What are the Best Things to Do in Hunter Valley?

Heading to the Hunter Valley soon? Well, you’re in for a memorable time. The Hunter is packed with possibilities, whether you're looking for a fun family trip or a romantic getaway for two.

While our vineyards are definitely a highlight (we are a wine region after all!), there's so much more to see and do here. As locals, we know a few hidden gems in our backyard, and we're excited to share some of our insider tips on the best things to do in the Hunter Valley. If you weren't already sold on visiting, get ready to hear some of our top recommendations…

Hunter Valley scenic flights

Since the Hunter Valley is so big, a scenic flight is the perfect way to see a lot in a short amount of time! You can get a birds'-eye view of all the vineyards and can even plan an itinerary and book experiences that include landing at restaurants with their very own helipads! Talk about arriving with class! 

For the more adventurous experience, you can even take a flight in thrilling & rare warbirds. It’s a very popular choice for history buffs. Just be sure to experience any loop-de-loops before you start any wine tasting! 

Private Hot Air Balloon

Now, this one's for the romantics! Okay, yes, being 2000ft in the air sounds a little intense… but don't worry! A hot air balloon ride is a surprisingly peaceful and calming experience, even for those who are a little afraid of heights! Drifting over the Hunter Valley's vineyards with that special someone and watching the world wake up is an experience worth taking. It’s one to tick off the bucket list for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the only ways to see all of the Hunter Valley greenery!

Enjoy a Hunter Valley cheese tasting

Okay, time for something a little more grounded and calming! A cheese tasting is a perfect and relaxing way to enjoy the Hunter Valley's hospitality scene. Binnorie Dairy, for instance, offers some of the country's best cheeses, all curated by experts.

You'll find a wide selection of popular cheeses in the Hunter, from classic brie and vintage cheddar to goat's cheese and blue vein. It's a fantastic way to enjoy some of the local flavours on offer!

Get Amongst the Gardens

Getting close to some beautiful scenery is a guarantee here in the Hunter, and the Hunter Valley Gardens perfectly captures this. With 10 different themed areas spread over 14 hectares, you'll find water features, statues, mystical characters, rides, and beautiful walking paths. It's one of the best and most creative green spaces in Australia! It’s a family hot-spot for a reason, with little ones loving the themed activities while adults take in the stunning surroundings. Whether it's the dinosaur-themed mega creature trails or the enchanting storybook garden, the Hunter Valley Gardens is fantastic at keeping both the kids and adults entertained for hours. Plus, for those looking to update their Instagram, you’ll be sure to take some of the best photos at the many picturesque hotspots. 

Wine Tasting (obviously!)

Okay, yes, we had to finish with the most classic Hunter Valley experience of all. For good reason, too! The Hunter is renowned for its world-class wines, and our vineyards not only offer world-class wines but also a beautiful setting for all.

Now, we understand if you take this next bit with a grain of salt, but without being biased (we promise!), Tulloch is one of the best spots for your visit! Of course, our wines are great, but what makes us different is that we cater to everyone.

There’s nothing quite like a chilled Verdelho on a summer’s day, but if wine's not your thing, we've even got non-drinkers and younger visitors covered. Our Kids’ Junior Experience and Kombucha Tasting make us a perfect spot for families. It means everyone gets to have a great time with an experience created just for them, while you can relax and enjoy some of the region’s best wines.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our Cellar Doors. If you're interested in visiting us, you can book an experience here!

So, why wait? There's a whole lot of charm and amazing experiences waiting for you here, from gardens and scenic flights to delicious cheese tastings and, of course, some fantastic wines.

If you're looking for more help planning your trip, we've got a free 'Exploring Together' travel guide that takes all the guesswork out of planning. It's packed with recommendations for tastings, restaurants, activities, and even complete weekend itineraries.

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