THE GRAPEVINE BLOG

It’s not only lap cats and dogs who like to snuggle up by the warmth and glow of a fire and bask in the heat. Many of us humans enjoy relaxing and snuggling up by the fireside just as much, both at home and when away. There’s something welcoming and comforting about a fireplace that can make you feel completely at home whilst on a holiday. When the weather cools down, the Hunter Valley is always ready to turn the heat up with plenty of winter warmer options. From fiery outdoor bonfires, to intimate in-house log fires, there is something for a range of occasions. So, grab your partner, a hearty bottle of Hunter Shiraz, and a bag of marshmallows for the ideal, low-key Hunter Valley Winter date. Here are our top fireside date spots this Winter in Wine Country.

Find your tribe and take the road less travelled to Broke Fordwich, the ultimate country tiny town to explore, savour and unwind

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.

When it comes to the best of the best for group accommodation offerings, look no further than the Hunter Valley. Whether you’re looking for somewhere special to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, somewhere to house a full wedding tribe or simply a home away from home for a family getaway, the Hunter Valley boasts plenty of options. From quaint and cosy two to three-bedroom cottages to the spacious ten plus bedroom exquisite homesteads, no matter what the size of your group there are plenty of options to suit individual needs.

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.