Hunter Valley wine tours: a simple guide

The thing about wine tours is, someone always has to drive. Although you might have a designated driver who doesn’t mind stepping up and drinking cordial over wine, it’s usually more fun when everyone can take part in the day’s tastings. During your next trip to the Hunter Valley, opt for one of these listed Hunter Valley wine tours and enjoy being guided by the best in the business! 

Why book a Hunter Valley wine tour?

So you’re heading to the Hunter Valley! Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, it’s likely that you’ll be doing one important activity during your stay: wine tasting. During an escape to Australia’s oldest wine region, many people choose to take a wine tour – and there’s no wondering why.

Sit back and relax

One of the best things about Hunter Valley wine tours, is that you don’t have to drive. Although wine tasting is great fun, for the person who has to drive, the fun isn’t always shared. Taking part in a wine tour can increase enjoyment for the group; reducing the added stress of organisation, and allowing everyone to sit back and relax.

Admire the landscapes

Booking a wine tour in the Hunter Valley is a great idea because it provides the unique opportunity to experience the region’s renowned wine culture and stunning beauty, with the help of a knowledgable guide.

Immerse in the culture and history

In addition to allowing guests to explore some of the area’s top wineries and vineyards, wine tours offer insights into the history of winemaking in the region, as well as opportunities to engage with local vintners and discover exciting new wines.

Visit the best wineries

From large international wineries with big reputations, to small boutiquey vineyards with makeshift cellar doors, your tour will take you to the best venues and will help you get a good understanding of the region. There are more than 150 wineries dotted over the rolling green hills of the region, so make sure you’re visiting the ones you really want to see!

If you’ve decided to book a wine tour – that’s a great first step! The next decision you’ll have to make involves picking a company and a tour which suits your interests or preferences. 

How do I know which wine tour to book?

There are a few things to take in account when booking your wine tour:

Size of the tour group

The size of a tour group is one factor which could help you to make a decision. Some Hunter Valley wine tours are run in small groups, and others in larger groups. You can also enjoy a private wine tour with a driver if you don’t want to share your experience with strangers!

The duration of your tour

Wine tasting is tiring business. Whilst some seasoned wine drinkers might want to spend the whole day in cellar doors, others might only want to visit two spots before retiring for the afternoon. Choose your tour based on how long you want to be out and about.

The wineries you want to visit

Some tours may focus on well-known wineries, while others may offer more unique experiences, such as tastings of organic spirits or visits to small boutique vineyards. Decide which kind of wineries you’d like to visit and this might help you make a decision. If you aren’t able to find the right information, enquire with the company and find out which wineries they visit.

Your budget

From private tours, to intimate small groups and larger bus loads, Hunter Valley wine tours can vary in price. It’s worth reviewing the prices of different companies and matching you budget with your preferences as much as possible.

The reviews

It can be difficult to know exactly what kind of atmosphere your tour is going to provide. One way to decide which tour is right for you and your group, is to scan the reviews. Whilst some reviews might talk about professional service and a relaxing day, others might elude to younger groups and spirited atmospheres.

Brokenwood Wines, Pokolbin. Pic credit: Destination NSW

5 great Hunter Valley wine tours

Now that you’ve got an idea of what you want, it’s time to choose the Hunter Valley wine tour that’s right for you. Read on to discover five great wine tours totally worth your time!

Two Fat Blokes

Two Fat Blokes Wine Tours offers both half (usually three hours) and full-day (usually seven hours) tours of the Hunter Valley wine region. Fat Blokes visits a range of renowned wineries and vineyards, as well as a local brewery and gourmet food kitchen. The company prides itself on offering a unique, fun, and informative experience led by knowledgeable and passionate guides.

Select from full day Maserati Private Tours, to ‘Uncork the Hunter’ experiences which include a wonderful winery lunch and visits to three wineries.

Browse tours with Two Fat Blokes here. 

Urban Legends Tour Company

Embark on a luxurious, bespoke wine tour of the Hunter Valley with Urban Legends to discover the region’s best wineries and tasting experiences. The company’s carefully curated Hunter Valley wine tour offers scenic views of rolling vineyards, paired with delicious elements, such as cheese, condiments, and even chocolate. Catering to all groups of any size – including small or large hens parties – Urban Legends provides the utmost comfort with the help of their luxury vehicles.

Join Urban Legends for a wine tour experience that people can’t stop raving about!

Amazing Hunter Valley

Exploring the Hunter Valley region has never been easier! With tours running every weekend and catering to a variety of preferences and group sizes, Amazing Hunter Valley offers an affordable, social, and enjoyable way to see the best this renowned wine region has to offer.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or smaller group, joining a tour is an excellent way to meet fellow wine enthusiasts and discover the area’s famous wineries. Group tours, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, are particularly ideal for those unfamiliar with the region and seeking to explore the Hunter Valley in a fun, relaxed, and friendly environment.

Book your wine tour with Amazing Hunter Valley. 

Hunter Valley Horses

Imagine crossing the beautiful NSW landscape in a horse and carriage? Hunter Valley Horses offers a very unique way to explore the renowned wine region via horseback. On their wine tour, riders will visit two boutique wineries and indulge in a tasting of four premium wines at each stop. The tour also includes a sumptuous antipasto lunch, which patrons can enjoy with a glass of their favorite wine.

The experience is perfect for wine lovers and equestrian enthusiasts alike, offering a memorable way to experience the beautiful landscapes and exquisite wines of the Hunter Valley.

Explore Hunter Valley Horses and its available tours here. 

Ted’s Tours

From ‘Beginner’s Guide to the Hunter’, to ‘Hunter Hidden Gems’ and a ‘Big Day Out’, Ted’s Tours offers visitors to the Hunter Valley a broad range of experiences. Depending on your preferences, you’ll enjoy tours to either the big, well-known spots, or the boutiquey wineries you’d want to see on a second, third or fourth visit to the region.

Tours typically start and end with pick and and drop off, and a number of wineries are visited throughout the tour. Personalised tours are also available for those seeking a bespoke experience.

Browse Hunter Valley Ted’s Tours here. 

Book your stay in the Hunter Valley

Receive 10% off your stay at the Hunter Gateway using the code SAWE10.

The Hunter Gateway offers great amenities and comfortable rooms in the Hunter Valley. Positioned here, you’ll have easy access to world-renowned wineries, vineyards and historic attractions.

Book your room at the Hunter Gateway here.