Rothbury

Wineries and restaurants 

Rothbury sits right next to Pokolbin, where you’ll find many of the Hunter Valley’s most famous wineries, but there are a handful to visit in this smaller town as well. Start at the boutique vineyards of Lucy's Run Wines and Hart and Hunter, then visit the French provincial inspired Black Creek Farm. St Clements Estate handpicks all the grapes that go into their wines – pair them with a meal at the excellent on-site Lillino’s restaurant. 

Black Creek Farm - Thélème Wines, Rothbury - Credit: Black Creek Farm - Theleme Wines

Enjoy a picnic on the lawn at Saltire Estate, accompanied by the resident wine dog Maximus. You’ll find more friendly wine pups waiting to greet you at Blueberry Hill Vineyard before tasting small batch organic wines at Horner Wines. Sit down for an elegant lunch or dinner at Amanda’s on the Edge, with sweeping views over the vines. The Legends Restaurant and Bar overlooks a golf course and specialises in steaks and bistro classics. 

Blueberry Hill Wines, Rothbury

Things to do 

Explore the beautiful Molly Morgan Range on horseback with Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures. There are pony rides for little ones and trail rides for all levels, as well as tractor hay rides, yabbying, bushwalking, pedal go-karts and farm animal feeding. Tee off on the Greg Norman-designed The Vintage golf course, an 18-hole course that’s frequently ranked among the best in Australia. 

Yoga in the Vines, Hunter Valley

For some well-deserved relaxation, book in for a treatment at the lush Spa at Chateau Elan. After your massage, scrub or facial, soak in the mineral pools on the outdoor deck or in a serene floating tank. Book in for a private class with Yoga in the Vines, where your practice can be paired with a tasting of Hunter Valley wines. 

The Spa at Chateau Elan, Hunter Valley

Where to stay 

Accommodation options include cottages, homesteads, lakehouses and plenty of stays with pools. For luxury that is close to all the main attractions, stay at Chateau Elan at The Vintage. Nestled among rolling vineyards and overlooking manicured fairways, this award-winning hotel is also a golf resort and spa. 

Chateau Elan At The Vintage, Hunter Valley - Credit: Chateau Elan At The Vintage

Getting there

Rothbury is just over two hours’ drive north of Sydney. Trains also depart regularly from Sydney for Maitland, Morriset and Singleton, where you can catch connecting buses to Wine Country. Or fly into Newcastle Airport and hire a car for the one-hour drive.