Luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley: fine wines and dreamy decadence

Combining country charm and hospitality, luxury accommodation in the Hunter Valley is tantalising – making it a great spot for those seeking an indulgent escape.

It’s easy to see why vineyards thrive here – the landscape’s full of gently sloping hills surrounded by craggy mountains, with breezes that help the grapes to grow. Tour around famous cellar doors, drop by independent restaurants and browse for goodies at artisanal markets.

As for where to stay, the Hunter Valley’s known for luxury. Think boutique lodges that are ripe for romance, or world-class golf and spa resorts. Bring the family for pool fun and aqua golf, or cosy up in front of a crackling fire with wine, chocolate and your special someone.

Boutique escape in a Hunter Valley vineyard

Stays at Spicers Vineyards Estate are all about luxury accommodation and personalised service. The country manor-style building’s set on 22 acres of private grounds, ideal for romantic strolls in the crisp, fresh air. Staff can prepare a gourmet picnic for you to enjoy in the gardens, complete with a sumptuous cheese platter, sandwiches, pastries and a bottle of sparkling wine.

The 12 grand suites are decorated with wooden tables and stone fireplaces, echoing the natural beauty of the outdoors. Freshen up under a rain shower, or soak in the window-lined spa bath that’s big enough for two. For a real treat, you can even take to the air in a hot air balloon or helicopter – or stay on the ground with a personalised spa treatment.

Spicers Vineyards Estate

Top rated

Pokolbin

9.6 Excellent (319 reviews)

Rural retreat with a spa and world-class golf

The award-winning Château Élan at The Vintage‘s got all the ingredients for a relaxing escape. Time moves a little slower here, so take a languid approach to your golf game on the 18-hole course – designed by Australian golfing legend, Greg Norman. If you need a little guidance over the greens, book a lesson with an experienced pro, then reward your efforts at the day spa. Ease into the afternoon with sparkling wine and local cheeses served on the spa deck, with views of the surrounding mountains.

There are lush vineyards, tempting cellar doors and wine trails all within a 5-minute drive. Stop to sample some vintages, or explore the flavours of the region through the 5-course tasting menu at Esca Bimbadgen. As dusk rolls in, head back to your villa to welcome the night from your private balcony.

Chateau Elan at The Vintage, Hunter Valley

Top rated

Rothbury

8.8 Excellent (2152 reviews)

Secluded lodge for romance and luxury among the vines

A boutique hotel tucked snugly in heart of the Hunter Valley, Hermitage Lodge offers a secluded getaway for those looking to leave behind the stress of everyday life. Sweep your lover away for a romantic weekend in a private suite, complete with large spa bath, cosy fire, private deck and a king bed topped with luxurious linen.

You’re a two-minute drive from Hunter Valley Gardens, where you’ll find serene outdoor spaces as well as fun rides that open during special events and school holidays. Visit as the sun sets for a dazzling view from the 25-metre-high Ferris wheel, then get some thrills on the swinging chairs and super slide. The lodge makes a great base for concert-goers, with the Hunter Valley’s three main concert venues less than five minutes away by car.

Hermitage Lodge

Top rated

Pokolbin

9.4 Excellent (1098 reviews)

Intimate Hunter Valley hotel with onsite wine tasting

A blend of modern luxe and traditional country, H Boutique Hotel specialises in R&R. Open-plan rooms have a contemporary apartment feel, with artworks and colourful accents adding style to minimalist spaces. When the sun goes down, warm up in front of your gas fireplace and settle in for a night of wine and produce from local vendors. If you need room for a group, book the four-bedroom homestead, where kitchenettes, a dining table and al-fresco dining spaces make it easy to self-cater.

Ask hotel staff to book a wine tour so you can taste some of the region’s finest. For a tour with a twist, you can clip-clop through the vines on a horse-drawn carriage. Stop at the markets selling crafts and local goodies, and snag yourself some treats from local artisans and farmers.

Hotel H Boutique

Top rated

Pokolbin

9.2 Excellent (1342 reviews)

Luxury accommodation set in rose gardens

voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley seems straight from a storybook – you’ll be welcomed by a cascading fountain, flowering shrubs and wide verandas wrapped around a white-shuttered homestead. Striking rooms feature statement pieces like jewel-toned cushions, willow patterned lamps and eye-catching art prints. Cosy bedding, a furnished terrace and high-end toiletries add an extra level of luxe.

Take high tea in the sunny conservatory, where your sparkling wine and dainty treats are accompanied by views of the rose garden and Brokenback Ranges. Offsite, it’s a seven-minute drive to Hunter Valley Gardens – the largest display garden in the Southern Hemisphere – where themed gardens are inspired by different parts of the world. On your return, stop at the Smelly Cheese Shop and nibble delicious creations by artisan cheesemakers.

voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

Top rated

Pokolbin

9.0 Excellent (2126 reviews)

Countryside estate in the heart of the Hunter Valley

At the end of a long, tree-lined driveway, The Convent looks every inch a grand, pastoral manor house with its duck-egg blue exterior, gabled roofs and decorative white archways. You’ll check into luxe accommodation draped in tones of champagne and dusky rose. Sink into a plump armchair and relax as you gaze over the leafy grounds, or partake in a game of boules before reclining on the wide veranda with a glass of local wine.

Pepper Tree Winery’s located on the estate, so you don’t have to go far for tastings and a scrumptious grazing board. For something really exceptional, book a private helicopter tour to view the rolling hills and vineyards from a birds-eye perspective. Complete the country manor experience with a ride in a horse-drawn Victorian carriage.

The Convent

Top rated

Pokolbin

9.0 Excellent (244 reviews)

Fancy vineyard resort with fun for families

Within walking distance of top wineries and cellar doors, Mercure Hunter Valley Resort is in prime position for sampling the Hunter Valley’s renowned food and drink. Grab a Walking Winery booklet from reception to guide you on a gastronomical adventure. You can keep the kids entertained at the Hunter Valley Gardens – fun-filled activities include aqua golf, putt-putt and exhilarating rides.

Back on your private balcony, take in views of the Hunter Valley or the resort gardens. For an extra special stay, you can book a luxury suite and relax under 15-foot cathedral ceilings alongside antique furnishings. Light a crackling fire in the hearth and run some bubbles in the spa bath to round out the day.

Mercure Hunter Valley Resort

Pokolbin

8.4 Very good (1975 reviews)

Hunter Valley hotel with beers, boules and buckets of fun

Surrounded by 11 acres of landscaped gardens, the sun-dappled Potters Hotel, Brewery and Resort‘s the place to enjoy a local tipple. Old Potters Brickworks Brasserie serves tried-and-tested favourites – think seared steaks, salads and pasta. There’s also a pub with a beer garden, where signature and seasonal beers come from the hotel’s very own micro-brewery.

In your comfortable room, exposed brick melds with traditional furnishings. Sip your morning coffee as you watch the sunrise from your private courtyard and plan your day of activities. Tennis courts, a boules court, a children’s playground and two swimming pools will keep you occupied – if you’re not hopping around the roughly 120 cellar doors in the region. Book a personalised or group winery tour to make the most of the Hunter Valley’s diverse wine offerings, or hire a bike and get around by pedal power.

Potters

Cessnock

8.2 Very good (1705 reviews)

Feature image courtesy of Dusko / stock.adobe.com