Because I grew up in Port Stephens, I've spent many weekends in the Hunter Valley. Wine tours, birthdays, long lunches... I even got married in Broke just last year. Just two hours north of Sydney and an hour from Newcastle, it's a special part of the world — fresh air, rolling vineyards, incredible locally grown food and a handful of beautiful Hunter Valley hotel options.
With the change of seasons, it's the perfect time to book a long weekend (the Hunter is known for its cool climate Semillon, after all). From architecturally designed tiny cabins, to sprawling European estates, you'll find the RUSSH-approved edit of the best Hunter Valley hotels and accomodation options below.
Talits Estate
Tatlits is a private residence that's big enough to host a group. It's the closest thing to a French chateau in New South Wales with a pool, olive trees and views across its own vineyard. I actually stayed here in the week before my wedding, hosting a welcome lunch with guests the day before. I highly recommend.
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Spicers
Spicers is well known as one of the most luxurious outposts in the Hunter. You can choose from either the Spicers Vineyards Estate, a boutique style lodge with 12 suites and a private vineyard, or Spicers Guesthouse, a charming farmhouse that will serve as the ideal base for a weekend of viticulture. Consider Spicers as the best hotels in the Hunter Valley, for sure.
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Dimensions X Farmstay at Krinklewood
I got married at Krinklewood Estate, a biodynamic vineyard in Broke about 20 minutes away from Polkolbin. Beyond the main guesthouse, there are two 'tiny' cabins, designed by renowned architect Peter Stutchbury. Both are completely sustainable, running on solar power and water collection. While small, they're comfortable and sit just beyond the grounds of the beautiful property. You can eat, drink, swim, read... the makings of a perfect weekend retreat.
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Voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
Voco is a beautiful manor-style property with incredible views, but a convenient location, nearby all the best cellar doors and restaurants. If you're staying, be sure to book lunch at Bistro Molines (my favourite spot in the Hunter). The onsite restaurant, Locavore, is also exceptional — they use a lot of produce they grow on site.
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The Convent
The Convent was originally a nuns' home and school, but has since been transformed into a luxury guesthouse and wedding venue. It has just 19 rooms, a winery and fine dining restaurant — all the old world charm with modern comfort.
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Cedars Mount View
Cedar's is an adults only hotel, so it's ideal for a quiet, romantic long weekend. There's five villas on site, each with a sense of privacy. The perfect spot to decamp if you're craving peace and quiet.
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Tower Lodge
Tower Lodge feels a bit like home — the estate has been divided into boutique residences; exactly the right balance between privacy and community. There's hot tubs, an on-site restaurant with local produce and plenty of optional extras (helicopter rides and spa treatments included).
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Practice Ground
Whether you're getting away with a group, or just craving something special that doesn't require a plane trip, Practice Ground is heaven on Earth. The property, made mostly of soft blonde woods, sits on 20 acres of bushland including the nearby Wollemi National Park. Drink in the sweeping views outside or sit by the fire with a good book (or both).
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Images: courtesy of Krinklewood, Talits, Tower Lodge and Practice Ground
