The Australian Bucket List

New South Wales

Hunter ValleyThe birthplace of Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is not only Australia's oldest wine-growing region, it's a mecca for acclaimed restaurants, luxury accomodation, and some of the best semillon and shiraz about town.

Located in the picturesque countryside of New South Wales, the Hunter Valley is an idyllic escape for those seeking a blend of indulgence and natural beauty. As you enter the 'Hunter', a sense of tranquility washes over you. Rolling hills adorned with lush vineyards stretch into the distance, their emerald hues contrasting against the clear blue skies. The air is imbued with the sweet fragrance of grapes, and the soft whispers of the breeze create a symphony of serenity. Begin your exploration by venturing into the renowned cellar doors that dot the valley. Discover award-winning wineries, where passionate vintners invite you to sample their exquisite creations. From robust shiraz to delicate chardonnay, and some of the finest aged semillon Australia has to offer, block off several days to casually roll between wineries, meeting the faces behind some of region's most acclaimed drops. Beyond the vineyards, the Hunter Valley reveals its natural wonders. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails that wind through the nearby national parks. The breathtaking landscapes of Barrington Tops National Park beckon adventurers, with its ancient Gondwana rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden gorges. Feel the cool mist on your skin as you stand in awe of nature's grandeur, and listen to the melodies of the native birds that flit amongst the foliage. For a truly unique experience, take to the skies in a hot air balloon and witness the valley's beauty from a new perspective. As the sun rises over the horizon, casting a golden hue on the vineyards below, the silence is broken only by the occasional burst of flame from the balloon's burner. Drift effortlessly above the patchwork of vineyards, capturing breathtaking views that will leave you breathless with wonder. Indulgence is a way of life in the Hunter Valley, and the region's culinary scene is a testament to this. Savor exquisite farm-to-table dining experiences, where fresh local produce takes center stage. From gourmet cheese tastings to sumptuous meals paired with the perfect wine, the valley's culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palate. Surrender to the valley's allure, let the wine flow through your veins, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Hunter Valley.

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Things to do

Take a hot air balloon ride over the Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley Ballooning Co was formed to offer everyone the magnificent experience of flying in a hot air balloon over one of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes. Previously called Wine Country Ballooning, the company has grown and introduced a large 22 person balloon along with the small boutique balloon. Celebrate the approx 1hr flight with complimentary champagne then warm up with a full cooked breakfast at Mercure hotel. Tour will take approx 3 - 4 hours. VIP balloon for special occasions is available too!

Take a wine tour with Hunter Valley Prestige Wine Tours

Hunter Valley Prestige Wine Tours provide their guests with either a full day or half-day wine tour, taking in three specific regions of the Hunter Valley Wine Country (namely, Pokolbin, Lovedale and Mount View). Their personalised tours cater for up to six persons using two cars, however, if you have more than six people they can accommodate up to 10 passengers in total. Every couple or single receives a gift and we provide cheese and biscuits together with bottled water. You can create your itinerary, or they can take care of that for you including specific requests like horse riding, local spectacular lookouts, cheese and chocolate tastings, involving as many vineyards as possible on the day. They can do as much or as little as you wish! They love to provide you with a more personalised experience taking you to some of the small operation boutique cellar doors together with a selection of those who are wider known and in doing so, providing you with a truly memorable experience. They will pick up and drop you off at your accommodation.

Attend the Hunter Valley Wine School

Hunter Valley Resort offers the total 'wine experience'. The on-site winery has the largest capacity in the Hunter Valley. The Hunter Valley Wine School commences daily at 9 am and is an informal tutorial of wine education. Walk through the on-site vineyard of 40-year-old Shiraz vines and discuss matters viticultural. What is the history of wine? What is the difference between grape varieties? What is the Australian Wine Judging System? All these questions, and more, will be answered leaving one with a newfound knowledge of winemaking... and tasting! At the conclusion, receive your personalised Wine Appreciation Certificate.

Margan Wines and Restaurant

Margan Winery and award-winning Margan Restaurant are located in the picturesque village of Broke, Hunter Valley. Visitors can relax in the stunning rammed earth cellar door and sample new release, and aged wines which were estate grown and estate made from the Margan's old vine vineyards. The wines are created by Andrew Margan in the state of the art winery on site. Margan Restaurant offers the complete food and wine experience, where seasonally inspired cuisine is matched with award winning wines. The Restaurant is proud to have just recently won many awards, both nationally and locally and has become a sought after Hunter Valley wedding venue with that all-important 'wow' factor! Margan Winery and Restaurant is highly committed to premium quality wine and food, sourcing produce both locally and from the one-acre kitchen garden, thus providing a unique experience for their guests.

Dine at Muse Restaurant

Located at the entrance to Pokolbin in the iconic Hungerford Hill Winery, Muse Restaurant aims to be a showcase of Hunter Valley produce with an emphasis on seasonality and quality. Muse Restaurant provides a complete dining experience, offering contemporary Australian cuisine presented with professional and friendly service. The seasonal nature of their menus results in dishes that are constantly changing, but there’s a consistent culinary approach across the board: technique, restraint and respect.

Hunter Valley Helicopters

Experience the beauty of Australia's most famous wine region, the Hunter Valley, from the comfort of your own personal helicopter with Hunter Valley Helicopters. Imagine making a grand entrance at the best wineries Australia has to offer after soaring above the picturesque grapevines at 2,000 feet. Taste some of the worlds most awarded wines. Indulge in some of the country's top restaurants, and experience all that the Hunter Valley has to offer, heli-style. Based in the heart of Wine Country, Hunter Valley Helicopters offers charter and scenic flights for any occasion and any time frame. From last-minute 10-minute scenic flights over the vines to all-day winery tours and planned-to-perfection special occasions, Hunter Valley Helicopters is your premier helicopter charter company. Experience the beauty of Australia's most famous wine region, the Hunter Valley, from the comfort of your own personal helicopter with Hunter Valley Helicopters. Imagine making a grand entrance at the best wineries Australia has to offer after soaring above the picturesque grapevines at 2,000 feet. Taste some of the worlds most awarded wines. Indulge in some of the country's top restaurants, and experience all that the Hunter Valley has to offer, heli-style. Based in the heart of Wine Country, Hunter Valley Helicopters offers charter and scenic flights for any occasion and any time frame. From last-minute 10-minute scenic flights over the vines to all-day winery tours and planned-to-perfection special occasions, Hunter Valley Helicopters is your premier helicopter charter company.

Indulge at The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley

Relaxation, rejuvenation, recuperation - whatever your reason for visiting The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley, they're dedicated to your peace of mind and physical wellbeing. Upon arrival, you are greeted by their reception team and guided through to their exquisite Spa consisting of 17 beautifully appointed treatment rooms and a team that understands care, comfort and discretion. Treatments include access to The Spa Hydrotherapy Lounge with two saltwater 'thalassotherapy' outdoor hot tubs overlooking the Vintage golf course and infrared detox sauna. Exclusive products include Kerstin Florian, Dermalogica and Healite therapy. Treatments include facials, massages, men's treatments, Healite ll therapy, waxing, manicures, pedicures and amazing packages. For full details and the spa menu, please visit the web site.

Tomaree National Park

Tomaree National Park near Port Stephens is a great weekend getaway. Explore Fort Tomaree on a school excursion, or go whale watching, walking to see koalas or go fishing. Tomaree National Park, jointly managed with Hunter Water Corporation, provides a magnificent backdrop to the coastal towns and villages of Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Boat Harbour and Anna Bay. It’s an excellent spot for whale watching and offers a range of walks, including the short Wreck Beach, walk through the coastal angopho-ra forest and the longer Morna Point walk that comes alive with spring wildflowers. The park’s beaches are pretty places for a family barbecue and there are picnic facilities around Anna Bay and Fisher-mans Bay. Enjoy a swim or snorkel or head to One Mile Beach for surfing. There are some good places for fishing, though you’ll need to check the marine park zoning before setting out. Make sure you hike the Tomaree Head Summit walk. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Port Stephens, the coast and Broughton, Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah islands nature reserves. Check out the historic gun emplacements, part of Fort Tomaree and built-in 1941 as part of Australia’s World War Two east coast defence system.

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