The Hunter Valley is a must for wine lovers and foodies. The area also has excellent outdoor activities and a wealth of heritage buildings. Visit famous wine estates and vineyards, explore charming towns, hike through national parks, or spend the day in picturesque gardens in the heart of the valley.
Soon after Australia was colonized, wineries sprung up in the fertile plains of the Hunter Valley. The first settlers found that grapes thrive in this region, thanks to a climate that is comparable to the Mediterranean. Now, nearly two centuries later, the valley is a leading producer of a distinct dry white wine: semillon.
Visit some of Australia’s famous wineries and enjoy sampling the local produce as you go from estate to estate. To discover the legacy of Australia’s oldest wine region, visit Brokenwood Wines, Pepper Tree Wines or the Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard. For exclusive blends, visit the cellar doors of smaller boutique wineries, such as Mistletoe and Saddler’s Creek.
Because the attractions are widespread and involve drinking, it’s recommended to book a tour of the region. Coaches leave from Sydney and pickups can also be arranged in the Hunter Valley townships and in Newcastle, the east coast city at the mouth of the Hunter River.
If you decide to rent a car instead, pick up a map of all estates at the tourist information center just north of Cessnock. This rural township in the Lower Hunter Valley is full of colonial heritage, with rustic accommodation, restaurants and bars.
To the northwest, Singleton is another great town in which to base yourself. In between lies Pokolbin, home to the Hunter Valley Gardens, a huge horticultural park with ponds and playgrounds.
Rent equipment or book an adventure tour and go hiking, fishing, mountain biking or kayaking in one of the surrounding forests. Barrington Tops National Park, north of Newcastle, is part of the treasured Gondwana Rainforests of Australia.
Just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley offers a typical Australian country escape for those who appreciate the simple gifts of nature.
Hunter Valley
Travel Guide
Visit Hunter Valley
Where to stay in Hunter Valley
Rutherford
Unique features of Rutherford include the restaurants and shopping. Make a stop by Winter Art Bazaar or Aerohunter while you're exploring the area.
Lochinvar
While Lochinvar might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Wyndham Estate and Gartelmann Wines.
Aberglasslyn
While Aberglasslyn isn't home to many top sights, Walka Water Works and Maitland Showground are some notable places to visit nearby.
Lorn
While Lorn isn't home to many top sights, Maitland Regional Art Gallery and Maitland Showground are some notable places to visit nearby.
Farley
Farley might not have many top sights, but Maitland Showground and Walka Water Works are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Raworth
Though Raworth might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Maitland Gaol and Wallalong House - Hunter Valley Wedding Venue.
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
We stayed in a 2 bedroom villa with our two young children, the accommodation and facilities were great.
Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
Harrigan's Hunter Valley
Good for a one nights stay, walking distance to Hunter valley gardens. The room was large, good shower, bed was very soft for my liking. Good price. Would stay again. Had lunch and drinks up the road at eRemo it was amazing would highly recommend. Had dinner at Harrigan’s and that was also it was ...
Reviewed on Dec 8, 2025
Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort
I would have given property 5 stars. But a massive storm had come through and trees were down everywhere. The outdoor staff were working so hard to make sure safety first for guest and staff and than appearance. Huge task and was done very quickly. Thank you
Reviewed on Dec 8, 2025
Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort
I would have given property 5 stars. But a massive storm had come through and trees were down everywhere. The outdoor staff were working so hard to make sure safety first for guest and staff and than appearance. Huge task and was done very quickly. Thank you
Reviewed on Dec 8, 2025
H Boutique Hotel
beautiful place!
Reviewed on Nov 20, 2025
East Maitland Executive Apartments
Clean comfortable rooms easy to access with room code sent straight to your phone good food available at the in across the road
Reviewed on Dec 9, 2025
Popular places to visit
Hunter Valley Gardens
Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon walking and playing, or have a leisurely lunch, in these family-friendly gardens.
Audrey Wilkinson Winery
Over 150 years of heritage and the story of a boy named Audrey make this winery a fascinating historical attraction.
Brokenwood Wines
Taste wine straight from wooden barrels at this former hobby winery, which is now one of Australia’s most notable wine producers.
PepperTree Wines
Enjoy a sensory and educational experience at one of the most respected winemakers in the Hunter Valley.
Saddlers Creek Wines
Spoil your taste buds with exclusive wines, made with the sole purpose of accompanying food, in this boutique winery in the Hunter Valley.
Roche Estate
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Roche Estate during your travels to Pokolbin. Amble around this romantic area's picturesque gardens, or seek out the golf courses.
Things to do
Cheeses of the World Masterclass
Hunter Valley: Self Guided Wine Tasting with Grazing Board
Skip the Line: Handmade Cheese, Fruit Paste & Gourmet Bread & Wafers Lunch
Hunter Valley Full Day Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Tour
Rise and Shine 75 Minutes Early Morning Ride
