The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region. With only an hour of drive away from the New South Wales capital, the region is a famous Sydney tours destination.
Since it is a wine region, it is a no-brainer to have the winery tour the main tourism activity. But there are also other things to do and places to visit in the region to make your Hunter Valley wine tours experience more exciting and memorable.
Experiences in the Hunter Valley
1. Whispering Brook's Wine Education
The Hunter Valley is home to countless wineries. While many provide tasting sessions, few offer a comprehensive exploration of their vineyards and an insight into wine production.
A short 20-minute drive from Pokolbin leads you to one of the Hunter’s finest – Whispering Brook. If you’ve been craving an intimate tasting experience, this boutique winery is the answer. Known for its exceptional service, it exudes a welcoming atmosphere.
You’ll be introduced to both the vineyard and olive plantation before delving into the intricate wine-making process. There’s ample opportunity to satisfy your curiosity about the region and its wines. The experience culminates with a tasting session set against the backdrop of sprawling olive groves and vineyards.
The complete tour, inclusive of wine tasting, is priced at $20 per person. An exclusive tasting session is also available for $10 per person
2. Vineyard Picnics
Imagine an afternoon spent relishing the Hunter’s exquisite gourmet offerings amidst panoramic vistas, complemented by a fine wine. Several vineyards in the region welcome picnickers, provided they make a purchase at their cellar doors.
Currently, Tyrrell’s in Pokolbin tops our list. It not only provides a sweeping view of vineyards but also showcases the surrounding mountains.
Equipped with picnic tables and vast lawns, you can either grab a spot or spread out your picnic blanket. To gather top-notch picnic provisions, we suggest the Smelly Cheese Shop and the Hunter Valley Olive Co. Once equipped, swing by Tyrrell’s for wine or a tasting session at $10 per person. Revel in the serene atmosphere of the vineyard while there.
Don’t miss the original residence of Edward Tyrrell, the pioneer winemaker, situated near the cellar door. This quaint hut stands as a testament to the Hunter Valley’s rich history.
3. Discover Baiame Cave's Rock Art
Situated near Broke, within the ancestral territory of the Wonnarua people, lies one of the most impeccably conserved Aboriginal rock art locales not far from Sydney. This cave showcases a magnificent representation of Baiame, recognized as the supreme spirit and craftsman of the terrain and every living entity.
Beyond Baiame’s depiction, the cave reveals distinct hand prints, boomerang illustrations, and another mysterious drawing yet to be deciphered. This place stands out as a gem and is among the interesting places in Hunter Valley.
A gentle reminder: always remain on the viewing platform. It offers a comprehensive view without compromising the art. Although the vast majority respects these historic treasures, some unfortunately don’t, leading to potential damage.
While this art-filled enclave is on private territory, visitors are permitted on the path leading to the observation point. However, remain near the cave and avoid wandering too far.
4. Indulge in Cheese Delicacies
While you may have savored numerous wines at Vernick in Hunter Valley, cheese tasting awaits. The Hunter Valley Cheese Company introduces a structured tasting experience.
The tasting comprises a variety of five cheeses: a fresh curd, sumptuous brie, an intriguing blue cheese sans the usual veins, a matured cheddar, and a creamy blue variant.
Our standard tasting session costs $7.95 per person, but for an enhanced experience with preserves and olives, it’s $14.95 per person. Beyond tasting, you can purchase cheese blocks, regional goods, and even relish a coffee.
If you’re keen on sampling before purchasing without a full-fledged tasting, the Smelly Cheese Shop is a delightful alternative.
5. Experience a Majestic Sunrise from a Hot Air Balloon
6. Exploring the Hunter Valley Gardens
The Hunter Valley Gardens boasts of impressive landscapes. An expansive 60-acre of themed gardens located in Pokolbin, the gardens are planted with many different varieties of ornamental plants and herbs. The result is an eyeful of floral display unmatched in New South Wales.
7. Experience Diverse Flavors at Hunter Distillery
For those who appreciate both spirits and wines, a visit to the Hunter Distillery is a refreshing deviation from the vineyards. Their spirits stand out, especially the coffee vodka and the hospitality is top-notch.
During busy weekends in Hunter, one might perceive Pokolbin as somewhat hectic and perhaps less welcoming. However, the ambience at Hunter Distillery is the exact opposite.
Guests are presented with an extensive selection of gins, vodkas, and schnapps. Choose any six for tasting. They’re served in petite test tubes with descriptions and ideal mixer recommendations. The use of local botanicals in their concoctions adds a unique touch.
Tasting sessions cost $5 per person, which is redeemed if you buy a bottle.
8. Relive History in Wollombi
For those drawn to the relaxed aura of Broke’s wineries and seeking a town’s vibrancy, Wollombi awaits. This quaint village is a tapestry of historical structures exuding timeless allure.
Wollombi is compact and perfect for a leisurely walk. You may spend more time exploring than anticipated, lured into the vintage edifices. Some establishments, like the General Store, transport visitors to bygone eras.
Beyond the village’s charm, several wineries retain a laid-back atmosphere. For caffeine aficionados, Myrtle House in the town centre promises a delightful cup, a rarity in Hunter Valley. For those planning an extended stay in Wollombi, there’s a comprehensive guide detailing the top attractions.
9. Savor Exquisite Dishes at Margan Vineyard
The Hunter Valley is an ideal haven for those with a penchant for culinary delights, boasting several remarkable eateries. Among these, Margan Wines in Broke stands out, with its menu inspired entirely by its garden and orchards’ produce.
Terms like “farm-to-table” and “nose-to-tail” are frequently used today, but Margan exemplifies these concepts, having embraced them for over a decade.
Dining at the restaurant is undoubtedly value for money at $110 for a five-course feast, with each plate being a gastronomic marvel.
10. Discover Sweet Treasures at the Chocolate Factory
For those who can’t resist sweets, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is a must-visit. It offers an expansive selection of chocolates, available both in packages and individual pieces.
While formal tasting sessions aren’t available, you can curate your own experience by sampling assorted individual chocolates.
The venue also houses a quaint café, complemented with an alfresco seating area offering panoramic views. However, it tends to get crowded, especially during weekends.
11. Waterfalls and stunning views
Opting for the highway alone makes the drive to Hunter rather monotonous. To enrich the journey, consider adding a few detours.
Somersby Falls
A mere 10-minute detour brings you to the mesmerizing Somersby Falls. A short five-minute walk gets you to the central falls, a sight in itself. But going an extra five minutes to explore the lower falls is recommended, as they’re even more enchanting.
Hunter & McLeans Lookout
Should you have some flexibility in your schedule and don’t mind adding roughly 40 minutes to your journey, begin your Hunter adventure with a breathtaking valley overview.
The Hunter Lookout in Watagans National Park provides an unparalleled panorama. Accessible in under a minute from the parking area, it’s also worth taking a quick two-minute drive to Mcleans Lookout for yet another awe-inspiring Hunter Valley vista.
12. Experience Sydney's Convict Past En Route
Consider taking a detour to delve into Sydney’s convict heritage by travelling the Old Great North Road. This path offers a more scenic vista and only extends your travel by about 20 minutes.
In addition to the enhanced landscape, remnants from the Old Great North Road still stand. Two of the most noticeable abandoned loops are easily accessible: one situated 7km south of Laguna and another shortly after. Convenient pull-offs allow for a closer examination.
Further down, about 8 minutes in, lies the quaint village of Laguna, boasting Australia’s most ancient wine bar. This bar is worth a quick visit, and right before it, you’ll notice another deserted loop.
From there, Wollombi, the charming historic village, is just a 10-minute drive away. The journey from Laguna to Pokolbin, passing through Wollombi and Broke, is genuinely splendid. Vineyards abound, framed against a stunning backdrop of mountains.
13.Play golf at The Vintage
If you’re into golf, then drive to Cessnock and head straight to The Vintage. The quality of the course is excellent, and it comes with a price tag for an upmarket. It has a clubhouse with first-class amenities. A top-notch golf course, The Vintage ranks as one of the best courses in Australia. Have a full course meal after a tee at the Legends Grill, and of course, a selection of fine Hunter Valley wines.
14.Have a family picnic at Lake St. Clair
Serene, calm, and with impressive panoramic views, Lake St. Clair is one of the best places to be in Hunter Valley. It only takes a 30-minute drive from Singleton. Experience the New South Wales idyllic and tranquil countryside with plenty of grassed areas to have a family picnic. Camping sites are available for public use equipped with facilities like toilets, hot showers, and barbecues. You can also go boating, sailing, water-skiing, and fishing in the lake. Catch a catch the Aussie way in Lake St. Clair.
15.View the valley from up high
Elevate your Hunter Valley tours. Take a scenic flight over the region either by a helicopter or by a hot air balloon. An aerial adventure would give you a unique experience of viewing the lush Hunter Valley landscape. Then land in one of the valley’s wineries for a bottle of wine or two. Conquer your fear of heights in exchange for the great views of the region.
16.Visit the Australian Army Infantry Museum
At the military barracks in Singleton, you can check out the Australian Army Infantry Museum. View some excellent displays of wartime memorabilia and gain some insights from history. Museums are always good for educational visits with kids. Learn about the conflicts Australian military had engaged in from Gallipoli to Afghanistan.
17.Take a winery tour
Now the wines! Winery tours are a popular activity in Hunter Valley. Take a guided wine tour so you won’t worry about monitoring your wine intake.
Over 120 cellar doors and wineries scattered across the valley to choose from. There are big names like Audrey Wilkinson, Scarborough, De Bortoli, Tyrell’s, Bimbadgen, and Tempus Two. There are also small, little-known wineries with different styles you may want to explore.
Experience the region’s magic and charm with the best wines that highlight your Hunter Valley tours.
