About Hunter Valley
Scenic views, high picturesque mountains, distinguished and beautiful lakes, numerous national parks embracing the natural beauty , fauna and flora, long extending open roads, pristine white sandy beaches; these all are synonymous to Australia. One truly wonders how a single continent can be blessed with such natural beauty and diversity?
The Hunter Valley is one such place. Also known as the Hunter Region, this valley is Australia’s oldest wine region, which has made this valley a favorite among the Australians and the tourists coming from across the globe. Blessed with the most beautiful views on Earth, the Hunter Valley boasts more than 150 wineries, which is unbelievable. World class wines are produced in these wineries. The wine lovers are absolutely going to enjoy here.
Location of Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is located in the New South Wales, Australia. It extends from approx. 75 mi (120 km ) to 193 mi (310 km) north of Sydney.
History of Hunter Valley
The hunter valley was earlier inhabited by the Wonnarua peoples. They have occupied this region for about 30, 000 years. In the 19th century, the first European settlers arrived and the transformation of the hunter valley began after that, through cultivation, clearing, building and occupation.
The first vineyard was planted in the year 1823 spread across 20 acres on the Northern banks of the river. That area is the present-day Dalwood /Gresford area.
Attributes
After the plantation of the vineyards, gradually, the Hunter Valley became one of the most prominent wineries in Australia. The wine is produced from an array of grapes variety ranging from shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, Verdelho and chardonnay.
Things To Do
If you are a wine lover, there is no way, you would dislike this place. The Hunter Valley has so much to offer to the wine lovers. There are many sellar in this region who have vintage wines. Go for wine tasting. Do not miss the internationally-acclaimed Wyndham Estate. It is one of the oldest vineyards in Australia. It also hosts annual Opera in the vineyards.
Check the old 1866 Audrey Wilkinson winery. It has a museum that displays the authentic winemaking instruments of that time.
There are more than 150 wineries in this region. Explore a few if not all. If you are tired of going around the wineries, take a relaxing massage at The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley.
Australian Woodwork’s Hunter Valley Gallery showcases fine woodwork and furniture made by the local timber. Pick some pieces for yourself and your friends.
There are many fine-dining restaurants in this region where you can enjoy delicious meal and wine.
All round the calendar, it hosts a lot of food and wine events accompanied by some great music. If you visit the Hunter Valley in May, be a part of the Lovedale Long Lunch event which is hosted by many restaurants and wineries.
There are many other things to experience at the Hunter Valley like the flower festival in September, an art trail in November, et al.
Facts
Apart from wineries, it is also popular for its coal industry.
It is one of the largest river valleys situated New South Wales Coast.
Also See: Top Three Attractions in Pearce, Woden Valley
Hunter Valley- Are you a wine lover? Then you must have been to the Hunter Valley. If yes, do share with us your experiences and photographs here.
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