The Hunter Valley Wine Region

After lazing on the beaches of Hamilton Island it wasn't long before I was back on dry land and heading to Australia's Hunter Valley, home of some of the world's best wines - and it was my mission to sample as many of them as I could.

A short two hour drive from Sydney, I arrived and checked in to Pepper's Guest House which is situated in the heart of the valley. My room was spacious and very welcoming with the hotel itself offering a hearty breakfast and, if you choose to eat on site, a popular restaurant which prides itself on using fresh local produce.

Book a room at Pepper's Guesthouse

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With 120 wineries and cellar doors Hunter Valley is the ultimate playground for wine connoisseurs and, like me, those who just appreciate a glass after a long day at work! I decided to do a self tour so grabbed my free map of the region and headed out to find out what all the fuss was about¢¢¬¦ The process itself is relatively simple ¢¢¬¢ just turn up, take a look around and decide which wines from the list you¢¢¬¢¢d like to try. It¢¢¬¢¢s important to note that you¢¢¬¢¢ll probably need a designated driver who can ferry you around. Don't miss a visit to Pepper Tree Wines where the knowledgeable staff will educate you in the ways of wine. I left genuinely feeling like I'd picked up some tricks of the trade, which makes it well worth a visit.

If you fancy it, there are plenty of wine schools, cooking classes, golf courses and even hot-air balloon tours of the region to keep you occupied, so in between trying some fantastic wines there's always something to vying for your attention.