6 Outdoor Activities in the Hunter Valley

After months of lockdown, restrictions have finally eased to allow interstate travel. So, what better time to plan your perfect NSW getaway. The Hunter Valley is three hours north of Sydney and is the perfect place to reconnect with family and friends and enjoy the great outdoors once again. In this article, we have put together six of the best outdoor activities in the Hunter Valley to help plan your well-deserved break this Summer. 

Outdoor activities in the Hunter Valley

1. Grape Mobile Wine Tour

Experience the country air as you cycle around the Hunter Valley’s best wine and food spots. Grape mobile bicycle hire is situated at Pokolbin Brothers Wines. Centrally located in the premium wine region of Pokolbin it is the ideal spot to start your day. There are multiple bike options to choose from including electric, conventional, and tandem. Pick a trail to follow and cycle your way round some of the region’s best wineries and local restaurants.

2. Local Markets

One of the best outdoor activities in the Hunter Valley involves spend the morning strolling around one of the local markets. One of the most popular is Handmade in the Hunter Markets – held every second and fourth Saturday of the month. Located in the beautiful gardens of Sobel Wines you can discover quality handmade arts, crafts and food all produced by Hunter Valley residents. There are multiple markets to choose from all falling on different days of the week each month. To find out what’s on during your stay, check out markets in the Hunter Valley.

3. Horse Riding Experience

A unique way to experience the Hunter Valley is by horse, an outdoor activity in the Hunter Valley not to be missed! The region offers many horse riding tours and packages to suit both beginners and experienced riders. Hunter Valley Horses offers a range of vineyard and bush trails including private and group tours. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the spectacular views to the Broken Back Range.

4. The Hunter Valley Gardens

Head to The Hunter Valley Gardens and get in the Christmas spirit! The gardens are illuminated with over three million Christmas lights. There are numerous displays with different themes including the lovers tunnel, a giant castle and ‘Hunter’ the giant teddy bear.  Spend a magical evening exploring the spectacular display’s and enjoy the exciting amusement rides along the way. There are great rides for kids to enjoy including the super slide and carousel and there are various food and beverage options spread throughout the gardens.

5. Hot Air Balloon Ride

What could be more perfect than floating above Australia’s oldest wine growing region? Beyond Ballooning is a long-established family ballooning business who will take you on an outdoor activity in the Hunter Valley like no other. The balloon flights last around one hour and can accommodate 2 – 24 people. For that extra special experience, opt for their sunrise flight and watch as the sun come up and illuminates the gorgeous scenery below.

 

6. Picnic in the Vines

There are so many amazing cellar doors with beautiful grounds in the Hunter Valley region, you are spoilt for choice. Spend the afternoon exploring and tasting some of the regions best wines and then settle down amongst the vines for a delicious picnic. Many of the local cellar doors offer picnic in the vines including luxury set ups with boutique styling and grazing platters. Or you can simply bring your own blanket, grab a grazing box, and pick a spot amongst the vines. Tyrells, Stomp! and Greenway Wines are just a few of the wineries offering this outdoor activity in the Hunter Valley.

SA Weekend Escapes’ Top Hotel Pick!

The Hunter Gateway Motel is the ultimate spot for your weekend escape. Ideally located to explore some of the region’s best wineries and attractions. The modern rooms provide everything you need for a comfortable stay and there is even an outdoor pool to enjoy after a day of exploring.

More Things to Do in The Hunter Valley

Looking for even more inspiration for your trip to the Hunter Valley? Check out our ultimate guide.