Hunter Valley Wine Tours from Sydney

With miles of lush vineyards, abundant orchards, and rolling countryside, the Hunter Valley—Australia’s oldest wine-producing region—makes an idyllic daylong retreat from Sydney. Here is a rundown of some options for a perfect wine-tasting tour. 

Group Tours

Group tours to the Hunter Valley offer the biggest savings and often include hotel pickup, wine tasting at a few wineries, and lunch. If you want to experience everything the region has to offer, choose a tour that includes a visit to attractions such as the Hunter Valley Gardens or tastings of other local products such as regional cheeses, homemade chocolates, and freshly baked breads. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group tour with limited numbers or extend your trip to an overnight or multi-day tour.

Private Tours

Private tours ensure the undivided attention of your tour guide and typically can be customized to suit your preferences. Perhaps fly in by helicopter for lunch in the Hunter Valley, get the inside scoop on the region’s foodie hotspots, or enjoy a tailor-made tasting tour of the best wine estates and boutique wineries.

Things to Know

• The Hunter Valley is around 95 miles (150 kilometers) north of Sydney, or around a two-hour drive.

• Day tours from Sydney typically last between nine and 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.

• The best time for wine tasting is December through February, during harvest season, but it’s possible to visit the bigger wineries all year round.

• If you plan to tour the vineyards, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

• Most tours include hotel pickup and wine tasting fees, while some tours also include lunch, morning or afternoon tea, and entrance to other attractions such as the Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park.