Many people consider Pokolbin to be the heart of Australia’s popular Hunter Valley wine region because of this scenic village’s stunning Brokenback Range backdrop and relatively close proximity to Sydney. Australia’s largest city may lie 163kms south of Pokolbin, but this Lower Hunter Valley wine region often feels worlds away from bustling Sydney.
In 1828, the Wilkinsons at Oakdale established the first of the many vineyards which now surround Pokolbin. The Hunter Valley’s surrounding mountains, afternoon Pacific Ocean breezes, and cloud cover all protect Pokolbin’s vineyards from the area’s frosty winters and hot summers.
Shiraz and sémillon remain the most popular wine varieties, but cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and pinot noir plantings can also be seen throughout the surrounding countryside.
This is also home of the Hunter Distillery, Australia’s first exclusive organic vodka distillery. Beer lovers, on the other hand, may prefer touring Hunter Valley Resort’s boutique Bluetongue Brewery.
Two more popular attractions are the Binnorie Dairy, famous for its cheeses, and the Australian Alpaca Barn. The alpaca barn features alpaca yarn, clothing, rugs, and bedding produced not only in Australia, but also Peru and New Zealand.
No Pokolbin visit would be complete without exploring the expansive Hunter Valley Gardens, which features two hotels, two restaurants, the Village Shops, and an aqua golf course.
The Hunter Valley Gardens train tour of these 10 unique gardens lasts just over half an hour. Pokolbin can also be reached from the Great North Walk trail connecting Newcastle and Sydney.
Accommodation at Pokolbin
From $288
From $392
From $484
From $511
From $123
From $133
From $137
From $138
From $143
From $149
From $150
From $188
From $190
From $193
From $208
From $209
From $215
From $220
From $236
From $244
From $247
From $258
From $276
From $276
From $281
From $319
From $324
From $331
From $331
From $360
From $405
From $493
From $494
From $512
From $555
From $567
From $646
From $865
From $867
From $171
From $173
From $178
From $207
From $212
From $225
From $230
From $232
From $250
From $255
From $299
From $352
From $416
From $475
From $477
From $582
From $592
From $683
From $732