Top 5 Family Activities in the Hunter Valley

More than 150 wineries make the Hunter Valley a notable cellar-door and gourmet destination, but other attractions lure more than just wine lovers. Despite it being known as a wine region, the Hunter Valley has a range of activities and attractions suitable for families and children. If you’re seeking to break up your day or entertain the kids, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide providing hours of entertainment. Stay with us at the Hunter Gateway Motel, affordable, motel-style accommodation suitable for the whole family.

Hunter Valley Gardens  

The Hunter Valley Gardens is a vast landscaped park with 10 feature gardens spread out over 25 acres. Within the gardens there is The Gardens Village, a collection of just over 20 different shops and sells sweets, honey, wine, chocolate, candles, books, toys, handmade crafts and loads more.

Photo via (IG) @huntervalleygardens

Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures

Take a horse ride with Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures. The one and a half hour ride will take you through the vineyards and past spectacular views of the valley below. If horse riding is too calm for you, try an off-road 4WD evening adventure. It’s a great opportunity to see native nocturnal wildlife.

Photo via (IG) @philcatania_

The Chocolate and Fudge Factory 

This is where all the magic happens for the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company. It’s not Willy Wonka’s, but it will still give your kids a buzz. The factory makes all kinds of chocolate goodies like honeycomb, mint slice and giant jaffas, as well as handmade choccies, poured into the shape of penguins and other assortments. Watch the kids’ eyes light up in front of the jelly bean towers or the chocolate fondue fountain. Fancy some watermelon fudge? The factory also sells an impressive range of fudge and you can taste test a few of their favourites.

Photo via (IG) @hvchocolate

Balloons Aloft 

It’s an early start at 4am, but hot air ballooning over the beautiful Hunter Valley with Balloons Aloft is an experience you will never forget. The balloon glides swiftly and silently above the valley as you watch the vineyards drift by below, and kangaroos scatter in your shadow.

Photo via (IG) @balloonaloft

Hunter Valley Zoo 

The Hunter Valley Zoo is a fantastic interactive zoo where you can feed kangaroos and wallabies, hold a few reptiles and cuddle up to koalas. The zoo has a wide variety of exotic and native animals.

Photo via (IG) @huntervalleyzoo

Where to Stay? Stay with us at the Hunter Gateway Motel, affordable family-style accommodation, the ideal base when exploring the Hunter Valley. Book Now! 

Header Image via Hunter Valley Wine Country