Rothbury

Wineries & restaurants 

Rothbury sits right next to Pokolbin, where you’ll find most of the Hunter Valley’s most famous wineries, but there are a handful to visit here as well. Start at the boutique vineyards of Lucy's Run Wines and Hart and Hunter, then visit the French provincial inspired Black Creek Farm, St Clements Estate handpicks all the grapes that go into their wines – pair them with a meal at the excellent on-site Lillino’s restaurant. 

Enjoy a picnic on the lawn at Saltire Estate, accompanied by the resident wine dog Maximus. You’ll find more friendly wine pups waiting to greet you at Blueberry Hill. At Hunter’s Dream you can sample the latest vintage as well as olive oil and other gourmet produce. Sit down for an elegant lunch or dinner at Amanda’s on the Edge, with sweeping views over the vines. The Legends Grill and Bar overlooks The Vintage golf course and specialises in steaks and bistro classics. 

Blueberry Hill Wines, Rothbury

Things to do 

Explore the beautiful Molly Morgan Range on horseback with Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures. There are pony rides for little ones and trail rides for all levels, as well as ATV tours, mountain biking, bushwalking, wildlife tours and farm animal feeding. Tee off on the Greg Norman-designed The Vintage golf course, an 18-hold course that’s frequently ranked among the best in Australia. 

Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures, Hunter Valley - Credit: Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures

For some well-deserved relaxation, book in for a treatment at the lush Spa at Chateau Elan. After your massage, scrub or facial, soak in the mineral pools on the outdoor deck. Book in for a private class with Yoga in the Vines, where your practice can be paired with a tasting of Hunter Valley wines. 

Chateau Elan At The Vintage, Hunter Valley - Credit: Chateau Elan At The Vintage

Getting there & where to stay 

Rothbury is just over two hours’ drive north of Sydney. Trains also depart regularly from Sydney for Maitland, Morriset and Singleton, where you can catch connecting buses to Wine Country. Or fly into Newcastle Airport and hire a car for the one-hour drive. Accommodation options include the luxurious Chateau Elan at The Vintage resort and a number of stylish cottages sprinkled across the vineyards.