To visit the Hunter Valley is to experience and enjoy the good things in Australian life… and to reward yourself.
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region. This is the home of world-class Hunter Valley Semillon that has been called “Australia’s unique gift to the world,” wonderful Australian Shiraz that ages gracefully for years, and generations of family winemakers who love to tell their tales.
Add to this a wide array of traditional and contemporary delights – things you’d expect of a world-famous wine region – and you’ll find Hunter Valley wine country one of the most vibrant and relaxing places to visit.
There is no shortage of choices as the region is home to more than 60 world-class restaurants, 120 wineries, 160 accommodation venues (Aussie-speak for lodging) and a vast range of activities.
Less than two hours from Sydney by car and just 45 minutes from Newcastle Airport, Hunter Valley is easily accessible for Australia visitors.
Vineyards were first established in the valley in the 1830s. Since that time, the area has grown both in size and recognition, and most of the original families are still there. Proud of their heritage and of what the region has become, locals have done everything to create the perfect escape.
Visitors can discover the best regional produce – such as cheeses and olive oil – and enjoy the culinary artistry of acclaimed chefs who have their own unique, distinctly Australian styles.
By day, you can walk, ride or drive through the sweeping vine-lined hills. For those looking to explore, there are many aspects of the Hunter Valley unknown to most visitors, and locals are happy to share their “secrets.”
Whether it’s a little-known cellar door (Aussie-speak for a winery’s tasting room)… an antique shop hidden down a quiet lane… historic towns… or ancient indigenous sites, there is something nearby just waiting to be discovered.
When it comes to eating, the Hunter Valley is abundant with choice. Scattered among the vines are 60 restaurants run by winery owners, providing the ultimate in food-and-wine pairing opportunities. After all, who knows a wine’s best pairing partners better than the person who made it?
On a sunny day, you can collect a feast of local produce from the cheese shops, olive mills and wineries, and stop at one of the picnic spots along the road to take in the marvelous scenery. Hunter Valley also is home to several renowned golf courses.
Although famous for its food and wine, the Hunter Valley also has made a name for itself by producing spectacular events. There are festivals celebrating the local produce, and concerts featuring the world’s top musicians. In fact, one could build a vacation around one of these events.
Hunter Valley Calendar of Wine Events
- May 15-16 – Lovedale Long Lunch. Seven boutique wineries open their doors to share their wines, paired with sumptuous treats prepared by top local chefs.
- June – Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month. A vast array of wine-focused events unfold throughout the month of June at various locations.
- September Date TBA – Hunter Valley Blues, Roots Funk ‘n Grooves. Six hours of non-stop music on two stages, accompanied by great food and wine.
- October 8-10 – Hunter Semillon & Seafood. Fifty local wineries pour Hunter Valley’s signature white wine, while local restaurants serve up fresh seafood. The event also features live entertainment, cooking demonstrations and wine education opportunities.
- October 30 – Jazz in the Vines. Tyrrell’s Vineyards hosts Australia’s biggest jazz names for a full-day party with plenty of wine and food.
