Denman
A small country town with a big name in fine wine, good food and heritage charm, Denman is a gem of the beautiful Upper Hunter. Stay and be rewarded with memorable experiences, from rolling vineyards and cellar doors to champion horse studs and magnificent national parks.
Highlights
Food & wine
The lush landscapes surrounding Denman are dotted with boutique wineries. Visit Small Forest, led by the first female winemaker in Japan Atsuko Radcliffe, where you can taste both wine and sake. The pretty cellar door at Two River Wines is surrounded by sandstone sculptures and there are oversized lawn games to keep the kids entertained.
Small Forest, Denman - Credit: Small Forest Atsuko Radcliffe
Hollydene Estate Wines and Vines Restaurant is close to the Coolmore horse stud, which raised the champion mare Winx. You can taste Hunter Valley classics as well as emerging varieties at the cellar door or settle in for a long lunch at Vines restaurant. The popular Denman Hotel dates back to the early 1900s and is a classic pub with country hospitality, great food and live music. For tasty café fare and local produce, try Fresh Denman.
Hollydene Estate Wines, Denman - Credit Hollydene Estate Wines
Natural wonders
Two national parks sit to the west of Denman, offering plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure. The World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is threaded with wild rivers, towering cliffs and deep canyons, perfect for hiking, rock climbing and kayaking. In the tranquil Goulburn River National Park, you can set up camp beside the river for lazy days of swimming and birdwatching.
Spring Gully campground, Upper Hunter Valley – Credit: Nick Cubbin/DCCEEW
Heritage & local events
The town of Denman was founded in the 1850s and much of its history lives on. Follow the fascinating heritage walk and wander past colonial and early federation buildings, such as the National Trust-classified St Matthias Church, which held its first service in 1874. Visit the Denman and District Heritage Village to see a unique collection of artefacts and vintage vehicles.
Film buffs should visit in November for the annual Blue Heeler Film Festival and Denman Wine, Food & Film Affair, which have combined to become an unmissable weekend of fun and creativity.
Denman and District Heritage Village, Denman - Credit: Catherine Reddish
Getting there & where to stay
Located on the picturesque Golden Highway in the beautiful Upper Hunter, Denman is less than two hours’ drive from Newcastle and just under three hours from Sydney. Follow our guide on the best stops between Sydney and the Hunter region to make a road trip out of the journey. You can take your pick of places to stay from motels, caravan parks and campgrounds to chic country cottages.
