Hunter Valley
Photo by Sydney Seaplanes
The Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region. Well known for its Semillon and Shiraz varieties, it consists of over a ninety wineries spread out mainly in the Lower Hunter region and a handful in the Upper Hunter. The valley boasts a rich history with vines being first planted here in the 1820s before encompassing an area of 20 square kms by the 1860s; its wines being appreciated even in Europe. A gradual decline in wineries would ensue before a revival of sorts in the wine-making industry during the 1960s which would produce a loyal following that endures to this day. While the purists may argue that other regions such as South Australia's Barossa Valley will always remain superior, there's no denying the wineries at the Hunter Valley can at least boast a genuinely unpretentious attitude where viticulturists and wine novices will always feel welcome. For more information, please visit or contact the Hunter Valley Wine Country Visitor Centre in Pokolbin. See our detailed Hunter Valley map. Things to See and Do
Hunter Valley's wineries are concentrated around the Lower Hunter. With its charming ambience, it is a popular spot for visitors to explore whether by driving, riding or balloon. Many tours are available such as vineyard, trike and wine & cheese tasting tours. The Hunter Valley Harvest Festival is run from late February to April and celebrates the wine-making process. Jazz in the Vines is held in October where the valley resonates with a combination of jazz music and opera. The Hunter Valley Gardens was opened in 2003 and is a multi-million dollar complex featuring 25 hectares of intricately designed themed gardens. In all, there are 12 themed gardens over 8 km of pathways which include the Children's Story Book Garden and a Mosaic Tea Garden. The gardens also provide activities such as aqua golf, mini golf and barbecues while also having its own pub and four-star hotel. Barrington Tops is listed as a World-Heritage wilderness area and is located around the Barrington Plateau. Apart from its walking trails, visitors can also indulge in white-water canoeing, kayaking and rafting on the Steps on the edge of the ranges. Courses are also available for those who wish to qualify as guides.
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