Looking for a memorable family day out in the Hunter Valley? This beautiful region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, fun activities, and delicious wines, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway. Known for its renowned wineries, the Hunter Valley is home to numerous cellar doors where you can taste some of finest wines in Australia. Each cellar door offers a unique taste of the region's history and wine culture, providing an enriching experience for both adults and children.
With winter bringing a special event, Snow Time in the Garden at Hunter Valley Gardens, now is the perfect time to plan your visit. It's the perfect way to cap off a day filled with the flavours and tastes of the premier wine region in Australia. With so many wineries and cellar doors, the Hunter Valley is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and families alike. Plan your visit now to experience the best of what this beautiful region has to offer, just a short drive from Sydney. Here's an exciting 1-day itinerary to make the most of your time in the Hunter Valley, including visits to some of the best wineries in Australia.
Morning Activities in the Hunter Valley
Breakfast at Peterson House
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Peterson House, known for its bubbly breakfast options, delectable flavours and scenic vineyard views. Enjoy a sumptuous meal while soaking in the serene landscape. Their café, Restaurant Cuvee, offers a variety of flavours that cater to both adults and kids, making it a great spot to fuel up for the day ahead.
Recommended dishes: Eggs Benedict, Pancakes with fresh berries, and their signature sparkling wine for the adults.
Visit Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
After breakfast, head over to the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park. This kid-friendly park offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Kids will love feeding kangaroos, meeting cuddly koalas, and seeing exotic birds. The park also has picnic areas if you want to take a break and enjoy a snack.
Tip: Check the park’s schedule for daily shows and feeding times to make the most of your visit.
Midday Adventures in the Hunter Valley
Picnic Among the Vines
For a unique lunch experience, enjoy a picnic among the vines. This winery offers a picturesque setting to relax and indulge in gourmet food surrounded by a beautiful vineyard. The picnic includes a selection of local produce, cheeses, and wines from the winery, making it a delightful meal for everyone.
Recommended items: Local cheeses, fresh bread, cured meats, and a bottle of Hunter Valley wine.
Snow Time in the Garden at Hunter Valley Gardens
The highlight of your day will undoubtedly be the Snow Time in the Garden event at Hunter Valley Gardens. This winter wonderland is a magical experience for the whole family. Enjoy ice skating, tobogganing, and playing in the snow. The gardens are transformed into a snowy paradise, complete with winter-themed rides, games, and activities that will keep everyone entertained.
Key attractions:
Ice skating rink
Ice toboggan
Snow play zone
Ferris wheel
Carousel
Hot Chocolate Break
Warm up with a delicious hot chocolate from one of the many food stalls within the gardens. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Afternoon Delights in the Hunter Valley
Chocolate and Wine Tasting at Tulloch Wines
No trip to the Hunter Valley is complete without indulging in some local delicacies and wine. Head to Tulloch Wines for a delightful chocolate and wine tasting experience. They offer a wide range of locally produced wines paired with handmade chocolates that are sure to please every palate.
Tip: Pick up some wine and chocolate to take home as souvenirs or to enjoy later in the evening.
Explore Hunter Valley Gardens
After your tasting, take some time to explore the Hunter Valley Gardens. These gardens are home to a variety of themed areas, each offering unique flora and beautiful landscapes. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some photos.
Highlights: The Rose Garden, Storybook Garden, and Sunken Garden.
Evening Relaxation in the Hunter Valley
Dinner at The Verandah Restaurant
End your day with a delicious dinner at The Verandah Restaurant. Known for its tapas-style dishes, the restaurant offers stunning views of the vineyards and a cosy ambiance to enjoy some wine. The menu features a variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a range of flavours.
Recommended dishes: Peking duck pancakes, Grilled haloumi, and Salt and pepper squid. Wash down these down with their selection of wines.
More Things to Do in the Hunter Valley
For those with more time to spend in the Hunter Valley, consider exploring additional activities such as:
Wine Country Highlights Tour: Discover the best of the Hunter Valley wine country with a guided tour from local experts and bring home some popular wines.
Hot Air Ballooning: Experience breathtaking views of the vineyards from above.
Horse Riding: Enjoy a scenic horse ride through the countryside.
Each of these activities offers a unique perspective of the Hunter Valley, making it a versatile destination for families, couples, and solo travellers year-round.
Plan Your Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, consider booking your activities in advance through Pelago. Whether you're looking for exciting adventures or relaxing experiences, Pelago offers a variety of options to enhance your Hunter Valley trip.
By following this itinerary, you'll make the most of your one-day visit to the Hunter Valley, ensuring a fun and memorable experience for everyone. From delicious meals paired with the best local wines and unique activities to the enchanting Snow Time in the Garden event, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region. Start planning your trip today and get ready to create lasting memories in the Hunter Valley!