Immerse yourself in the Hunter Valley Wine region for breathtaking views and experience you won’t find anywhere else.
While this popular area may be known for its vineyards and cellar doors, there’s so much more to explore. Spending a weekend surrounded by bushland and rolling hills, it’s impossible to let your worries get you down. In the Hunter Valley, it’s all about relaxation and rejuvenation.
Whether you’re travelling with the family or planning a romantic weekend getaway, it doesn’t get better than this.
Hunter Valley Horses
To experience the stunning bushland and vineyards that make this region so unique, head to Hunter Valley Horses. Meet the friendly staff as they pair you with the perfect horse, and follow their lead as you’re taken out on an unforgettable ride through the Broken Back Range.
Visitors can choose from a variety of different packages, including a one hour bush trail ride or a 75-minute sunset ride where you can take in the local flora and fauna as the sky bursts with colour.
Families are welcome to book a horse and carriage tour, which takes you along local back roads as you pass lush vineyards and rolling hills. Breathe the fresh air and relax as you’re shown the sights of the region, or book a private guided tour for a romantic day out.
Once you arrive back at the farm, don’t forget to purchase a bucket of feed. There are plenty of animals to meet and befriend in the surrounding paddocks, including sheep, goats, ponies, donkeys and llamas. Maps are available on request, so you can make sure to see all of your farmyard favourites.
Hunter Valley Gardens
From 1 November to 26 January, the wonderful Hunter Valley Gardens are hosting a Christmas Lights Spectacular. This glowing wonderland of more than 4 million lights features magical themed displays, 10-meter-tall Christmas trees, and plenty of festive music.
Work your way through the sparkling lights to the rides precinct, where you can enjoy a turn on the ferris wheel, swing chair or teacups. There’s something for thrill seekers and families too! Plus, a delicious range of food and drink options will be available throughout the night, allowing you to refuel after hours of exploring.
If you’re visiting during the day, the Hunter Valley Gardens always have something to offer. Eight kilometres of walking paths will take you through the 14 hectares of beautifully manicured flora. In fact, the garden is home to over 6000 trees, 1 million ground cover plants, a waterfall, murals painted by local artists, and more. There are 10 individually themed garden precincts to explore, including the magical storybook garden where you can meet famous characters including Humpty Dumpty and the Mad Hatter.
Just outside the gardens, the shopping village offers visitors the chance to browse local goods, liquors and antiques. Check out the vibrant cafes to start your day off right with coffee and brunch.
Wine Tastings
Of course, no trip to the Hunter Valley would be complete without indulging in some wine tastings. There’s no shortage of wonderful cellar doors to choose from, each catering to the unique tastes and preferences of its visitors.
At Saddlers Creek, you can relax in the beautiful tasting room while a friendly team-member guides you through their extensive collection of wine. From Friday to Sunday, stay until evening for live music in the outdoor tasting garden, as well as casual dining from the on-site food truck.
At Scarborough Wines, you can book a private tasting room and enjoy an extensive collection of top-shelf drops. This family-owned vineyard is open daily for tastings, and visitors are invited to customise their experience to try the wines they like most.
Chateau Elan
If your idea of a luxury getaway includes stunning suites, superb service, a spot of golf, pampering, and a restaurant and bar a short stroll from your lodgings in world-renowned wine country, Chateau Elan is the place for you.
Living up to its name, Chateau Elan has twelve exclusive Spa Suites designed for couples who enjoy the finer things in life. Each spacious suite has a king-sized bed, plush towels and robes, and a private spa and outdoor area for soaking in those famous Hunter Valley sunsets.
Larger groups can opt for a Villa, featuring either one or two bedrooms, with a self-contained living space, separate dining area, bedroom and bathroom. Simply open the glass double-doors and step out onto a private balcony or courtyard for fresh air and views of the meticulously manicured gardens.
The elegant Chateau Elan Day Spa caters to all needs with 17 treatment rooms, an outdoor deck area with two heated mineral spas, and float tanks. Find your perfect treatment, order a bottle of bubbles and a cheese platter, and embrace an afternoon of relaxation and rejuvenation.
One of the most popular golfing facilities in the country, the Greg Norman Golf Course is a stand-out feature of Chateau Elan, with picture-perfect greens and a fully serviced driving range. Beginners and seasoned golfers alike will love the 18-hole championship golf course that can be enjoyed with friends, or enhanced with pro lessons to perfect your swing.
Surrounded by popular vineyards, cellar doors and outdoor experiences, the hotel is an ideal base for a weekend of exploring, or a family holiday. Friendly staff are happy to recommend their favourite wineries for tastings, and there are plenty of taxis so you don’t need to worry about transport.
Chateau Elan’s Legends Restaurant is open for dinner from Thursday to Monday, with delectable degustations curated to showcase the best local produce. Start the experience with a glass of the region’s best wine, before dining on dishes such as a lamb backstrap with pressed potatoes, porcini mushroom wellington, and duck breast with preserved plum. Each dish is not only an amalgamation of expertly balanced flavours, but also a feast for the eyes.
If you like tranquillity and opulence rolled into one, elevate your next trip by staying at this oasis in the true heart of the Hunter Valley.
To read even more of our top Hunter recommendations, click here.
