The Ultimate Road Trip Guide to a Memorable Day in the Hunter Valley
Planning a road trip through NSW? The Hunter Valley is the ultimate destination for a memorable day trip - offering scenic countryside, world-class wineries, charming villages, and rich regional stories. In this ultimate road trip guide, we’ll take you on a self-guided journey through Cessnock, Lovedale, and Nulkaba using the Go Drivin platform - your digital co-pilot for discovering the Hunter like a local.
Cessnock Court House by Grahame Cookie
First Stop: Cessnock – Your Gateway to the Hunter
The adventure begins in Cessnock, a charming town that acts as the southern gateway to the Hunter Valley wine region. Historically a coal mining hub, Cessnock has evolved into a lively destination with a growing arts scene, boutique stores, and gourmet cafés.
Before hitting the cellar doors, take a stroll through the town’s heritage-rich streets, grab a coffee, and get your bearings for the drive ahead.
Lovedale Aerial Olives and Vines by Josh Vincent
Lovedale – Where Boutique Wines and Local Produce Shine
A short drive from Cessnock takes you to Lovedale, an absolute gem in the Hunter Valley’s crown. Known for its boutique wineries and farm-to-table dining, Lovedale is where you’ll truly get to savour the local lifestyle.
Sample world-class Semillon and Shiraz from family-run vineyards, enjoy gourmet cheese platters, or book a wine tasting masterclass. If wine’s not your thing, there’s cider, craft beer, and even artisanal chocolate to keep your tastebuds entertained.
Pro tip: Many of the wineries here offer picturesque picnic spots, so pack a basket—or better yet, grab one from a local deli.
Giraffe and Zebra Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
Nulkaba – Nature, Wildlife, and Balloon Rides
Just outside Cessnock is the leafy suburb of Nulkaba, a peaceful slice of the Hunter that blends rural charm with unforgettable experiences. Want to get up close with Aussie wildlife? Stop by the Hunter Valley Zoo, where kangaroos, koalas, and exotic animals await.
For a truly magical moment, book a sunrise hot air balloon ride and float gently above the vineyards. The views? Absolutely breath-taking. This is one for the bucket list.
Guided by Go Drivin – Your Digital Co-Pilot
This trip is part of a curated, self-guided itinerary created by Go Drivin, a platform designed to help you explore regions like a local. Their free app or website delivers commentary, history, local tips, and hidden gems as you drive—no tour bus required.
Every stop, every story, every scenic lookout is thoughtfully mapped out, so all you need to do is drive, discover, and enjoy.
Allandale Winery - Sunset - Lovedale
Highlights Not to Miss
- Cessnock’s charming town centre
- Lovedale’s boutique wineries and artisan stops
- Hot air ballooning over the vineyards
- Hunter Valley Zoo in Nulkaba
- Breath-taking country drives and vineyard views
Hot Air Ballooning Hunter Valley by Destination NSW
Best Time to Go
While the Hunter Valley is beautiful year-round, the autumn months (March–May) offer cooler weather, vivid vineyard colours, and harvest season events. Spring (September–November) is another highlight, with blooming gardens and warm days perfect for wine tastings on the deck.
Road Trip Tips
* Be sure to plan a designated driver if you're wine tasting
* Pack a picnic blanket—you'll want to stop and take in the views
* Download the Go Drivin app before you go (handy even offline)
* Bring your camera—there are photo ops around every bend
Explore More with Go Drivin
This is just one of many incredible Drives available across New South Wales with Go Drivin. Whether you're after coastal escapes, highland adventures, or nature-focused journeys, there's a Drive for every traveller.
Start your journey today and discover a whole new way to experience the road.
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