Photo: J Bar / CC BY 2.5
Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Clovelly Golf Course offers a surprisingly serene escape for travellers who want to mix a round of golf with wine-country charm. This well-maintained 18-hole course winds through native bushland and rolling vineyards, with the backdrop of the Brokenback Range providing a stunning natural amphitheatre. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a relaxed afternoon outdoors, Clovelly delivers a distinctly Australian country-club feel without pretense.
Highlights & What to See
- Scenic 18-hole course – Designed to challenge all levels, the course features undulating fairways, cleverly placed bunkers, and panoramic vineyard views that make every hole memorable.
- Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for kangaroos grazing on the fairways at dawn and dusk; it’s a classic Hunter Valley sight.
- Clubhouse & dining – The relaxed clubhouse serves hearty country fare and local wines – perfect for a post-round glass of Semillon while overlooking the 18th green.
- Pro shop & tuition – Stop by for equipment hire or book a lesson with the resident pro to sharpen your swing before hitting the wineries.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow around 4 to 4.5 hours for a full 18-hole round at a comfortable pace. If you’re short on time, the course also offers a 9-hole option that can be done in under two hours. Many visitors combine a morning round with a leisurely wine-tasting afternoon – it’s a perfect way to balance activity and indulgence. Arrive early to enjoy the course in the cool of the morning, especially during summer.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Pokolbin – The epicentre of Hunter Valley wine country, just a 10-minute drive away, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Cessnock – A handy service town with supermarkets, cafes, and the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre for trip planning.
- Lovedale – A quieter wine region known for boutique wineries and excellent olive groves – ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
- Broke – A scenic 20-minute drive north, offering a more rustic wine trail and the stunning Brokenback Range walks.
- Hunter Valley Gardens – Located in Pokolbin, these sprawling themed gardens are a great family-friendly stop, especially during the annual Christmas lights display.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Pokolbin — Sardaka ( talk ) 09:13, 15 December 2008 (UTC) / CC BY 3.0
- Cessnock — Bidgee / CC BY-SA 3.0 au
- Lovedale — Martin Snicer Photography / CC BY-ND 2.0
- Broke — Eva Rinaldi Celebrity Photographer / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Hunter Valley Gardens — CassieShepherd / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Hunter Valley Wine Country — F Delventhal / CC BY 2.0