There is something for everyone in some of NSW’s most beautiful and bountiful wine regions; while dreamy wine escapes and world-class wine springs immediately to mind and are ideal for wine enthusiasts, there is also a vast range of other activities that will tickle the fancies of other travellers, including nature lovers, foodies, culture vultures and families.
1. Unparalleled Wine and Vineyards
You can’t claim to have visited NSW’s thriving wine regions if you haven’t had their wines. A harmonious symphony of century-old vineyards, historic cellars and urban wineries, you will be spoilt for choice with the selection of award-winning, fine wines available here.
Canberra District
Named after Australia’s nearby capital, the Canberra District is a cool climate region three hours southwest of Sydney. This highly regarded and flourishing young wine region is one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, with more than 140 vineyards and 30 cellar doors producing award-winning, elegant wines.
Featured in The Wall Street Journal as the makers of one of the greatest Shiraz, Clonakilla winery is a must-visit on your wine itinerary. The Riesling Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Shiraz here are the first commercial vintage produced in the Canberra district by John Kirk back in 1976.
Taste the best of the best at Shaw Wines, where they have curated a collection of 4 award-winning cool-climate wines for their Reserve label. This beautiful, modern winery offers a range of experiences from private tastings and casual lounging, to a full-day adventure with Shaw Escape, which includes return flights from Sydney, scenic helicopter tours, guided wine tastings and a delicious three-course lunch with your choice of Shaw’s Reserve range of wines.
Hunter Valley
Dating back to the 1820s, the Hunter Valley is the oldest and one of the most established wine-growing regions in NSW. Expect to find more than 150 wineries and cellar doors, acclaimed restaurants, stunning scenery and an endless amount of experiences here, just two hours north of Sydney
Visit Brokenwood Wines, one of Australia’s most reputable premium wine label and home to the famous Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, ILR Reserve Semillon and Cricket Pitch Range. Wine epicures would not want to miss the exclusive VIP Soil-to-Cellar experience, where you’ll get to see the behind-the-scenes of the winery, savour a degustation menu with matched wines, barrel tasting and a bottle of current release Graveyard Shiraz
We also love the vibes at Tulloch Wines where celebrating the good life of wine, food, family and friends has been the fuel behind this four-generation winery for the past 125 years. Be spoilt for choice with their wide range of experiences designed around their iconic Hunter wines, such as the Chocolate and Wine pairing, the Mystery Wine Tour and the Hunter Heroes & Global Flavours.
Mudgee
An easy three-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of Sydney through the Blue Mountains, the Mudgee wine region is a favourite among nature and food and wine lovers for its beauty, heritage and world-class produce.
Voted Best Cellar Door Experience by Australian Gourmet Traveller magazine, Logan Wines offers a range of styles from shiraz to sauvignon blanc, sure to delight every palate. This boutique winery has its tasting room perched on the side of a hill with uninterrupted views of their vineyard for visitors to enjoy with their wine, cheese and antipasto plates, or coffee and homemade cake.
Have ‘A Sparkling Affair’ with matched French-style sparkling wines and canapés at De Beaurepaire, a boutique producer of French-style wines. The historic cellar door is located in 170-year-old stables and offers sweeping views of the vineyards. Wine tastings and grazing boards are available usually, but we recommend visiting during the Long Lunch in the Vines, an annual event serving up great wine, food and music.
Orange
Skip town for the weekend to Orange, a food and wine lovers’ delight. This cool climate wine region is located three-and-a-half hours’ drive west of Sydney and is the perfect place to escape for wine, food and culture, offering highly acclaimed restaurants, fashionable cafes, growers markets, designer shopping, art galleries and more.
Philip Shaw Wines is one of the pioneering winemaking families of Orange, housed in the Koomooloo vineyard that is famed for being the highest and coolest vineyards in Australia. You can enjoy a range of wine and food tasting experiences at their cellar door, located in a beautiful 130 year Bluestone barn witha stunning view of surrounding gardens.
The underground Cellar Door at Borrodell Vineyard is another picturesque option with seasonal experiences, from the delight of Truffle hunting and snow in the winter, the joy of blossoms and budburst in the spring, the heat of the Australian summer, through to the rainbow of autumnal colour.
Shoalhaven Coast
Just two hours from Sydney on the NSW South Coast, the Shoalhaven Coast wine region is a gourmet paradise with sustainable seafood, fresh produce, elegant wineries and acclaimed restaurants uniquely situated alongside pristine beaches and spectacular national parks.
Let Cupitt's Estate‘s head winemaker guide you through this pretty winery tucked behind the hills of Milton, boasting a brewery, fromagerie, restaurant and cottage accommodation, with beautiful views over the vineyard to Burrill Lake and the Budawang Ranges. Cambewarra Estate Winery is a cellar door located at the foothills of the Cambewarra Mountain, offering a unique high tea experience where guests can enjoy sweet and savoury delights with tea and sparkling wine set amongst the grapevines.
Southern Highlands
Located just 90 minutes south of Sydney, the Southern Highlands is a cool climate wine region with 17 cellar doors, ranging from elegant French provincial to contemporary architectural statements.
Experience unmatched elegance at Peppergreen Estate, where you can taste wine in a cellar door that once operated as a famous antique store, stroll through the Estate’s vineyard with charismatic and experienced guides, and even pick your own olives at the olive groves in Canyonleigh. If you’re seeking something extra special, check out the urban cellar door at Tractorless Vineyard & Bowral Brewings, where traditional knowledge and skills with new-world techniques are combined using biodynamic principles. Sheep feeding, barrel tasting with the winemaker and grape stomping are some of the unique offerings on their menu, apart from the regular tastings and vineyard tours.
2. World-Class Culinary Offerings
Canberra District
Depending on the day you are visiting, the Smokehouse Restaurant at Poachers Pantry serves up a different menu with premium smoked meats that would impress chefs and foodies alike. Choose to pick up a picnic hamper for a weekday picnic in the vines or head over after sleeping in on the weekends for a delicious 2-course brunch or 3-course lunch.
Hunter Valley
Be amazed by the culinary genius of Robert Molines and his team as you savour the sophisticated, yet rustic French Provincial dishes at Bistro Molines. Having won a Sydney Morning Herald Good Guide Chefs Hat for 10 consecutive years, Robert isn’t hailed as the godfather of the Hunter Valley dining scene for nothing!
Mudgee
Tuck into homegrown or locally sourced produce at Pipeclay Pumphouse, where freshness is meticulously preserved and accentuated with simple techniques. This in-house restaurant at the Robert Stein Vineyard & Winery follows a paddock to plate philosophy, and creates menus that pay homage to the land and the produce it brings. The Zin House shares the same sentiment about local produce, sourcing from neighbours and producers within the region what they don’t grow themselves. You can sit back, relax and take your own sweet time with the good food and wine here as there is no time limit on your table.
If you prefer to get your hands busy, you can opt to make your own meals at The Little Cooking School, an informal, relaxed creative space located on the outskirts of Mudgee. They offer cooking classes suited to all levels, with masterclasses in sourdough, gnocchi and pasta.
Orange
At Charred Kitchen & Bar, the best local produce from Orange and beyond are imparted with a unique flavour with their newly commissioned "Lucifer" wood and charcoal. To pair with an impressive menu inspired by travels around the world, the award-winning beverage list here showcases the very best that the Orange wine region has to offer, not forgetting key representation of other wines from NSW.
Shoalhaven Coast
The highly awarded team at Bangalay Dining devotes to creating dishes full of integrity with a sprinkling of whimsy. They are passionate about delivering quality food from local, respected producers and incorporating the foraging element in a sustainable and ethical way. Pick between formal dining and an alfresco area, where you can enjoy a cocktail by the bar looking out over the pool and golf course whilst enjoying the ocean breeze as you sit back, relax and connect over a delectable meal.
Home to chef Rick Stein, the iconic Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook specialises in freshly caught seafood that is prepared simply. Freshly shucked oysters, Hervey Bay Scallops and lobster thermidor are some of the highlights on the menu.
Queen Street Eatery & Wine Bar is a relaxed and approachable French-inspired restaurant and wine bar, serving classic French bistro dishes with a fresh, South Coast spin, served with delicious curation of Australian and French drinks, a laid back yet fun atmosphere and honest hospitality.
Southern Highlands
One of the newest culinary highlights of the Southern Highlands, Birch offers a dining experience that is stamped with innovation and warm hospitality. Their innovative and contemporary modern Australian menu is created and crafted to deliver dishes that utilise what is premium right now.
3. Expansive Nature
Hunter Valley
Barrington Tops National Park is a spectacular destination with ancient rainforest, wild adventure, gold rush heritage, and delicious food and wine. From camping by idyllic rivers to bushwalking and rugged 4WD trails, you’ll also find outdoor wonders and country hospitality in riverside towns such as Dungog and Gloucester. This amazing park is also part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, where volcanic flows shaped the incredible wilderness millions of years ago. Enjoy the scenery here on many invigorating bushwalks. There are also great adventure tours for kayaking, abseiling and mountain biking.
Mudgee
World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park offers a dramatic setting for scenic walks, swimming, canoeing and camping, just a couple of hours north-west of Sydney. As part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the Wollemi National Park boasts of scenic canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers and serene forests, allowing for ample opportunities to be immersed in the beauty of the largest wilderness area in NSW.
Orange
Unpack a picnic at a shady and relaxing spot at the Verandah Cave, a large limestone overhang protecting large pools of water near Orange. Look out for yellow box gum and apple box trees, and possibly even eastern grey kangaroos as you embark on a pleasant 3.5 kilometre walk along Boree Creek trail, or explore the rocky outcrops formed over thousands of years by fast-moving water. If you’re very quiet, you might be lucky to see a shy platypus! A great destination for a weekend getaway or a stretch of the legs on a car tour along Borenore trail.
Near the foot of Mount Canobolas, Lake Canobolas invites locals and visitors for a wide range of activities following the changing of the seasons, including cycling, sailing, canoeing, walking, swimming, triathlons and dragon boating. If you’re more into a laid back experience, check out the numerous picnic areas, barbecues and fishing spots or take a stroll along the walking track that meanders around the lake and is a haven for native birds and other wildlife.
Southern Highlands
Be enthralled by nature at Morton National Park where the cascading Fitzroy Falls and the sweeping views from the top of Pigeon House Mountain Didthul will leave you breathless. There’s something for everyone here; whether you're an experienced bushwalker looking for remote wilderness hiking, a novice mountain biker looking for an easy ride or a keen photographer looking for some scenic waterfalls to capture.
Shoalhaven Coast
The Booderee National Park is one of Australia’s most stunning national parks, with crystal-clear waters, beautiful white sand beaches, and high cliffs and historic relics overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean. This gorgeous park features extraordinary native wildlife and is adorned with expansive botanic gardens. Alternatively, you could explore the Aboriginal heritage of Jervis Bay National Park and visit Hyams Beach, renowned for its white sand and whale watching.
Canberra District
Appreciate nature and wineries from a new perspective with Canberra Helicopters, who provide exceptional helicopter experiences to Regional NSW and specialise in tour packages to wineries in the Canberra District wine region. You will get to enjoy wineries, golf and mountain tours all via an easy helicopter transfer.
4. Stunning Accommodation
Rest your bones after a fruitful day of activities at some of the most luxurious abodes NSW wine’s regions.
Canberra District
Situated in the heart of Canberra’s cool climate wine country, Abode Murrumbateman is the region’s first four-star hotel, offering a selection of stylish studio rooms that are designed to accommodate all needs and studios designed specifically for people who are mobility impaired. Just a stone’s throw away from world-class wineries and local farmers markets, bakeries, cafes and parks, Abode Murrumbateman is the perfect getaway any day of the week.
Hunter Valley
Honeymooners would want to consider staying the night at Spicers Vineyards Estate, a boutique five star retreat renowned for being the Hunter Valley’s most awarded destination for romance. Just a two hour drive from Sydney or one hour from Newcastle, you’ll be greeted by the hotel’s very own vineyard and natural bushland. Rejuvenate your mind at Spa Anise, and relish in innovative cuisines created exclusively at Restaurant Botanica with a scenic view of their private vineyard.
Mudgee
Camp in style, luxury and absolute serenity at Sierra Escape, Mudgee’s very own Glamping accommodation. Leave your daily grind and unwanted human interactions at the door and allow Mother Nature to heal you. With over 280 acres, Sierra Escape is the perfect place to relax in serenity – without having to worry about noisy neighbours (save for a few cows and sheep!). So go ahead, slide into a warm bath on your private deck with a glass of wine and watch the day end with a finale of incredible sunsets.
Tired of hotels but prefer something indoors? Reside in a historical, beautifully appointed cottage at Evanslea, a five-star luxury boutique accommodation nestled alongside the Cudgegong River. Just minutes away from the centre of Mudgee, this luxury refuge is still near all the action without compromising on serenity.
Orange
In the heart of Orange’s heritage precinct, the Byng Street Boutique Hotel welcomes you to experience the wondrous juxtaposition of its historical homestead and contemporary architecture. Satisfy your appetite for unique style, luxurious comfort and sophistication at this 4.5 star accommodation.
After spending the day at Rowlee Wines, you can stay overnight at their luxury guesthouses, tucked away on the grounds of Rowlee’s vineyard estate. Every master bedroom here comes with its own private verandah, where you can lie back and enjoy your extended getaway.
Shoalhaven Coast
Immerse yourself in the most authentic coastal living experience that Shoalhaven Heads has to offer at Bangalay Luxury Villas, an architecturally designed luxury located amongst the pristine backdrop of the coastal national park and Shoalhaven Heads golf course. Check out the diverse experiences brought to you through proud partnerships with local businesses, sample native inspired dishes and succumb to the relaxed South Coast way of life.
It’s not just all wine and sea here at the Shoalhaven Coast. Animal lovers would adore The Woods Farm, a unique country property located on 40 acres of serene bushland in Jervis Bay. Every holiday cabin and glamping tent here is bestowed with its own unique country theme. Embrace the opportunity to interact with all of their farm animals such as miniature goats and horses, chickens, peacocks, alpacas, ponies, cows...and if that’s not enough for you, there is even a local mob of 60ish kangaroos and some wallabies.
For something extra special, sleep in a forest of eucalyptus and paperbarks in a canvas safari tent at Paperbark Camp, and wake up to the gorgeous coastal views and calming breezes of Jervis Bay. These African inspired canvas safari tents, lifted off the ground for privacy, comfort and wind catching, were replicated in NSW by owners Jeremy & Irena Hutchings, who had been smitten by this tented style of accommodation during their travels in Africa.
Southern Highlands
There is a particular romance associated with fine wines, quality cuisine and a good old paperback book, and at Bendooley Estate’s Book Barn, you can have the best of all three worlds. The luxurious cottages within this beautifully preserved 200-acre property are an elegant harmony of rustic and glamour, enhanced by picturesque surroundings.
Plan a leisure escape without travelling far from the city at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral, where the leisurely life is celebrated in a traditional fashion. Having stood for a century, this impressive country retreat is reminiscent of a gentrified period in time. The range of hotel services and beautiful gardens allows guests to truly relax and experience the majesty of the Southern Highlands.
5. Family-Friendly
Canberra District
Only 25 minutes from Canberra, the Blackwattle Alpaca Farm is ideal for family excursions. Visit them to learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about alpacas and farm life. Make sure to book a tour in advance if you’re planning to meet their adorable alpacas and llamas in person!
Chocoholics would want to make a stop at Robyn Rowe Chocolates for their chocolate fix, where these moreish delicacies are handcrafted with the highest quality imported Belgian Callebaut Fair Trade couverture, filled with fresh produce abundant in the Canberra region and contain no artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives.
Hunter Valley
Trot through beautiful vineyards on the gentle creatures at Murchessons Horseback Wine & Dine Tours to make your trip to the Hunter Valley extra memorable. Don’t worry if you’re clueless about horse riding as Murchessons has been accredited by Horse Safety Australia and they adhere to best practices to ensure riders are safe at all times.
At Llama Walking Tours, everybody gets a llama companion all to themselves for an hour long stroll through the vines with the beautiful backdrop of the Broken Back Mountain range surrounding the vineyard. Garden lovers will also enjoy strolling through 14 hectares of gardens at the Hunter Valley Gardens, where there are 6000 trees, 600,000 shrubs and over one million ground cover plants, waterfalls, statues, murals and more.
Mudgee
Big and small kids can both hop on the Mudgee Miniature Railway, a three and a half, and five inch gauge miniature railway giving rides behind steam, petrol and electric powered miniature trains. A non-profit co-operative, the railway operates depending on the weather on the second Sunday of every month.
Besides premium wines, Mudgee also offers premium honey at Honey Haven, where you can try and pick from the widest selection of honey available. Kids would love to try a hand at the 18 hole putt putt course or observe bees hard at work through a special glass window of working beehives. Being in a wine region, you can even find honey wines and liqueurs here that are available for sampling.
Orange
This region is a paradise for wine lovers and children alike, with a range of kid-friendly activities to keep them content while the adults enjoy their wines.
The Orange Adventure Playground is a fun-loving oasis for all kids, including those with special needs. This community-built playground with delightfully themed constructions also has barbecues, picnic shelters, a bicycle road-safety course and is located next to the picturesque Orange Botanic Gardens, allowing for some extended walks and bird watching.
The petting zoo and farm at Heifer Station comes complimentary when you pick out something from their range of wines, local beers, ciders and soft drinks. You’ll get to watch beef cattle graze, pet the friendly alpacas, feed the funky chooks and resident goats, and snap a photograph with Tilly the mini Shetland, Heifer Station’s very own wine pony.
Before you go, don’t miss the chance to pick your own cherries at Hillside Harvest, a fully operational fruit orchard complete with a farm stall set in the foothills of Mt Canobolas and just 10 minutes from the centre of Orange.
Shoalhaven Coast
The Shoalhaven Zoo is a must-go for families, with an extensive collection of native and exotic animals set in amongst the most spectacular natural rock formations and bushland, all on the banks of the beautiful Shoalhaven River. Horse lovers in particular, should check out the Regal Horseriding School based just on the outskirts of Shoalhaven Heads where you’ll get to see the Seven Mile Beach on horseback.
If your kids fancy getting up close and personal with marine animals, take a whale or dolphin watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild. The Winter Whale Cruise gives you the rare opportunity to witness the majestic beauty of our migrating Humpback Whales from late May to November while the Dolphin Tour gives you a glimpse of the Bottlenose Dolphin that live in the crystal clear waters of Jervis Bay all year-round and is highly recognisable and known for its long snout and distinctive smile.
Southern Highlands
Bigger kids aren’t left out of the fun! Soar through the trees at the highest zipline in Australia or walk above the treetops at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, a unique eco-wilderness adventure that takes place in the magnificent Illawarra Rainforest. You’ll get to learn about the growing and vibrant forest, whilst capturing unparalleled views of everything from the forest floor, into the canopy and a glimpse out to the Pacific Ocean
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