 10 am – 5 pm.
Nightingale Wines
Nightingale Wines are located at 1239 Milbrodale Road Broke.
Wines available are Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot, Semillion, Verdelho, Rose, Chardonnay, Sparkling Shiraz, Sparkling White N.V., Port
Nightingale Wines Cafe now open 7 days a week
Opening Hours for the Cafe and Cellar Door:
Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm
Saturday 9 am till 7 pm
Sunday 9 am till 4 pm
They also have a Wine Club.
Running Horse Wines
Running Horse Wines are located at 1133 Milbrodale Road Broke Fordwich
Wines produced: Shiraz, Semillon, Verdelho, Rose, Sparkling Rose
Opening Hours:
Daily from 10 am – 6 pm (Monday – Thursday hours may vary call to confirm prior to arrival 0474 156 786).
Cedar Creek
Stonehurst Wines
Cedar Creek at 1840 Wollombi Road Cedar Creek
Family owned and run vineyard award-winning wines.
Wines produced: Shiraz, Rose, Chambourcin, Les Trois Rouges, Chardonnay, Semillon, Sparkling White Rose and Red, Dessert wines and Port.
Cellar Door open 7 days a week.
Lovedale
Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove
Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove is located at 492 Lovedale Road Lovedale
Cellar door and wines.
Semillon, Prosecco, Botrytis Semillon, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc
Open daily for tastings also available Twilight Group Tastings (appointment only)
Olive products are available from the cellar door.
There is a Wine club available to join.
Emma’s Cottage Vineyard
Emma’s Cottage Vineyard is located at 438 Wilderness Road Lovedale
Try the range of Emma’s Cottage wines: Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Shiraz at their Cellar Door.
Cellar Door Opening Hours:
Friday: 12 pm to 5 pm
Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day & Good Friday, 3rd and 4th weekend of May
Saltire Estate
Saltire Estate is located at 113 Wilderness Road Lovedale
Cellar Door Wine Tastings available Saturday and Sunday between 10 am and 4 pm. Bookings essential.
Wines produced are: Shiraz, Moscato, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sparkling Brut Chardonnay, Barbera, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Chambourcin, Semillon, Grenache, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Verdelho, Muscat.
Milbrodale
Ascella Organic Wines
Ascella Organic Wines are at 203 Thompsons Road Milbrodale
The cellar door is open 7 days a week.
Wines produced are: Vintage White, Vintage Red, Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Rose.
Organic wine tastings, organic cheese and olive plates available.
Millfield
Millbrook Estate
Millbrook Estate is located at 1617 Mount View Road Millfield
Hunter Valley Wines with platters of cheeses and antipasto.
Cellar Door open 7 days 10 am- 5 pm.
Wines produced: Chardonnay, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wines, Brandy Liqueur and speciality wines.
Mount View
Petersons
Petersons are located at 2347 Mount View Road Mount View.
Wines produced are: Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Shiraz.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 9 am – 5 pm.
Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Nulkaba
Ernest Hill Wines
Ernest Hill Wines are located at 307 Wine Country Drive Nulkaba NSW 2325
Wines produced are: Merlot, Verdelho, Gewurztraminer, Tempranillo, Rose, Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Blanc de Blanc, Dessert wines, Muscat
Cellar Door open 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm.
Pokolbin
Audrey Wilkinson Wines
Audrey Wilkinson Wines is located at 750 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin
Wine Club and Cellar Door
Tasting experiences available:
Standard tasting $5 per person
Premium tasting $15 per person
Heritage Cellar Experience $25 per person
Fortified & Fromage $60 per person
Picnic among the vines $75 per person
Behind the Scenes Winery $120 per person
Premium Picnic Upgrade $195 per person
Brokenwood Wines
Brokenwood Wines are located at 401-427 McDonald’s Road Pokolbin
Brokenwood Wines is a 5-star winery in the heart of the Hunter Valley famous for their Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, ILR Reserve Semillon and the range of Cricket Pitch Wines.
Opening Hours:
Friday – Monday 9 am – 5 pm
Tuesday – Thursday 11 am – 5 pm
Visit the largest cellar complex in the Hunter with its tasting pods, outdoor terrace with stunning views, private tasting and dining rooms, the wine museum and you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and snacks at the Cru Bar and Pantry.
Constable Estate
Constable Estate is located at 205 Gillards Road Pokolbin
The Cellar Door is open 7 days a week from 10 am to 4 pm.
Wines produced are: Shiraz, Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Muscat, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Dry White, Rose, Sparkling Shiraz, Cabernet Shiraz and Cabernet Merlot.
The Gardens are open for viewing 7 days a week from 10 am to 4 pm.
Drayton’s Family Wines
Drayton’s Family Wines are located at 555 Oakey Creek Road Pokolbin
Cellar door and café available.
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday – 8 am to 5 pm
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays from 10 am to 5 pm.
Closed Christmas Day
Wines produced are: Chardonnay, Shiraz, Semillon, Traminer Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Verdelho, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc
Elbourne Wines
The 5-star boutique Elbourne Wines are located at Marrowbone Road Pokolbin.
Their award-winning wines include Chardonnay and Shiraz and you can enjoy their Rose, Verdelho and Tempranillo from their 4 acres of vines.
Elbourne Winery is a very popular ‘family-friendly’ winery that is perfect if you have little ones. There is a kid’s playground and farm animals to delight the young ones. Not only do they have Wessex Saddleback pigs, black Suffolk sheep, English Springer Spaniels, but pheasants, guinea fowls, ducks and chooks roaming the farm.
Appointments for tasting please call 02 4998 6996.
Gemelli Estate
Gemelli Estate is located at 168 Palmers Lane Pokolbin
Wines produced: Cabernet Merlot, Moscato, Sparkling Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Muscat.
Opening Hours:
Friday 10 am – 4 pm
Saturday 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday – Open first Sunday of the Month 10 am – 4 pm
Monday 10 am – 2 pm
Cheese Platters, fine teas and coffee and wine by the glass available.
Visit the Art Gallery. Kids play area available.
Glandorewines
Glandorewines are located at 1595 Broke Road Pokolbin
Cellar Door open 10 am to 5 pm daily.
Wines produced are: Semillon, Shiraz, Savagnin, Fiano, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Rose, Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz Cabernet, Sparkling Shiraz
Chocolate and Wine pairing with Adora Handmade Chocolates $20 per person
Cheese Boards from $30
Glen Oak Wines
Glen Oak Wines are located at 493 Marrowbone Road Pokolbin
Telephone 02 4998 7504 for private tastings.
Wines produced are: Shiraz, Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sparkling Moscato and Riesling.
Hanging Tree Wines
Hanging Tree Wines are located at 294 O’Connors Road Pokolbin
Wines produced are Grenache Merlot, Shiraz Cabernet, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, Cabernet Merlot, Merlot, Shiraz, Rose, Muscat, Sparkling Brut, Botrytis Semillon, Muscato, Port
Cellar Door is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
Hunter Resort – Hermitage Road Cellars
Hunter Resort is located at the corner of Hermitage Road and Mistletoe Lane Pokolbin
Cellar Door is open from 10 am – 5 pm daily except for Christmas Day and Good Friday.
49 wines from 10 local producers – Andrew Thomas, David Hook, Andrew Margan, Ian Little, Lisa McGuigan, Polin & Polin, Stormy Ridge, Hele Family, Crisford Family.
McGuigans Wines
McGuigans Wines are located at 447 McDonalds Road Pokolbin
Wines produced are: Semillon, Cabernet Shiraz, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Montepulciano, Verdelho, Chardonnay and alcohol-free wines.
Cellar Door is open from 10 am – 5 pm (bookings required)
Mistletoe Winery
Mistletoe Wines are located at 771 Hermitage Road Pokolbin.
Mistletoe is a small family-owned vineyard and winery.
Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Wines produced are: Pinot Shiraz, Sangiovese, Semillon, Cabernet Merlot, Rose, Chardonnay, Bubbly Moscato.
Visit the Pokolbin Gallery and Mistletoe Sculpture Garden.
Misty Glen Wines
Misty Glen Wines are located at 293 Deasys Road Pokolbin.
Wines produced are: Semillon, Chardonnay, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
Cellar Door open on Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Most Public Holidays 10 am-4 pm
Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Tastings $5 per person up to 6 wines
Peterson House
Peterson House is located at the corner Broke Road & Wine Country Drive Pokolbin
There are over 40 varieties of red and white sparkling wines.
Cellar Door open daily 9 am to 5 pm
Pokolbin Estate Vineyard
Pokolbin Estate Vineyard is located at 298 McDonalds Road Pokolbin
Wines produced: Shiraz, Semillon, Riesling, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo
Their award-winning wines are: Semillon, Shiraz Viognier, Tempranillo
Cellar Door tastings 9 am to 5 pm
Pop into their Gourmet Food Centre.
Olive Tastings are available at at the Hunter Olive Centre daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
Tamburlaine Organic Wines
Tamburlaine Organic Wines are located at 358 McDonald’s Road Pokolbin.
Behind the Scenes 90 minutes Tour of the vineyard and winery, wine tasting and complimentary cheeseboard. Bookings are essential.
Tours: Monday to Friday at 9.30 am and Sundays at 1.00 pm.
Wine and Cheese Tasting (by appointment only) **vegan cheese also available
Cellar Door open 7 days 9 am – 5 pm except for Christmas Day
Wine Club available.
Tintilla Estate and Olive Grove
Tintilla Estate and Olive Grove is located at 725 Hermitage Road Pokolbin
Wines produced: Semillon, Chardonnay, Classic White, Rose, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Merlot, Classic Red, Sparkling Wines and Fortified Wines.
Cheese and meat platters 2 tastings of 8 wines Monday – Friday $20 per person
Open 7 days 10.30 am – 6.00 pm.
Tyrrell’s Wines
Tyrrell’s Wines are located at 1838 Broke Road Pokolbin.
Wine Experiences: 45 minute tasting $10 per person
Wines produced: Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Brut, Cuvee Brut, Verdelho, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Rose and Tawny Port
Bookings are essential.
Cellar Door opening hours Monday to Sunday and Public Holidays 10 am – 3 pm.
Vinden Estate Wines
Vinden Estate Wines are located at 138 Gillards Road Pokolbin
Cellar Door Wednesday to Sunday 10 am – 5 pm.
The bistro is open on Saturday and Sunday for lunch 12 pm – 3 pm.
Wines produced are:– Alicante Bouschet, Roses, Semillon, SSB, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot
Rothbury
Black Creek Farm
803 Old North Road Rothbury
Wines produced: Semillon, Chardonnay, Rose, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz
Cellar Door is open Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 4 pm.
Hunter Valley Wine Trails
Around Hermitage Wine & Food Trail
For more details click here: www.aroundhermitage.com.au
Broke Fordwich Wine Trail
Includes the wines of:
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- Krinkelwood
- River Flats Estate
- Bright Farm
- Greenaway
- Winmark Wines
- Margan Wines & Restaurant
- 1813 Wine
- Nightingale Wines
- Whispering Brook
- Mount Broke Wines
- Running Horse Wines
- Glenguin Estate
- Bisous Estate
- Catherinevale Wines
- Talits Estate
- Ascella
- Details click here www.brokefordwichwinetrail.com.au
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Where To Eat in the Hunter Valley
Broke
Margan Restaurant
The Margan Restaurant is located at 1238 Milbrodale Road Broke. They are pioneers of agri-dining in the Hunter Valley region and their ethos is ‘estate grown, estate made”‘. Produce for the restaurant is sourced from their 1-acre garden and orchard. They also have their own olive trees, free-range chickens, honey and raise their own lambs.
For reservations and more information click here.
The Margan Restaurant is open:
Lunch Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Lovedale
Deck Café
Deck Cafe is located at 701 Lovedale Road Lovedale (Gartelmann Wines)
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday 8.30 am – 2.30 pm
Saturday – Sunday 8 am – 2.30 pm
Friday and Saturday nights 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm
Café/Tapas Bar
Lovedale Smokehouse Café
Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe is located at 64 Majors Lane Lovedale
Open Thursday to Monday 10.30 am – 4 pm
Courtyard dining fully licensed and BYO
Pokolbin
Blaxland Inn
Blaxland Inn is located at 2198 Broke Road Pokolbin.
They are the longest “continuous” running restaurant in the Hunter Valley since 1976.
There is a courtesy vehicle available for dinner service only within a 10-minute radius of Blaxland Inn.
They pride ourselves on great products for a great price and moving towards a more steak house feel, but with plenty of other options available.
Blaxland Inn can assist with weddings, functions and corporate groups and have a private dining room available as well.
Lunch daily 12 pm – 3 pm
Dinner daily 6 pm – 9 pm
Website for reservations click here.
Brokenback Bar at Estate Tuscany
Estate Tuscany at Broke Road, Pokolbin
Website for reservations click here
Open for casual dining 7 days from 12 pm.
Circa 1876 at the Convent
Address: 88 Halls Road Pokolbin
Reservations: call +61 2 4998 4999
2, 3, 5 and 7-course tasting menus are available with an award-winning wine list.
AGFG Award Winner Restaurant for 2020 Circa 1876 opening hours are:
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- Open Wednesday – Sunday
- Wednesday – Friday Dinner from 5.30 pm to 9.00 pm
- Saturday: Lunch (12 pm – 2.30 pm ) Dinner (5.30 pm – 9.00 pm)
- Sunday: Lunch (12 pm – 2.30 pm)
- Closed Monday and Tuesday
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Harrigans
Harrigans Bistro at 2090 Broke Road Pokolbin.
Matilda Brewhouse
Dining at the Matilda Brewhouse
Address: Hermitage Road Pokolbin
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- 2 courses $48 per person
- 3 course $60 per person
- We chose 1 x 2-course vegetarian options and 1 x 3 courses (see photos above).
- Entrée (vegetarian) – Roasted tomato, Spanish onion, roquette, Persian Fetta and Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Entree – Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Aioli, Vietnamese Cabbage Salad
- Main (vegetarian) Potato Gnocchi with roasted beets, local fetta, roasted field mushrooms and crumbled walnuts
- Main – Beef Cheek braised in peppercorns and shiraz, duck fat roast potatoes and winter greens
- Dessert – Belgium Chocolate tart, hazelnuts and raspberry gelato
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Restaurant Cuvee
Cnr Broke Road and Wine Country Drive Pokolbin
Modern Australian cuisine using local produce.
Open 7 days:
Breakfast 08.30 am – 11 am.
Lunch 12 pm – 3 pm.
Perfect for weddings and groups.
Ridgeview Restaurant
Ridegeview Restaurant is located at 273 Sweetwater Road Pokolbin
Fresh seasonal produce from their own garden.
Breakfast Friday to Sunday
Lunch and Dinner Thursday to Sunday
Try their Cypriot Meze 15 dishes over 4 courses
The Cellar Restaurant
Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village
Broke Road Pokolbin
Modern contemporary Australian cuisine using local and seasonal produce.
Dine-in indoor garden setting or outside in the courtyard
The Oyster Bar
The Oyster Bay is located at corner Broke Road & Wine Country Drive
Open from 10 am Saturday and Sunday
Fresh Sydney Rock oysters and Pacific oysters from Port Stephens
Fresh King Prawns, char-grilled antipasto platters
Hunter Valley Cheeses
Live music on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm
Sabor Dessert Bar
Sabor Dessert Bar is located at 2342 Broke Road Pokolbin. It is the first dessert Bar opened in the Hunter Valley pairing their 50 delicious desserts with local wines, dessert wines and ports.
Top tip: You must try the Casa de Sabor’s Sabor Portuguese Mousse.
Opening Hours:
Thursday – Friday 10 am – 4.30 pm
Saturday 10 am – 5.30 pm
Sunday – Monday 10 am – 4.30 pm
Bistro Vinden
Bistro Vinden is located at 138 Gillards Road Pokolbin
Homemade food open for lunch Saturday and Sunday 12 pm – 3 pm.
How To Get To The Hunter Valley
By Train:
There is an Express Train from Sydney Central Station to Singleton (7 stops).
By Plane:
To Newcastle Airport
Newcastle Airport is 50 minutes away. There are direct flights to Newcastle Airport from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and the Gold Coast.
Travelling from Australia – click here
Getting Around the Hunter Valley
Vineyard Shuttle Service Ph 024991 3655
Cessnock Taxi 02 4990 1111
iHop Hunter Valley Hop-on Hop-off Bus
Towns to Visit
To visit the towns of Laguna, Wollombi and Broke take the Scenic Drive 33 from Sydney.
Laguna
Johanna Griggs from the Channel 7 Network in Australia states
“The sleepy Hunter Valley town of Laguna may look small but it’s hiding some seriously stylish accommodation, art shows and places to drink and eat – number 6 on Australian Traveller’s ‘100 amazing places you haven’t been to yet‘.
Laguna is the greatest getaway in the history of the world,” declares Joanna Griggs. Not that you might think so, at first glance – the sleepy town in the lower Hunter Valley has “only five or six buildings when you’re driving through,” she admits, but go looking “and you’ll uncover some real hidden gems.”
Wollombi
Wollombi has plenty of accommodation to suit all types of travellers and budgets. The small colonial country town has cafes, shops, a country pub, the Endeavour Museum, St Michael’s Church and St John’s Church.
Broke
Broke is well-known for its boutique wineries, accommodation and local dining establishments. explore the World Heritage wilderness and visit the ancient rock art on the Finchley Cultural Walk.
Conclusion
The Hunter Valley has so much to offer the visitor. It certainly is a destination that you can revisit many times and find something new and exciting to enjoy. There are many hidden gems, so take your time and don’t rush this beautiful region of NSW.
More Australian articles to inspire you to travel to:
33 Top Perth Tours – In and Around The City
Reasons to visit Manly on a Sunday
Tiny Houses – New unique places to stay
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