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Posted by Karolien | Spaceships Intern
No need to be a connoisseur to revel in a road trip to Hunter Valley, the crown jewel of Australia's wine regions. Whether you're a budding enthusiast keen to unravel the intricacies of winemaking or a seasoned wine lover eager to savour the finest vintages, Hunter Valley promises an unforgettable experience.
My companion and I embarked on our journey aboard a Spaceships campervan, this time, upgrading to the more premium Beta 2S model, aptly named Jupiter, the King of the Gods in ancient Roman mythology and the King of Campervans for us. This campervan category offered superior comfort and generous space compared to our previous Alpha (budget) model. Last time we embarked on a road trip to the Blue Mountains but this time we wanted to explore Hunter Valley. Hop on board, here we go....
Hunter Valley, a mere two-hour drive from Sydney (175 km), welcomed us with its serene landscapes. We decided to camp for the night at BIG4 Hunter Valley Holiday Park. For a modest $35, we secured a charming camping spot, access to a refreshing pool, and well-maintained shower and toilet facilities — a perfect blend of budget-friendly convenience and comfort.
We parked Jupiter and set up the side tent for additional shade. Although I'm a sun enthusiast, the occasional respite in the shade is always welcome.
Our culinary adventure began at Kelman Vineyard, conveniently located within walking distance from our campsite — a sensible choice considering the potential hazards of drinking and driving. The vineyard offered us a palate-pleasing exploration of the region's signature wines and an intriguing insight into their creative process.
Next, we ventured to The Garden Cellars in Pokolbin, where we expanded our tasting experience to include not just wine but also chocolate and vodka. As our campervan was safely parked, we were free to indulge in this delicious exploration.
Post our gastronomic tour of Hunter Valley, we set course for Port Stephens, eager to soak up some beach vibes. Our first stop was the quaint Fisherman’s Bay, boasting a secluded beach and breathtaking views.
Armed with provisions, we set up our portable gas cooker for an afternoon feast, savouring the meal amidst nature's splendour. We concluded the day at Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park, a more upscale destination featuring a large pool and a mini wildlife reserve, home to wild koalas, pelicans, and other fauna. All for a reasonable $30 per night for our vehicle with two Space Travellers.
Inside that little piece of nature, you could find wild koalas and other wild animals. In the water, we saw wild pelicans. All campsites and holiday parks can be found in the guidebook that came with our Spaceships. But you can also use the free camping app by Spaceships.
Our road trip finale took us to Caves Beach, a hidden gem with a laid-back vibe. At high tide, it offered the unique opportunity to swim into a cave - an adventurous punctuation to our journey.
Our Hunter Valley and beach road trip concluded with a swift return to Sydney, carrying with us a trove of delightful memories and experiences.
Preparation is key to having a smooth and enjoyable road trip to Hunter Valley. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination, and take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the Hunter Valley.
Hunter Valley is known for its vineyards, so a bit of knowledge about different wines and the wine-making process can enhance your experience. Familiarize yourself with the region's geography, climate (Hunter Valley has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters), and the unique varietals it offers (like Semillon and Shiraz). Look into local customs and social norms, as well as the region's history.
If you're renting a campervan like the Spaceships model mentioned earlier, make sure you know how to operate all its features, including attaching the rear awning or converting a seat into a bed. If using your own vehicle, get it thoroughly checked, especially if you're planning to drive on less frequented or rural roads that can be found in some parts of the Hunter Valley.
Book your campsites in advance. Places like holiday parks in Hunter Valley and Port Stephens are popular and can fill up quickly. These locations offer camping amenities, and some even provide wildlife experiences, like spotting wild koalas.
Given the region's climate, pack lightweight clothing for the day, but don't forget a jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable footwear is a must for vineyard tours. Other essentials include good quality sunscreen, a hat, toiletries, maps, a mobile charger, and camping gear such as a portable gas cooker for cooking at your campsite. When hiring a Spaceships campervan it'll be easy for you as these compact campervans come with cooking & sleeping gear included.
Pack groceries for meals you plan to cook at the campsite. Also, Hunter Valley offers a range of culinary experiences, from fine dining to artisan cheese makers and chocolatiers, which you might want to explore. When it comes to drinking, enjoy the wine tasting, but remember to do so responsibly. Drinking and driving is a serious offence, and there are strict laws in Australia against it.
Identify the vineyards you'd like to visit. Some popular ones include Kelman Vineyard and The Garden Cellars. Also, plan for other activities like visiting the Hunter Valley Gardens, enjoying a hot air balloon ride, or exploring the local art galleries. If you plan to enjoy a heavy wine-tasting session, consider arranging a designated driver or booking a guided tour that provides transportation.
Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region so there are plenty of esteemed and award-winning wineries to choose from. Here are some of the notable ones that offer unique experiences:
Each of these wineries offers something unique, whether it's historical significance, stunning views, sustainable practices, or simply exceptional wines.
Hunter Valley is home to stunning landscapes and wildlife. Always adhere to local guidelines, dispose of waste properly, and avoid disturbing any wildlife you may encounter. If you're visiting the beach, be mindful of the local marine life.
While it's good to have a plan, some of the best adventures are unplanned. If you come across a hidden gem, be it a secluded beach or a lesser-known vineyard, don't hesitate to explore it.
This is an easy yet hard question as it all depends. It really depends on what you're looking for in your road trip to Hunter Valley. Let's dive deeper into this and see what you can expect from each season in Hunter Valley.
There's really no bad time to visit Hunter Valley. Autumn is often recommended for its pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and the excitement of the harvest.