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 Entertainer 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 Entertainer?

One of the best things about staying at Coal d’ Vine Entertainer 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 Entertainer, put your feet up and chill out.

Your Hunter Valley Base

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer– Cessnock, NSW

A spacious 6-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.

• Free WiFi, Apple TV, Netflix and Stan
• DAIKIN Ducted air conditioning for heating and cooling (control in hallway)
• Ceiling fans x4
• Self—contained
• TV & DVD in the lounge room along with DVD library
• Fully equipped kitchen and bathroom
• Toilet separate to bathroom
• Main bedroom has a queen bed
• Second bedroom has a queen bed
• Third bedroom has 2 holiday bunks (2 single beds on top and 2 double beds below). There are also 2 single foam mattresses that can be used in the lounge area.
• BBQ and outdoor entertaining in back yard gazebo
• Swimming pool
• Shared laundry downstairs on ground floor
• Linen and beach towels supplied (included in tariff)

• What is the best accommodation for large groups in Cessnock?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is an excellent choice for large groups looking for private Cessnock accommodation. This spacious six-bedroom holiday house can accommodate up to 16 guests, with two living areas, two kitchens, two bathrooms, two separate toilets, and a private swimming pool. It gives families and groups the space to stay together and enjoy a comfortable Hunter Valley getaway.

• Where can I stay in Cessnock with a group of 16? 

For groups of up to 16 guests, Coal d’ Vine Entertainer offers spacious Cessnock holiday accommodation with six bedrooms and two bathrooms. The entire property is private to your group, with multiple living spaces, two kitchens, Wi-Fi, outdoor entertaining, and a private pool.

• What is the best large group accommodation in the Hunter Valley?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is designed with large groups in mind. Located in Cessnock, it provides a convenient base for exploring the Hunter Valley while giving groups their own private holiday home. With accommodation for up to 16 guests, six bedrooms, two kitchens, two living areas, and a private pool, there is plenty of room to relax together.

• Where can large families stay together in the Hunter Valley?

Large families can stay together at Coal d’ Vine Entertainer in Cessnock, with space for up to 16 guests across six bedrooms. The property is family-friendly and offers multiple living areas, two kitchens, a fully fenced backyard, and a private swimming pool, making it practical for families travelling together.

• Is there private pool accommodation for groups in Cessnock?

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Entertainer offers private pool accommodation in Cessnock for groups of up to 16 guests. The swimming pool is private to your booking, giving your group a relaxed space to enjoy during your Hunter Valley stay.

• What is the best family accommodation in Cessnock?

For families travelling together, Coal d’ Vine Entertainer offers spacious family accommodation in Cessnock with room for up to 16 guests. The six-bedroom home includes two living areas, two kitchens, a fully fenced backyard, and a private pool. Portacots and high chairs can also be requested for younger children.

• Where should I stay near Pokolbin for a large group?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer in Cessnock is a convenient option for large groups visiting Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley. Instead of booking several hotel rooms, groups can stay together in one private six-bedroom holiday home with space for up to 16 guests while enjoying convenient access to Hunter Valley wineries, restaurants, and attractions.

• What is the best accommodation near Hunter Valley wineries?

If you’re visiting the Hunter Valley for wine tasting, Coal d’ Vine Entertainer provides spacious Cessnock accommodation with convenient access to the wineries and attractions around Pokolbin. It is particularly suited to families and larger groups who want to stay together in a private holiday home rather than separate hotel rooms.

• Is there a 6-bedroom holiday house in Cessnock?

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is a six-bedroom holiday house in Cessnock, NSW, accommodating up to 16 guests. The property includes two bathrooms, two kitchens, two living areas, Wi-Fi, outdoor entertaining, a private pool, and free on-site parking.

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

The Coal d’ Vine Entertainer accommodates up to 16 guests. Please let us know your preferred sleeping arrangement before arrival so we can prepare the appropriate beds.

• Can we add extra guests later?

Yes. You can add extra guests to your booking, subject to the cottage’s maximum occupancy. Please contact us as soon as possible if your group size changes so we can arrange the appropriate bedding. 

• How many bedrooms does Coal d’ Vine Entertainer have?

The Coal d’ Vine Entertainer has 6 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and can accommodate up to 16 guests, making it suitable for families, multiple families, and larger groups.

• Is Coal d’ Vine Entertainer family-friendly?

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is family-friendly and suitable for children and infants. Portacots and high chairs are available on request, and the fully fenced backyard provides a secure outdoor area for families.

• How do I access Coal d’ Vine Entertainer?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer offers 24/7 self check-in via a secure lockbox, giving guests flexibility to arrive at a convenient time. Your access code and check-in instructions are sent by email 5 days before arrival and by SMS 2 days before arrival.

• 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.

• Will we have the whole property to ourselves?

Yes. Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is a private, two-level house exclusively for your group, so you can enjoy the property without sharing the living spaces or pool with other guests. The home provides plenty of space for larger groups, with two living areas, two kitchens, and multiple bathrooms.

• Is Wi-Fi available at Coal d’ Vine Entertainer?

Yes. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, making it convenient for streaming, browsing, working remotely, checking emails, and virtual meetings.

• Is parking available on site?

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

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

Yes, the cottage has two fully equipped kitchens with essential cooking facilities, appliances, cookware, and utensils for preparing meals during your stay.

• What kitchen appliances are provided?

Both kitchens include essential appliances and cooking equipment needed to prepare and enjoy meals at the property. If you need to confirm a specific appliance before arrival, please contact us.

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

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

• Are laundry facilities available?

Yes. Guests have access to laundry facilities, including a washing machine, drying rack, clothesline, and iron. These amenities are particularly convenient for families and longer stays.

• 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 also provided, including fans in the second and third bedrooms and five in the living area. 

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

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer 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.

• Are pets allowed?

Friendly pets may be allowed after discussion. This helps us maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for everyone. Please contact us before booking.

• Where is Coal d’ Vine Entertainer located?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is located in Cessnock, NSW, in the heart of the Hunter Valley region. Its location provides a convenient base for exploring local wineries, restaurants, attractions, and surrounding Hunter Valley towns.

• How far is Coal d’ Vine Entertainer from Pokolbin?

Coal d’ Vine Entertainer is located in Cessnock, providing convenient access to Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley wine region with a 10 minute drive. Travel times can vary depending on your exact destination and traffic conditions.

• Is Coal d’ Vine Entertainer a good base for exploring the Hunter Valley?

Yes. Its Cessnock location makes it a convenient base for guests wanting to explore Pokolbin, Hunter Valley wineries, cellar doors, restaurants, and regional attractions while returning to a spacious private home at the end of the day.

• Can we stay for holidays or a long weekend?

Yes. The Coal d’ Vine Entertainer can be a great option for holiday accommodation, long weekends, and special group getaways, subject to availability for your selected dates.