Weekend escape: Hunter Valley(2)
Brokenwood Cellar Door boasts a vast array of premium quality wines, sourced from 'all the right regions, for all the right reasons'.
Margan Estate recently cleaned up at the 2012 Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide Awards – it was ranked in the top 10 of NSW’s best regional restaurants. Enough said. You must eat here.
Other activities
The bloomin beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens span more than 60 acres and feature more than eight kilometres of walking paths.
At every corner there is a flower, tree or shrub to be inhaled or merely admired for its breathtaking colours.
Take a trip to India, China or a trip down the rabbit hole the vast array of gardens. Not to be missed.
Helicopter ride with Slattery Helicopter Charter.
Witness the patchwork of vineyards, spot the growing olive groves and take in the bountiful Brokenback Range from a truly unique perspective - the air.
This is by far the most spectacular way of viewing and experiencing the Hunter Valley.
Even the most avid wine lover can't miss a stop at Potters. Potters Brewery produces several signature beers such as the Hunter Kolsch and Hunter Witbier and also seasonal beers such as the Chocolate Porter and Christmas Cheer.
It's sure to cure what ales you.
A self-guided tour of the vineyards on a pushbike is a fantastic way to see the beautiful scenery – and burn off some of the delicious foods consumed.
Hunter Valley Cycling and the Hunter Valley YHA rent out bikes – hire usually include delivery of bikes to your accommodation as well as helmets.
Accommodation
Perfectly situated in the heart of Pokolbin is Carriages Country House. It's an elegantly furnished country house perfect the quaint, country and personal experience. Cute breakfast hamper delivered to your door.
Grapevines Boutique Accommodation is one of the Hunter's newest and most charming self-contained retreats.
Tonic Hotel is a rustic, truly Australian experience surrounded by natives and offering jaw-dropping sunsets.
If you fancy sipping wine in the glow of the setting sun while watching the kangaroos graze then try Englewood Ridge.
The award-winning Hermitage Lodge is set on 25 acres in the heart of the vineyards and offers guests decks or verandahs overlooking the shiraz vineyards.
As its name suggest, Bracken Ridge Villas offers stunning views of the Brokenback range.
