With a well-deserved reputation as the wine capital of the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin is a hugely popular destination for city dwellers escaping Sydney for the weekend, or for adventurers on long road trips around rural New South Wales. Fans of top-notch food and wine will delight in touring the many wineries of the picturesque Hunter Valley, which is also brilliant for walking and cycling. A burgeoning array of enticing little B&Bs, vineyard hotels and romantic lodges are studded around the area. Our team have rounded up some of their favourites, and you’ll find a list of the best places to stay in Pokolbin below.

The Hunter Valley can trace its wine-making history back more than 160 years, and guided tours and tastings include stops at world-class stalwarts, multi-generational family wineries and small boutique vineyards producing full-bodied Shiraz or wonderful sparkling wines. The Hunter Valley Wine School runs excellent courses, there are some great cellar doors, and sustainably-minded foodies will be thrilled to hear of Keith Tulloch, the first carbon-neutral winery in the area. Expect mouth-watering tasting menus at characterful restaurants, and some super cheese shops, too.

Beyond the vineyards, you’ll find outdoor activities aplenty around Pokolbin. Amble around the gorgeous Hunter Valley Gardens, play a round of golf at one of the many stunning courses, or follow hiking, horse riding and cycling trails across the undulating landscape. Hot air balloon flights are dazzling, whilst the area’s weekly craft and produce markets are a hive of activity. Patient travellers can also expect to spot myriad birds from the balconies of the best places to stay in Pokolbin — glass of wine in hand, of course.

The Best Places to Stay in Pokolbin

For Boutique Bliss

• The Convent Hunter Valley is a pretty blue-and-white painted building with lovely latticework and a tranquil, traditional feel. Spacious guest rooms have French baroque-inspired interiors. The restaurant, Circa 1876, is amongst the best in the Hunter Valley. One for fans of classic charm.
• Spicers Vineyards Estate offers 12 luxurious rooms, many with wood-burning fireplaces, swish bathrooms and all the mod-cons. A refreshing swimming pool, serene spa and fabulous restaurant complete the picture. Adults-only and ideal for romantics, the hotel has its own vineyard and extensive wine cellar.

For Families or Groups

• The Carriages Boutique Hotel & Vineyard offers 10 charming bedrooms and a two-bedroom cottage on a five-acre vineyard. Rosebank Cottage is ideal for self-catering, and and spaces have private decks for unwinding, as well as a tennis court lovely shared gardens for strolling and cycling. Great for families with older children, and very affordable.
• Hermitage Lodge's 20 contemporary suites and studios face Shiraz vineyards. The five-bedroom Residence - complete with private pool, kitchen and sitting rooms, sleeps up to 10 guests, making it a perfect group or extended family choice. Pescara Restaurant, on the lodge's verdant grounds, is a foodie treat.
• Spicers Guesthouse has airy rooms and suites with white linens, cosy sitting rooms & flat-screen TVs in a restored guesthouse. The four-bedroom cottage is ideal for families or groups of friends, who share access to the swimming pool, lush gardens and tennis court with other guests. Gather at the excellent Italian restaurant for convivial evenings.
• Tonic Hotel is an adult-only spot perched on the banks of a little lake in the Hunter Valley. Inspired by laid-back Australian style, suites are self-catering, with full kitchens, sitting rooms and decks. The two-bedroom options are great for friends travelling together. There are wineries, cheese tastings and hiking trails on your doorstep.

For Keen Golfers

• Chateau Elan, a 100-room resort with smart, modern interiors and a great spa, is famed largely for its 18-hole golf course. Designed by Greg Norman, the course also plays host to the New South Wales Open Championship and will delight keen golfers. Don't miss savouring a glass or two of the good stuff at the clubhouse afterwards.

For Absolute Indulgence

• Tower Lodge takes luxury to new heights with sensational suites set within the grounds of a picturesque vineyard. The Sebastian restaurant showcases Basque cuisine with a modern Australian twist, and the sumptuous suites with terracotta floors, enormous beds, emerald green-tiled bathrooms and characterful seating areas promise absolute bliss. Fabulous.

FOR A PRIVATE HOUSE OR APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to the nearby Newcastle Airport, an hour's drive from Pokolbin, or to Sydney Airport, 2.5 hours' drive away. Travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance.
• New South Wales is ideal for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• Pokolbin is a year-round destination. Some rainfall is expected between January and March, but this can still be a lovely time to travel. Visit outside the Australian school holidays for great deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Sydney.
• Widen the net and see our pick of the best places to stay in New South Wales.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.