Why should you visit the Hunter Valley
A day trip to Hunter Valley is an excellent way to explore the New South Wales countryside and indulge in some of the finest food and wine.
- The Hunter wine region is Australia’s oldest, with over 200 years of winemaking history.
- This fertile land also yields excellent food such as olives and dairy products.
- You can also find breweries or distilleries in the area, so anyone can participate.
- There are many other attractions in the region, including manicured gardens, racing tracks, and spas. There is so much to see and do.
- It is visited by more than 2.5 million people annually and is the second most popular day trip from Sydney after Blue Mountains.
Where is the Hunter Valley located?
The Hunter Valley is located approximately 200km north-west from Sydney, or 65km away from Newcastle. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive from Sydney. However, if you travel by tour bus, it may take a bit longer due to pickups, traffic, and other factors. The trip from Newcastle takes approximately an hour.
What kinds of wines is Hunter famous for?
This region is known for its award-winning Shiraz and Semillon. Chardonnay, Verdelho and Verdelho are two other top wines from the region. Tempranillo, Sangiovese and other newer varieties have shown promise in recent decades.
What is the best time of year to visit Hunter Valley?
Is there a better time than any other? There is a best time? I love autumn. But each season offers something. The excitement of harvest, colours of spring and fall, and crisp winter temperatures that are perfect for red wine at the fireplace. It has a Mediterranean climate.
Red wine grapes in a pre-harvest
Spring September to November (average 25.7degC/78.2degF*) – The vines begin to bud and a beautiful light green appears across most of the valley. Gardens are vibrant and the weather is pleasant
Summer December to February (31.2degC /88.1degF). Harvest time usually starts in mid-January. It’s very hot! The place is buzzing with people and there are many visitors.
Autumn March to May (average 23.5degC/63.6degF – Autumn is my choice for the best combination of weather, crowds, and the amazing red and golden foliage. It’s a great time to take photos.
Winter June to August (average 17.6degC/63.6degF – Red wine drinking weather). A visit to cooler temperatures is more pleasant.
*daytime average temperatures
While the vineyards may not be as beautiful in winter, the wine is just as delicious
Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting vineyards
- Australia’s minimum drinking age is 18 years.
- Winery tours require closed-toe shoes
- Weekends are busiest so it is worth considering whether you can go on Monday or Wednesday. Avoid going to certain places on Tues or Wed.
- Sometimes, less is more. Two tastings at a vineyard that aren’t rushed can often be far more enjoyable than four rush tastings.
What is included on a Hunter Valley wine tasting trip?
The hunter valley tour from sydney :
- Return travel from Sydney
- Three cellar doors offer wine tastings – typically 3-4 wines per door
- Behind-the scenes tour of the vineyard
- Food tastings, usually chocolate and cheese
- Transport in an air-conditioned minibus
- All purchases can be frozen
There are many things that differ between operators.
- Lunch included or not, fine dining, picnic style, with or minus a drink
- There are many drinks available that go beyond the tastings
- The guide’s knowledge and professionalism during the tour.
- The bus’s size and comfort
- What type of wine is being visited? Boutique or commercial?
- Is there a stop at a wildlife park?
- Are the tours only for adults or open to children?
- Private winery tours
The pickup locations will give you an indication of the target market. It will most likely target a younger market if the stops pick up only at Central Station or a lot of backpackers.
Wine tasting at cellar door
These tours are great for anyone who doesn’t like to drive. The Australian drink driving laws are strict, so you don’t need a designated driver on these tours.
What kind of Hunter Valley day trips are available?
How do you decide which tour is right for you? These classifications should help. These are based on my 15-year experience escorting Hunter groups. My tours are primarily with backpackers and budget groups. However, I have also done several luxury and mid-range tours.
There are three types of Hunter Valley tours. The main difference is in the level of comfort and what inclusions they include. All tours include excellent wines and some food stops.
Hunter Valley Tours for Backpackers and Budget-Priced Tourists
These tours are for backpackers and those who just want to see the country. Minibuses are the preferred mode of transport. These older buses, while safe and comfortable, are not always the most comfortable. Itineraries can include major venues, smaller vineyards and less personalized customer service.
These budget tours don’t offer fancy lunch stops and most often serve pub or club food. It isn’t bad food, and it is often quite tasty, but it is not gourmet food.
There will be a few non-wine spots in your wine cellar, such as chocolate or cheese. Many include a brewery, distillery, or other type of establishment. Although they don’t offer much education, these wine tours can be a lot of fun. These tours are ideal for laid-back travelers who enjoy tasting wine and exploring the country.
Luxury and mid-range winery tours
The mid-priced tours include a meal and a visit to boutique properties. Depending on the operator, the group size can vary between smaller and larger. Some people may prefer large buses because they offer more comfort during the long journey up. These tours will allow you to learn more about the area and Australia’s winemaking past from your driver. Although I don’t like big buses, the ones I have included here are excellent.
Private Hunter Valley winery tours
Private Hunter wine tours are ideal for those who love wine and food. These tours are often accompanied in comfortable four-wheel drive vehicles or larger passenger vans. The emphasis is on the unique features of the area, as well as customer service. If you are able to suggest wineries that you like, you may be able to do so.
These tour operators are often passionate about the area and may know many winemakers, which makes for a relaxed visit. This tour is a great option if money is not an issue.
