Explore the verdant gardens, intriguing history, art galleries and award-winning wineries of the New South Wales Hunter Valley region.

At a Glance

  • Explore the breathtaking display of themed gardens spread across 25 hectares at the Hunter Valley Gardens
  • Discover the historic homesteads and estates scattered throughout the valley
  • Marvel at landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and orchards, awash with springtime colour
  • Savour local produce and award-winning wines of the region

Discover a tapestry of characterful gardens nestled amid the rolling hills of this picturesque valley. Wander through the manicured lawns of the heritage-listed Tocal homestead, one of Australia’s oldest colonial working farms. Gain insights into organic gardening practices at Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard, where herbs and flowers flourish alongside vines, and admire the imaginative displays at Hunter Valley Gardens, a vast botanical wonderland featuring themed gardens and whimsical landscapes.

Explore charming towns adorned with heritage buildings and colonial architecture. Step back in time with a visit to Morpeth and see the courthouse, a symbol of justice since the mid-1800s, and visit Campbell's Store, a testament to the region's trading roots.

Dates

10 – 14 October 2024 (5 days)

Tour leader

Glen Halliday

Tour Status

Available

Book now

Itinerary

Arrive in Sydney on suggested Qantas flights. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including pre-tour accommodation and a private transfer from the airport.

Meet tour leader Glen Halliday and fellow travellers at a Sydney CBD hotel (venue to be confirmed) at 9:00am before departing for the Hunter Valley.

Upon arrival in the Hunter Valley, enjoy a special welcome lunch and relish in the stunning views and rustic charm of an award-winning restaurant. After checking into the hotel, learn about the history of the Hunter Valley before enjoying an early evening drinks and canapés reception on the hotel terrace.

(LR)

After breakfast, gain a glimpse into Australia’s heritage and rural past at Tocal Homestead, a significant place in the history of the region whose story is told through its well-preserved colonial architecture and expansive grounds.

After a picnic lunch on the grounds of Tocal, step back in time with a visit to the charming town of Morpeth, located on a scenic bend of the Hunter River. The town’s heritage is evident in its well preserved historic buildings that stand today as testaments to the significance of this once thriving port town.

Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

(BLD)

Start the day with a visit to Winmark Wines Sculpture Park and Art Gallery, which comprises an impressive collection of sculptures by renowned artists, strategically placed amidst the vineyards and gardens. The on-site art gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks, providing further insight into the creative spirit of the region.

Continue to Krinklewood Organic & Biodynamic Estate and learn about its commitment to sustainable viticulture practices which emphasises the importance of harmony with the surrounding environment.

Then, indulge in the innovative farm-to-table philosophy and dining at Margan, a Hunter Valley culinary institution. Before lunch, take a guided tour of the kitchen garden where much of the meal originated from.

(BL)

Meander through the ornamental gardens and ponds of Australia’s largest collection of water lilies at the Wallis Creek Watergarden. Discover over 200 different varieties of plants that thrive in and around the water, including over 100 varieties of water lily.

Then, explore the region’s creative hub with a guided visit to the Maitland Regional Art Gallery, known for its diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artworks, showcasing the heritage of the area and beyond. En route back to the hotel, stop for a wine tasting at the award-winning Scarborough Wines cellar door.

Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner with Glen and fellow travellers at a regional culinary gem.

(BD)

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and visit the impressive Hunter Valley Gardens. Enjoy a guided tour of its themed gardens, showcasing the artistry of gardens around the world with native and exotic varieties of plants, and marvel at its waterfalls, statues, trees and shrubs, and over one million ground plants.

After morning tea, drive back to Sydney where tour arrangements conclude in the CBD (location to be advised).

Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including private airport transfers, additional nights’ accommodation either before or after the tour and travel insurance.

(B)

Prices

Per person, twin-share

AUD 4,250

Single supplement

AUD 750

Deposit per person (at time of booking)

AUD 1,500

Final payment due

09 August 2024

Room category upgrade available on request; please enquire with us.

Tour price includes

  • Accommodation in a 4-star superior hotel with breakfast daily (B)
  • Meals as per itinerary (L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception), including wines with meals
  • Comprehensive sightseeing, including local guides and entrance fees as per itinerary
  • Transportation on comfortable air-conditioned coaches as per itinerary
  • Expertise and insights of your tour leader, Glen Halliday
  • Gratuities for local guides, drivers and wait staff
  • Hotel porterage (one piece per person)

Tour price does not include

  • International airfares (please contact Renaissance Tours or your travel agent for assistance)
  • Airport porterage
  • Airport/hotel transfers on arrival and departure
  • Items of a personal nature (e.g. telephone, laundry, room service, mini-bar, taxis etc.)
  • Travel insurance (please contact Renaissance Tours or your travel agent for assistance)

Hotel

 

Your hotel

Pokolbin – voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley****

N.B. Hotels of a similar standard may be substituted.

More Details

Tour code: GD2414

Fitness level: Moderate
Please see Terms & Conditions for fitness level definitions here.

Suggested airline: Qantas
Please contact Renaissance Tours or your travel agent for current airfares and flight reservations.

Visa
New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa to visit Australia.

Download booking form here.

Map

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