Rothbury

Perfect for a midweek break or romantic weekend, Rothbury is an idyllic escape in the beautiful Hunter Valley. With views of the magnificent Broken Back and Molly Morgan ranges, stay among rolling vineyards, play golf on a magnificent course, explore a national park and relax in a rejuvenating spa.

Hunter Valley vineyards

Taste your way through award-winning wineries and restaurants dotted amongst the vineyards, from boutique wineries such as Lucy's Run Wines and Hart and Hunter to the French provincial inspired Black Creek Farmwinery. You’ll also discover delicious craft beer at Hope Estate Brewery.

St Clements Estate is famed for its Italian cuisine at Lillino’s. For cellar door wines and olive oil tasting, visit Sandalyn Wilderness Estate. Enjoy a delicious meal at Legends Grill, with breathtaking views at Chateau Elan at The Vintage, a resort where you can play golf and relax at The Spa at Chateau Elan.

Hot air balloon over the Vintage Golf Club in Rothbury

Outdoor adventure

For outdoor adventure, Werakata National Park is only a short drive away. The scenic Deadmans mountain bike loop is an easy 8km track, or you can explore the countryside and Molly Morgan Range’s trails on horseback with Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures.

Close to Pokolbin and Lovedale, you’ll find more nearby vineyards and attractions, such as the family-fun Hunter Valley Gardens. Check out the local events calendar for events such as the Hunter Valley Chocolate and Cheese Festivalheld each July at Hope Estate Brewery.

Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures in Rothbury, Hunter Valley

Getting there & where to stay

Rothbury is only two hours’ drive north of Sydney and 50min west of Newcastle Airport. Trains also depart from Sydney for Maitland, Morriset and Singleton, with connecting buses. Plenty of accommodation options are available, from homesteads and cottages in tranquil vineyard settings to holiday houses and resorts.

Fly into Newcastle Airport

The Hunter Valley is within easy reach of Newcastle Airport. Choose from a range of transport services on arrival, including car rentals, limousines and shuttle buses as well as group and private transfers. Public transport options are available from the airport to Australia’s oldest wine region.

Newcastle Airport offers direct flights to and from eight destinations throughout southeastern Australia. Jetstar flies to Brisbane, Melbourne and the Gold Coast; Virgin Australia flies to Melbourne; QantasLink flies to Brisbane; and Regional Express flies to Sydney. Link Airways operates direct flights between Canberra and Newcastle six days a week. FlyPelican flies to Ballina/Byron, Canberra, Dubbo and Taree. Virgin Australia also operates seasonal direct flights to Auckland, New Zealand, between November and February.