Hunter Valley for non drinkers: 9 activities to try

Are you a non-drinker planning a trip to the beautiful Hunter Valley? Don’t worry, this renowned wine region has plenty to offer beyond wine tasting! From all-day activities to charming attractions, this gorgeous part of New South Wales is not one to be turned down, just because you don’t love wine. From exploring stunning national parks and embarking on scenic walks to visiting art galleries and indulging in gourmet food, the Hunter Valley has something for everyone. In this article, we share nine activities in the Hunter Valley for non drinkers. Get ready to discover the hidden gems and experience the charm of this region, even without a sip of wine.

Hunter Valley for non drinkers

When you think of the Hunter Valley, wine tasting immediately comes to mind. Home to a vast ocean of vineyards and countless cellar doors, it’s a delight for those seeking a wine-filled escape. However, there is so much more to do and see in this stunning region than sip of whites and reds. Countless Hunter Valley activities – including those for children and adults – are sprinkled across the rolling hills here. This handy article dedicated to just these things!

In this blog post, we open your eyes to the non-wine related adventures that await you on your next visit to the famous Hunter Valley. Next time you visit, bring the kids along and have a fun-packed weekend crammed with activities the whole family can enjoy. There are so many activities to choose from but here are just a few to get you started.

Nine activities for non drinkers in the Hunter Valley

1. Wander through the magical Hunter Valley Gardens

This is an absolute must if you are in the region with the family; there is something for every age group to enjoy. The stunning gardens cover 14 hectares and have eight kilometres of winding paths that take you through 1000’s of trees, shrubs and ground plants, plus waterfalls and statues. Wander through the Indian Gardens with its spicy scents of curry plants, walk through the traditional Moon Gate into the Chinese Garden and then experience the Sunken Garden with its 10 metre waterfall and amazing array of colours. For the thrill seeking children there are various rides and slides and a large ferris wheel where they can revel in views from 25 metres up. When everyone is tired and hungry then pop along to the precinct for a great selection of dining options followed by a spot of shopping to finish off your day.

2. Enjoy the ultimate Hunter Valley meal (without the drinks)

Let’s face it, the Hunter Valley is a food lover’s paradise, boasting an array of incredible restaurants that will tantalise your taste buds. From award-winning fine dining establishments to charming cafes and farm-to-table eateries, there’s something to suit every palate. Indulge in gourmet cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients, paired perfectly with the region’s renowned wines. Whether you’re craving modern Australian dishes, international flavours, or rustic country fare, the Hunter Valley has it all. If you’re looking for things to do in the Hunter Valley for non drinkers, there’s no better activity. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.

3. Experience chocolate like never before

For the chocoholics amongst you, this region boasts almost as much chocolate as wine and there is even a Chocoholic Tour on offer. However if you want to check out the chocolate scene for yourself then visit Cocoa Nib, a quaint cafe which sells an array of artisan chocolates using local produce to create unusual but delicious flavours. The Caramel and Macadamia Butter crunch is to die for! Hunter Valley for non-drinkers is beginning to sound okay.

4. Admire the animals at the Hunter Valley Zoo

A trip to The Hunter Valley Zoo is a must for families staying in the area. Meet the animals up close and personal and find yourself sitting amongst the meerkats, the lemurs and squirrel monkeys to name but a few. The zoo is set in 10 acres of land and has everything from Native Australian animals to monkeys, reptiles and even alligators. Within the zoo grounds is a wonderful barbecue and picnic area to rest up a while and enjoy some refreshments.

5. Explore the Hunter Valley with a Segway Tour

Not only will the whole family love the experience of riding a Segway but it is also a fun way explore the nature and beauty of this historic region. The route takes you through the picturesque Brockenback Ranges where the kids will delight in spotting the kangaroos and the odd wombat. You can also be safe in the knowledge that there are no cars around too. So take your camera and sense of adventure along with you and we guarantee you will have a great time.

6. Indulge in some Hunter Valley spa time

One of the most popular Hunter Valley’s activities for non-drinkers, involves visiting a spa. What better way to relax and melt away your worries without drinking wine, than to indulge in a spa treatment at The Golden Door Elysia Health Retreat and Spa. This is Australia’s biggest retreat centre and offers an abundance of wonderfully indulgent treatments from facials to massage and reflexology in luxurious surroundings.

7. Let the bike take the strain

Hiring an electric bike to appreciate the tranquility of the beautiful winery views is a great way to spend a day with the family. Even if you are not going to be tasting the wines it is still an interesting experience to see the vineyards in all their glory. It is also a great way to get some exercise but all the while letting the bike do the hard work when it comes to the hills. They are easy to use for all family members and will make your day memorable and fun in the process. If you’re a non-drinker and seeking an experience of the wine region, without drinking the wine, this might just be the perfect option.

8. Enjoy some Hunter Valley retail therapy

Why not finish off your trip with a spot of shopping? The Hunter Valley Shopping Village has a unique collection of stores where you can buy gifts, clothes, jewellery and glassware. When you are ready to eat then you will find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants and cafes serving delicious treats.

9. Take a hot air ballon ride over the Hunter Valley

If you’re looking for a truly magical experience in the Hunter Valley that doesn’t involve drinking, take a hot air balloon ride. Picture this: as the sun rises, you’ll find yourself floating above the breathtaking vineyards and rolling hills. The views are simply out of this world! Up in the sky with you family or friends, you’ll enjoy a serene and awe-inspiring adventure that offers a unique perspective of the Hunter Valley’s beauty.

NSW Weekend Escapes’ top hotel pick

When searching for somewhere convenient to stay in this region, then look no further than the comfortable and well-placed Hunter Gateway Motel. Situated in Rutherford it provides you with easy access to all of the main Hunter Valley activities and attractions. The rooms are elegantly decorated and the facilities include a restaurant, free parking and a cool swimming pool to return to after a long hot day of exploring.

So just because you may be a non-drinker, don’t rule out the Hunter Valley. The scenery is pretty spectacular and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, making it the perfect place to spend some quality fun time with family or friends.

For more information about the Hunter Valley, take a look at our ultimate guide and craft your weekend getaway to the gorgeous wine region.