As winter blankets the rolling hills of the Hunter Valley, a captivating transformation takes place. The crisp air carries whispers of enchantment, and the landscape emerges in a new guise, inviting visitors to explore the region's winter wonders.
Whether you're a lover of fine wines, a nature enthusiast, or a seeker of cultural delights, the Hunter Valley offers a diverse tapestry of activities that will leave you spellbound.
1. Hot Air Balloon Ride at Dawn
Experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley from above by taking a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards, countryside, and maybe even catch a glimpse of kangaroos hopping around.
2. Snow Time at Hunter Valley Gardens
Discover the magic of Winter at Hunter Valley Gardens as the Gardens transform into a winter wonderland with artificial snow, ice skating rinks, and various winter-themed activities. Families and visitors can enjoy tobogganing, build snowmen, participate in snowball fights, and explore the enchanting gardens adorned with icy decorations.
3. Wine by the Fire
There is no better way to warm up this Winter than a glass of award-winning Shiraz in hand by the fire. Whether you want to tempt your tastebuds with a wine tasting or simply sip on a glass, there a plenty of indoor and outdoor places to cosy up by a fire.
4. Horse Riding
Saddle up and enjoy spectacular valley views. Take it outdoors and explore the Hunter Valley's natural wonders with a horse-riding adventure, trail ride or tour.
5. Learn to make a hearty meal at a cooking school
Get your hands dirty at one of the many cooking classes on offer this Winter. From authentic pasta classes at Our Italian Table to low and smokey meats at the Lovedale Smokehouse Gourmet Pantry, there is plenty on offer.
6. Take a scenic hike through one of the national parks
Get the heart rate pumping with a leisurely bush walk through one of the many national parks. For breathtaking views across the Hunter Valley, you can hike up to Mount Bright Lookout, Bimbadeen Lookout or Pokolbin Mountains Road lookout
7. Wollombi June Long Weekend Market
Slowdown in the historic town of Wollombi during the June long weekend and stop by the Mini 'Taste of Wollombi' Festival. Browse over one hundred stalls showcasing and selling local produce and crafts, plants, clothes, tools, bric-a-brac and much more.
8. Margan Barrel Hall Sale
Stock up on Winter essentials at the annual Margan Barrel Hall Sale. Choose from everyday easy drinking wines to limited museum release stock to fill your cellar this June.
9. Smoke in Broke
Get ready for the most finger licking, boot scootin’, BBQ festival in the Hunter Valley this June long weekend at Broke Fordwich. A local’s favourite, Smoke in Broke showcases all things BBQ in a festival style with local wines, rides for the kids and plenty of entertainment all weekend long.
10. Epic Annual Lunch
Hungerford Hill’s EPIC Annual Lunch hosted by two-hatted Muse Restaurant returns this June with a focus on seasonality and quality, showcasing the best of fresh Hunter Valley local produce. The seasonal nature of the menus results in dishes which are constantly changing, with a consistent culinary approach of technique, restraint and respect.
11. Burning of the Barrel.
Join the Glandore team for the highly anticipated and sell out event Burning of the Barrel. As the name suggests, over 79 tonnes of wood and one or two sacrificial wine barrels (empty of course) are ignited, lighting up the night and heating up the Hunter Valley to celebrate the end of the harvest. Indulge in delicious foods and delectable Glandore Wine’s dance, sit and laugh around the bonfire and finish the evening gazing at the fireworks display.
12. Chardonnay Chats with Liz Silkman
Liz is undoubtedly the queen of Chardonnay, her wines have amassed an embarrassing number of gold medals, trophies and accolades but you won't meet a more down to earth winemaker. Join us to hear Liz' insights into all things Chardonnay as she presents a bracket of six Chardonnays from her own label as well as those from other leading winemakers.
13. Hunter Valley Wine and Beer Festival
Gather at Rydges Resort to discover all things Hunter Valley wine and beer. This epic event features over 25 local wineries, showcasing a large portion of the region in one place. With live music, kids rides and plenty of delicious eats, this event is a great day out for all this Winter.
14. Long Lunches
When lunches unexpectedly roll into dinners you know you are relaxed. Discover one of the many long lunches taking place this Winter such as Petersons Colourful Long Lunch in celebration of their 40th anniversary to experience the Hunter Valley good life.
15. Golf
Get into the swing of things in Hunter Valley Wine Country with our golf course round-up. Golfers are spoilt for choice with championship golf courses offering scenic views. With three quality courses within 20 kilometres of Pokolbin, the region can mount a strong case of being regarded as one of the pre-eminent golf-and-wine destinations in the country.
16. Indulge in a Degustation.
Whether you want to go all out or simply just can't decide, opt in for the degustation at one of our many award-winning restaurants and allow our skilled chefs to take you on a gastronomical journey as they put forward their personal selection of must-try dishes.
17. Treat yourself to a spa day.
Escape the cold and submit yourself to a deep state or rest and relaxation at one of our many spas this Winter. Imagine basking by your own private woodfire post- couple’s massage, with a satisfying glass of Hunter Valley wine.
18. Discover our art scene.
In a place so beautiful, creativity, arts and culture go hand in hand with wine and food culture. A sip of wine and you might feel inclined to explore your creative side with a gallery visit, culture walk, or art class, or discover a host of artistic endeavours at the Singleton Arts & Cultural Centre.
19. In house wine tasting with Stay n Sip
Do you want to enjoy some of the Hunter Valley’s finest wines, but don’t want to leave the warmth and comfort of your accommodation? Then Stay n’ Sip is definitely for you! This experience is a fun and innovative way to taste wines in the comfort of your accommodation in front of the fireplace. There is no driving required so you can avoid costly transfer fees.
20. Create your own ceramic masterpiece.
Under the guidance of Hunter Valley Ceramics create your own mug, little bowls and plates whilst tasting a range of Stomp Wines and enjoying local cheese from Binnorie Dairy and Hunter Belle Cheese.
