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4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 2 day self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 3 nights deluxe accommodation

Price

4 daysfrom

$1205AUD

View Inclusions
 
 
Trip Code: HVG
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Hunter Valley Explorer Deluxe Trip highlights

  • Enjoy the independence of self-guided cycling with all logistics taken care of for you
  • Delight in the local wines and food of the Hunter Valley region
  • Cycle through the countryside, passing vineyards and farms en route
  • Deluxe accommodation to relax in at the end of the days exploring
  • Stay in the heart of the valley at Pokolbin
  • Travel at your own pace visiting the sites you want to focus on
  • Cycle past world heritage wilderness and classic Australian countryside

The Hunter Valley is where wine-making started in Australia and remains one of the most important wine producing areas in the country. It is also a fantastic area to explore at handle bar level. In 1832, armed with 20,000 cuttings from Spain and France, James Busby established the first vineyards in Australia. Now, the region is famous for its Semillon and Shiraz. It’s also home to some great Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvigon and Verdelhos. On this self guided cycle we’ll take you on a journey around the Hunter Valley to experience some of the best it has to offer. It’s not just the wine on show – artisan olive producers, chocolatiers, chefs and bakers showcase the best of the region at the many farms, cafes and restaurants. Staying in the heart of the valley at Pokolbin, the primary wine-growing area within the Hunter Valley, everything is waiting to be discovered. The beauty of the cycle is that you are free to set your own pace, with time to enjoy a long lunch, sample local delicacies or stop for wine tastings en route. With two days spent cycling in the Valley you can really gain an appreciation for the exceptional wine and produce of the region. Staying in our deluxe accommodation allows you to relax at the end of each day, delighting in the surrounding vineyard views.

Itinerary

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Make your own way to Pokolbin, located right in the heart of the Hunter Valley and the perfect place to base our self and explore the stunning surrounds. This afternoon check in to your accommodation. The Hunter Valley is one of Australia's most important wine regions with a history dating back to the early 1800's. It is a stunning area with ancient rain forest and areas of world heritage wilderness. You can spend the afternoon strolling through the charming streets of town and its surrounds. Overnight Pokollbin

Meals:  Nil

After breakfast we pick up our bikes and head off towards the cycle-way. The beauty about the self guided cycling journeys is that you can stop where you want and for how long you like, perfect for a short stay cycling adventure. It gives you the opportunity to focus on what you like! We start our journey by joining the Hermitage Road Cycle Path. There are many wineries to stop and enjoy, including Tintilla Estate & Olive Grove and Pigs Peake Winery. They have an eclectic range of wines and are great fun. You can dine in style at Yellow Billy (Wed-Sun) or have a more relaxed lunch at the Iron Bark Hill Brewery where you can enjoy a cleansing ale. We then cycle back to our deluxe accommodation after our days adventure in the glorious Hunter Valley. Cycling distance: 15-36km, ascent: 202-300m, descent: -202, -300m

Meals:  B

Today is a day of great wines and some spectacular views. You’ll start by heading south on the trail adjacent to Hermitage Road, before continuing on to Broke Road. You can stop at De Iuliis Wines and Oakvale Wines. It’s back on the bikes and as you continue on to McDonalds Road until you come to Brokenwood. Continuing on to De Beyers Road loop, which will take you past several wineries. Today's cycle is full of picturesque views and countless wineries. You are free to stop wherever you like. Cycling distance: 35-42km (depending on accommodation), ascent approx: 200-350m, descent approx 250-3600m.

Meals:  B

The trip concludes this morning.

Meals:  B

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Make your own way to Pokolbin, located right in the heart of the Hunter Valley and the perfect place to base our self and explore the stunning surrounds. This afternoon check in to your accommodation. The Hunter Valley is one of Australia's most important wine regions with a history dating back to the early 1800's. It is a stunning area with ancient rain forest and areas of world heritage wilderness. You can spend the afternoon strolling through the charming streets of town and it's surrounds. Overnight Pokollbin. If the Spicers Retreat is fully booked we may book you into the Spicers Guesthouse. You will still cycle on the same paths, but as the hotels are at different ends of Pokolbin you will cycle in different directions.

Meals:  Nil

After breakfast you collect your bikes and head off towards the cycle-way. The beauty about the self guided cycling journeys is that you can stop where you want and for how long you like, perfect for a short stay cycling adventure. It gives you the opportunity to focus on what you like! We start our journey by heading towards the Hermitage Road Cycle Path. We don't have to cycle too far before we reach our first point of interest, Oakvale Wines. Then continue along Broke Road, before joining the Cycle Path. You can then visit the Mistletoe Wines & Sculpture garden. This is a beautiful family run winery, with classic Hunter wines and fabulous sculpture garden. The cellar door is a great place for both tasting and purchasing of the local produce and the Pokolbin Fine Art Gallery and the Mistletoe Sculpture Garden is not to be missed. Back on the bike we continue through forest and farming community to reach Tintilla Estate & Olive Grove and Pigs Peake Winery. They have an eclectic range of wines and are great fun. You can dine in style at Yellow Billy (Wed-Sun) or have a more relaxed lunch at the Iron Bark Hill Brewery where you can enjoy a cleansing ale. The final stop of the day is the iconic De luliis Wines, which has exceptional Semillons and if you are still hungry you can pair it with local cheeses. We then cycle back to our deluxe accommodation after our days adventure in the glorious Hunter Valley. Cycling distance: 27km, ascent: 250m, descent: 250m

Meals:  B

Today is a day of great wineries and spectacular views. You start the day heading south on McDonald Road. You can visit two of the finest and modern cellar doors in the region, Usher Tinkler and Gundog Estate, both of which serve exceptional wines. Back on the bike you can cycle to Tulloch Wine or take on the hill to visit Audrey Wilkinson vineyard, where they have some of the best views in Pokolbin. A leisurely tasting awaits. It’s back on the bikes and you head further north again until you come to Brokenwood. This winery produces some exceptional wines.They have a wide range – something for everyone. We recommend having lunch here at their restaurant “The Wood Restaurant" (closed until late 2020). Or continue to the Roche Estate where you can have lunch at Oishii (daily) or the Goldfish Bar and Kitchen (Wed-Sun) or make a picnic lunch at the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop. After your full day we head back to Pokolbin where our accommodation awaits. Cycling distance: 18km, ascent: 428m, descent: 426m

Meals:  B

The trip concludes this morning.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 3 nights accommodation in our deluxe accommodation in a double room basis with private facilities
  • 3 breakfasts
  • Electric mountain bike hire including helmet
  • Route information available to download through our app

  • Travel to/from Pokolbin
  • Accommodation before or after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, etc
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals (except breakfast)
  • Phone handlebar mount

Bike information

Electric Bike

Electric Bikes are included in the trip cost. The electric bikes are built for comfort. With a soft seat, upright riding position, step-through frame and electronic assist, you’ll be riding further with ease. We only have adult frames available, with a minimum age of 14. The weight limit for the ebike is 110kg.

Accommodation

Deluxe Accommodation

Our usual accommodation is at the Spicers Guesthouse, a deluxe accommodation in the Hunter Valley. The rooms all have king size beds, ensuites and a classic contemporary feel.

Grading

Introductory to Moderate  
4

This self guided trip involves 2 days of cycling. The first day of cycling is mostly on the newly opened Hermitage Road Cycle Way with some sections of road cycling. The second day of cycling is mostly along the roads. The roads used on this trip are country roads. Daily activity is usually between 2 and 4 hours but some days might be longer depending on your overall pace on riding a bike. Being a self guided trip you determine the pace and schedule. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health and be a capable cyclist. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions which can also add to the timing and comfort of a trip, for example riding into a head wind will take more time than when the wind is behind you.

Departure dates

Daily departures Wednesday to Saturday

Notes

Note:
Start date supplements apply if you start your trip on Thursday to Saturday. Prices may vary depending on the room type available.
DN2
Please note, when we book your accommodation some hotels may request a deposit/full payment to secure your booking. This amount will be payable, in addition to the Australian Cycle Tours deposit. Any extra payments, along with the $400 AUD deposit, are non-refundable.
DN3
A holiday supplement applies if you are travelling over a public holiday or during NSW school holiday periods. The rate will vary depending on the room types that are available.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events or just tailoring a trip to suit your own needs - learn how you can tailor your own Customised Tour.

Priceper person from

$1205AUD

Options & Supplements*
  • Discount to remove bike hireAUD$-118
  • Start Date Supplement - Starting Thursday to Saturday (pp)AUD$100
  • Single Supplement - Starting Sunday to WednesdayAUD$790
  • Single Supplement - Starting Thursday to SaturdayAUD$860
*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Hunter Valley Deluxe Self Guided Cycle Explorer trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The easiest way to get to the Hunter Valley is to drive. There will be ample parking at your accommodation. If you are coming from Sydney the drive will take around 2 hours.

Alternatively, you can catch a suburban train from Sydney to Morisset Station and the catch a connecting bus to Cessnock. The whole journey takes around 3 hours.

Regional Trainlink trains run between Sydney and Singleton, which is a 20min taxi ride from Cessnock. The trip takes three hours and you’ll need to book ahead.

Yes, you need to be a capable cyclist. You will cover around 20-30km in a day and you will need to be confident cycling on roads. Some sections are along cycle paths but they do not cover the whole route.

Yes, you can bring your own bike if you prefer. Unfortunately with the pricing of this trip we cannot offer a discount for removing the bike hire.

Yes. It is highly recommended (and essential in many places) that you book your visit in advance. The Hunter Valley is currently very busy and pre-booking allows the local businesses to stay Covid-Safe.

Hunter Valley Explorer Deluxe Videos

SPICERS VINEYARDS ESTATE

Hunter Valley Explorer Deluxe Trip reviews

Why cycle with us

SELF GUIDED EXPERTS

As the pioneers of self guided active travel in Australia you can expect a seamless experience. Our quality tour notes and logistical expertise sets us apart and ensures a quality experience for you.

TRUSTED LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about cycling and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for you.

Quality services

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. We've sourced the highest quality bikes and most authentic accommodations so you can enjoy a stress free cycling trip.

Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

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