Hunter Valley wine region

Travel to the Hunter Valley and explore one of the oldest wine producing areas in Australia, yet utilizing contemporary wine making methods. Only a two-hour drive north of Sydney this region produces unique, regional wines and is a world leader in the production of the Semillon variety. Other popular wine varieties coming from this region are Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho.

Rolling green hills with the impressive Brokeback Range in the background makes for a spectacular setting and the Hunter Valley wine region is home to around 140 wineries and cellar doors. Aside from the usual small group tours, why not go wine-tasting in a classic horse carriage or by a 1950’s Cadillac convertible. Or perhaps breakfast in a hot air balloon or a joy ride in a vintage plane to lunch is more your style.

Yet there is more to do in the Hunter Valley region than just wine tasting. Along with wine tasting usually comes great restaurants and there is no shortage in this area. Whether you want casual alfresco style dining or more of a fine dining experience you have numerous choices. Many award-winning chefs have been attracted to this region due to the local fresh ingredients and the ability to create tantalizing seasonal cuisine.

In addition, the Hunter Valley has become a mecca for artisan food production. Everything from olives and olive oils to cheese, chocolate, coffee and jams can be found in gourmet shops, and an up and coming trend is also the making of boutique beer.

Getting away from food and wine, a visit to the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens is a must. With 25 hectares of themed landscaped gardens, it is relaxing to spend an afternoon wandering the grounds. Or maybe your idea of relaxing is to get on one of the several golf courses in the region and then enjoy a good wine at the 19th hole while appreciating the surrounding landscapes. Our preferred properties are the Sebel Kirkton Park Hunter Valley and Peppers Guest House.

With numerous artists having their own style, it is fun to explore one of the many galleries and arts and crafts stores. Whether you are looking for glassware, paintings, sculptures or perhaps photographs, there is a local gallery or store that would suit your tastes.

The good weather and spectacular scenery has resulted in the Hunter Valley region becoming popular for wine festivals as well as outdoor music concerts featuring national and international stars. Arrange your travels to Hunter Valley around a concert of one of your favorite musicians. Jazz in the Vines, held in October each year, is very popular with jazz lovers.  Or you can enjoy the Lovedale Long Lunch which occurs the third weekend in May with seven vineyards participating where you wine and dine over a weekend while enjoying great music.

If all of this is too much activity for you, then why not head over to one of the destination spas in the area that are becoming quite popular. Enjoy massages, facials, wine wraps or perhaps a detox program to achieve a balance between your body and mind. Come away feeling rejuvenated and relaxed and more able to cope with the stresses of life.

Make sure to include the Hunter Valley wine area when you travel to Australia. Be it a day trip or for several days, you will come back relaxed and refreshed after having a great time exploring the area.