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Okay Read More5 Hunter Valley Experiences
8th June 2021
Experience the Hunter Valley this winter
If you are based in New South Wales and after a winter escape this year, then look no further than Hunter Valley. Whether you are looking for a family getaway or a romantic weekend for two, our favourite NSW wine region has something to offer everyone. Ideally located just a two-hour drive from Sydney, the region is one of Australia’s top tourist destinations, and with so much on offer we have gathered together some of the best Hunter Valley experiences to help plan your stay.
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Float above the treetops of Australia’s oldest wine region. Of all the Hunter Valley experience available here, a Hot Air Balloon is an absolutely stunning way to see the valley from a whole new perspective. Local Ballooning companies offer a sunrise flight, allowing you to spend an hour drifting through the clouds. As the sun comes up take in the beautiful scenery surrounded in golden hues. With countless opportunities for spectacular photos, it will be a flight to remember. After your journey through the sky, you will be taken to enjoy a delicious a la carte breakfast at one of the local wineries with a refreshing glass of sparkling.
Mount Royal National Park
Mount Royal is just one of the many national parks to explore on your visit to The Hunter Valley. If you are up for a climb, Pieries Peak is a steep walking track which takes you from Youngville up to the Peak where you will find picturesque views across the wine region. If you would rather something a little less active check out Lake St Clair at the foot of the Mount Royal range. Why not bring a blanket and a picnic and relax with an alfresco lunch by the lake? Water activities are also very popular here including boating, water skiing and fishing.
Audrey Wilkinson, Pokolbin. Pic credit: Destination NSW
Around Hermitage Food and Wine Trail
The Around Hermitage Food and Wine Trail, situated in the town of Pokolbin, is an excellent option to immerse yourself in all that this wine country has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll around the ‘Red Trail’ or hire a bike and take the new cycleway. On this trail you will find some of the most awarded boutique wineries and restaurants, as well as horse riding, day spas and cooking schools. End the day at a cosy cellar door tasting some of their best winter warmers by a roaring fire. This has to be one of the best and most typical Hunter Valley experiences there are.
Hunter Valley Gardens
A great day out for all the family, appreciate nature at its best as you stroll through these beautiful gardens. There are 10 individually themed gardens to discover, including an Italian Grotto, Chinese Garden and even a Storybook Garden. Storybook is a great one for the kids featuring 15 characters from some of your favourite childhood fantasies. The gardens hold a variety of events throughout the year; if you are visiting this winter between June 19th – July 18th you can enjoy ‘Snow Time’ in the gardens. A range of exciting activities are on offer for some winter fun, including ice skating, mega ice toboggan or building a snowman in the snow play zone.
Scenic aerial overlooking 14 hectares of the Hunter Valley Gardens in Pokolbin.
Kurri Kurri Murals
Visit the small town of Kurri Kurri and learn of the region’s history and heritage through a journey of murals. Take a guided tour given by one of the residents who will walk you through outdoor displays of artwork. The project was initiated by a small community group of Kurri Kurri and the surrounding villages to bring visitors to their small town. There are now 60 murals on show and tourists arrive to the town eager to see the incredible artworks and learn of the region’s rich history.
SA Weekend Escapes’ top hotel pick!
When looking for accommodation for your stay the Hunter Gateway Motel has got you covered. Situated in Rutherford it is the ideal location to use as your base to explore The Hunter Valley. There are a variety of room options to choose from to suit all travellers and enjoy a stress-free stay with free onsite parking, Wi-Fi and even an outdoor swimming pool.
This winter, when you book direct with Hunter Gateway, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of wine!
So get planning your winter escape to The Hunter Valley, with so much to experience you’ll find yourself wanting to return again and again!