THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

The Hunter Valley is well known for its day time activities, you can drive through beautiful vineyards, enjoy long lunches in amazing restaurants and sample the world class wines from a vast range of cellar doors - there is also plenty to discover at night.

Autumn in the Hunter Valley is a fusion of endless days of sunshine and warmth followed by crispy, clear evenings, the perfect setting to come together over good food and wine with loved ones. A time when wine, food and connection is a focus for the region, come and discover why the Hunter Valley’s reputation for food and wine is second to none. There are so many wine and food events in the region during this time that it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you are travelling with friends, with your family, or with your partner, we have helped unpack some of the events taking place over the next few weeks for you. 

Picture yourself relaxed and of good cheer, living the Hunter Valley good life to the full in accommodation that feels both like an escape as well as a home away from home. You wouldn’t want to leave, right? Sometimes the best way to unwind is spending time with your significant other, family or friends in the privacy of your own abode. Whether it’s basking in the sunshine around the pool or curling up by the fire and admiring the sweeping sunset views your vista boasts, sometimes you just want to dine in and save yourself the fuss of the leave. We’ve helped narrow down our top picks for tasty takeaways for both snacking and dining.

The drive from Sydney to the Hunter Valley via the M1 and Expressway can feel like it goes on forever and ever. Why not take the scenic route? Next time you’re driving up for a visit to the Hunter Valley, take the road less travelled and discover the rich history and natural beauty of Tourist Drive 33. Not long after you get onto the M1, you'll soon find yourself driving on a motorway that cuts through the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which is full of bush-walking trails and offers the perfect opportunity to take a break during your travels. The motorway is also bordered by huge sandstone cut walls that lead in and out of lush bushland.

For many pet owners, the hardest part about travelling is leaving our four-legged companions behind. Luckily for us, most venues in the Hunter Valley are in the same boat – pooches are part of the family and in many cases, staff rosters as well. You’ll find that many wineries and even restaurants will have a resident fury friend on-site, in charge of the hellos and goodbyes.