Pokolbin – Hunter Valley, NSW
Hunter Valley Gardens in Pokolbin
Foodies and winos listen up! If you haven’t heard of Pokolbin in New South Wales, commit the name to memory because it is your next vacation destination. Located in the famous Lower Hunter Valley wine region, Pokolbin is home to many of Australia’s oldest and best-known wineries as well as newer vineyards, which are quickly making a name for themselves. In addition to the wineries, there are many shops, restaurants, cheese makers, and gardens—really the ideal spot for those who love good food and drink.
It’s all about wine in Pokolbin. Also known as the Hunter Valley, vineyards have existed in the area since the 1830s. The area is specifically known for Shiraz, which is dubbed by some as “Australia’s unique gift to the world.”
Possibly the greatest and most luxurious way to experience Pokolbin is to stay in an all-inclusive resort that specializes in all things wine. Pokolbin Village, for example, incorporates wine into every aspect of your stay. In addition to wine tastings and tours of local vineyards which are easily arranged by the Village staff, guests can enjoy wine-inspired culinary treats in the on site restaurant, shop for discounted wines in the Winemaker’s Outlet, and of course, enjoy a bottle of complimentary wine upon arrival.
Resorts such as the Pokolbin Village and other Pokolbin accommodation like hotels and bed and breakfasts are in close proximity to over 70 area restaurants. With local produce, artesian cheeses, and olive oil, chefs in the area have brought these ingredients to life in unique, Australian style. Try the Verandah Restaurant, a tapas-style eatery that showcases modern Australian cuisine. The menu changes frequently, as the restaurant only serves the freshest local produce. For a light lunch, try the Bread Basket, which specializes in home made breads, cheeses, and desserts. Bring a picnic basket and stock up for an amazing meal on the go.
Your stomach will likely need a rest after all that food and wine. Luckily, there are plenty of shopping opportunities, golf courses, and even hot air ballooning! There is certainly no better way to take in your surroundings than in a hot air balloon that calmly floats above the earth.
Set in the historic district of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Gardens is nestled amongst the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges in the heart of the Hunter vineyards. It is one of Australia’s premier tourist destinations, Hunter Valley Gardens is 60 acres of magnificent gardens, with 10 theme gardens; Formal, Indian Mosaic, Rose, Italian Grotto with the statue of St Francis of Assisi (patron saint of birds and animals), Border Garden, waterfall in the Sunken Garden, the elegant Oriental Garden and the kids favourite – Storybook Garden.
With a climate similar to that of the Mediterranean, there is no bad time to visit Pokolbin. Just be sure to bring an extra bag on your trip, because you’ll likely want to take lots of wine and cheese back home!
