Serenity now. The Hunter Valley is a great place to go to for a quick escape from the city, especially if you like your wine. There are plenty of large and small boutique wineries, cafes and art galleries to check out in this hilly and relaxed environment.

The tourist information office in Cessnock has maps and information on the valley.

When it comes to lunch, try Bimbadgen Estate. It has a good restaurant with al fresco eating on a huge deck, which overlooks its vineyards. Bookings are advised, (02 4998 4666). Or, if you want something a bit more relaxed, take a picnic lunch, grab a bottle from the Margan Family winery and enjoy your meal by the winery’s babbling stream.

It's not all about wine though. Hot air balloon flights, carriage and bus tours are also available.

Every year, the Hunter Valley hosts Jazz in the Vines at Tyrrells' vineyard in Pokolbin.

This is a popular place for weekend getaways, which means there is a large number of bed and breakfasts, hotels and self contained accommodation. www.huntertourism.com

 

GETTING THERE


Driving is the easiest way to get there. Take Pacific Highway on Route 1, which becomes the Sydney Newcastle Fwy and follow the signage. It's a 90min - 2hour drive from Sydney.

For further information on directions: go to www.whereis.com/whereis/directions.do