Things to do in Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley is a region of Southern Australia renowned for its fertile rolling landscape, vineyards and wine production. But its not all just wine and beautiful countryside, the region attracts many visitors every year and as a consequence, it has become well equipped with a vast range of attractions and things to do for a multitude of visitors of all ages.
Every year hundreds and thousands of visitors take part in a variety of activities in the Hunter region and because Pindari House is so conveniently located on the verge of the Hunter Valley, guests are perfectly placed to peruse the wide variety of offerings in the Hunter region from the East coast of Australia into the heart of wine country. Learn more about the many attractions below in our own guide on what to do in the Hunter region of Australia..
Hot Air Ballooning
Take in the breath taking countryside from the air. Sour up to 1,000 feet from the ground and travel with the speed of the wind in these exhilarating 'good morning' experiences. 
Hot Air Ballooning is a fabulous way to see the stunning rolling countryside of the Hunter Valley with flights regularly planned all year round.
Our Hot Air Ballooning list shows the main operators in the Hunter region, and include experienced and Civil Aviation Safety Authority approved balloonists.
1. Hunter Valley Hot Air Ballooning ~ experience the thrill of flying over the Hunter Valley vineyards at sunrise with this highly reputable Hot Air Balloon company. Prices range from $247.50 to $750 per person which includes free transfers to and from Cessnock Airport (approximately 30 minutes drive from Pindari House), a complimentary Balloonists' Champagne Breakfast and a color Flight Certificate. Call 1800 81 81 91 to book or for more information, or see http://www.huntervalleyballooning.com.au/ to learn more and book online.
2. Balloon Aloft Australia Pty Ltd ~ 'Take off at dawn and witness the sunrise as you float gently over the picturesque landscape. Our reputation for reliability and safety is unsurpassed. The flight lasts approximately an hour, the memories last a lifetime... ' Balloon Aloft is approximately 30 minutes drive from Pindari Ho sue. Call 1800 028 568 for more information or learn more and book online at http://www.balloonaloft.com/
3. Cloud 9 Balloon Flights ~ drifting gently above the tops of the trees then soaring high into the sky to see the spectacular panoramic views of Sydney or the Hunter Valley in a hot air balloon. If you want to experience something different in your life that is unforgettable, possibly addictive then a hot air balloon flight is the experience for you. Visit http://www.cloud9balloonflights.com/ or call 1300 555 711 for more information and to book.
Vintage Aircraft Flights
Take a step up in the excitement stakes with a thrilling experience in the air looking down on the beauty of the Hunter Valley.
Choose from scenic sight seeing or thrill seeking aerobatic flights, and with a range of vintage airplanes on offer, from the Tiger Moth to a modern fighter jet, you can add 
phenomenal spice and variety to your stay. Or why not choose Hunter Valley as your training ground for advanced pilot training?
Most reputable operators also offer free pick up and drop off from your accommodation and some offer you a fully edited DVD Video of your flight experience for you to cherish for years to come.
1. Action Aerobatics' Vintage Adventure Flights ~ Enjoy breathtaking scenery and the experience of a life time as you fly over the picturesque Hunter Valley in one of a number of vintage aircraft including Tiger Moth, Pitts Special S2A Biplane or a vintage DHC-1 Chipmunk flown by professional pilots with over 35 years of aviation and top line aerobatic experience. Call (02) 4930 1009 or go to http://www.aerobatics.com.au/ for more information or to book.
2. Hunter Valley Aviation ~ Hunter Valley Aviation has a range of scenic joy flights that will show you everything the Hunter region has to offer, from just $60 per person. In addition, Hunter Aviation runs charter flights from Sydney to the Hunter or from the Hunter region to anywhere within Australia. Call (02) 4991 6500 for more information and to book or go to http://www.huntervalleyaviation.com/
Wine Tours
With over 80 vineyards to experience, wine tours are a key feature of Hunter Valley tourism.
The workings and produce of the Hunter Valley vineyards can be experienced using many forms of transportation including trail bikes, horse drawn carriage, tram, bus, 
four wheel drive and limousine. So you have a wide choice of travel during your vineyards tours.
Most tour operators offer luncheon packages, collection from and return to Pindari, wine tasting, visits to other local venues such as the Hunter Valley Cheese Company and Pindari House can even supply a picnic basket (advance booking required)..
1. AAA Charters and Tours ~ Tour the Hunter Valley in specially adapted Mercedes carriers while you stop off at vineyards, see and sample the best that the Hunter has to offer in terms of wines, cheese, fudge, beer, gourmet or cafe lunches or whatever you desire. Call (02) 9909 0140 or go to http://www.amercedestours.com.au/NSWHunter.htm to learn more and make a booking.
2. Aussie Wine Tours ~ Location: Cessnock ~ Enjoy a personalized service 7 days a week with this profession, yet small and family run, Wine Tour business which offers a number of forms of transport and free collection from and return to your accommodation. Call (02) 4991 1074 or visit http://www.aussiewinetours.com.au/ for more information and to book.
3. Cheers Guided Winery Tours ~ Location: Cessnock ~ Relax in air conditioned mini buses as you enjoy a fun filled wine tour of the Hunter Valley. Prices range from a mere $35 per person. Call 0408 987 057 or visit http://www.cheersbus.com/ for more details and information on how to book.
4. Grape Expectations ~ Location: Cessnock ~ Specializing in Boutique Wine Tours, Cheese, Chocolate and Olive Tasting. Here, you'll enjoy only the best vineyards who produce hand made wine. Call (02) 4998 1234 or visit http://www.grape-x-pectations.com.au/ for more information and to book.
5. Hunter & District Excursions (Hades) ~ Location: Nelson Bay ~ Enjoy a high standard of transport with this award winning Wine Tour specialist which offers scheduled and chartered Wine Tours in the Lower Hunter Vineyards, Port Stephens, Barrington Tops, Historic Newcastle and Historic Morpeth/East Maitland areas of the Hunter region. Call (02) 4981 0100 to learn more and make a booking.
6. Hunter Valley Day Tours ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ This well established and award winning tour company offers scheduled, corporate and chartered wine tours in the Hunter Valley. Call (02) 4938 5031 for further information.
7. Hunter Vineyard Tours ~ Location: Cessnock ~ See a range of wineries, from the smaller boutique to the larger commercial wine makers, in air conditioned comfort with this established wine tour operator. Call (02) 4991 1659 for further information and wine tour booking.
8. Hunter Valley Vine Link Tours ~ Location: Lovedale ~ Enjoy full day scenic winery and vineyard tours with their accredited tour driver, or charter a tour for your own convenience. Prices start at a very reasonable $33 per person. Call (02) 4930 7689 or visit http://www.vinelink.com.au/ for more information and to make a booking.
9. Hunter Valley Wine & Dine Carriages ~ Location: Kearsley ~ Enjoy a unique experience with this family run wine tour company and take a tour of the Hunter Valley vineyards by horse drawn carriage, bus or by trail bike. Call 041 051 5358 or visit http://www.huntervalleycarriages.com.au/ for more information and to make a booking.
10. Newcastle's Famous Tram ~ Location: Newcastle ~ Another unique experience, this time travel in an replica early 1900s Tram as you tour a selection of attractions from Wineries, Galleries, The Hunter Valley Gardens, Boutique Cafe’s, Cheese and Chocolate Factory to Harrigan’s Irish Pub. Because you can prearrange pickup times with this tour operator, you get to stay at each venue as long as you like. The tours on offer are available during weekends, Bank Holidays and during School Holidays. Call (02) 4932 4022 for details on these Hunter Valley tours or visit http://www.famous-tram.com.au/tours/vineyards.html to learn more and download a brochure.
11. Pokolbin Horse Coaches ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ This company operates hand built carriages, drawn by Shire horses which take you on along peaceful country roads in the Hunter Valley, stopping at vineyards, wineries and places to eat. Pokolbin Horse Coaches operates 7 days a week in all weather conditions and will pick and drop off clients who are staying in local accommodation. Call (02) 4998 7305 or visit http://www.hunterweb.com.au/pokolbinhorsecoaches/ for more.
12. Wine Country Limousines ~ Location: Mount View ~ Luxury wine tours are are offer here, get picked up from Pindari House in a limousine at 10am and spend the day visiting the wineries you choose or they recommend, taste wine and get returned at 5pm. Call (02) 4991 6073 or visit http://www.winecountrylimousines.com.au/ for more.
Galleries
Browse paintings, ceramics fabric and timber art during your stay in the Hunter valley. 
Some galleries are located within wineries and vineyards and offer wine tasting, tours as well as a memorable taste of creativity.
So why not really unwind and extend the tranquil experience of your visit to the Hunter Region by taking in the wide range of offerings in our list of Galleries..
1. Capercaillie Wine Company & Gallery ~ Location: Lovedale ~ Capercaillie shows fine glass, ceramics, silks, timbers and original water color and oil paintings by a range of artists including Pro Hart and Norman Lindsay. Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 5pm. Call Capercaillie Wine Company & Gallery direct 02 4990 2904 or visit http://www.capercailliewine.com.au/ for more information.
2. Emma's Cottage & Vineyard ~ Location: lovedale ~ This boutique winery includes a Gallery featuring works by resident and full time artist Megan Barrass. See http://www.emmascottage.com.au/gallery.jsp for more.
3. Evans Family Wines and Antiques ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ Taste wines produced from the Evans family's vineyard while browsing through the wide range of quality antiques, home wares, wine collectibles and wine accessories in this long established venue. Call (02) 4998 7237 for further information.
4. Ken Duncan Gallery ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ Peruse a fabulous collection of landscape photography by internationally acclaimed photographer Ken Duncan. For more information call (02) 4367 6777, or call free within Australia on 1800 807 737, or visit http://www.kenduncan.com.au/
5. Peppers Creek Antiques ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ A gallery packed with fine, rare and imported European antiquities including furniture, chinaware, silverware, jewellery and hand-woven tapestries. See http://www.pepperscreek.com.au/antiques/index.htm for more or call (02) 4998 7532.
Golf
Take in a few holes at a Golf Course in Hunter Valley, choose from multi-million dollar 
courses to one of Australia's most famous competition courses.
All within easy reach of Pindari House and offering bespoke bookings as well as corporate and social golfing days, events and fully licensed and equipped clubhouses..
1. The Vintage Golf Club ~ location: Rothbury ~ a stunning and picturesque $450million development, designed by Greg Norman and offering 6,310 metres of golf course with a Par of 71 on 18 holes. This championship course gently winds around undisturbed wetlands, water carries, eucalypts and the Beggars Bridge and Bimbadgen vineyards and with its $5million clubhouse, offers visitors a fine taste of Golfing during their visit to the Hunter Valley. For booking or further information see The Vintage Golf Club web site
2. Cypress Lakes Golf Course ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ Offering panoramic views of the Hunter Valley countryside and vineyards and designed by Steve Smyers of Florida. This facility offers up to 6,359 metres of Golf Course with a Par of 72 on 18 holes. See the Cypress Lakes Golf Course web site for further information.
3. The Oaks Golf and Country Club ~ Location: Cessnock ~ an prestigious 18 hole Golf Course which plays host to Australia's The Jack Newton International Junior Classic each October. The course is described as slightly undulating with water carries and offers a licensed club house and 5,930 m (men par 72) or 5,271m (women par 72) of golfing course. Weekly golf competitions are scheduled for each Saturday and places can be booked by anyone. See The Oaks Golf and Country Club web site for further information and details on how to book or take part in their competitions.
Cycling
(Bike Riding in Hunter Valley)
Take the breathtaking scenery and surroundings of the Hunter Valley region by Bicycle 
and savour the open air experience at your own pace.
With offerings ranging from ladies' and gents' mountain and trail bikes, tandems and maps, guides and road side assistance as well as delivery and collection of bikes direct to you at Pindari House, there could be no better way to take in the tranquil surroundings during your stay in Hunter Valley.
1. Hunter Valley Cycling ~ Location: Cessnock ~ Offering the ease of delivery and collection of bicycles to you at your accommodation, and with a range of suitable bikes from male and female models to tandems. This well established provider includes maps and road side assistance together with self guided package tours. See the Hunter Valley Cycling web site for more information and details on how to book.
2. Boomerang Bicycle Tours ~ Location: Sydney ~ Offers a number of dedicated Hunter Valley wine tour packages which include meals and the use of quality hybrid bicycles or front suspension Mountain Bikes with Helmets. Tours are designed for all levels of fitness and you can choose your own pace and distance. Visit the Boomerang Bicycle Tours web site for much more information.
3. Grapemobile Bicycle Hire ~ Location: Pokolbin ~ Winner of two consecutive Hunter Valley Tourism awards, Grapemobile offers full or half day hire from their conveniently located center in Pokolbin (a short distance from Pindari House). Visit the Grapemobile Bike Hire web site for more information.
Forthcoming Events
in Hunter Valley
21st October 2006
Opera in the Vineyards
A Gala Night of Puccini is the theme of the widely renowned annual Opera in the Vineyards with an array of musical talent including sopranos Leanne Kenneally and Lisa Russell, tenors Jorge Lopez-Yanez and Aldo Di Toro. Stephen Mould is the events' Musical Director and Virginia Trioli is the guest host. The Opera is hosted at the Wyndham Estate, the country's oldest continually operating winery and home of the first commercial Shiraz plantings in Australia. The entertainment begins at 2pm with a food and wine fair and is followed by the Opera and further entertainment. A range of special dinner, picnic and concert packages are available which include tickets to the show. Ticket prices are Gold Dinner and Show - $280.00, Premium Dinner and Show - $250.00, Gold - $148.40, Premium - $112.40, A Reserve – $92.40, Picnic Area – $72.40. See www.wyndhamestate.com/ for more.
9th to 11th June 2006
Pokolbin Hall Artscrawl
This is the Artscrawl 10th Anniversary and is to be held at the Pokolbin Hall. The event features a wide variety of Australian artists and their artworks. Awards go to the best of the showcase (award categories include photography, sculpture and under 25 year olds) and the event features a cocktail opening and awards night. The Cocktail opening and awards night costs $10 per person, and weekend viewing costs only $2 per person. Please contact Trish Sutherland on 0249902904 for more nformation and booking.
20th & 21st May 2006
Lovedale Long Lunch
Another annual event back to entice Hunter Valley visitors with a lunch experience spiced up with fine wines and musical entertainment and spread across 7 participating wineries including Emma's Cottage Vineyard, Warraroong Estate, Sandalyn Wilderness Estate, Wandin Valley Estate, Gartelmann Hunter Estate, Cooper Wines, Allandale Winery. This annual event has won a number of Hunter Region Awards for Excellence in Tourism in the category Significant Regional Festivals and Special Events in 1996, 1998 & 2000 so you are sure of a spectacular day or two. For more information or to book, please contact any of the participating wineries or speak to Monika at Pindari House (see our contact page).
18th March 2006
Fiddle and Bang
The annual Irish celebration is back, courtesy of the Rothbury Estate who holds this Irish themed event in its fabled Great Cask Hall. This family event includes dancing to the Fiddle of Irish music, Irish influenced food, fine wines, a bouncy castle and face painting for the kids and culminates in the spectacular Bang of a fireworks display. The event begins at 4pm and ends at 9pm. Picnic rugs and chairs are a must but this is not a BYO event ~ your enjoyment is complimented with freshly roasted coffees & luscious Treacle Tart with Irish Mist cream. Tickets are $22.00pp pre-booked or $30.00pp at the gate (children under 15 go for $5each). For further information or to book, call the Rothbury Estate on +61 (0)2 4998 7363.
11th to 13th March 2006
Hunter Valley Craft A Fair
The Hunter Valley's annual crafts event is back! All types of local and regional crafts are shown at this comprehensive 3 day event, from commercial to educational exhibitors, free demonstrators and free workshops, all run by craft associations and guilds. The event begins at 9am and ends at 5pm daily and is held at the Maitland Showgrounds in Blomfield Street. For more information, visit the organisers' website - Rural Scene - or call +61 (0)2 4369 6700.
1st to 28th Feb 2006
Taste the Juice
A wine tasting extravaganza held at the renowned Rothbury estate. Indulge in award winning local foods and wines in the refined and extensive facilities of the Rothbury Estate vineyards in Pokolbin during the whole month of February. Gates open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. Contact the Rothbury Estate on +61 (0)2 4998 7363 for further information.
Jan 26th 2006
Australia Day in Maitland
Partake in a free breakfast and enjoy great attractions in Maitland Park including car displays, Steamtrain Rides, Swimming, Painting, musical entertainment, the Maitland Pool, great giveaways and free entertainment for the kids (including free kids rides and face painting). An offical awards ceremony will be rpesented by an Australia Day Ambassador in this additional celebration for Australian citizens. Admission is free and the party begins at 8am and runs through to around 2pm. Contact +61 (0)2 4934 9712 for mroe information.
Jan 26th 2006
Australia Citizenship Ceremony celebrating Australia Day
Every year, thousands of people become Australian citizens on Australia Day. Citizenship ceremonies are taking place on or around Australia Day to celebrate the meaning of being an Australian citizen. This event is to be held at the East Cessnock Bowling Club and opens at 9.30am. For more information please contact Pauline on (02) 4993 4210.
Jan 14th 2005
Tamburlaine Twilight Series Concert
Held at the Tamburlaine in Pokolbin this atmospheric concert includes performances by Paul Kelly and The Stormwater Boys with Anthony Snape supporting. Proceeds from this concert go to support the Hunter Medical Research Institute. Gates open at 4pm and the event starts at 6pm. You will be expected to bring your own picnic blanket & deck chairs. Tickets are $75 per person and a picnic basket can be provided for guests of Pindari House (ask Monika for more information). To book this event, please call Tamburlaine on (02) 4998 75.
Dec 30th 2005
Friday Fun Day at Cessnock Rugby Leagues Club.
Enjoy 3 hours of entertainment from 11am to 2pm with live music courtesy of Steve Gillespie and his Band, and a guest artist. There is a 3 course lunch and a free raffle included in the $9 per person booking price. Call (02) 4990 5655 or speak to Monika at Pindari House for booking.
Dec 25th 2005
Christmas Day Feast at The Vintage
Enjoy a three course menu accompanied by fine local wines in this Christmas Day lunch hosted by the award winning Apres Restaurant at The Vintage Golf Club in Rothbury. A children's menu is also available. Prices are $105 per adult and $14.50 per child. Call the Apres Restaurant on (02) 4998 6789 to book or for more information.
Dec 19th 2005
Wine Country Race Day.
Enjoy a day of horse racing in the annual Wine Country Cup hosted by the Newcastle Jockey Club at Cessnock racecourse. 8 races are planned including the $25,000 Sky Channel Gold Hunter Valley Wine Country Cup and the annual Robert Thompson Series over 1350m for Class 1 horses. There will be a lawn marquee, a host of food and wine stalls and activities (including wood chopping displays, children’s activities, a Fly ball dog demonstration and entertainment on the lawn) to compliment the day's events. This event is open to both members and non-members. Call (02) 4961 1573 or visit www.njc.com.au
Dec 18th 2005
Christmas Carols in the Park
Held at the Civic Park in Singleton, this great seasonal event includes plenty of Christmas Carol singing, nativity commemorations, musical and vocal items, choir, brass band, community singing and an evening message. Please bring your own candles and torches. Starts at 7.30pm. Please call the Singleton Visitor Information Center on (02) 6571 1633 or (02) 6572 1198 for more information.
Dec 11th 2005
Festival in the Vineyards
A great fun filled family day out at the Mount Vincent Estate in the Hunter Valley. Attractions on offer include fun rides, fairy floss and clowns for the children, accompanied by Medieval Jousting, Repercussion, Art in Motion, Daniel Arvidson, Harps & Hearts, Eastern Spirit Belly Dancers and the BBX Junior talent Show. Food and local produce stalls will also be present. Call the Hunter River Country Tourism on 02 4931 2800 for tickets & further information.
Dec 4th 2005
Terroir of Champagne
A food and champagne tasting evening hosted by the award winning Terroir restaurant at Hungerford Hill and prepared by the reputed chef Darren Ho. Tickets are limited in supply and cost $195 per person. See the Terroir web site for more details or call 02 4990 0711.
Dec 3rd 2005
A Day On the Green with Joe Cocker at the Bimbagden Estate.
The Bimbagden Estate host yet another Hunter Valley sunset musical experience with Joe Cocker topping the bill. Joe is supported with performances by Australia’s first lady of soul and blues, Renee Geyer, and a solo acoustic by Ian Moss. BYO picnic, rug and deck chair, but no BYO alcohol, which is served on site. Gates open at 3pm and three course food hamper packs are available at around $40 each. To book, or for further information, call Bimbagden direct on (61) 02 4998 7585.
