It’s not hard to understand why the Hunter Valley is one of New South Wales’ most popular holiday destinations. An easy two hour drive from Sydney (or an hour from Newcastle), this historic wine region is a top choice among locals and tourists alike for a cheeky getaway.
The rural oasis, which includes the region of Hunter and the sub-regions of Upper Hunter Valley, Broke Fordwich and Pokolbin, has rightfully earned its reputation for top-notch shiraz, semillon and, in what may come as a surprise to some, day spas.
For families, friends or couples, the Hunter has something for everyone—with plenty of great places to stay, too. From winery-run cottages to designer sheds, scroll on for the five Hunter Valley accommodation options worth booking for your next weekend away.
Related: Five Coastal Retreats to Book In Byron Bay & Surrounds
hunter valley accommodation...
01
Casa La Vina, Pokolbin
With its distinctive Pueblo-style architecture, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped onto a New Mexican hacienda, rather than a Hunter Valley retreat. Wander past wagon wheels and cacti on the way to your adults-only villa, where earthen walls and rustic timber ceilings meet the modern comforts of kitchenettes, flatscreen TVs and outdoor spas. Absolutely not what you’d expect to find in NSW wine country, but we’re into it.
02
Audrey Wilkinson, Pokolbin
This family-owned winery makes some of the Hunter’s finest semillon, and with three gorgeous guest cottages on hand, you won’t have to worry about getting home after drinking it. These self-contained stays are surrounded by vines—some of the oldest in Australia, in fact—and offer queen-sized rooms, full kitchens and open fireplaces. If you’re keen to make the most of your time in the region, cellar doors for De Iuliis, Hart and Hunter and Tyrrell’s wineries are just minutes away
03
The Wellness Farm, Broke
The name says it all, really. This self-care sanctuary is situated on 37 acres of lush countryside, with three- and five-bedroom cottages perfect for girls’ weekends and smaller villas just right for two. Swim laps in the outdoor salt-water pool or soak up Brokeback Mountain Range views from the cedar-barrel hot tub (and there’s a sauna, too.)
04
The Milk Shed, Pokolbin
Sleeping in a barn has never been so chic. This airy escape is all about the wrap-around views, polished boards, distressed concrete and gum leaf-hues inside. The open-plan bedroom/living area has a touch-button gas fireplace to keep you toasty, while a full kitchen and rain-shower bathroom round out the mod-cons.
05
Elysia Wellness Retreat, Pokolbin
Swap doom scrolling for mindfulness at Elysia, which offers all-inclusive health
retreats as well as straight-up accom. for those who prefer the freedom to roam
(read: drink wine and eat cheese). Mobile phones are banned in common areas,
meals are all organic and the day spa offers resilience coaching. But if you ask us, a couple of yoga classes, afternoons by the pool and a few early nights should do the trick.
How Many Days Are Needed In the Hunter Valley?
With wine tours and sight-seeing opportunities aplenty, if you want to make the most of all the Hunter Valley has on offer, a four-five day stay would be ideal. That being said, the region is great for a weekend getaway—you’ll just have to streamline your itinerary (and come back another time to catch up on all you missed).
How To Spend a Day In the Hunter Valley
A wine tour is a must in the Hunter. Many companies offer full or half-day tours, so you can spend your morning or afternoon elsewhere if you’d like.
The Hunter Valley Gardens are a great activity, with 59 acres of stunning gardens to meander through. The region is also home to a range of gold courses, horse riding tours and cooking classes to try.
