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
Reviewed on May 24, 2024
Reviewed on May 29, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 1, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 1, 2024
Reviewed on May 20, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 21, 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, makes this winery a fascinating historical attraction.
Brokenwood Wines
Taste wine straight from wooden barrels at this former hobby winery, which is now one of Australia’s most notable wine producers.
PepperTree Wines
Enjoy a sensory and educational experience at one of the most respected winemakers in the Hunter Valley.
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 romantic area.
Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club
Enjoy a round of golf in Pokolbin at Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club. Check out the spas and lively bars in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Pokolbin Mountain Private Bushwalks
Hunter Valley Wine Theatre
Hunter Valley: Uncork the Hunter Full-Day Wine Tour
Reviews of Pokolbin
2/5 - Disappointing
Disappointed in the sameness of the wineries, and the fact that on a Sunday evening most local restaurants were either closed or overpriced Found Matilda’s Brewhouse about 10 km out of town , great location and food, definitely worth a visit