Things to do in the Hunter Valley

Someone wise once said “life is too short to drink bad wine” and to that I say hear hear! I had my first taste of wine when I was about 16 and since then I’ve been hooked. Not in a bad way of course, but in a way that means I now appreciate wine and its complexity. Ever since my first visit to the Hunter Valley in NSW Australia I’ve come to appreciate the fine beauty of wine even more so. Whether it be the Hunter Valley (which is just stunning) or any vineyard in your neck of the woods, if you love a good glass of red or white and want to know more about it, I definitely recommend a visit. Here are my recommendations of places to eat, drink and play in the Hunter Valley.

Eat
The Royal Oak Hotel

The Royal oak Hotel in Cessnock is an old country pub dating back from 1922. It’s got a new do and now has a fresh interior but its quintessential charm remains. On the menu are lip-smacking gourmet pizzas or you can opt for a degustation menu. And of course the wine menu is extensive.

Black Creek Farm

I’m a sucker for charming old homes with quirky features and Black Creek Farm’s old farmhouse-come-restaurant is my idea of heaven. The menu is based off share dishes and its very rustic in style with meals like rabbit, veal and goat all prepared with a homely touch.

Drink

Winery Tours

It’s pretty much impossible and equally as much a sin to go to the Hunter Valley and not partake in a winery tour. It’s the best way to see (and drink) all that the glorious Hunter Valley has to offer. Just don’t be that one person that gets too drunk on tasters.

 The Brokenback Bar

Brokenback Bar in Cessnock is a popular watering hole for locals after hours and visitors to the Hunter Valley. The homely atmosphere paired with a stunning view over the vineyards is the perfect way to wind down the night with some tapas and copious amounts of wine.

 Play

Balloon Safari

Potentially one of the best ways to take in the radiance and beauty that makes up the Hunter Valley is a hot air balloon ride. Get up at the crack of dawn and head up in the balloon to get a truly majestic view of the Hunter Valley region in all its rolling hills and vineyard glory. And, to make it better, at the end of your ride feast on a gourmet brekky with a glass of champagne in hand.

Cycling

Cycling around the Hunter Valley is not only one of the most fun ways to take in your surroundings but it’s also a great way to burn off all that wine you’ll be drinking. There’s different tours for different levels of experience so if you’re riding isn’t completely up to scratch then that’s OK. Stop off at local vineyards, shopping malls or even for a spontaneous picnic!

Check out visitnsw.com for more info.

This post was written in collaboration with Destination NSW. However, all the beliefs and opinions expressed in this post are written in my own words and are 100% authentic. 

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