Award-Winning Hunter Valley Wine & Cheese Tour from Sydney

Sydney , Australia

Award-Winning Hunter Valley Wine & Cheese Tour from Sydney

Active

(355 reviews)

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover why we have been awarded "Best Hunter Valley Tour Operator" for 4 consecutive years on this premium small-group wine tour from Sydney. We specialize in boutique family-owned wineries where passionate winemakers share their craft personally. Sample up to 20 premium wines including world-renowned Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz at 3-4 exclusive cellar doors, enjoy expert-guided cheese tastings, and savor a delicious local lunch with complementary wine. Your award-winning experience includes comfortable transportation through scenic countryside, visits to intimate boutique wineries in the Pokolbin area, comprehensive cheese tastings with local artisan varieties, and lunch in a scenic setting. Our local guide and expert presenters bring wine knowledge and insider access to family-owned properties where you'll discover stories behind wines available exclusively at these cellar doors.

Available options

Tour with Cafe Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for scenic journey to and from the Hunter

Kangaroo spotting amongst the vines at the vineyards we visit (sightings not guaranteed)

Wine tastings at 3-4 boutique wineries featuring premium Hunter Valley varietals

Award-winning guide and sommeliers with certified wine knowledge

Pickup and drop-off from convenient central Sydney meeting points

Lakeside lunch with a glass of wine - hot and cold options in a relaxed setting

Guided artisan cheese tasting with local varieties and expert explanations

Detailed itinerary

Join your small-group tour at your designated pickup point and board our comfortable air-conditioned coach for the scenic 2-hour drive to Hunter Valley. Your expert guide shares regional history and points out landmarks as you travel across Sydney Harbour Bridge, past Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and over the Hawkesbury River.

Drive through Cessnock, the charming gateway town to Hunter Valley's wine region and historic coal mining heritage.

Welcome to the Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine region.

Arrive in Australia's oldest wine region. In the morning we visit two carefully selected boutique family-owned wineries in Pokolbin and surrounding areas. Our small group allows us access to less mainstream, more intimate cellar doors including Saddlers Creek, Hanging Tree Wines, and Ernest Hill Wines, where passionate winemakers personally share their craft and vineyard stories. Sample up to 20 premium wine varieties including classic Hunter Valley Semillon, elegant Chardonnay, robust Shiraz, and innovative blends available exclusively at these properties.

Enjoy a delicious meal with both hot and cold options in a relaxed setting surrounded by lake views. Your lunch includes a glass of wine to complement your meal.

Stop 6 Pass by

Drive by the renowned Hunter Valley Gardens precinct, passing the spectacular 60-acre botanical wonderland featuring themed garden displays including the famous Rose Garden with over 5,000 rose bushes and stunning Lake Walk.

Discover how premium local cheeses enhance wine appreciation and how they are locally made, through guided tastings featuring artisan varieties crafted by passionate regional producers.

Conclude your wine journey at Saddler's creek (or another handpicked boutique winery). Sample premium varietals while enjoying personal stories from passionate winemakers or cellar door hosts, gaining deeper insights into Hunter Valley's unique terroir and time-honored winemaking traditions that have defined Australia's oldest wine region for over 200 years.

Stop 9 Pass by

Cross over the Hawkesbury River and the Mooney Mooney Bridge on the way back to Sydney

Arrive back at your original pickup points with enhanced wine knowledge and unforgettable memories of Hunter Valley's finest boutique wineries. You can bring a few bottles home with you too!

What's not included

gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

164 reviews

5★

117

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

191 reviews

5★

167

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Pick-ups are from designated meeting points.

Small-group tour with a maximum 14 participants

Must be 18 years or older to taste wines

Not suitable for children under 18 years of age

Return to Sydney is around 6-6:30pm (depending on traffic)

Important notes

Please contact info@activitytours.com.au or call +61 2 9436 1333 to confirm or change your pick up time and location.
We will confirm your tour, pick up time and location the day before your tour by text or the Viator messaging system.
Please make sure you are waiting outside your designated meeting point 5-10min prior to scheduled pick up.

About Sydney

Sydney, Australia's most iconic city, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Sydney Opera House

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for performing arts.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance AUD 42-100 (tour prices vary)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the world's most famous bridges, offering spectacular views and the thrill of the BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk.

Architecture/Adventure 2-3 hours (depending on activity) AUD 174-468 (BridgeClimb prices vary)

Bondi Beach

Australia's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment Half day to full day Free (surfboard rentals and lessons cost extra)

The Rocks

A historic area with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant market scene.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (market and museum entry fees apply)

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the harbour and Opera House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avo on Toast

A simple yet iconic dish featuring avocado on toast, often topped with poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried and served with seasonal vegetables and a sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free (check for specific sauces and sides)

Tim Tams

A beloved Australian chocolate biscuit, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee, similar to a latte but with a stronger coffee flavor and velvety microfoam.

Drink Contains dairy (non-dairy options available)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Mountains Surfing at Bondi Beach BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk at Sydney Harbour Bridge Kayaking in Sydney Harbour Scuba diving in Jervis Bay Beach lounging at Bondi Beach Picnicking in the Royal Botanic Garden Spa day at a luxury hotel

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sydney, with long, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20-26°C 68-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sydney is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging.
• Purchase tickets from official sources or authorized sellers.

Getting there

By air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

By bus

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sydney's train network is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Rocks Bondi Surry Hills Newtown Barangaroo

Day trips

Blue Mountains

80 km (50 miles) from Sydney • Full day

A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Hunter Valley

120 km (75 miles) from Sydney • Full day

Australia's oldest wine region, offering beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Royal National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Sydney • Half day to full day

Australia's oldest national park, offering beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

Festivals

Sydney Festival • January Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras • February/March Sydney Writers' Festival • May

Pro tips

Use an Opal card for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
Visit iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore Sydney's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.
Take a ferry to explore the city's stunning harbour and waterfront areas.
Try local specialties like seafood, Asian cuisine, and Australian wines.