Pokolbin is a rural area north of the city of Cessnock and has been the central village of the Hunter Valley’s wine industry for nearly two centuries. The region is famous for its local produce so be sure to include visits to the area’s vineyards, breweries, olive farms and cheese factories. After a day outdoors, dine in quality restaurants to sample some of the best food in the area.
Pokolbin is a popular destination for those seeking a rural vacation experience within driving distance of Australia’s big cities on the east coast. Local accommodation options range from charming bed and breakfast rooms and luxury resorts with pools, to cabins in vineyards.
There is a championship golf course for sporty visitors while art lovers will enjoy the landscape paintings and sculptures in the local galleries.
Of course, the Hunter Valley is most popular because of its quality Australian wine. This is the birthplace of the nation’s wine industry and nowadays Pokolbin is surrounded by more than a dozen quality wineries and vineyards.
Visit boutique vineyards, like Saddler’s Creek or Mistletoe, or larger export wineries like Pepper Tree. Because nearly all cellar doors are in a rural setting, the area is best explored by car. You can pick up a map and brochures at the tourist information center on the road to Cessnock to find out which wineries and farms suit your interests. For a fun and informative gourmet experience with a group and chauffeur, join the winery and lunch tours leaving from Sydney, Newcastle or Cessnock.
While in Pokolbin, don’t miss the Hunter Valley Gardens in the center of town. Walk through the tranquil gardens and have lunch or a beer in the Irish pub. Let the children roam free in the Storybook Garden, where they can come face-to-face with world-famous nursery rhyme characters and listen to their stories.
Pokolbin is located 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of Cessnock and can be reached by car or bus. Rover Coaches has a regular bus service that connects the two towns.
Pokolbin
Reviewed on May 3, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
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Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 8, 2024
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.
PepperTree Wines
Enjoy a sensory and educational experience at one of the most respected winemakers in the Hunter Valley.
Brokenwood Wines
Taste wine straight from wooden barrels at this former hobby winery, which is now one of Australia’s most notable wine producers.
Bimbadgen Estate
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Bimbadgen Estate during your travels to Pokolbin. Make time for the spas and golf courses in this romantic area.
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
Hunter Valley: Tasting of 6 Shiraz Vintages at Tulloch Wines
Private Hunter Valley Wine Tour
Award Winning Full Day Wine and Food Experience
Hunter Gleann Private Tour- Indulgence Wine Tour for 2 (Full Day)
Hunter Valley: VIP Soil-to-Cellar Winery Experience
Tyrrell's Vat 1 Vertical Wine Tasting in Pokolbin, NSW
Reviews of Pokolbin
5/5 - Excellent
Visit Dave at Running Horse Winery in Broke
4/5 - Good
It's a lovely place to visit especially if you are into wines.
5/5 - Excellent
The Pokolbin wine district is great because there is so much choice and variety of things to see and do within easy travelling distance. It's also a beautiful landscape, enhanced by the well kept vineyards and winerys.