Sep 04, 2018
Friday night
Travel two hours north of Sydney by car (buses from Sydney and trains from Newcastle are also available) and arrive at your Hunter Valley accommodation. Make sure you get in early enough to enjoy a bite at Il Cacciatore and carbo load for a big day of wine tasting tomorrow! If you’re headed to the Hunter in winter, we recommend a spot by the open fire, complete with an Italian cheese platter. If you can’t get enough after just one meal, they also offer cooking classes.
Saturday
For the early risers, see a whole new side of the Hunter Valley – from a hot air balloon! Beyond Ballooning offer daily balloon rides and the sunrise flight includes a champagne breakfast.
If you’re the type who prefers to sleep in late, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Café Enzo. Try the truffle green peas and eggs.
After you’ve chosen your morning adventure, depending on your own personal thoughts on drinking before midday either head straight for one of the 120 wineries or pick up a mural map from the nearby Kurri Kurri Visitor Centre and take in the 60 outdoor public artworks on the Kurri Kurri Mural Walk.
Once you’ve walked up an appetite, you’re ready to hit the wineries! There are so many to choose from, with plenty specialising in Semillon, the grape varietal the Hunter is most known for. We recommend stopping by Margan, Audrey Wilkinson, Tyrrells and Bimbagen, and finishing off your day with dinner at Exp. Make sure you book well in advance and order the tasting menu.
Sunday
Leave the car at home this morning and see the Hunter Valley by pedal power. Hire a bike from Grapemobile Bicycle Hire, who also offer pickup from the surrounding hotels. Conveniently located on the Pokolbin Brothers vineyard, you can pick up a few bottles to last you on your cycling adventure!
When your legs get tired, stop off at the Smelly Cheese Shop to stock up on dairy treats, and if you have time, partake in a cheese and olive tasting. Balance all that savory with some goodies from the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company if you can fit any more treats into your luggage!
Ready to unwind? Browse your Hunter Valley holiday or call us to organise it for you on 1300 663 533.