Sydney, Australia

Leave the bustle of Sydney and spend a relaxing day in the beautiful Hunter Valley on a guided wine-tasting tour in Australia’s oldest wine producing region. Enjoy a delicious lunch paired with wine, take a private tour of a vineyard, and savor tastings at several wineries. Learn about the the wine making process from your experienced guide and have the option to sample locally crafted beers. Wrap up your day with a visit to the elaborately landscaped gardens and boutique village at Hunter Valley Gardens.

You’ll leave Sydney in the morning and travel about two hours to the Hunter Valley, getting magnificent views of the Hawkesbury River as you approach the valley. Keep an eye out for the remains of a convict-built road that winds into the hills.

With a reputation for fine wine and other edible delights, the Hunter Valley is a wine and food lovers dream, and your knowledgable guide will show you the best spots. Your first stop will be Hope Estate where you can sample their award-winning wines and hear about their history in the region.

Head to Hunter Valley Resort for a delicious lunch with a selection of lamb, chicken, salmon or vegetarian dishes specially paired with wines to compliment the meal. The resort sits among 40-year old shiraz vineyards on 70 secluded acres in the heart of Hunter Valley. Enjoy the ambiance as you sip wine and take in the surroundings.

After lunch, visit McGuigan Wines to sample their wines. Established in the 1880’s McGuigan Wines is now one of the most awarded wineries in the world having won ‘worlds best best winemaker’ three times.

Wrap up your day in Hunter Valley with a stop at Hunter Valley Gardens. Walk through some of the magnificently landscaped gardens, tantalize your taste-buds with artisan chocolates, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes (own expense). You can even sample wine, beer or liquors at The Garden Cellars (own expense). After a full day, relax on the ride back to your Sydney hotel.