The Hunter Valley is a region located in the state of New South Wales, Australia. It is situated in the Lower Hunter region, about 160 kilometres north of Sydney. The Hunter Valley is known for its beautiful landscape and its diverse range of activities, including wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, bushwalking, and golfing. The region is home to many wineries and is famous for its wine production, particularly its Semillon and shiraz wines. The Hunter Valley is a popular tourist destination, with a few accommodation options available including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday rentals.
Things to see and do in the Hunter Valley
Wine tasting: The Hunter Valley is known for its production of Semillon and shiraz wines, and there are many wineries and vineyards in the region where you can go wine tasting and sample the local produce. Some popular wineries to visit include Tyrrell’s Wines, Mount Pleasant Wines, and McGuigan Wines. Many of the wineries offer guided tours and tastings, and some also have restaurants or cafes on site.
Hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride is a unique way to experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley. You can take in stunning views of the region as you float above it in a hot air balloon. Some companies offer sunrise or sunset rides, and some also include a champagne breakfast or lunch as part of the experience.
Golfing: The Hunter Valley has several golf courses, including the Hunter Valley Golf and Country Club and the Cypress Lakes Resort. Both courses offer a range of facilities, including driving ranges, pro shops, and clubhouses. Golfers of all skill levels will find something to enjoy in the region.
Bushwalking: The Hunter Valley is home to many beautiful bushwalking trails, including the Hunter Valley Gardens and the Wollombi Valley. The Hunter Valley Gardens is a 40-hectare (100-acre) garden complex featuring themed gardens, waterfalls, and a range of plant life. The Wollombi Valley is a scenic valley located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, offering a range of bushwalking trails through the area’s natural beauty.
Art galleries: The region is home to several art galleries, including the Hunter Valley Art Gallery and the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery. The Hunter Valley Art Gallery features a range of contemporary and traditional artworks, while the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery focuses on the history and culture of the Hunter Valley region. Both galleries offer exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year.
Food and dining: The Hunter Valley is home to a range of excellent restaurants, cafes, and food producers, offering everything from local produce to international cuisine. Some popular dining options include the Hunter Valley Gardens Restaurant, the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop, and the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company.
Spas and wellness: The region is home to a number of spas and wellness centres, offering treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. These centres provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, and are a great way to unwind after a day of exploring the region.
Visit the Hunter Valley Zoo: The Hunter Valley Zoo or Hunter Valley Wildlife Park is home to a range of animals, including primates, reptiles, and birds. The zoo is a great place to visit for families with children, and offers a range of educational programs and activities.
Horse riding: The Hunter Valley is home to several horse riding centres, offering guided tours and lessons. Horse riding is a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Some popular options include the Hunter Valley Horse Riding Centre and the Hunter Valley Equestrian Centre.
Accommodation
There are many accommodation options in the Hunter Valley, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday rentals. Options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, so there is something for every traveller.
The Hunter Valley is a popular tourist destination, and as such, there are many accommodation options available to suit a range of budgets and preferences. Here are some of the options you can consider when planning your trip to the Hunter Valley:
Hotels: The region is home to several hotels, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
Some popular hotel choices in the Hunter Valley include:
- the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley,
- the Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens,
- Kirkton Park Hunter Valley, and
- the Hunter Valley Marriott Resort & Spa.
These hotels offer a range of amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and fitness centres.
Bed and breakfasts: If you prefer a more intimate and personal experience, you might want to consider staying at a bed and breakfast. The Hunter Valley is home to several bed and breakfasts, offering cosy and comfortable accommodation in a homely setting. Some popular bed and breakfasts in the region include the Hunter Valley Bed & Breakfast, the Hunter Valley Guest House, and the Briar Ridge Bed & Breakfast.
Holiday rentals: Another option for accommodation in the Hunter Valley is holiday rentals, which can include everything from self-contained apartments to holiday homes and cottages. This can be a good option if you are traveling with a group or if you prefer more privacy and independence. Some popular holiday rentals in the region include the Hunter Valley Retreat, the Hunter Valley Escapes, and the Hunter Valley Getaways.
Weddings: The Hunter Valley is a popular setting for weddings. There are a number of venues specialising in this event including the Hunter Valley Resort and Estate Tuscany.
Other accommodation options: In addition to hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday rentals, the Hunter Valley is also home to a range of other accommodation options. These can include luxury glamping tents, caravan parks, and farm stays. Some popular options include the Hunter Valley Glamping Co. and the Hunter Valley Farm Stay.
The Hunter Valley has something to suit every taste and budget.
What are some of the popular wineries to visit
The Hunter Valley is famous for its wine production, and there are many wineries and vineyards in the region where you can go wine tasting and sample the local produce. Here are some popular wineries in the Hunter Valley:
Tyrrell’s Wines: Tyrrell’s Wines is a family-owned winery that has been producing wine in the Hunter Valley since 1858. It is known for its Semillon and shiraz wines, as well as its Verdelho and chardonnay. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and cafe on site.
Mount Pleasant Wines: Mount Pleasant Wines is another well-known winery in the Hunter Valley, known for its Semillon and chardonnay wines. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and picnic areas.
McGuigan Wines: McGuigan Wines is a leading winery in the Hunter Valley, producing a range of wines including Semillon, shiraz, and chardonnay. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and picnic areas.
Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard: The Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard is a popular winery in the Hunter Valley, known for its Semillon and shiraz wines. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and picnic areas.
Broke Fordwich Wines: Broke Fordwich Wines is a small, family-owned winery in the Hunter Valley that produces a range of wines including Semillon, shiraz, and merlot. The winery offers tastings and a restaurant on site.
Hunter Valley Estate: The Hunter Valley Estate is a popular winery in the region, known for its Semillon and shiraz wines. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and picnic areas.
Pepper Tree Wines: Pepper Tree Wines is a family-owned winery in the Hunter Valley that produces a range of wines including Semillon, shiraz, and merlot. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and picnic areas.
Hunter Valley Wine Country
The Hunter Valley is wine country and is home to many small and medium-sized wineries, here are some of the more well-known wineries in the region:
This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are many other wineries in the Hunter Valley worth visiting. The region is known for its Semillon and shiraz wines, but there are also many other varietals available to taste and enjoy. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just looking to have a fun day out, the Hunter Valley is a great place to visit for wine lovers.