First-Timers guide to the Hunter

One of the Hunter’s most iconic activities – there’s no better way to start your Hunter Valley trip than with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Your morning starts just before dawn, taking off as the valley begins to glow. As you float silently over vineyards, hills and kangaroos below, it’s a moment of pure magic — and the best way to take in the Hunter from a totally different perspective.

Balloon Aloft, Australia’s longest-running ballooning company, is now celebrating 45 years of high-flying adventures. They’re also Tourism Australia’s Adventure & Accessible Operator of the Year, so you’re in very safe hands.

✨ Pro Tip:  Book early, especially for weekend flights, as this experience does book out.

🕒 Departure: Around 4:30–6am (varies by season)

💰 Price: Approx. AUD $350–$400 per person (Includes breakfast, transfer package options available

📍 Location: Passengers meet at Peterson House, with balloon launch locations all around the Wine Country area.

Hunter Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in Australia — famous for its Semillon, Shiraz, and warm-climate varietals. The mineral-rich soil and coastal breezes create unique wines you can’t get anywhere else. First-timers should start with these iconic cellar doors:

🍷 Peterson Wines

Known for their bold reds, sparkling varieties, and generous pours, Peterson Wines is a must-visit for first timers in the Hunter. The relaxed, friendly cellar door makes wine tasting approachable and fun.

📍 552 Mount View Rd, Mount View

🕒 10am–5pm daily

💰 Tastings from $10

🍷 Brokenwood Wines

One of the region’s most acclaimed producers. Their stylish cellar door is an experience in itself, with hosted tastings and a wine lounge. Don’t miss the Graveyard Shiraz.

📍 401-427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin

🕒 10am–5pm daily

💰 Tastings from $25

🍷 Audrey Wilkinson Winery

Set on a hill with some of the best views in the valley. Known for its crisp whites, gorgeous scenery and a wine museum.

📍 750 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin

🕒 10am–5pm daily

💰 Tastings from $10–$20

✨ Pro Tip: Many wineries offer cheese pairings and gourmet platters — perfect for a leisurely lunch with a view.

Covering over 60 acres, the Hunter Valley Gardens is a must-visit for first-timers looking to take a scenic break between wine tastings. With 10 themed areas, you can wander through the whimsical Storybook Garden, find peace in the Oriental Garden, or admire the romantic Italian Grotto. It’s beautifully laid out and easy to explore, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or travelling with kids.

Families will love the mini-train rides and seasonal events like Snow Time in winter and the dazzling Christmas Lights Spectacular in December. It’s a refreshing, non-wine activity that shows a different side of the region’s charm.

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t miss the topiary animals and rose garden — they make for stunning photos.

🕒 9am–5pm daily

💰 Adults $38, kids $28 (under 4s free)

📍 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin

Hunter Valley is as much a foodie destination as it is a wine one, and its restaurants take local produce to the next level. From vineyard-view lunches to elegant degustation dinners, dining here is all about celebrating what’s grown and made nearby. Whether you’re craving fresh cheese, pasture-raised meats, or artisan bread, you’ll find it all on the menu — paired perfectly with local wines, of course.

Some must-visits include Muse Restaurant, set at Hungerford Hill, known for its polished Australian cuisine and standout service. Over in Broke, Margan Restaurant offers a true farm-to-table experience using ingredients straight from its onsite kitchen garden. If you’re after something bold and modern, EXP. Restaurant is a fine-dining gem tucked inside a charming cottage, with creative tasting menus and an intimate vibe. These spots don’t just feed you — they leave a lasting impression.

🥂 Pro Tip: Book lunch over dinner for better daylight views and more relaxed dining.

This charming cluster of cafés, boutiques and cellar doors is the heart of the Hunter. You can browse local art, try handmade chocolates, sip coffee, and pick up delicious pantry goods.

🛍️ Must-visits:

• Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
• Pokolbin Jam Co
• Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

🕒 Open daily 10am–5pm

💰 Free to explore, artisan goodies from $5

✨ Pro Tip: Bring an esky or cooler bag — you’ll want to stock up on cheese, olives and chocolates for your drive home.

Get some fresh air with a scenic stroll or bike ride between vineyards. The Hermitage Road Cycleway is a popular, mostly flat trail that passes wineries, art galleries, antique stores, breweries and stunning countryside.

🚴‍♀️ Rent bikes from:

• Grape Mobile (AUD $40/day)
• Sutton Estate (electric bikes available)

🕒 Open daily

💰 Free to ride, bike hire additional

🌤️ Pro Tip: In summer time, start early to avoid midday heat and take breaks at cellar doors with cool gardens and chilled rosé.

Wine and cheese are a match made in heaven, and Hunter Valley does both incredibly well. Visit the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory for tasting boards and handmade curds, or try Binnorie Dairy for rich labneh and brie.

🧀 Tastings from AUD $10

📍 Most spots are near central Pokolbin

🕒 10am–4pm daily

🧺 Pro Tip: Pair your cheese tasting with a chilled Semillon and take a picnic to nearby vineyards or your accommodation garden.

Want the perfect blend of wine, scenery and dinner without the hassle of driving? The Sunset Tour by Skippy Down Under Tours is a dreamy way to experience the Hunter. Your private afternoon begins with boutique wine tastings, a visit to a vodka and gin distillery, and a relaxed drink at 4 Pines Brewhouse — think cocktails or a beer paddle as the sun begins to set. Round out the evening with a two-course dinner at a top local restaurant before being dropped back at your accommodation.

🚐 Operated by: Skippy Down Under Tours

🕒 Tour runs approx. 2pm–8pm

💰 $650 per couple, or from $220 pp (group of 3+ in Pokolbin area)

🌅 Pro Tip: Let your guide know is you’d like a vineyard photo stop at golden hour — it’s worth it.