Pokolbin is a rural area north of the city of Cessnock and has been the central village of the Hunter Valley’s wine industry for nearly two centuries. The region is famous for its local produce so be sure to include visits to the area’s vineyards, breweries, olive farms and cheese factories. After a day outdoors, dine in quality restaurants to sample some of the best food in the area.Pokolbin is a popular destination for those seeking a rural vacation experience within driving distance of Australia’s big cities on the east coast. Local accommodation options range from charming bed and breakfast rooms and luxury resorts with pools, to cabins in vineyards. There is a championship golf course for sporty visitors while art lovers will enjoy the landscape paintings and sculptures in the local galleries.Of course, the Hunter Valley is most popular because of its quality Australian wine. This is the birthplace of the nation’s wine industry and nowadays Pokolbin is surrounded by more than a dozen quality wineries and vineyards. Visit boutique vineyards, like Saddler’s Creek or Mistletoe, or larger export wineries like Pepper Tree. Because nearly all cellar doors are in a rural setting, the area is best explored by car. You can pick up a map and brochures at the tourist information center on the road to Cessnock to find out which wineries and farms suit your interests. For a fun and informative gourmet experience with a group and chauffeur, join the winery and lunch tours leaving from Sydney, Newcastle or Cessnock. While in Pokolbin, don’t miss the Hunter Valley Gardens in the center of town. Walk through the tranquil gardens and have lunch or a beer in the Irish pub. Let the children roam free in the Storybook Garden, where they can come face-to-face with world-famous nursery rhyme characters and listen to their stories. Pokolbin is located 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of Cessnock and can be reached by car or bus. Rover Coaches has a regular bus service that connects the two towns.
Pokolbin
Visit Pokolbin
Reviewed on 3 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 3 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 18 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 3 Nov 2024
Reviewed on 24 Sep 2024
Reviewed on 15 Oct 2024
Popular places to visit
Hunter Valley Gardens
Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon walking and playing, or have a leisurely lunch, in these family-friendly gardens.
Audrey Wilkinson Winery
Over 150 years of heritage and the story of a boy named Audrey make this winery a fascinating historical attraction.
PepperTree Wines
Enjoy a sensory and educational experience at one of the most respected winemakers in the Hunter Valley.
Brokenwood Wines
Taste wine straight from wooden barrels at this former hobby winery, which is now one of Australia’s most notable wine producers.
Roche Estate
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Roche Estate during your travels to Pokolbin. Amble around this relaxing area's picturesque gardens or seek out the golf courses.
Bimbadgen Estate
You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Bimbadgen Estate during your travels to Pokolbin. Make time for the spas and golf courses in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Small-Group Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Sydney
Hunter Valley Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight with Bubbly Breakfast
Sydney to Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Day Tour from Sydney CBD
Hunter Valley Wine Cheese Tour in Small-Groups from Sydney
Hunter Valley: Uncork the Hunter Full-Day Wine Tour
Winemaking Class at McCaffrey's Estate
Reviews of Pokolbin
4/5 - Good
The area is clearly geared up for tourists with a nearby shopping centre having a poorly provisioned general store without air conditioning but a few boutique shops