Hunter Valley Adventures: 20 Must-See Attractions:

1. Visit the Hunter Valley Gardens and take a stroll through the beautiful floral displays at Hunter Valley Gardens
2. Taste some of the region’s renowned wines at one of the many wineries such as Tyrrell’s Wines
3. Take a hot air balloon ride and witness the breathtaking views of the valley with Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley
4. Attend a concert or music festival at one of the region’s venues such as Hope Estate
5. Visit the Hunter Valley Zoo and see a variety of native and exotic animals at Hunter Valley Zoo
6. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the many golf courses in the area such as Cypress Lakes Golf & Country Club
7. Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Hunter Valley dishes with Hunter Valley Cooking School
8. Visit the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company and indulge in some delicious chocolate treats at Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
9. Take a tour of the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory and sample some of the region’s cheeses at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory
10. Attend the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival and taste the best of the region’s wines and cuisine at Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival
11. Visit the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop and taste a variety of smelly cheeses at Smelly Cheese Shop
12. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards with Hunter Valley Horse Riding
13. Attend a wine-making or grape-picking experience at a local winery such as Audrey Wilkinson Winery
14. Take a scenic drive through the Hunter Valley’s beautiful countryside with Hunter Valley Tour Company
15. Visit the Hunter Valley Wine Theatre and learn about the history and making of wines in the region at Hunter Valley Wine Theatre
16. Take a Segway or bike tour of the Hunter Valley’s vineyards with Hunter Valley Adventures
17. Visit the Hunter Valley Art Gallery and see works by local artists at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery
18. Take a distillery tour and taste some of the region’s spirits at Hunter Distillery
19. Attend a wine-tasting event and sample a variety of wines from different wineries such as First Creek Wines
20. Visit the Hunter Valley’s farmers market and sample some of the region’s fresh produce at Cessnock Farmers Market

Towns to Explore Near By:

• Broke – wineries known for their Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sangivese, Barbera and Dolcetto.
• Lovedale – Lovedale Long Lunch – May each year
• Maitland – fruit wines made from local produce, Steam Fest and Groovin the Moo
• Morpeth – Visit the historic shop fronts, wharves and hitching posts as well as Morpeth Wine Sellers and Moonshine Distillery
• Paterson – historic town of the Barrington Tops. Visit Tocal Homestead, Barrington Tops National Park or a self-guided walk of the mid 19th century sites
• Pokolbin – home to some of our most well-known wine labels and gourmet food
• Singleton – Royal Australia Infantry Corps Museum, Yengo, Mt Royal and Wollemi National Parks, self-guided walk through the historic precinct
• Wollombi – national parks with walking trails, lookouts and Aboriginal rock carvings including Devils Rock, Flat Rock Lookout and Finchley Trig

Wine, Wildlife, Family Fun, Nature & Day Trips

Staying at Coal d’ Vine Chillout in Cessnock puts you right in the heart of the Hunter Valley.

And while the Hunter Valley is famous for its wine, there’s a lot more to discover.

From cellar doors and long lunches to wildlife parks, gardens, markets, bush walks, historic villages and spectacular countryside, Cessnock makes a great base for exploring the region.

We’ve put together 30 things to do around Cessnock and the Hunter Valley, including plenty of free and affordable activities alongside some great paid experiences.

Free & Affordable Things to Do

1. Explore Cessnock

Start close to home and discover Cessnock’s cafés, shops, parks, local history and relaxed country-town atmosphere.

Cessnock is the largest town in the Hunter Valley and a convenient base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and attractions.

2. Take a Scenic Drive Through Wine Country

You don’t have to spend money to enjoy the Hunter Valley.

Jump in the car and cruise through the vineyards around Pokolbin, Lovedale, Mount View and Broke. You’ll find rolling hills, rows of vines, old farmhouses and plenty of places to stop for a photo.

Sometimes the drive itself is the attraction.

3. Visit a Hunter Valley Lookout

Head towards the Mount View area and take in the views across the vineyards and valley.

Bimbadeen Lookout is a particularly good option for sweeping Hunter Valley scenery.

4. Enjoy a Picnic in Wine Country

Pack some local cheese, bread, fruit and other goodies and find a scenic spot among the vineyards.

Some Hunter Valley wineries allow visitors to picnic on their grounds, giving you the chance to enjoy the scenery without paying for a major attraction.

5. Discover Local Art & Culture

Cessnock isn’t just about wine.

Visit the Marthaville Arts and Cultural Centre or check what’s happening at local galleries and performance venues. Cessnock hosts exhibitions, music, theatre, dance and other cultural events throughout the year.

6. Explore Hunter Valley Sculpture

Art lovers can combine wine country with outdoor art.

The Winmark Sculpture Park in Broke is a particularly unusual experience, with large-scale sculptures displayed among the vines and surrounding countryside. Entry to the sculpture park is free.

7. Visit a Cellar Door

You don’t have to book an expensive wine tour to experience Hunter Valley wine.

Many cellar doors offer tastings at reasonable prices, and some offer complimentary tastings under certain conditions. McGuigan Wines and Tamburlaine Organic Wines have been highlighted by Visit NSW for free tasting options.

8. Visit Binnorie Dairy

Love cheese?

Call into Binnorie Dairy in Lovedale to see how cheese is made and browse the cheese shop. Visit NSW notes that visitors can watch the cheesemaking process and enjoy free tastings

Wine, Food & Hunter Valley Experiences

9. Visit a Hunter Valley Winery

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s best-known wine regions, with Semillon and Shiraz among its specialities.

Some of the closest cellar doors to Cessnock include wineries around Nulkaba, Mount View, Pokolbin and Lovedale.

A few worth putting on your Hunter Valley list include:

• Ernest Hill Wines
• Savannah Estate
• Petersons Wines
• Hanging Tree Wines – Hunter Valley

10. Enjoy a Long Lunch Among the Vines 

One of the great pleasures of the Hunter Valley is slowing down over lunch.

Choose a vineyard restaurant, grab a table overlooking the vines and make lunch part of the experience rather than something you squeeze between attractions.

The Hunter Valley has become as much a food destination as a wine destination.

11. Explore Hunter Valley Breweries

Not a wine drinker?

No problem.

The Hunter has breweries, distilleries, pubs and plenty of alternative food and drink experiences. Visit NSW specifically recommends exploring the region beyond wine tasting.

12. Take a Wine Tour 

Leave the car behind and let someone else do the driving.

Hunter Valley wine tours can include cellar-door tastings, lunch and transport between venues. There are tours ranging from small-group experiences to larger buses.

13. Explore Lovedale

Lovedale is home to wineries, gourmet food producers, cellar doors and beautiful rural scenery.

It’s an easy area to include in a Hunter Valley day out from Cessnock.

14. Discover Pokolbin

Pokolbin is at the heart of the Hunter Valley wine region.

Spend a day exploring cellar doors, restaurants, galleries, gardens and attractions surrounded by vineyards and the Brokenback Range.

Family Fun

15. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park

Hunter Valley Wildlife Park is one of the region’s best family attractions.

See kangaroos, wombats, exotic animals, meerkats and more. Kids can get involved with animal experiences, while the park also offers special programmes during school holidays.

It’s an especially good choice when the family needs a break from wine tasting!

16. Hunter Valley Gardens

Hunter Valley Gardens covers 14 hectares and features themed gardens, ponds, waterfalls, sculptures and more than eight kilometres of walking paths.

There are also family-friendly attractions and seasonal events throughout the year.

Allow several hours if you want to properly explore the gardens.

17. Hunter Farm

Head to Pokolbin for a family experience that can include animals, horse riding and other outdoor activities.

Hunter Farm offers a variety of activities designed to get families outside and having a bit of fun.

18. Hunter Valley Aqua Golf 

Fancy something different?

Try your hand at hitting golf balls towards floating targets. It’s an easy-going activity for families, couples and groups.

19. Go Horse Riding

Explore the countryside on horseback and see the Hunter Valley from a completely different perspective.

Horse-riding experiences are available around the vineyards and surrounding countryside.

20. Try Segway Touring

For something a little different, join a Segway experience through the Hunter Valley countryside.

NSW Segway Tours offers a 5.5 km trail following an historic stock route in Pokolbin.

Nature, Walks & Outdoor Adventures

21. Explore Werakata National Park

Just outside Cessnock, Werakata National Park provides an opportunity to escape the vineyards and explore native bushland.

Pack water, walking shoes and binoculars and keep an eye out for native birds and wildlife.

Astills picnic area is only about 10 minutes from Cessnock and is an easy option for a picnic in nature.

22. Deadmans Mountain Bike Track

For cycling enthusiasts, Werakata National Park has the Deadmans Loop mountain-bike track.

The loop winds through spotted-gum forest and provides a completely different Hunter Valley experience.

23. Explore Kitchener Dam

Kitchener Dam is a peaceful spot to get away from the busier parts of the Hunter.

Enjoy the scenery, have a picnic and take some time out among the bushland.

24. Take a Bushwalk

The Hunter Valley is surrounded by national parks and bushland, so there are plenty of opportunities to swap vineyards for walking tracks.

For something more adventurous, explore the wider Hunter region and its national parks.

25. Discover Aboriginal History

The Hunter Valley has an ancient Aboriginal history stretching back more than 30,000 years.

For a meaningful cultural experience, explore Aboriginal sites and cultural walks such as the Finchley Cultural Walk in Yengo National Park, or consider joining an Aboriginal cultural tour.

Day Trips From Cessnock

26. Broke & the Upper Hunter Valley

Take a scenic drive towards Broke and explore a quieter side of the Hunter Valley.

You’ll find vineyards, boutique cellar doors, countryside views, restaurants and the Winmark Sculpture Park.

It’s a great alternative when you’ve already explored Pokolbin.

27. Wollombi Historic Village

Take a drive south towards historic Wollombi.

Explore the village, browse local shops and galleries and discover some of the area’s early colonial history.

It’s also a great starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside.

28. Yengo National Park

For something completely different from the vineyards, head towards Yengo National Park.

The park is home to significant Aboriginal cultural sites and spectacular bushland. The Finchley Cultural Walk provides an opportunity to see Aboriginal rock engravings.

29. Maitland & Morpeth

Fancy a change of scenery?

Head east towards Maitland and historic Morpeth for heritage buildings, cafés, galleries, shopping and riverside scenery.

Maitland also offers cultural attractions and heritage walks.

30. Newcastle & the Coast 

Want to swap vineyards for the ocean?

Newcastle is within easy reach by car and makes a great alternative day out. Enjoy the beaches, coastal walks, cafés, restaurants, shopping and harbour before returning to Cessnock for a relaxing evening.

Why Stay at Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

One of the best things about staying at Coal d’ Vine Chillout in Cessnock is having a comfortable base from which to explore the Hunter Valley.

You don’t have to spend the whole weekend visiting wineries.

You can mix and match your days:

• Day 1: Wineries, cellar doors & a long lunch
• Day 2: Hunter Valley Wildlife Park & Hunter Valley Gardens
• Day 3: Bushwalking, lookouts & a picnic
  Day 4: Local produce, cheese, wineries & cafés
• Day 5: Wollombi, Broke or another Hunter Valley adventure

And that’s the beauty of Cessnock.

Wine if you want it. Wildlife if the kids demand it. Nature when you need to escape. Great food when you’re hungry. And plenty of free things to do when you’d rather keep your wallet in your pocket.

After a day exploring the Hunter Valley, come back to Coal d’ Vine Chillout, put your feet up and chill out.

Your Hunter Valley Base

Coal d’ Vine Chillout – Cessnock NSW

A comfortable 3-bedroom stay for families, couples, groups and friends wanting to explore Cessnock, Pokolbin, Lovedale, Mount View, Broke and the wider Hunter Valley.

Stay. Explore. Eat. Drink. Relax.

That’s Hunter Valley style.

• Children’s Dinnerware

• Essentials (Towels, Bedsheets, Soap, Shampoo and Toiletries)

• Fire Extinguisher

• Heating

• High Chair

• Iron

• Microwave

• Mini Fridge

• Outdoor Dining Area

• Portacot

• Private Entrance

• Private Living Room

• Single Level Home

• Smoke Alarm

• Washing Machine

• BBQ Grill

• Board Games

• Electric Flame Heater

• Fan

• Free Parking

• Garden or Backyard

• Hair Dryer

• Kids Allowed

• Kitchen

• Non-Smoking

• Patio or Balcony

• Pets Not Allowed

• Pool

• Self Check-In

• TV

• WiFi

• Netflix

• Stan

• YouTube

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout a private apartment?

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Chillout is a private three-bedroom apartment for the exclusive use of your booking, accommodating up to 8 guests. Some outdoor facilities are shared with the first-floor apartment, including the swimming pool, fenced backyard, BBQ patio, laundry, and driveway.

• Where can I stay in Cessnock for up to 8 guests?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout is a three-bedroom private apartment in Cessnock, NSW, accommodating up to 8 guests. It is a practical choice for families, couples travelling together, friends, and small groups visiting the Hunter Valley.

• How many guests can stay at Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

The Coal d’ Vine Chillout accommodates up to 8 guests across three bedrooms and one bathroom. Guests are encouraged to provide their preferred sleeping arrangement before arrival so the bedding can be prepared appropriately.

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout the whole building?

No. Coal d’ Vine Chillout is a separate three-bedroom ground-floor apartment and does not include both levels of the property. If you need the entire property, both levels can be booked through Coal d’ Vine Entertainer, subject to availability.

• Can I book both apartments for a larger group?

Yes. If you are travelling with a larger family or group, you may be able to book both levels of the property through Coal d’ Vine Entertainer. This provides access to the entire property and is particularly suitable for larger groups or multiple families.

• Can companies book Coal d’ Vine Chillout for their workers?

Yes. Companies can book Coal d’ Vine Chillout for their workers, making it a practical option for tradies, contractors, and employees travelling for midweek work, projects, or longer assignments. Contact us to discuss availability and accommodation requirements.

• Where can workers stay in Cessnock for a work project?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout can accommodate workers, tradies, contractors, and employees travelling to Cessnock for work. The apartment provides Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, laundry access, parking, and comfortable living space, making it suitable for midweek stays and work projects.

• What can we do near Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout is ideally located for exploring Cessnock, Pokolbin, and the Hunter Valley. Enjoy wineries and cellar doors, restaurants, gardens, scenic drives, and family-friendly attractions. Our guest local guide includes recommendations for places to visit, things to do, and places to eat in Cessnock.

• Can I stay at Coal d’ Vine Chillout for a longer period?

Yes. Longer stays may be available for extended holidays, work assignments, projects, or longer visits to the Hunter Valley. Availability and pricing depend on the dates and length of stay.

• Where should I stay in Cessnock when visiting Hunter Valley wineries?

Cessnock is a convenient base for visitors who want to explore the wider Hunter Valley wine region. Coal d’ Vine Chillout offers three bedrooms for up to 8 guests, making it suitable for families and small groups who want accommodation with a kitchen, laundry, Wi-Fi, and parking.

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout close to Hunter Valley wineries? 

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Chillout is located in Cessnock, providing convenient access to Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley wine region. The surrounding area offers wineries, cellar doors, restaurants, and a range of attractions to explore. 

• How close is Coal d’ Vine Chillout to Pokolbin? 

Coal d’ Vine Chillout is conveniently located in Cessnock for exploring Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley wine region. Approximately a 10 minute drive. Travel times can vary depending on your destination and traffic, so guests should allow appropriate time when planning winery visits. 

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout suitable for families visiting the Hunter Valley? 

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Chillout is a family-friendly accommodation in Cessnock with three bedrooms and space for up to 8 guests. Portacots and high chairs may also be available on request, and guests have access to a fully fenced backyard. 

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout suitable for a group weekend in Cessnock?

Yes. With three bedrooms and accommodation for up to 8 guests, Coal d’ Vine Chillout is well suited to small groups visiting Cessnock and the Hunter Valley for weekends, holidays, winery trips, or local events.

• Is Coal d’ Vine Chillout pet-friendly accommodation in Cessnock?

Friendly pets may be accepted by prior arrangement. If you are looking for pet-friendly accommodation in Cessnock, contact us before booking so we can confirm whether your pet is suitable and discuss any requirements.

• How do I access Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout offers 24/7 self check-in via a lockbox. Your access code is sent by email 5 days before check-in and by SMS 2 days before check-in, so you can arrive at a time that suits your travel plans.

• Can I check in late at night?

Yes. The 24/7 self-check-in system provides flexibility for late arrivals. Please ensure you have received your access instructions before travelling.

• Can I request an early check-in or late check-out?

Early check-in and late check-out may be available depending on availability and cleaning schedules. Please contact us in advance, and we’ll confirm what can be arranged.

• What is the best way to avoid issues before check-in?

For a smooth arrival, we recommend completing the check-in form before your arrival. This allows you to confirm your guest numbers, arrival time, preferred bedding arrangement, and any special requests ahead of check-in.

• Does the accommodation have a swimming pool?

Yes, Coal d’ Vine Chillout has access to a swimming pool, giving guests a convenient place to relax, cool off, and enjoy their holiday.

• Is the pool private, and is it heated?

The swimming pool is shared with the first-floor apartment and is not heated. The water may be cold during cooler months, particularly in winter. Pool access is available year-round, subject to weather conditions.

• Does Coal d’ Vine VIEW have a fully equipped kitchen?

Yes. The property has a fully equipped kitchen with appliances, cookware, and utensils for preparing and enjoying meals during your stay.

• What kitchen appliances and cooking supplies are provided? 

The kitchen includes essential appliances and cooking equipment. Basic supplies such as salt, pepper, and cooking oil may be available, but availability varies, so we recommend bringing your own. 

• Is there a BBQ at Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

Yes, the BBQ facility is available for guests to enjoy, providing a private space to relax, dine outdoors, and spend time with family.

• Does Coal d’ Vine Chillout have laundry facilities?

Yes. Laundry facilities include a washing machine, drying rack, and iron. The laundry area is shared with the first-floor apartment.

• What essentials are provided at Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout provides essential amenities, including bed linen and bathroom essentials. Guests can also access a local guide with helpful tips on places to visit, activities, and local experiences around Cessnock.

• Does Coal d’ Vine Chillout have Wi-Fi for remote work?

Yes. Wi-Fi is available throughout the apartment and is suitable for browsing, streaming, emails, virtual meetings, and remote work.

• Does the property have heating and air conditioning?

Yes. The first floor has ducted air conditioning throughout all rooms for heating and cooling. Ceiling fans are provided in the second and third bedrooms, as well as five fans in the living area. 

• Is parking available at Coal d’ Vine Chillout?

Yes. Free onsite parking is available, with additional street parking nearby. This is convenient for families and groups travelling with more than one vehicle.

• Why should I stay at Coal d’ Vine Chillout when visiting the Hunter Valley?

Coal d’ Vine Chillout combines the convenience of Cessnock accommodation with space for up to 8 guests, a private three-bedroom apartment, kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, laundry access, parking, and access to a shared swimming pool and outdoor areas. Its location also provides a convenient base for exploring Pokolbin and the wider Hunter Valley.