hunter valley road trip itinerary

Plan the Perfect Hunter Valley Itinerary

Trying to create a Hunter Valley Itinerary for a weekend getaway? Today Tia Cole, born and bred local shares her tips for creating the perfect weekend getaway to the NSW premier wine region.

Just over a two hour drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley has so much to give with multiple wineries, idyllic views and unforgettable experiences. This popular wine region will create a perfect retreat for over the next two nights.

Getting to the Hunter Valley

Evening – arrival at the hunter valley resort, dinner – amanda’s on the edge, morning – watch the sunrise with on a hot air balloon ride, midmorning – the hunter valley gardens and a trip to the village, afternoon lunch – have a ‘picnic among the vines’, dinner – the choice is yours, breakfast – cafe enzo, morning – hunter valley horse riding, lunch – cheese, wine and all things divine.

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If you have a car, the Hunter Valley is a simple drive up the A1 and then the M1 to the M15 where signs will direct you to Hunter Wine Country.

If you flew in from Sydney CBD, the Hunter Valley provides a multitude of travel options for your visit:

• iHop Hunter Valley – iHop is a Hop-on, Hop-off Hunter Valley bus service in central Pokolbin. With 14 different stops giving you access to 40 venues, including the Hunter Valley Shopping Village and Roche Estate, iHop runs on an hourly schedule making it easy to move between Hunter Valley destinations. Book iHop with the online booking service by 5pm for the following day to secure your position on the bus pickup.
• Pokolbin Hire Cars – Pokolbin Hire Cars create a personalised experience by offering to pick you up from Sydney or Newcastle airport and take you to your Hunter Valley accommodation and are prepared to drop you back to the airport when it is time.
• Hertz Car Rentals Cessnock – Hunter Valley’s central town, Cessnock, provides a range of car rental businesses, including Hertz Car Rentals.
• Sutton Estate Electric Bike Hire – Sutton Estate Electric Bike Hire has the option to hire their motor-assisted bikes for either a full day (10am-4:30pm) and half day hire (4 hours) with training on arrival.
• Uber – Uber operates although it’s hard to get in busy times
• Bus – From Maitland, you can connect to a regular bus service, which will take you to Cessnock and Pokolbin.

Day 1 – Arrival, Accommodation and Adventure

So you have arrived after a long hard week at work (or peaceful day preparing). Begin your getaway in the centrally located Mecure Hunter Valley Gardens hotel.

The generously sized room surround a central swimming pool which is the perfect spot to cool down after a day of summer wine tastings.

The hotel has a nice bar area and a large restaurant which is handy if you don’t feel lunch driving in the evening. However what we like most about it is the location. You can walk to 3 or 4 tasting venues, including Brokenwood, Tempus and McGuigan’s without having to get in the car.

The Hop on Hop off bus stop is across the road at Roche Estate. We had a really comfortable stay here recently and I high recommend it.

With only an 7-minute drive through the valley, you can watch the sun set over the striking landscape of the Windsor’s Edge Vineyards either cozied up by the fireplace during the Winter or out on the divine alfresco in the warmer months.

Amanda’s On The Edge restaurant offers incredible modern Australian meals from entrée through to dessert. This restaurant is perfect for special occasions, with its striking décor, sweeping views, and friendly staff.

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The menu is large enough to offer something for everyone but if you are vegetarian they offer a fantastic 3 course vegetarian menu deal, with vegan options, that includes a bottle of local hunter valley wine to share. This delicious experience is a great way to begin of your magical two-night stay.

Day 2 – A Magical Day for Two

View Australia in a different light as you begin your day with Balloon Aloft where you will enjoy a one-hour, picturesque hot-air balloon ride. Watch the sunrise illuminate the rolling hills between the hunter valley vineyards and light up an unobscured bird’s-eye view of the Brokenback Ranges as you rise above.

After this serene adventure, they will take you to Peterson House restaurant where you will be treated to a menu of mouth-watering, gourmet breakfast choices along with a selection of sparkling wine tasting options on their tasting menu.

Book your hot air balloon experience with a delicious breakfast as a reward for braving your fear of heights!

Head on over and visit the award-winning Hunter Valley Gardens where each of the 10 themed gardens highlights the artistry of garden culture from around the world, including the famous Storybook Garden.

Depending on the time of year you are visiting, the Hunter Valley Gardens often hold breathtaking events, including their Christmas Lights Spectacular from the months of November-January, where the gardens are dazzled in light art and food trucks are available with tasty treats. If you would like to experience the Christmas Lights Spectacular , we recommend coming back when the sun goes down, where you will be amazed.

If time permits, the Hunter Valley Shopping Village is only a short walk away where you can explore unique shops, such as the British Lolly Shop where you can devour real English chocolate and sweets right here in Australia, including 9 different Bon Bons, colourful Flying Saucers, and delicious Double Deckers.

At the Garden Cellars, you can try a range of beers as they have the largest beer tasting options in the region, or you can sample flavoursome wines and liqueurs. Have a wonder and see what other unique things you will discover in the village.

Your trip to the hunter wouldn’t be complete without visiting Audrey Wilkinson Cellar Doors . Treat yourself with a relaxed lunch for two where you will pick up a divine picnic hamper created for your romantic weekend, along with a bottle of handpicked wine.

With over 270 acres, beginning perched atop the stunning cellar door and overlooking the Brokenback ranges, you can immerse yourself in the vineyards and enjoy a private escape.

Once you have satisfied your taste buds amongst the astounding scenery, be spoilt as you take part in a master class with premium wine tastings directed by the in-house wine expert. Matching wines will have never been so divine.

Prebook a Hunter Valley Picnic and surprise your partner

Let’s end the day and fill your bellies with your choice of dining options near your hotel. Right behind the property is The Wood, the restaurant at Brokenwood winery which focuses on local and seasonal produce. I loved that we could reach the restaurant on foot from the Mecure car park where there is a short cut!

They also have a raw bar which as a fabulous range of snacks to enjoy with wine if you are not hungry enough for a 2 course meal.

For a more laid-back experience, Goldfish Hunter Valley Restaurant is a great choice. They offer a mix of small and large share plates or stand alone mains if you prefer not to share! The. Browse the drink menu where you can enjoy cocktails, locally brewed beers and ciders, and some of the Hunter Valley’s best wines on offer.

If you feel you have seized the day and just want to head up to your hotel and visit Elements Restaurant.

Day 3 – The Perfect End to a Hunter Valley Weekend

It’s a short drive to Cafe Enzo , one of my favourite Polkolbin options. Located in Peppers Creek Village, they have a lovely outdoor dining area perfect for a sunny morning or on cooler days you can grab a table. Stick to a healthy bowl of fruit and museli or dig into a big breakfast, either way you can’t go wrong.

After breakfast take a look at the other retailers in the small complex. One of my favourite is Pukara Estate , I find it impossible to leave here without a bottle or two. Try their guava vinegar, it’s awesome on salads or in sparking water!

Breathe in the fresh air as you take in the astonishing views of Pokolbin as you ride through the flourishing vineyards with the Horseback Vineyard Trail Ride . This leisurely paced ride is perfect for beginners as it is designed so you can embrace the panoramic scenery.

Private tours are also available if you would prefer a more intimate adventure. This option is 2 hours of breath-taking views and fresh air brushing against your skin.

In the heart of wine country is Roche Estate, where you can fill your bellies with a good meal at the Smelly Cheese Shop and enjoy wine matching at your winery visit to the famous Tempus Two Cellar Door .

Enjoy cheese tasting with the finest, local, Australian and imported Artisan gourmet cheese at the Smelly Cheese Shop . Their extensive menu items include everything cheese. Grazing platters, pizza, baguettes, burgers, and more.

Complement your cheese tasting with the finer things in life. Tempus Two is an award-winning cellar door where you can enjoy wine tasting with a range of elegant, hand-crafted wines.

Goodbye, until next time

Now you know how much there is to do in the Hunter Valley Region of Australia, you will be able to drop by on your next trip and indulge on even more adventures and tastings as you fill your soul with more incredible memories.

Want more ideas? Check out Tia’s list of Things to Do in the Hunter Valley

About the Author : Tia Cole is always looking for her next adventure. Whether it’s hiking through native bushland, swimming at the beach or lifting heavy at the gym, she is down for anything that will teach her something new about the world. Tia is also a lover of the little things. Find her sipping a vanilla latte, playing with her cheeky pup Skylah, or writing away on her laptop.

Main image credit: Destination NSW

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Two Days Exploring New South Wales’ Hunter Valley Region

Two days in the Hunter Valley wine region is the perfect amount of time to get a taste for the beauty of this area of New South Wales. Accessible easily from Sydney, a trip to the Hunter Valley is perfect for either a day trip or a longer stay. This itinerary is perfect for those wanting to make a weekend out of their Hunter Valley trip.

Getting to the Hunter Valley

Driving is definitely the easiest way to get to the Hunter Valley from Sydney. The drive is an easy one and will take around two hours from Sydney into Pokolbin in the centre of the Hunter Valley region.

For those who don’t have a car and aren’t keen to hire one for the trip, a wine tour might be the best way to explore the region from Sydney. The tours will depart Sydney and offer hotel pick up and drop off from the Sydney CBD, so are a good hassle-free option for those not willing to drive themselves.

For those still keen to do a wine tour when they arrive in the Hunter Valley, there are also hotel pick-ups and tour options available for you here if you are happy to drive yourself to the region, but want to make the most of the wine tasting opportunities when you arrive.

Getting Around in the Hunter Valley

If you don’t have a designated driver, getting around in the Hunter Valley can be a challenge, but there are some options for non-drivers.

There is a dedicated wine country taxi service that can be booked in advance for winery visits or dinner reservations. Mid-week, they were also available to order for immediate pick-up, but on weekends when the area is busy, definitely book ahead to avoid long waits.

There is also a Hop on/Hop off Bus option in the Hunter Valley that will stop at many of the major sites such as the Roche Estate, Estate Tuscany, Pokolbin Village, the Hunter Valley Gardens and Bimbadgen Winery.

Two days in the Hunter Valley

Morning – tasting at brokenwood winery.

Brokenwood is one of the most photogenic wineries in the Hunter Valley with its yellow umbrellas and big wooden entrance. A morning stop here on the winery tour will include a tasting as well as a Soil to Cellar Experience to learn more about the wine process here. Alternatively, for a simple tasting at the cellar door , a booking for $25 will allow you to taste at least 6 wines in the Brokenwood range. Bookings are absolutely necessary here, even mid-week.

Midday – Tempus Two at Roche Estate

Tempus Two is easily situated across the road from Brokenwood Wines in the lush green surrounds of the Roche Estate. A quick stop at Asian fusion restaurant Oiishi for lunch will fill your belly before heading into the modern chic of the Tempus Two Cellar Door.

Bookings for tastings at Tempus Two are able to be made online for $5, but they need to be made at least 24 hours in advance. Mid-week, you may find that if you call and it’s a quiet day, the cellar door can accept you for a tasting without a booking – but if you don’t want to risk missing out then definitely book in advance.

Afternoon – Tamburlaine Organic Wines

A relatively easy walk away from Roche Estate is the Tamburlaine Organic Wines cellar door and for those keen to try wine made in the absence of any pesticides or nasty stuff, this is the tasting for you.

Bookings are not required here unless you’re arriving in a group larger than 5, but it is a good idea to check whether they’ve reached capacity in advance on the day by calling +612-4998-4200.

Evening – Dinner at Baume

Baume is a great choice for an affordable and hearty dinner in the heart of the Hunter Valley. Located on the Ben Ean estate, this is a relatively casual restaurant with portion sizes designed to share.

There are plenty of food options for families and dietary requirements and there is no doubt that you’ll be going home full up.

Morning – Hunter Valley Gardens and Aqua Golf

For something a little different, a visit to the award winning Hunter Valley Gardens complex is a great way to shake off any wine related headaches from the night before with a stroll in the beautifully cultivated parkland. It is a great way to start the second day of your two days in the Hunter Valley.

For game lovers, there is a mini golf course or aqua golf to let your competitive spirit run free. The gardens themselves cost $29 per person to enter, so if that seems a little expensive, then just stroll around the grounds and enjoy the quaint shopping village outside the garden gate.

Midday – Saddler’s Creek Winery

Saddlers Creek is a gorgeously designed winery located on Marrowbone Road in Pokolbin. A premium wine tasting can be booked in advance and will cost $10. Again, early – mid week may be possible to visit without a booking, but you definitely want to avoid missing out. You can also book a cheese box to go with your wine tasting and also on weekends the Pampa Flame Brazilian BBQ food truck stops in for some delicious lunchtime fare.

On weekends, Saddler’s Creek is the perfect spot to relax with live music running Friday to Sunday afternoons in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Afternoon – Audrey Wilkinson

Audrey Wilkinson is a quintessential Hunter Valley experience with the tasting room perched high on top of the rolling hills looking down over the vineyards. Bookings are $5 for a standard tasting experience that runs for 45 minutes in a beautiful light filled room.

It’s a perfect way to close out the afternoon and take in the last rays of the day as golden hour hits the Hunter Valley. Enjoy your final tasting of your two days in the Hunter Valley and head back to the hotel to refresh before dinner.

Evening – Dinner at The Mill at Estate Tuscany

A little further out of Pokolbin is the gorgeous Estate Tuscany which features fine dining restaurant, The Mill. A three-course meal will set you back around $80 per person excluding wine, so it is relatively reasonable compared to some of the other dining options in the Hunter Valley whilst still providing a fancy dinner out.

Estate Tuscany is perfectly positioned atop a hill which gives great sunset views. The drive out to the estate is also a treat with wild kangaroos hopping around the fields enjoying the twilight hours.

At the end of two days in the Hunter Valley, this itinerary will provide a great appreciation for the region’s wineries as well as the uniquely beautiful landscape of Australia’s oldest wine growing region.

Where to stay in the Hunter Valley

I stayed at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley in Lovedale which is very well located a short driving distance from many of the wineries listed in this post. The Crowne Plaza is also well appointed with balcony rooms, tennis courts, two pools and a restaurant and bar.

Other options for accommodation that come highly recommended are Chateau Elan at the Vintage or the Convent Hunter Valley also located close by.

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Epic 3-Day Road Trip Adventure: Uncork the Best of Hunter Valley

Itinerary ideas

Hunter Valley in 3 days

Posted by Karolien | Spaceships Intern

No need to be a connoisseur to revel in a road trip to Hunter Valley, the crown jewel of Australia's wine regions. Whether you're a budding enthusiast keen to unravel the intricacies of winemaking or a seasoned wine lover eager to savour the finest vintages, Hunter Valley promises an unforgettable experience.

My companion and I embarked on our journey aboard a Spaceships campervan , this time, upgrading to the more premium Beta 2S model , aptly named Jupiter,  the King of the Gods in ancient Roman mythology and the King of Campervans for us.  This campervan category offered superior comfort and generous space compared to our previous Alpha (budget) model . Last time we embarked on a road trip to the Blue Mountains but this time we wanted to explore Hunter Valley. Hop on board, here we go....

Starting with a good night's sleep

Hunter Valley, a mere two-hour drive from Sydney (175 km), welcomed us with its serene landscapes. We decided to camp for the night at BIG4 Hunter Valley Holiday Park . For a modest $35, we secured a charming camping spot, access to a refreshing pool, and well-maintained shower and toilet facilities — a perfect blend of budget-friendly convenience and comfort.

We parked Jupiter and set up the side tent for additional shade. Although I'm a sun enthusiast, the occasional respite in the shade is always welcome.

Day 1: A Taste of Hunter Valley

Our culinary adventure began at Kelman Vineyard , conveniently located within walking distance from our campsite — a sensible choice considering the potential hazards of drinking and driving. The vineyard offered us a palate-pleasing exploration of the region's signature wines and an intriguing insight into their creative process.

Next, we ventured to The Garden Cellars in Pokolbin, where we expanded our tasting experience to include not just wine but also chocolate and vodka. As our campervan was safely parked, we were free to indulge in this delicious exploration.

Day 2: Beachside Bliss

Post our gastronomic tour of Hunter Valley, we set course for Port Stephens, eager to soak up some beach vibes. Our first stop was the quaint Fisherman’s Bay, boasting a secluded beach and breathtaking views.

Armed with provisions, we set up our portable gas cooker for an afternoon feast, savouring the meal amidst nature's splendour. We concluded the day at Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park , a more upscale destination featuring a large pool and a mini wildlife reserve, home to wild koalas, pelicans, and other fauna. All for a reasonable $30 per night for our vehicle with two Space Travellers.

Inside that little piece of nature, you could find wild koalas and other wild animals. In the water, we saw wild pelicans. All campsites and holiday parks can be found in the guidebook that came with our Spaceships. But you can also use the  free camping app by Spaceships .

Explore Hunter Valley with your Spaceship

Day 3: Exploring Caves Beach

Our road trip finale took us to Caves Beach, a hidden gem with a laid-back vibe. At high tide, it offered the unique opportunity to swim into a cave - an adventurous punctuation to our journey.

Our Hunter Valley and beach road trip concluded with a swift return to Sydney, carrying with us a trove of delightful memories and experiences.

Are you eager to explore Hunter Valley? Start planning!

Preparation is key to having a smooth and enjoyable road trip to Hunter Valley. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination, and take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the Hunter Valley.

How to plan your Hunter Valley road trip

Hunter Valley is known for its vineyards, so a bit of knowledge about different wines and the wine-making process can enhance your experience. Familiarize yourself with the region's geography, climate (Hunter Valley has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters), and the unique varietals it offers (like Semillon and Shiraz). Look into local customs and social norms, as well as the region's history.

Get to know your vehicle

If you're renting a campervan like the Spaceships model mentioned earlier, make sure you know how to operate all its features , including attaching the rear awning or converting a seat into a bed. If using your own vehicle, get it thoroughly checked, especially if you're planning to drive on less frequented or rural roads that can be found in some parts of the Hunter Valley.

Where to sleep in Hunter Valley

Book your campsites in advance. Places like holiday parks in Hunter Valley and Port Stephens are popular and can fill up quickly. These locations offer camping amenities, and some even provide wildlife experiences, like spotting wild koalas.

What to bring? Pack essentials!

Given the region's climate, pack lightweight clothing for the day, but don't forget a jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable footwear is a must for vineyard tours. Other essentials include good quality sunscreen, a hat, toiletries, maps, a mobile charger, and camping gear such as a portable gas cooker for cooking at your campsite. When hiring a Spaceships campervan it'll be easy for you as these compact campervans come with cooking & sleeping gear included .

Food & drinks

Pack groceries for meals you plan to cook at the campsite. Also, Hunter Valley offers a range of culinary experiences, from fine dining to artisan cheese makers and chocolatiers, which you might want to explore. When it comes to drinking, enjoy the wine tasting, but remember to do so responsibly. Drinking and driving is a serious offence, and there are strict laws in Australia against it.

Enjoy amazing wines on your road trip to Hunter Valley

Plan your activities: wineries to visit

Identify the vineyards you'd like to visit. Some popular ones include Kelman Vineyard and The Garden Cellars. Also, plan for other activities like visiting the Hunter Valley Gardens, enjoying a hot air balloon ride, or exploring the local art galleries. If you plan to enjoy a heavy wine-tasting session, consider arranging a designated driver or booking a guided tour that provides transportation.

Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region so there are plenty of esteemed and award-winning wineries to choose from. Here are some of the notable ones that offer unique experiences:

• Tyrrell's Wines: Founded in 1858, Tyrrell's is one of Australia's most historic family-owned wineries. It is renowned for its Semillon and has won numerous accolades. A visit here offers a glimpse into the history of winemaking in Hunter Valley.
• Audrey Wilkinson: This winery is not only known for its excellent wines, particularly Semillon and Shiraz but also for its panoramic views. Located on a hilltop, the vineyard offers 360-degree views of the Hunter Valley. They also offer picnic experiences amongst the vines.
• Brokenwood Wines: Established in 1970, Brokenwood is famous for its Cricket Pitch Wine. It also boasts a wide range of wines including Semillon, Shiraz, and Chardonnay. The winery's new cellar door is one of the largest in the region, featuring unique circular tasting 'pods'. Pepper Tree Wines: This winery stands out for its commitment to sustainability and its boutique approach to wine production. The beautiful grounds feature a picturesque building with a sandstone veranda, perfect for relaxing and sipping wine.
• McGuigan Wines: One of the most recognized names in the Hunter Valley, McGuigan Wines has won "International Winemaker of the Year" four times. Their cellar door offers a comprehensive wine-tasting experience, including a tour of the winery and an opportunity to taste their award-winning wines.
• Kelman Vineyard: A smaller, boutique winery, Kelman Vineyard offers a more intimate wine-tasting experience. Their wines are handcrafted from grapes grown exclusively on their own estate, resulting in unique, high-quality wines.
• Mount Pleasant Estate: Established in 1921, it's known for its Old Hill Vineyard which produces some of the most awarded wines in Australia. The winery offers breathtaking views and a variety of tasting experiences.
• DeLuliis Wines: This family-owned winery is known for its innovative approach to winemaking. Along with wine tasting, you can enjoy an outdoor seating area and an art gallery.

Each of these wineries offers something unique, whether it's historical significance, stunning views, sustainable practices, or simply exceptional wines.

Respect Nature

Hunter Valley is home to stunning landscapes and wildlife. Always adhere to local guidelines, dispose of waste properly, and avoid disturbing any wildlife you may encounter. If you're visiting the beach, be mindful of the local marine life.

Best road trip tip: stay flexible!

While it's good to have a plan, some of the best adventures are unplanned. If you come across a hidden gem, be it a secluded beach or a lesser-known vineyard, don't hesitate to explore it.

When to visit Hunter Valley? What is the best time of the year?

This is an easy yet hard question as it all depends. It really depends on what you're looking for in your road trip to Hunter Valley. Let's dive deeper into this and see what you can expect from each season in Hunter Valley.

• Spring (September - November): This is an excellent time to visit Hunter Valley as the vineyards are in bloom and the weather is typically mild and pleasant. It's a picturesque time to explore the wineries and vineyards. Many wineries offer guided tours where you can learn about the wine-making process.
• Summer (December - February): The region can get quite hot in summer, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). However, this is the period when many wineries harvest their grapes, which can be an interesting experience to witness. Do note that some wineries may restrict access during the harvest.
• Autumn (March - May): This is considered one of the best times to visit Hunter Valley. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, and the region is particularly beautiful as the leaves change colour. The autumn harvest might also provide opportunities to participate in grape picking and stomping.
• Winter (June - August): Winter in the Hunter Valley is relatively mild, with daytime temperatures usually in the mid-teens Celsius (around 60°F). This is the quietest time of year for the region, so it's a good choice if you want to avoid crowds. Many of the region's top restaurants will also have winter menus featuring hearty, comforting food that pairs well with the local wines. This is also when the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival takes place, offering a series of culinary events and wine tastings.

There's really no bad time to visit Hunter Valley. Autumn is often recommended for its pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and the excitement of the harvest.

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Road tripping around the Hunter Valley in style

There's something about a long weekend that makes you desperately want to get out of the city. Except by the time you get around to booking flights, prices are generally awful and it's easier to give it up and just stay home. Unless you take the car. Within an hour or so, you're winding through leafy roads and golden vines on the way to NSW's Hunter Valley. Except for the kangaroos (which kind of give it away) you could be in the south of France. Or anywhere idyllic and green and rolling, really. I've made the mistake of going straight up the M1 on a failed quest for a 'country drive'. Don't do that. Go through Windsor, and stop off at the Plaza's Hawkesbury Valley property for some pastries and coffee.

Your next spot to charge up is in the Hunter Valley proper. We stop in at Crowne Plaza, which caters nicely to the plaid set thanks to an on-site 18-hole golf course.

There's also wine. Lots and lots of wine. The region's particularly famous for semillion, chardonnay (the Scarborough Wine Co's 2015 run is notably nice drinking), and verdelho, a Portuguese varietal on the fruitier side. If you're into red, local specialties run to shiraz and cab sav. But it's all good, honestly.

Getting there Earlier this month, every Crowne Plaza Hotel installed Tesla Destination Chargers – so if you're that way inclined, you can rent an eco-beast and top up your future-mobile as you go. Even if you're not yet a card-carrying member of the Elon Musk club, the Crowne hotels mark out a pretty lovely (read: scone-filled) route into the countryside.

Note that the 'self-drive' function on the Tesla models is currently a semi-autonomous option (basically cruise control on steroids), and still in beta – it's not yet legal in Australia for cars to totally drive themselves. But the cruise control and semi-autonomous settings get a good workout once you're on the freeway. The future is now, guys. (PS. Balloons are forever.) Writer stayed as a guest of Crowne Plaza Hotels. Cars for the trip were provided Tesla, which has both the Model S and X available for purchase now.

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9-Day Australia Road Trip Itinerary Around The Best Of NSW — Sydney, Blue Mountains and Beyond

Explore New South Wales (NSW) with this 9-day road trip covering a wide range of adventures beginning from Sydney to the Central Coast, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains.

Sydney is a great base for epic road trips. After our  7 Day South Coast Road Trip  — where we drove all the way to Mount Kosciuszko (Australia’s Tallest Peak) — we wanted to see more. This time, we head up north of Sydney and the Blue Mountains to explore the best sights, thrills and nature NSW has to offer.

Read Also:  Top 10 Things To Do in NSW That Will Satisfy Any Adventurer

The Great New South Wales Road Trip

From soulful gourmet experiences, interactions with adorable animals, and some once-in-a-lifetime experiences, some of the key highlights in this itinerary include: hiking to epic viewpoints in the Blue Mountains , riding the world’s longest zip-line in Central Coast , sky-diving over the gorgeous landscape of Newcastle , whale watching in a speed boat at Port Stephens  and riding a  hot air balloon over the magical Hunter Valley .

Pre-Trip Essentials

Airport Transfer  — From Sydney Intl. Airport, we hopped on  this airport transfer (S$19.25/pax)  which sent us straight to the doorstep of our accommodation near Kings Cross Station. Unlike most airport transfers that serve only bigger hotels, this service will send you anywhere within Sydney’s city centre, be it to a hostel or an Airbnb home.

Public Transport — You can purchase an  Opal card  from any convenience store or bookstore (like WHSmith at the airport). The card is free so you only need to pay for the credits to travel on NSW’s trains, buses, ferries and light rail.

Staying connected  — There are Vodafone and Optus booths right outside the arrival hall but  Optus  had better deals when we were there. Our 4G SIM cards came with 15GB data, unlimited local calls and texts for AU$20.

Day 1-2: Sydney city

Getting around Sydney: Travelling via public transport is perhaps the easiest and most efficient way of getting around the city.

*Pro-tip:  Make full use of the Opal card on Sundays when transportation fees are capped at AU$2.60.

Accommodation:  Stay within the city centre to save on transport. We got an Airbnb near Kings Cross station for less than AU$200/night shared amongst the three of us.

Sydney Fish Market 

Sashimi lover? Head out to Sydney Fish Market for some of the freshest seafood you can find in Sydney. Not only is there a wide array of fresh seafood, you’ll get to find some of the most interesting fusion food too.

This sushi doughnut is a classic example!

It is also at the Sydney Fish Market where you can get the freshest Sydney Rock Oyster. Endemic to Australia and New Zealand, the Sydney Rock Oyster is famous for its extra creamy texture, one that oyster lovers should not miss!

Opening Hours: 7AM – 4PM daily Address:  Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Sydney NSW 2009, Australia

Queen Victoria Building

If you’re a shopaholic, you shouldn’t miss the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) located in the heart of Sydney. This 19th-century building has been conserved and restored into a mega marketplace.

Opening Hours: 9AM – 6PM (Weekdays), 10AM – 4PM (Sat), 11AM – 4PM (Sun) Address:  455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Exploring The Rocks

Our trip coincided with Vivid Sydney (held between 25 May – 16 Jun 2018), and we were lucky enough to catch most of the art installations put up for the annual winter event. The lights and music displays of Vivid Sydney start upon sunset and go up full-force at  6PM.  The colours and energy definitely warmed us up in the chilly winter night.

Vivid Sydney is an annual festival of light, music, and ideas that started in 2009 as an energy-efficient light painting projected on both sides of the Opera House. Today, the Sydney Opera House holds contemporary music performances during Vivid Sydney — Known as Vivid Live — featuring local and international artists.

Dinner at Pancakes On The Rocks

One of the most highly-rated eateries in Sydney, we knew we had to give Pancakes On The Rocks a try. We took the savoury Fresh Mushroom Crepe (AU$14.95) and sweet Nutella Pancake (AU$15.95), both generously packed with ingredients so dense that they were enough to share among us three.

Costs: AU$10.95 – AU$35.95/dish   Address:  4 Hickson Rd, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia Opening Hours: 24 hours

Carriageworks Farmers’ Market

If you’ve been to Australia, you’ll realise how seriously the locals take their farmers’ markets. The Carriageworks Farmers’ Market  may not be super famous, but it’s definitely well-loved by its locals!

Here you’ll find homemade cheese, freshly-baked bread, coffee, granola and even kombucha for sale. There are also dining areas both inside and outside — where the old railways are — if you decide to have a meal there. We had a truffle steak burger, bibimbap, and pho, all of which were delicious!

Opening Hours: 8AM – 1PM every Saturday Address:  245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh NSW 2015, Australia

Taronga Zoo

Opened in 1916, Taronga Zoo remains one of the most highly-visited zoos in Australia. Its proximity to the city centre makes it a great place for visitors who have little time in Sydney to see some of Australia’s wildlife.

We recommend going on a 2-hour zoo tour with cable car ride  for a more in-depth experience at the zoo. Our guide Rob, an experienced keeper, walked with us while sharing fun facts about the residents. Other than the kangaroos, koalas, platypuses, and echidnas, we even got to get up close with a wallaby and feathertail glider!

Something interesting to note is that within the state of NSW, there’s a hands-off policy that makes it illegal to touch koalas within the zoo compounds. Doesn’t make the flurry tree-dwellers any less cute though!

It’s difficult to imagine how a zoo can be this close to the cityscape, but Sydney’s skyline stunningly works as the perfect backdrop to the giraffe’s enclosure.

Cost:  Entrance only — AU$47 at the gate , S$31 online ; For the 2-hour tour with cable car ride — ~S$130 Tour Timings:  10:15PM – 12:15PM or 2PM – 4PM (reservations must be made at least a day in advance) Regular Opening Hours:  9:30PM – 4:30PM daily Location:  Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia

Sydney Tower Buffet

At 309m, the Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest structure in Sydney. While there’s an observation deck you can pay to access, we took the opportunity to have lunch at its revolving restaurant instead — you can feast on food and feast your eyes on the views of Sydney’s CBD, the Sydney Harbour area, and even the St. Mary’s Cathedral.

Lunch was a buffet spread of more than 50 dishes across a range of cuisines including Australian, Italian, and Japanese. From salad, seafood, and hot dishes to cold desserts, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Note that you’ll need to pre-book your table for the  Sydney Tower Buffet , especially on weekends.

Cost:  S$57 – 85 depending on lunch/dinner and weekdays/weekends. Opening Hours: 11:30AM – 3:30PM (Daily Lunch), 5PM – 10:30PM (Daily Dinner). Dining time of 1.5 hrs. Address:  Level 4, Westfield Sydney, 100 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Luna Park Sydney

This old-school amusement park has been a source of entertainment since 1935 and still is a great place to hit for fun and screams. Unlike the bigger names like Six Flags, Universal Studios, or Disneyland, the 16 rides  Luna Park Sydney operate are less sophisticated but do not pale in comparison when it comes to eliciting a scream or laugh from riders.

Cost: Entrance is free and you can pay AU$10 per ride, or AU$35 for the Twilight Saver Pass for unlimited rides after 6PM. Address:  1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia Opening Hours: FRI & SAT: 11AM – 10PM SUN: 10AM – 6PM MON: 11AM – 4PM TUE – THU: Closed  

Day 3: Central Coast

Accommodation:  Oaks Waterfront Resort

Treetops Zip-lining

This is the day we picked up our rental car from Hertz  to begin our road trip. First stop, we arrive at Tree Tops Central Coast, a 90-minute drive from Sydney. At Treetops , there’s an array of exciting challenges like zip-lining, trapezes, Tarzan swings, and tightropes! We heard about the “world’s longest roller coaster zip-line” and definitely couldn’t give that a miss!

Treetops’ TreeTop Crazy Rider has two zip-lines — Pioneer and Xtreme. Pioneer is a shorter line at 330m that features a 360° loop and a drop, which is always fun. The Xtreme is a longer (the world’s longest!) ride at 1km long, has four 360° loops, and a bigger 540° loop with 2 drops.

Now, imagine zipping through the forest on the world’s longest roller coaster zip-line — wild!

There are also GoPro cameras for hire from AU$25 for you to record your rides. You can bring your own GoPro as long as it fits into the standard mount Treetops provides.

Cost: AU$39 (Pioneer), AU$79 (Xtreme), AU$99 (Combo) Address: Ourimbah State Forest, 1 Red Hill Rd (cnr Yarramalong Rd), Wyong Creek NSW 2259 Australia Opening Hours: 10AM – 4PM (Weekdays), 9AM – 4:30PM (Weekends)

Horse-Riding at Glenworth Valley

At Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures , there are various outdoor activities one could engage in, such as horse-riding, quad biking, kayaking, and camping. We tried horse-riding around the valley through different terrains such as bushlands, forests, and creeks.

Every evening at 4:30PM, the handlers will release the horses for their evening walk where they roam freely around the forests of Glenworth Valley. The sight is the most spectacular on Saturday evenings, as all 220 horses of Glenworth Valley will be mustered out of the horse-riding yards.

Cost: AU$95/pax for 2 hours Address:  69 Cooks Road, Glenworth Valley, NSW 2250 Horse-riding Timings: 10AM & 2PM (Weekdays), 9AM, 11AM & 2PM (Weekends)  

Check-in At Oaks Waterfront Resort 

Located at The Entrance, right next to the sea, we spent a night at the Oaks Waterfront Resort  in Central Coast.Location aside, rooms are affordable and come with a range of facilities including a gym and an outdoor swimming pool. Our 2-bedroom loft with 2 bathrooms, a mini kitchen for light cooking, a washer, and dryer would fit up to 5 adults comfortably and only cost ~S$208/night!

Cost: From S$208/night for a 2-bedroom loft Address:  89 The Entrance Road (via Duffys Lane), The Entrance NSW 2261 Australia

The Entrance Weekend Market

If you’re around on a Saturday, check out  The Entrance Weekend Market conveniently in front of Oaks Waterfront Resort. Most of the stall owners are locals from around NSW, and you can find things like handicrafts, farm produce, and food stalls. We got ourselves a hearty bowl of Phở and some home-made raw honey as souvenirs.

Opening Hours: 9AM – 2PM (Sat) Address:  Marine Parade, The Entrance NSW 2261, Australia

Day 4-5: Port Stephens via Newcastle

Accommodation:  This gorgeous Airbnb in Soldiers Point for less than S$200/night

Skydiving at Newcastle

We hope you didn’t have too heavy a breakfast because next up on the agenda is skydiving! While Australia has several skydiving locations, we hear that Newcastle  (30-minute drive from Oaks Waterfront) is the one with the best views.

If I were to jump out of a perfectly fine plane, it’d better be worth every nerve it took me to overcome my fear of heights. And I’m glad I took the leap at Skydive Newcastle .

We recommend getting the package that comes with video and photos; you won’t want to keep memories of such a daredevil move to yourself only, right? 😉

Cost: S$384/pax (Weekday), S$434/pax (Weekend) Address: Lake Macquarie Airport, 864 Pacific Highway, Marks Point, NSW Opening Hours: 7AM – 9PM Daily Drive to Soldiers Point, Port Stephens

Dolphin & Whale-watching cruise in Port Stephens

After an hour’s drive, we arrive in Port Stephens, a permanent home to about 90 bottlenose dolphins. This means you can spot them just about any time of the year! If you’re visiting during the autumn – spring months, you’ll even get to see the migrating humpback whales.

We went on a whale-sighting ride with  Imagine Cruises  which brought us out on an exciting high-speed boat. Not only did we get to see a pod of dolphins that swam pretty close to us, we saw a humpback whale within 10metres from our speedboat too!

We also got to see some fur seals at the Cabbage Rocks, which is another pleasant surprise as they’re said to only be around during the whale-sighting season.

Cost: AU$68/pax  (Booking required) Address:  Teramby Road, Nelson Bay, NSW 2315 Australia Opening Hours:  9AM – 5PM

Check-in for the night at Soldier Point

For the night in Port Stephens, we stayed at this gem of an  Airbnb in Soldiers Point for less than S$200/night! Not only was it very near the sea, it was also located in a quieter area void of light pollution. When the night fell, we caught a dazzling sky of stars above us.

Tomaree Head Sunrise Hike

The next morning, we started our day early with a short hike up Tomaree Head Summit to catch the sunrise. What caught us by surprise was a few whale sightings! The walk up only takes about 20 minutes which is a great trade-off for the stunning views of Shoal Bay.

Address:   Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay NSW 2315, Australia

*Pro-tip: Boat Harbour is another area at Port Stephens where you’ll get many sightings of Humpback and Southern Right Whales during migration season between mid-May to mid-November!

Quad Biking on Stockton Sand Dunes

No trip to Port Stephens is complete without checking out  the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere — The Stockton Sand Dunes.  And what better way to explore than on quad bikes! We signed ourselves up for a 1.5-hour session with  Sand Dune Adventures .

The huge area of sand is formed due to years of wind blowing the beach inwards, and the sand shifts by 4 metres inwards every year. The vast beach with sand dunes go on forever, and for the unsuspecting, it truly looks like we’re within a desert.

Cost: AU$135/pax Address:  2163 Nelson Bay Rd, Williamtown NSW 2318, Australia Opening Hours:  9AM – 4PM daily

Check-in at the Hunter Valley Resort

Before the sun sets, we drove an hour to the  Hunter Valley Resort  where we spent 2 nights. Other than being an accommodation, this family-run business offers a range of activities within their 70 acres of 50-year-old Shiraz vineyards.

The Hunter Room sleeps up to four people. There’s a glass door that opens to the lawn, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see animals passing by such as parrots and wallabies!

Costs: AU$245/night (sleeps 2 pax, +AU$25 for additional pax) Address:  Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia

Day 6-7: Hunter Valley

Accommodation:  Hunter Valley Resort

Off-Road Segway Tour around Hunter Valley Resort’s Vineyards

The Hunter Valley Resort has a space of 70 acres with rows of Shiraz vineyards and other interesting features. One of the best ways to explore is on an hour-long  Segway Tour  (which was honestly a lot more fun than we had expected). Guided by an instructor, we rolled through plains, forested areas, and vineyards; we even spotted wild kangaroos too!

Cost: AU$50/30mins, AU$75/hr ( Advance booking is required )

Wine and Cheese Tasting

After the adventurous experience on the Segway, we proceeded to the wine and cheese factories to see how the local wines and cheese are produced. The quality wines here are actually really affordable and we each ended up buying a few back home. We personally recommend the Silver Moscato and Hele Family Vanessa Vale Shiraz.

Dinner at Matilda Bay Brewhouse

One of the perks of living in a vineyard resort is that everything is walking distance from the accommodation. We had our dinner at Matilda Bay Brewhouse  and had the opportunity to have a meal with Phil Hele , the owner of Hunter Valley Resort.

After a fun beer pairing lesson taught by Mr. Hele, we moved on to wines and finally understood how different food choices could affect the taste of wine we were having.  “Life is too short for bad wine” , quips Mr. Hele, and we agreed wholeheartedly.

Cost: Mains from AU$19.50 – AU$36/dish Opening Hours: 12PM – 4PM (Lunch), 6PM – 9PM (Dinner) daily Address:  Hermitage Rd & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320, Australia

Peterson House Hot Air Balloon (Sunrise Flight)

There’s probably no better way to see the vast vineyards than from a hot air balloon. Our sunrise flight booked with  Balloon Aloft  may just have been one of the most memorable experiences on the trip.

After meeting the team at 5:30AM, the balloon pilot and his team will drive participants to the lawn side where they’ll set up the balloon. Before that, they did a weather test with a lit helium balloon to check the wind direction.

Before anyone gets into the balloon’s basket, participants will be asked to help tip the basket. It takes about 20 minutes for the balloon to be inflated and upright ready for boarding.

During the hour-long flight, we floated around Hunter Valley and saw some great views of vineyards, residences, mountains, lakes, and even wildlife!

Fun fact! It’s impossible for balloon pilots to control the direction of flight as the balloon moves along with the wind’s direction. The pilots can, however, climb or descend into winds of different directions.

After the flight, participants will be driven back from the lawn to Peterson House for breakfast.

Cost: AU$269/pax (inclusive of breakfast) Opening Hours: 9AM – 4PM (MON – FRI), 9AM – 1PM (SAT), Closed on SUN Address:  Wine Country Drive Corner of Broke Road Pokolbin NSW 2320

Hunter Valley Horse Riding

We had a taste of horse-riding at Hunter Valley around our resort. An experienced guide led us along bush trails and vineyards, while the horses trotted gracefully through the bushlands. We were taught some basic horse-steering and controlling techniques, and that’s all we needed. The horses are tame and well cared for, so they tend to just follow their usual paths. We’d recommend wearing boots and a jacket as the horses will walk through muddy grounds and near trees.

Cost: AU$60/hr Address: Hunter Valley Adventure Centre, Hunter Resort. 917 Hermitage Road Pokolbin 2320 Booking is required for the horse-riding activity. More details can be found on the Hunter Valley Horse Riding website .

Drive to Blue Mountains

From Hunter Valley, get ready for a 3-hour drive to the Blue Mountains. We checked into Old Leura Dairy — an old dairy plant converted into cosy homes for travellers visiting the Blue Mountains. Check out our full 3D2N Blue Mountains Itinerary .

Cost:  From ~AU$200/night Address:  61 Kings Rd, Leura NSW 2780, Australia

Day 8-9: Blue Mountains

Accommodation:  Old Leura Dairy

The Blue Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a 90-minute drive from Sydney. Other than being home to the unique Three Sisters rock formation , there’s also a bunch of hikes, caves and viewpoints to discover. For more details of our time in the Blue Mountains, check out our 3D2N Blue Mountains Itinerary .

One of our favourite hikes was the  Grand Canyon Walking Track , perfect for an off-the-grid morning walk. The 6.3km through dense vegetation, waterfalls, and creeks is a relatively easy walk and you’ll get to be within nature for a good 2 – 3 hours.

Another attraction we highly recommend visiting is Jenolan Caves , a collective of expansive limestone caves within the Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve. While there are 11 caves that welcome visitors, we chose the Lucas Cave (AU$42) , the most famous of the cave systems. Within lies a great chamber — the “Cathedral Chamber” so famous for its acoustics that underground concerts take place in it.

The Blue Mountains region definitely offered more than we could visit during the 3D2N we were there. The beautiful natural landscapes of mountains, valleys, bushlands, and majestic caves gave us a sneak peek of what New South Wales embodies.

Read also:  The Full 3D2N Blue Mountains itinerary  

Thereafter, we started our 90-minute drive back to Sydney.

While Sydney is always appealing, why not head to the outskirts and experience other great adventures within nature? We hope this 9-day road trip itinerary will be useful for your next self-drive trip in New South Wales! Know of other amazing places in NSW? Share them with us in the comments section below~

This post was brought to you by Destination New South Wales (DNSW) .

  A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Jun 8, 2018 at 2:04am PDT

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Hi! What a fun-packed 9 days’ trip you had! Do you mind sharing the total cost you spent for this trip? Thanks!

Don’t have the exact breakdown for this trip but it was probably between AU$1.3 – 1.6k excluding flights 🙂

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Getting to the Hunter Valley

Planning a weekend escape or gourmet getaway? Only 170km north of Sydney, the world-famous wineries, delicious restaurants and tranquil towns of the beautiful Hunter Valley are easy to get to by car, bus, train or plane.  

By car 

The most direct route from Sydney to the Hunter Valley is via the M1 motorway. Head north out of the city, then follow the Cessnock/Hunter Valley Vineyards exit sign to  Cessnock . This drive takes around two hours. For a scenic road trip, exit the M1 at Calga (just past Gosford) and take Tourist Drive 33 through historic  Wollombi  and then on to Pokolbin. This drive takes around 2.5 hours. Discover the best stops on a Sydney to Hunter Valley road trip.

The Hunter Valley is around 60km west of Newcastle. Take the Hunter Expressway/M15 from the city and follow the signs. The drive takes around an hour. 

Couple pulled over to watch the sunrise in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley

By train & bus

You can catch a suburban train from Sydney to Morisset Station, using your Opal card to pay. Connecting buses run to Cessnock twice a day, one early in the morning and one in the evening. The whole journey takes around three hours. Regional TrainLink trains run between Sydney and Maitland, with regular buses running to Cessnock. The trip takes around 4.5 hours and you’ll need to book ahead. 

The Hunter Line starts in Newcastle and trains run to Maitland (30 minutes) and Singleton (1hr), where you can transfer to Cessnock. It also connects towns in the Upper Hunter, like Paterson and Dungog. You can use your Opal card to pay on this line as well. 

Coaches offering day tours and wine-tasting tours depart from Sydney and Newcastle daily. You can also organise a pick up in towns or accommodation across the Hunter. Helicopter tours, with golf and dining packages, are also available from Sydney. 

Tyrrells Wines , Pokolbin

Newcastle Airport is the closest to the Hunter Valley. There are regular direct flights from Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Perth. Book a transfer from the airport or hire a car for the easy 50-minute drive. 

Tyrrell's , Pokolbin

Getting around

Once in the Hunter Valley, you can drive yourself or join a tour . For romantics, Hunter Valley Classic Carriages and Hunter Valley Horses offer horse-drawn carriage tours. You can hire bicycles and pedal to wineries. The Hunter Valley Visitor Centre , near Pokolbin, will help you plan your trip.

Grapemobile Bicycle Hire & Tours , Pokolbin

Plan your trip

Explore the hunter valley.

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Tourist Drive 33

When visiting the hunter valley take the scenic route.

Originally linking Sydney to the fertile soils of the Hunter Valley, the  Great North Road was convict built in the 1800’s, traversing stunning sandstone gorges, razorback ridges and towering passes all featured along Tourist Drive 33. Already a popular route for motorbike riders and day trippers, Tourist Drive 33 showcases some of the most stunning countryside in NSW and steps back in time as you meander through the convict stone walls, bridges and culverts still in use today.

Stop in one of the many vibrant townships of Peats Ridge, Kulnura, Laguna, historic Wollombi and the wine regions of Broke Fordwich, Lovedale and Branxton that have loads on offer! Everything from horseriding, farmgate sales of seasonal fruits and vegetables , quirky retail outlets, cafes and restaurants , country pubs , art galleries , boutique cellar doors , walking and cycling to a myriad of festivals and events on throughout the year.

For those looking to stay and explore, an  abundance of accommodation choices are available for couples , families and groups from self-contained, farmstay, B&B to luxury guesthouses . Come and discover what’s on offer on Tourist Drive 33!

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25 of the very best things to do in the Hunter Valley

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

29 August 2024

NSW’s Wine Country is known around the world for its flourishing food and wine scene. But there are also so many things to do in the Hunter Valley that the region dazzles as a destination for out-of-towners.

In addition to its 150+ cellar doors, an escape to the Hunter Valley  could involve everything from horse riding through some of Australia’s oldest vines to picnics in the picturesque countryside. There’s also the option of hot-air ballooning, paint-and-sip sessions, Segway tours, wellness retreats and much more besides.

Whether you’re a teetotaller or a wine buff, a couple looking for romance, a group of hens in party mode, or a family looking for an escape to the country, we’ve got you covered with our list of the 25 best things to do in the Hunter Valley.

1. Horse riding in the Hunter Valley

Reject the need to rush around to as many Hunter Valley wineries as you can and instead explore the terrain on horseback. Although Murchessons Horseback Wine & Dine Tours  do include alcoholic beverages, the ride can also be tailored to suit teetotallers and designated drivers, too.

Go horseback riding with Murchessons Horseback Wine & Dine Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

The relaxed rides, which cater to everyone from beginners to advanced, have two guides and a maximum of six riders per trek. Plod through the fields and vineyards of Hanging Tree Wines and Iron Gate Estate and take time to appreciate the picturesque countryside by unfurling your red-checked rug for a picnic in the Hunter Valley.

Take in the picturesque countryside scenery at Hanging Tree Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Hunter Valley hot-air ballooning

There’s nothing as romantic as taking your flame hot-air ballooning. Rise above the Earth in the buttery light of dawn to get a bird’s-eye view of the Hunter Valley during a hot-air balloon ride.

Book the Balloon Aloft experience to marvel at the views from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

The view from above as the horizon is smudged in a burnt orange hue is spectacular and watching the pre-dawn light paint the landscape is a quiet kind of thrill. Balloon Aloft, Beyond Ballooning and Hunter Valley Ballooning all set off at sunrise. Plump for the Balloon Aloft experience , which includes breakfast and bubbles at Petersen House Winery, one of the unmissable Hunter Valley wineries .

Soar high above the clouds on a hot air balloon. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Hunter Valley scenic flights

The Hunter Valley stretches over about 30,000 square kilometres, which means seeing it from above has its advantages as you can cover a lot of ground. Romantics should ask Aero Logistics Helicopters to curate a bespoke itinerary that includes visits to the many cutting-edge cellar doors peppered across the region and map your route to include restaurants such as Esca Bimbadgen, which has an adjacent helipad.

Embark on a scenic flight around Hunter Valley. (Image: Destination NSW)

A scenic flight over the Hunter Valley can also be experienced with Aerohunter Adventure Flights  in one of Australia’s rarest war birds, a Yak 52 . Expect a few loop-de-loops in the military aeroplane, an experience that is best enjoyed before sampling the local wines. Getting that bird’s-eye view in a scenic flight over the jewel-like countryside is one of the most romantic ways to appreciate the Hunter Valley.

4. Skydiving Hunter Valley

Dive headfirst into your weekend in the Hunter Valley with a skydiving adventure with Skydive Hunter . Skydiving in the Hunter Valley remains one of the best bucket list ideas for adrenalin-seeking lovebirds. There’s nothing that quite gets the heart racing as plummeting toward the earth while the G-forces pull your face into a permanent grin.

Tandem jumps are the go here, unless you’re qualified. Once your parachute has been deployed, you can enjoy the more mellow experience of floating above the countryside. For city folks, the added thrill of seeing pastures dotted with cows and sheep is real.

5. Picnic in a Hunter Valley vineyard

Lying on a red-checked blanket in a field threaded with vines is about as romantic as it gets. You can ask Miss Mays Picnics to put together a luxuriously styled spread with one of the Hunter Valley wineries it partners with.

You can also forage for ingredients yourself o n the Hunter Valley chocolate and cheese trail and at foodie pit stops such as Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry and the Hunter Valley Smelly Deli. Pukara Estate Pokolbin, Binnorie Dairy Cheese and Tinkler Fresh Seasonal Produce also rank as some of the best places to pick up provisions.

Fill your basket with fruits from Tinkler Fresh Seasonal Produce. (Image: Destination NSW)

Schedule a return visit for the Lovedale Long Lunch , a progressive banquet designed to lure visitors to linger in Lovedale.

6. Best dining in the Hunter Valley

You will be spoilt for choice in the Hunter Valley if your other half is a foodie. Instead of doing dinner, you could shake things up and do brunch or lunch , as there are many great places to eat and drink in the region.

Book a table for two at Bistro Molines. (Image: Destination NSW)

When it comes to romantic restaurants in the Hunter Valley , Bistro Molines should be on the list. Two-hatted Muse Restaurant is also a must, with its swish staff, playful platings and food that’s so carefully cooked.

Indulge in mouth-watering meals at Bistro Molines. (Image: MJK Creative)

Ask for a corner table at 1813 or Margan Estate, both great places to impress. Enjoy a horse-and-carriage ride with Hunter Valley Classic Carriages  back to your room at The Lane Retreat.

Nab a spot at the restaurant in Margan Estate.

7. Visit the Hunter Valley Zoo

Families have been drawn to the Hunter Valley for decades due to the diverse range of attractions. Let’s start with hiking, biking and being in nature, which are classic family activities for a reason. The stunning bushland in the Hunter Valley provides a starting point for families by offering them the chance to switch off and recalibrate.

The Hunter Valley Zoo  can facilitate that much-needed family time. The zoo is spread out over four hectares, making it doable for little legs to bounce between enclosures. Children can see Australian birds, native mammals and reptiles as well as African animals such as lions and cheetahs. You’ll find the Hunter Valley Zoo in Nukulba, five minutes from Cessnock.

8. Hunter Valley Gardens

Hunter Valley Gardens  also provide children with much to contemplate far away from the distractions of technology. Whether walking along leaf-strewn paths in autumn, picnicking under a protective canopy in summer, or falling into the pages of fairy tales in the Storybook Garden in spring, the sightseeing has something to suit every member of the family.

Visit the scenic Oriental Garden section of the Hunter Valley Gardens. (Image: Destination NSW)

Get onboard the Hunter Valley Gardens Train to explore the 14-hectare Hunter Valley Gardens, which features Aqua Golf and Putt Putt as well as permanent rides such as a Ferris wheel and Superslide.

Take the kids on the Swing Chair ride. (Image: Destination NSW)

Book into the nearby Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, one of the best places to stay in the Hunter Valley for your return visit to see the Christmas Lights Spectacular in December, Easter Egg Hunt in April and Snow Time in June. Green Thumbs will also enjoy a visit to the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens.

9. Family-friendly wine tasting

Sometimes a bit of space to run and jump is all that is required to keep children happy. At other times, you may need to bribe them with treats to sit still (until the sugar kicks in that is). Tulloch Wines and Saddler’s Creek Wines both offer great child-friendly tasting options.

While the adults will love sitting and sipping six top drops at Tulloch Wines, a specially prepared kids’ tasting of four different kombucha soft drinks with matching snacks will satisfy tiny tasters.

Other kid-friendly cellar doors include Scarborough Wine Co. which has hula hoops, giant Jenga and skipping ropes, and RidgeView Wines, which has old-school Totem Tennis and fish to feed in the dams.

10. Cooking classes in the Hunter Valley

Planning a hens’ weekend in the Hunter Valley? Well, why not get together with your gal pals and try to improve your culinary repertoire and kitchen skills. Perhaps you want to master paella? Maybe you want to learn how to make artisan cheese? Or join a low and slow smoking class?

The cooking classes on offer in the Hunter Valley are all pretty casual, so you get to enjoy a bit of tableside chatter followed by a spot of lunch or dinner without having to worry about the washing up. Book ahead for Majors Lane Cooking School , Our Italian Table , and the Lovedale Smokehouse Café & Deli Cooking School.

11. Self-cater in style in the Hunter Valley

Boyd & Co. will do private in-house catering when you book a stay at Tinonee Vineyard Estate  (at the 1813 cellar door). It’s one of the most beautiful places to stay amid the vines and roses of the tranquil Broke Fordwich region of the Hunter Valley.

Miss May’s Picnics can also come to the party with themes that range from ‘Retro Vintage’ to ‘Amalfi Coast’ depending on your vibe and tribe. Check out our guide to beautiful luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley for inspiration.

12. Visit a day spa or wellness retreat in the Hunter Valley

If you’re organising your best friend’s hen’s weekend away, it’s likely there will be a handful of cellar doors and a sprinkle of great restaurants on the itinerary. But if the bride-to-be and your fellow bridesmaids would like to include an emphasis on exercise and balance out the wine with a bit of wellness, you should factor in some time at one of the luxurious Hunter Valley spas.

Get pampered at Elysia Wellness Retreat.

Book in for a massage at Heavenly Hunter Massage  in Pokolbin, Bhutra Thai Massage  or Ubika Spa Alternatively, you can check into a wellness retreat such as The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley  or Elysia Wellness Retreat  to pause and reset for the entire weekend.

13. Paint and sip in the Hunter Valley

Master the art of painting en plein air  at a private Stay and Sip  session inspired by the wineries. Those who lack confidence when it comes to picking up a paintbrush are made to feel at ease in the classes, led by founders Pierre and Mercedes who work with local boutique producers to curate a laid-back fun-filled experience that includes a wine tasting, cheese and much laughter over lunch. Participants will get to take away their works of art, which serve as a memento of a great weekend.

14. The Twilight Margan Experience

The sustainable philosophy driving Margan Estate gently threads through the entire property and the Twilight Margan Experience is one of the most meaningful things to do in the Hunter Valley.

The picture-perfect views at Margan Estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

The adventure starts with a vermouth cocktail while wandering through the kitchen garden. It then follows with a walk around the olive grove and past the tangled vines for a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery.

Wander through the estate’s kitchen garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

The highlight? Tasting wines yet to be released from the barrel. Learn how the single-vineyard wines are produced – from the grape to the glass – as the sun sets on the day. The Twilight Experience, held over the summer, includes an off-grid degustation dinner in the restaurant.

Spot farm animals within the estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. The Icons of the Hunter Ultimate Winery Experience

Hunter Valley is home to some of the oldest vines in Australia and you will visit three of the region’s most respected during an Ultimate Winery Experience Australia tour dubbed Icons of the Hunter .

Audrey Wilkinson has to be one of the most beautiful vineyards in the Hunter.

This terroir-led tour will give wine enthusiasts a better understanding of how the different sub-regions affect the wine in a trifecta of signature experiences, which also vary from vineyard to vineyard at Audrey Wilkinson, Brokenwood and Tyrrell’s.

Sip the finest wines at Brokenwood. (Image: Destination NSW)

Join Ngarrindjeri elder Mark Koolmatrie for a walk on Country at Gemtree Wines who partnered with the senior cultural custodian to share Tirkandi – Culture, Connection and Country, for another inspired Ultimate Winery Experience.

Enjoy the view overlooking the scenic vineyards of Audrey Wilkinson.

16. Attend a music festival

There are plenty of things you can do in the Hunter Valley without wine , whether you’re a teetotaller, sober-curious, or attempting Dry July.

For starters, non-drinkers might also be keen on a kombucha tasting at Tulloch Wines. There are also the world-class restaurants to enjoy and everything from hiking to hot air ballooning in the Hunter and even unwinding at a day spa.

Those who want to see another side of the Hunter Valley region should time their visit to coincide with one of the region’s annual music festivals. Expect an outstanding line-up of musicians in the Hunter Valley everywhere from the Cessnock Stomp Festival to A Day on the Green and Grapevine Gathering.

17. Bike or segway through the Hunter Valley

Pick up an electric bike from Sutton Estate Electric Bike Hire  to explore the Hunter Valley, which is ribboned with bike paths, including the 10-kilometre cycleway along Hermitage Road.

Ride an electric bike around Sutton Estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

Flick the switch to Turbo and flit between the different dairies marked on your wine country map, such as Binnorie Dairy, Hunter Belle Cheese, Hunter Valley Cheese Factory or Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese.

Drop by Hunter Belle Cheese along the way.

The Hunter Valley Resort is one of the most family-friendly places to stay in the Hunter Valley and it’s from here that visitors can also set off with Segway Tours Hunter Valley along an old 1880s stock route, which is fringed with beautiful bushland.

Take a Segway tour at the heart of the wine country. (Image: Destination NSW)

18. Join a Hunter Valley wine tour

While some wineries charge a fee to sample wines, others offer one-on-one tutorials with the winemaker. Most places will ship a box of wine home for you (for a fee). To get the most out of your tasting experience, join Tastes of the Hunter Wine Tour s (or choose from our other favourite wine tours ) or become a member so you get a VIP experience. Many of the boutique Hunter Valley producers rely on cellar door sales to survive so your server will appreciate your enthusiasm and commitment to a minimum spend.

Sample wines inside the cellar door of Brokenwood. (Image: Destination NSW)

19. Enjoy a round of golf in the Hunter Valley

Want a golf holiday in the Hunter Valley? The Hunter Valley Golf Club on the grounds of Rydges Resort Hunter Valley is a good place to start with a championship golf course   that is one of the most noteworthy.

The golf course is suited to golfers of all levels and the backdrop, of the Broken Back Ranges in the distance, is spectacular. You can also join your friends on the fairway at the Vintage Golf Club in Rothbury, a Greg Norman-designed course where you can test your mettle in the bunkers, alongside wetlands and vineyards and around groves of trees near Bimbadgen Estate.

Stay at Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort to gain access to the Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club , a Steve Smyers-designed championships course.

Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club is the perfect spot for a golf holiday. (Image: Destination NSW)

20. Visit the historic Hunter Valley town of Morpeth

Explore 25 Morpeth Heritage Walk sites to get a feel for the Hunter Valley’s history and heritage. Snap a selfie in front of the iconic farm shed painted with a Dr Morse’s Indian Root Pills   advertisement. Travel to Purple Pear Farm  and Morpeth Ginger Beer + Gourmet Foods  to bring back food-focused souvenirs from your escape to the country.

Feed the ducks at Purple Pear Farm. (Image: Maitland City Council)

A lot of the heritage buildings in the historic township on the Hunter River are still standing and the diverse range of boutiques, cafes, galleries and scenery makes Morpeth a must-visit. Look for the candy-striped awning at ever-so-quaint Miss Lily’s Lollies , which is a sticky lure for families.

Get an up-close encounter with chickens at Purple Pear Farm. (Image: Maitland City Council)

21. Play paintball or go go-karting

Want to reward the children for schlepping along to countless cellar doors? Channel your inner rev head and   put the pedal to the metal while racing up to 70 kilometres an hour along the 850-metre-long course at Go Karts Go Hunter Valley .

The RIMO Schumacher Go-Karts are designed for both children and adults and there are twin-seaters for little ones, too. It’s fast and furious, but steering around the twisting track is also a lot of fun.

There are some concessions you need to make as a parent: for some of us, playing paintball is one of them. Put your pride aside and let the family fun begin at Hunter Valley Paintball.

22. Join a Hunter Valley harvest

Want to do something different in the Hunter Valley? Ambitious oenophiles might like to start planning for a spot of grape stomping during the next Hunter Valley harvest.

A visit to Hunter Valley is not complete without grape stomping. (Image: Destination NSW)

Jump into an oak barrel barefoot to take part in the age-old tradition of pressing wine grapes by foot, followed by a few glasses of the best Hunter Valley varietals.

Grape stomping is seasonal and on offer at the Hunter Valley Resort. You can also take part in Barrel Rolling , one of the quirkier activities on offer in the Hunter Valley.

Barrel-rolling activities await at Hunter Valley Resort. (Image: Destination NSW)

23. Follow an epic spirit and ale trail in the Hunter Valley

In a region known for its wine, it might come as somewhat of a surprise to learn that the Hunter Valley breweries  and gin and vodka distilleries  are some of the best NSW has to offer.

From Foghorn Brewery to Hunter Distillery, Small Mouth Vodka and Pokolbin Cider House, these destination distilleries and breweries give hopheads and lovers of small-batch artisan spirits another reason to head to the Hunter.

24. Spend the day bushwalking in the Hunter Valley

There are some superb national environments to be explored in the Hunter Valley. Hike to the Forestry Hut in the Werakata National Park , in the Lower Valley, gaze out from a lookout in Heaton State Forest , part of the Watagan Mountains and explore Mount Royal National Park , part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Apart from the farmland the Hunter Valley is known for, the topography of the region includes grassy mid-altitude forests, wet eucalypt forests and vast swathes of shrubland. You can also hike to the lookout on the top of Pokolbin Mountain which has views over some of the region’s oldest vineyards.

25. Enjoy a Hunter Valley cheese tasting

The beauty of signing up for a formal cheese tasting at the Hunter Valley Cheese Company  is that the experts will curate a selection of the seasonal best. The offering includes 20 cheeses ranging from Branxton brie to vintage cheddar, goat’s cheese and blue vein.

Head to Hunter Valley Cheese Co. for a delicious selection of cheese tastings.

Time your visit to the Hunter Valley Cheese Company to coincide with lunch and you can add a few additional ingredients such as cold cuts, local olives, dips, cornichons, salmon, and anchovies.

For more inspiration, hidden gems and insider tips to help you plan your getaway, visit our Hunter Valley travel hub.

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Very informative thankyou

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Best itinerary for a Sydney to Hunter Valley weekend road trip

Pack the troops, designate a driver and prepare to explore one of Australia’s most desirable wine regions.

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Day one: Sydney to Wollombi

Instead of taking the Cessnock exit off the M1, turn off at Calga and make Wollombi a stop to stretch your legs. Close to the World Heritage listed Yengo National Park , it is dotted with beautiful 19 th Century buildings like Saint Michael’s Church and the Wollombi Endeavour Museum which charts the the region’s history. Hit up the cute Myrtle & Stone café for home-made scones and coffee before hitting the road again. Photography: David Cook.

Wollombi to Rothbury

Ready for some wine then? Thought so. Make Black Creek Farm your first stop. Inspired by a French provincial set up, the timber cellar door sits amid a sea of vines and offers everything from chardy and rose to shiraz and cab merlot. The cellar door is open from Friday to Monday. St Clements Estate is the next destination. Its shiraz and semillon offerings are particularly enticing – as is the onsite Lillino’s Bar & Trattoria for Sardinian treat such as porchetta.

Rothbury to Lovedale

Putting the luuuuurve into Lovedale, this nook is particularly popular with couples. The iconic Lovedale Long Lunch takes place every May and if you need a break from the booze (for a minute), you can indulge in the Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry or Hunter Valley Chocolate Company . Alternatively, you can suck in that sweet, sweet country air on the back of a steed at Hunter Valley Horseriding and Adventures .

Lovedale to Pokolbin

By now you’re probably ready to park for the night and chill is some luxury digs. May we suggest Spicers Guesthouse ? Its eRemo restaurant will provide dinner, there is a cottage with four bedrooms if you’re doing the group travel thing and they can set you up with a private picnic for two.

Yes, we allotted all day to this most varied of the Hunter’s hamlets. Start your day with a proper coffee at Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery and because this trip is all about indulgence, we suggest the crumpets topped with stewed apple and almond crumble. If it’s a tad too early to hit the booze, hit the Hunter Wine Country Markets which are held every Saturday or take a head-clearing amble around the Hunter Valley Gardens .

Wine, wine, wine

So many cellar doors, so little time. We always drop by The Hope Estate for the sheer variety on offer: gin paddles, beer tasting and a particularly enticing merlot. Brokenwood’s Cellar Door is also a must. Make it your lunch destination as it does a six course canape sesh  matched with the same number of wines in the chi-chi The Wood restaurant. If you want a peek behind the scenes, the tour of Tamburlaine Organic Wines includes a wine tasting and cheese platter. If you can manage a fourth cellar door before settling in for the night, the old school De Bortoli and McGuigan vineyards will do nicely.

Dinner and bed

Before anyone gets tired and/or emotional, let’s adjourn to The Convent for the night. Once home to Brigindine order of nuns, it is now all about bougie digs, the awarding winning Circa 1876 restaurant and the odd resident ghost or two. The onsite Restaurant 88 kitchen garden makes an excellent breakfast too.

Pokolbin to Sydney (via Broke)

You’re probably feeling a tad dusty this morning so decamp to the Gigi & Chix Bonbon bakery for The Grounds coffee and a Mr Charcuterie ham and cheese croissant. Next, have a browse around Hermitage Road Antiques which has over 4000 products for sale and they “guarantee this place is not just about antiques and big bucks, you can have a good time in here and get change out of $50”. Before you turn and head for home, finish with lunch at Margan Restaurant which blends sustainability with sophistication better than practically any other vineyard in the country.

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Sydney and New South Wales Road Trip Itinerary, Day 3: Hunter Valley

Welcome to day 3 of our  4 Day Self-Drive Road Trip Experience Around Sydney and New South Wales !

So far, we’ve spent the first couple of days in the iconic Blue Mountains , where we also took our (very lovely) pre-wedding photos.

Today, we travelled over to a location around Sydney and New South Wales that’s well-known for its vast vineyards and delicious alcoholic beverages: Hunter Valley .

Yes, there are a ton of wineries and brewhouses to pick from in this area. But we think our choices are pretty tough to beat!

To reach the land of wine and beer from Katoomba – where we had spent the night – we had to first embark on a long three-hour drive northwards:

Phew. Not for the faint-hearted!

As such, we made sure to get up bright and early (again) to make the drive out. As we would be taking the coastal route towards Central Coast the next day, we decided to take the inland approach for this stretch.

Don’t worry – it’s a relatively easy drive, and there are a number of designated rest stops (with plenty of coffee and fuel available) along the way, and we did stop over at roughly the midway mark to stretch our legs and get some fresh air. Plenty of the latter here, right in the middle of the mountains.

By late morning, we arrived at our first stop: the Matilda Bay Brewhouse .

Matilda Bay Brewhouse

Located at the north end of the Polkobin region – which is right smack in the middle of the valley – the Matilda Bay Brewhouse has been around since 2001, making it the first boutique brewery in these parts.

Being part of Hunter Valley Resort, the brewhouse is surrounded by a carefully manicured landscape that felt relaxing and engaging to us all at once.

Being the (busy) driver, I leaned more towards the former and opted to enjoy the view while sipping on a cider.

But it’s not just ciders that they sell here – not by a long shot.

Introducing Matilda Bay Brewhouse’s unique  Beer Tasting Paddle , which gives beer lovers (that’s us) a chance to try out all the 12 of the excellent crafts beers they have on offer here.

These include an Alcoholic Ginger Beer, Lagers, Ales, Stout, and our personal favorite: the Cider.

While many rave about Hunter Valley wine, we think that the beer here is equally good, if not better (again, beer lovers here).

Next, we had to ask ourselves the all-important question: of the list of 150 wineries (!) in this region, which would we pick for lunch?

After some deliberation and research, we decided to go with Bimbadgen Estate . Located at the top of a small hill, we were hoping that this winery and vineyard would live up to its name, which in the local indigenous language means ‘Place of Good View’.

Well, the building that housed the winery was definitely pretty.

Unfortunately, we realized that the restaurant here – Esca Bimbadgen – was a fine dining establishment, and therefore a little bit too costly for our taste.

No problem. We skipped to the next popular spot on our list: Hunter Valley Gardens .

Consisting of more than 14 hectares of gardens, we were highly anticipating this particular segment of the Hunter Valley experience.

First, we had to fill our empty stomachs. It was late afternoon by now, and we were pretty hungry!

Thankfully, there were a number of great dining options available here. We decided to go with The Cellar Restaurant , whose Mediterranean dishes looked very promising.

Be warned – you might have a tough time picking your dishes, as they all sound really delicious! Eventually, we settled on the Pan Fried Daintree Barramundi, Grass Fed Scotch Steak, and Great Southern Lamp Rump.

Told you they sounded good. And they tasted as good, too!

Here’s where the next big disappointment of the day happened. We hadn’t checked what time the opening hours of the Hunter Valley Gardens in advance – which is unusual for us – and as it turns out, it was just about to close by the time we reached.

Please avoid our mistake and take note: the Hunter Valley Gardens opening hours are from 9am to 5pm everyday.

On the bright side, even the exterior of the Gardens look really, really beautiful. So, not exactly a wasted trip!

With that, we decided to call it a night early and head back to our Hunter Valley accommodation, Kirkton Park Hotel , to rest up and grab some bar bites later that night.

After all, the best was yet to come: our iconic Hunter Valley hot air balloon ride , bright and early the next morning.

How early? Well, for our package with Beyond Ballooning , we were expected to gather at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley at 515am. A nightmare for night owls such as myself!

However, the sheer anticipation of this once-in-a-lifetime experience got me going in the morning. So there we were, at 5am in the morning (we were advised to reach 10 minutes earlier to allow for a toilet break and roll call), where we were then driven by bus to a suitable location to launch the hot air balloons.

Yes, the location from which the hot air balloons take off isn’t set in stone – it highly depends on the wind and weather conditions of the day.

That particular day, we had to skip over our first choice of location as it wasn’t suitable for take-off. However, we hit the jackpot on the second place, and disembarked to get ready. The staff quickly went to work, setting up the structure and heating the balloon up to prepare for flight.

This process takes a while, as the balloon is ENORMOUS. Check ours out:

A while later, we hopped aboard the fairly spacious hot air balloon – which can accommodate up to 24 people at maximum capacity – and we were off!

The hour-long experience is, in a word, magical. There’s nothing quite like being miles above the ground, unconstrained by anything except the basket you’re standing in, and seeing the world move slowly from a bird’s eye view.

And afterward? To round it off, we were treated to a lovely, sumptuous champagne buffet (part of the package we purchased) back at Crowne Plaza. Here, we finally got to taste some of the famous local wines as well.

In total, the package cost us roughly A$250 per person (based on Beyond Ballooning’s website, that price has gone up to A$259).

Is it worth it? I absolutely think so – especially here in Hunter Valley, where the vast, natural landscape adds to the viewing experience.

What a great way to round up our Hunter Valley leg of this road trip.

Now, over to day 4, where we visit the long, seaside stretch of Central Coast . More on that in the next article!

Next up: Sydney and New South Wales Road Trip Itinerary, Day 4: Central Coast

Daniel has a serious and dangerous case of wanderlust, which turns out to be pretty handy for travel writing. As cliche as it might sound, he aspires to take his content production studio onto the road and become a digital nomad one day.

Sydney and New South Wales Road Trip Itinerary, Day 1 & 2: Blue Mountains

© 2024 Jayndee.

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Hunter Valley, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Guide to the Hunter Valley

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• Getting to the Hunter Valley
• When to visit

An escape to Australia’s oldest wine growing region is a treat for the senses. Expect charming vineyards, peaceful landscapes and gourmet thrills.

The Hunter Valley is the birthplace of Australian wines. Known for its exquisite varieties of semillon and shiraz, it's renowned worldwide as a gourmet getaway. There are over 150 cellar doors and a growing number of innovative restaurants offering opportunities for indulgence across every pocket of the region. Its strong history of farming lends itself to incredible paddock to plate and biodynamic experiences, adding that extra satisfaction to your gourmet delights. Around your sampling, soak up the region’s natural wonders, unwind at one of the many day spas or sing your heart out with music between the vines.

The Hunter Valley sits just two hours north of Sydney and an hour west of Newcastle. The best way to get to and around the region is by car or with an organised tour.

• Sydney Airport (SYD) services domestic and international arrivals
• Newcastle Airport (NTL) services domestic flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne
• Car hire is available both in Sydney and Newcastle

There is only one taxi company in the Hunter Valley, so ensure you pre-book if you do decide to leave the car at your accommodation.

While the Hunter Valley is great to visit all year round, spring is bustling with the best of what's to offer. The weather is mild and there is a range of music events and local festivals that are happening during this time. If you like the idea of sipping wine in front of an open fireplace, head to the Hunter in winter and avoid the crowds.

• High season: Spring (September to November)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Hunter Valley Wine and Beer festival (June)

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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For nature enthusiasts, road trips in the Catskills are a dream come true. From scenic small towns to authentic resorts in the Catskills , this mountain region of New York is a paradise for nature-loving travelers alike. Whether it's a road trip for an hour or a whole day or more, unique experiences and immaculate views are a surefire through the rolling hills, hiking trails, vast forest wilderness, and all things grandeur.

Named by the early Dutch settlers, the Catskills are known as a setting for art and films and have been a hub for many artists, writers, and musicians. In the fall, the Catskills offer amazing and fun things to do when the leaves change, but regardless of the season, the enchanting peaks are simply extraordinary.

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Looking For The Best View In The Catskills? Here's Where To Go

Palenville to hunter, travel 11 miles along the mountain cloves scenic byway.

Clove Mountain features distinctive clefts meandering through the peaks against waterfalls, rivers, and rushing streams. These can be explored along the Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway , with thrilling and scenic stops en route to uncover some of the small and charming mountain towns in the Catskills for a generous taste of Americana.

From Palenville, travelers can drive towards Tannersville, known for its vivid Main Street facades, all the way down to Hunter, one of the best small towns in the Catskills for a summer vacation or a winter retreat (it's great year-round!). For those who want to explore more of this scenic road trip in the Catskills, detours include the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower and Kaaterskill Falls.

The entire Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway follows sweeping mountain vistas and lush valleys over a total of 41 miles, including some of the best spots along the way.

Mongaup Valley To Sparrow Bush

Travel 24 miles through scenic backroads and wildlife.

About 24 miles of this scenic road trip in the Catskills traverses residential backroads, passing through the Swinging Bridge Reservoir, the Rio Reservoir, and the Mongaup River. In the summer, this ride is even more inviting with the sight of the beautiful Swinging Bridge, McAuley’s Lake, and Route 44, also known as Plank Road.

The road trip will then head to Rio Reservoir, where Rio Dam Road has the best view of it. The town of Sparrow Bush reveals the delightful beauty of this road trip with a chance to hike the Mongaup River Trail , where travelers can spot a population of white-tailed deer, birds, and bald eagles.

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Windham to cornwallville, travel 21 miles along the durham valley scenic byway.

Following a loop exploring the Irish Alps or the scenic small town of Durham, this scenic road trip in the Catskills traverses along the Durham Valley Scenic Byway . From Windham, the gem of the Catskills in the fall and one of the best small mountain towns in Upstate New York , this ride takes travelers through farmlands, where street-side stands are fitted along the way with in-season produce sold by farmers.

There's also a detour to the Five State Lookout , where New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Helderberg Mountains, Vermont’s Green Mountains, the Connecticut Valley, and Massachusetts’ Berkshires can be seen.

The Durham Valley Scenic Byway runs a total of 21 miles from the escarpment of the Catskills, such as the nearby Mount Pisgah summit, and traverses the Durham Valley.

New Paltz To Wallkill River

Travel 24 miles along the shawangunk mountains scenic byway.

Beautiful hiking trails and some of the best views of the Hudson Valley describe New Paltz, one of the many charming small towns in the Catskills . However, a road trip on the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway opens up to an action-packed drive and gorgeous fall foliage in the autumn through historic towns of the region's Dutch settlements, farmlands, valleys, nature preserves, and marvelous views.

Although this byway has four sections to choose from, the Northern Loop has the best and most dramatic experiences. This scenic road trip encompasses the northern Shawangunk Mountains to Wallkill River on Route 7, passing through the Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and Rondout Creek.

The Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway runs about 88 miles, including other routes to explore more of this road trip.

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Hancock to port jervis, travel 73 miles along the upper delaware scenic byway.

The Catskills are among the most beautiful places to visit in Western New York, especially on a road trip . For the most cinematic experience, the scenic Catskills road trip route from Hancock to Port Jervis along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is one for the books!

This byway, also known as Route 97, particularly the Hawk’s Nest portion, is a favorite spot for many grand car brands for their car commercials—and for good reason. Starting from Hancock to the south to Port Jervis on the eastern banks of the Delaware River, this drive passes through many scenic points, including the beautiful American towns of Narrowsburg and Callicoon, and Skinner’s Falls.

Shokan To Andes

Travel 42 miles along the catskill mountains scenic byway.

Another one of the numerous scenic road trip routes in the Catskills that travelers should keep on their radar is the drive from Shokan, a beautiful small town in Ashokan Reservoir, to Andes, the smallest and most underrated town in the Catskills .

This road trip is along Route 28, or the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway , a road trip adventure dotted with waterfalls, farmlands, and wildlife. The drive along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway passes through several charming towns, such as Phoenicia and Pine Hill, and goes past the Slide Mountain Wilderness, where the Catskills' highest peak is found. Also, when driving towards Andes, it's recommended to drop by the Palmer Hill Trail, where the Catskills beautifully roll to the south.

The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway runs around 52 miles, with some short extensions along State Routes 42 and 214.

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Kingston to bashakill wildlife refuge, travel 47 miles through scenic byways and charming catskills towns.

The Catskills offer some of the most amazing weekend trips in New York, especially in the fall for a leaf-peeping experience. To take in this ultimate Catskills road trip itinerary, travelers can start from Kingston and head on the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway , going past the Ashokan Reservoir to Route 47 or Oliverea Road to the Big Indian Wilderness.

Several beautiful enclaves can also be enjoyed on this route before following the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway through the Bashakill Wildlife Refuge, which is rimmed by Route 209. For an extended trip, travelers can drive along the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway and then back to Kingston.

5 Idaho Adventures Within a Day’s Drive of Seattle

This author is a paid content writer for idaho tourism..

If you’re looking to explore some unfamiliar territory, all you have to do is take a short drive east of Seattle to Idaho, and you’ll be in the heart of some of the Northwest’s most beautiful destinations. These adventures are close enough to home that you can pack up the kids, leave on Friday, and be back before school starts on Monday. Check out these five vacations and make plans for your family’s holiday weekend in Idaho.

1. Spend a day at the beach in Coeur d’Alene

Who’d of thought you could spend a day at the beach in the northern mountains of Idaho? Nestled in Idaho’s panhandle in the quaint city of Coeur d’Alene, you’ll find City Park & Beach – a diverse park that offers a Summer Concert Series, family and group picnic facilities, barbecue pits, a swim beach and outdoor shower, volleyball, basketball, and Fort Sherman Playground.

The locals will tell you, there’s no better feeling on a hot summer day than swimming in fresh Idaho mountain water.

2. Play cowboy at Red Horse Mountain Ranch

Head on over to Harrison, Idaho, and experience first-rate western hospitality on 300,000 acres of untamed Idaho wilderness. Red Horse Mountain Ranch offers guided ranch adventures through some of Idaho’s most scenic backcountry.

Try your hand at horseback trail riding, take a riding lesson, cast a line, go clay shooting, or try one of the many other activities offered such as ziplining, climbing, yoga, hiking, bike tours, kayaking, boat tours, and swimming. All-inclusive dude ranch vacation is an understatement.

3. Live like a local in Moscow

Moscow is a lively college town in North Central Idaho surrounded by the rolling Palouse Hills. There’s a reason why Idahoans frequent this city on the regular- the food is out of this world, the scenery is spectacular, and it’s within a day’s drive.

Take a short drive on the weekend, stroll through the Saturday Market, and snack on mouth-watering homemade baked goods, or take the kids on a hike up Moscow Mountain and enjoy the sweeping valley views.

4. Ride the Route of the Hiawatha

Discover one of the most spectacular destinations in the Northwest – ride your bike on a beautiful downhill biking and walking trail that stretches more than 15 miles. The Route of the Hiawatha was once a railroad track winding through the northern mountains of Idaho.

Now visitors can coast through 10 train tunnels, glide over seven trestle bridges that stand over 230 feet high, and gaze in wonder at the mountains that surround the trail.

The journey begins at Lookout Pass Ski Area where you can get mountain bike rentals, helmets and lights, and an optional return shuttle service. Be sure to call ahead and reserve rentals ahead of time, spots for this popular attraction fill quickly!

5. Fish at Lake Pend Oreille

Lake Pend Oreille spans nearly 50 miles from Sandpoint to Idlewilde Bay at Farragut State Park and is known for its diverse catchable species. Anglers who journey here find Kamloops, whitefish, cutthroat and brown trout, lake trout, large and smallmouth bass, crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish, perch and bullhead catfish.

If you’re lucky, you may even real in the famous trout hybrid known as the “cutbow,” that is said to be lurking in Pend Oreille’s vast waters. It’s rumored that the biggest cutbow ever caught in the Gem State was a 24-pounder at Lake Pend Oreille by Irwin Donart in 1991.

For more inspiration and Idaho adventures close to home follow us on on Instagram , Facebook , and Twitter !

Visit Idaho

Published on August 30, 2016

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