Hermitage Road wine trail - Image 1
1 / 10

Hermitage Road Cycleway

4.7
·7 reviews·Pokolbin, Australia

Cycle through picturesque vineyards, tasting world-class wines and enjoying gourmet food along the scenic Hermitage Road Cycleway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Midweek mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful rides

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Hermitage Road wine trail - Image 1

Hermitage Road Cycleway

Best Time

Midweek mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful rides

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cycle through picturesque vineyards, tasting world-class wines and enjoying gourmet food along the scenic Hermitage Road Cycleway.

4.7
(7 reviews)

"A must-do for wine lovers, offering breathtaking views and convenient wine delivery!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Rent an E-bike!

Makes covering the distance and hills a breeze. Wine delivery is a game-changer!

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Research wineries and eateries beforehand to maximize your experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Cycling Path

Scenic Cycling Path

Hermitage Road, Hunter Valley

A dedicated cycleway winding through picturesque vineyards and offering breathtaking views.

Winery Hopping

Winery Hopping

Along Hermitage Road

Explore numerous world-class wineries, from established names to boutique producers, for tastings and tours.

Gourmet Food Experiences

Gourmet Food Experiences

Various eateries along the cycleway

Indulge in delicious food options, from casual cafes to fine dining, complementing your wine journey.

Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Surrounding parklands

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including kangaroos, often spotted playing in the area.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cycle Trail

The Hermitage Road Cycleway is a fantastic way to explore the Hunter Valley's renowned wineries and eateries. Renting a bike, especially an e-bike, is highly recommended to comfortably cover the distance and enjoy the scenic route. Plan your route in advance to hit your must-visit spots.

Wine Delivery Convenience

Many visitors rave about the convenience of wine purchases being delivered directly to their accommodation. This means you can sample and buy to your heart's content without the hassle of carrying heavy bottles back. Check with individual wineries about their delivery services.

Best Times

When
Midweek mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful rides
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Local Nashville Guide: Afternoon High Tea @ The Hermitage Hotel #nashville #hermitagehotel #afternoontea #hightea #champagne #review #fyp #cheers
@lopo._
14.7K likes • 140.3K views

🚲 Rent an E-bike!

Makes covering the distance and hills a breeze. Wine delivery is a game-changer! Instagram+1

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Research wineries and eateries beforehand to maximize your experience. Instagram

Love these aged northern Rhone reds! #fyp #fypシ #explore #restaurant #asmr #wow #Foodie #lasvegas #viralvideo #viraltiktok #sommelier #trending #pov #foodtiktok #w #wine #drink #creator #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp
@vegas.wine
2.3K likes • 102.7K views
Have you ever experienced the Hermitage Road Cycleway? 🚴 It’s one to put on your Hunter Valley experience bucket list! Running from the New England Highway to Broke Road, there’s a myriad of food and wine experiences you can delight in whilst on the bike trail and wine purchases can even be delivered to your accommodation for your convenience. Bring your own bike or hire from @grapemobile or @sutt...
huntervalleystays
61 likes • 6.6K views

🦘 Watch for Wildlife

You might spot kangaroos! Be mindful of them while cycling. Reddit

🍷 Wine Delivery Service

Many wineries offer delivery to your accommodation, so buy freely! Instagram

We even pick up your wine @suttonestateelectricbikehire #wine #winelover #ebike #electricbike #bike #bikeporn #bikeride #ride #cycleway #cycleporn #cyclist #hermitageroad #hermitageroadcycleway #aroundhermitagehuntervalley #cessnock #singleton #pokolbin #pokolbinnsw
suttonestateelectricbikehire
23 likes • 692 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Rent an E-bike!

Makes covering the distance and hills a breeze. Wine delivery is a game-changer! Instagram+1

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Research wineries and eateries beforehand to maximize your experience. Instagram

🦘 Watch for Wildlife

You might spot kangaroos! Be mindful of them while cycling. Reddit

🍷 Wine Delivery Service

Many wineries offer delivery to your accommodation, so buy freely! Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hermitage Road Cycleway for its stunning vineyard scenery and the convenience of exploring multiple wineries. The option for wine delivery to accommodation is a major highlight, making it easy to enjoy tastings. While the cycleway itself is enjoyable, some find the distances between attractions challenging without an e-bike.

"Great lovely place"

Yamy FR

"Breathtaking views and if you are lucky you can see kangaroos playing around"

Ashwani Singh

"There a great number of outstanding winerys and more, on this Wine & Food Trail"

Tintilla Estate Wines

What People Like

Beautiful vineyard views
Wine delivery convenience
Variety of wineries

What People Dislike

Long distances without e-bike

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cycleway is located in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia. It runs from the New England Highway to Broke Road. Driving is the most common way to access the area, with parking available at various points along the route. Many visitors also opt for organized tours that include transport.

Yes, the cycleway is generally well-signposted. It's designed for cyclists and offers a dedicated path away from main road traffic for much of its length, making navigation straightforward. Instagram

While driving is the most convenient, some shuttle services operate in the Hunter Valley. Alternatively, consider booking a guided cycling tour that includes transport to and from the cycleway.

Renting a bicycle, especially an electric bike (e-bike), is highly recommended. This allows you to comfortably cover the distances between wineries and enjoy the scenery without excessive exertion. Instagram+1

Regional bus services connect Sydney to towns near the Hunter Valley, such as Cessnock. From there, you would typically need local transport or a pre-booked tour to reach the specific cycleway.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Hermitage Road Cycleway itself is a public path and does not require an entry ticket. However, individual wineries and attractions along the route will have their own tasting fees or entry charges.

The cycleway is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public path. However, the operating hours of the wineries and restaurants along the route vary, so it's best to check their individual schedules.

Yes, most wineries charge a fee for wine tastings. These fees can vary depending on the winery and the number of wines you sample. Some may waive the tasting fee with a purchase.

It is highly recommended to book winery tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Restaurants along the cycleway do not have an admission fee, but you will need to make reservations, particularly for dinner or popular lunch spots.

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

The most popular way is by bicycle, especially an e-bike, to explore the numerous wineries and food stops. You can create your own itinerary or join a guided tour. Instagram+1

The length of the cycleway is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) one way. However, most visitors spend a full day or even two exploring the various wineries and attractions along the route, so the time taken depends on your pace and how many stops you make.

Yes, there are many wineries with restaurants and cafes offering food. Some also have designated picnic areas. You can also pack your own snacks and enjoy them amidst the vineyards.

Expect rolling hills covered in vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and charming winery buildings. It's a truly scenic route that captures the essence of the Hunter Valley wine region. Reddit

Absolutely! If you prefer to use your own bicycle, you are welcome to bring it. However, consider the terrain and distances when deciding if an e-bike rental might be more suitable for your comfort.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a diverse range of culinary experiences, from casual cafes offering light lunches and platters to award-winning restaurants serving gourmet meals. Many focus on local produce and pair well with the region's wines.

Most restaurants and cafes are accommodating and offer vegetarian options. Vegan options are becoming more common, but it's always best to check the menu or call ahead to confirm.

Many wineries have their own restaurants or cafes, and some offer cheese platters or light snacks to enjoy with your wine tasting. Reddit

While specific recommendations can change, look for wineries with acclaimed restaurants or popular cafes known for their fresh, local ingredients. Exploring online reviews can help you find current favorites.

Yes, some wineries have picnic areas, or you can find scenic spots to enjoy a picnic lunch. You can purchase provisions from local delis or even some of the wineries themselves.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire route offers stunning photographic opportunities. Look for panoramic vineyard vistas, charming winery architecture, and golden hour light casting a beautiful glow over the landscape. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hour) provide the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape and vineyard photography. Midday sun can be harsh.

The iconic rows of grapevines themselves are a major draw. Many wineries have distinctive buildings or cellar doors that make for great photo backdrops. Keep an eye out for any unique sculptures or art installations.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive vineyard views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance sky colors and reduce glare on leaves.

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask for permission, especially if you're photographing staff or specific displays. Some wineries might have restrictions in certain areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While primarily a wine destination, the Hermitage Road Cycleway can still be enjoyable for families. The dedicated cycle path offers a safer environment for children to cycle or ride with parents. Look for wineries that have open spaces or picnic areas where kids can stretch their legs. Some may also have playgrounds or animals that can entertain younger visitors. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water for everyone, and consider an e-bike rental to make the cycling less strenuous for the adults managing children. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

To make the Hermitage Road Cycleway more budget-friendly, focus on wineries with lower or no tasting fees, or those that offer complimentary tastings with a minimum purchase. Pack your own picnic lunch and snacks to avoid expensive restaurant meals. Many wineries have beautiful grounds perfect for a picnic. Consider visiting during the off-peak season (midweek) when accommodation and potentially some tasting fees might be lower. Renting a standard bicycle instead of an e-bike can also save money if you're fit and planning a shorter route.

🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Hermitage Road Cycleway offers a quintessential romantic experience. Enjoy scenic cycling hand-in-hand through picturesque vineyards, stopping for wine tastings at charming cellar doors. Many wineries feature fine dining restaurants perfect for a romantic lunch or dinner, often with stunning views. Consider booking a tasting at a boutique winery for a more intimate experience. The ability to have wine delivered to your accommodation adds to the convenience and allows for a relaxed evening enjoying your purchases together. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Hunter Valley by Bike

The Hermitage Road Cycleway is a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. This dedicated path winds through the heart of the Hunter Valley's renowned wine region, offering a unique and immersive way to experience its stunning landscapes and world-class wineries. Renting an e-bike is a popular choice, as it makes navigating the gentle inclines and longer distances between cellar doors significantly easier, allowing visitors to focus on the enjoyment of the ride and the tastings. Many visitors highlight the convenience of this mode of transport, noting it as a far more enjoyable and less strenuous way to explore than driving. Instagram+1

Beyond the cycling itself, the cycleway is a gateway to a rich tapestry of food and wine experiences. From established, iconic wineries to smaller, boutique producers, there's a diverse range of tasting opportunities. Complementing the wine are numerous eateries, from casual cafes to fine-dining establishments, many of which champion local produce. A particularly appreciated aspect is the wine delivery service offered by many wineries, allowing visitors to purchase their favorite bottles without the burden of carrying them, a tip frequently shared by those who have experienced it. Instagram

The surrounding environment also adds to the charm. Visitors often mention the breathtaking views and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as kangaroos, adding a touch of natural wonder to the wine-centric journey. The overall atmosphere is one of relaxed exploration, with midweek visits often cited as being particularly peaceful and less crowded, enhancing the overall experience. Reddit

Winery Experiences and Wine Purchases

The Hermitage Road Cycleway is synonymous with wine tasting and cellar door experiences. Visitors can embark on a journey through a diverse array of wineries, each offering unique varietals and atmospheres. From large, well-known estates to intimate, family-run vineyards, there's a tasting to suit every palate. It's common practice for wineries to charge a tasting fee, which can often be waived with a subsequent purchase of wine. Booking tastings in advance is strongly advised, particularly for popular venues or during peak seasons, to ensure availability and a seamless experience. Reddit

A significant convenience highlighted by travelers is the wine delivery service. Many wineries along Hermitage Road offer to deliver your purchased wine directly to your accommodation. This feature is a game-changer, allowing visitors to indulge in sampling and purchasing without the logistical challenge of transporting numerous bottles. This practical tip is frequently shared and highly valued by those exploring the region. Instagram

Beyond wine, the region offers a rich culinary scene. Many wineries boast excellent restaurants or cafes, providing the perfect setting to enjoy a meal paired with local wines. These establishments often focus on seasonal, local produce, offering a true taste of the Hunter Valley. For those seeking a more casual experience, cheese platters and light snacks are also widely available at many cellar doors.

You may also like