Mallee Travel

Mallee Travel is a boutique, family-run touring company based in the Hunter Valley, offering intimate, small-group experiences that go beyond the typical wine-tasting circuit. With a focus on sustainable tourism and local storytelling, they craft half-day and full-day itineraries that weave together the region's best cellar doors, artisan producers, and hidden scenic spots. It's the perfect choice for travellers who want a personalised, unhurried introduction to this world-class wine region without the hassle of navigating themselves.

Highlights & What to See

• Private Wine Tours – Visit a curated selection of boutique wineries, from family-owned estates to cult producers, with behind-the-scenes access and tastings led by passionate vignerons.
• Artisan Food Stops – Sample local cheeses, chocolates, and olive oils at farm gates and providores, often paired with the wines you've just tasted.
• Hunter Valley Gardens – A short detour to this sprawling 25-hectare garden complex, featuring themed displays and seasonal blooms.
• Scenic Lookouts – Enjoy panoramic views of the Brokenback Range from vantage points like the Hunter Valley Lookout, perfect for photos.
• Local Distilleries & Breweries – Depending on your group's interests, tours can include stops at craft gin distilleries or microbreweries for a change of pace.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors book a full-day tour (around 8 hours) to soak up the Hunter Valley at a relaxed pace, visiting three to four wineries plus a lunch stop. A half-day option (4-5 hours) works well if you're short on time or want to focus on a specific area like Pokolbin. Either way, you'll be picked up from your accommodation in the valley, so no driving required.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin – The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants, and the Hunter Valley Gardens.
• Cessnock – The main service town, with a historic main street, markets, and budget-friendly accommodation.
• Broke – A quieter, more rustic wine sub-region known for its family-run vineyards and horse-riding trails.
• Wollombi – A charming historic village with antique shops, a pub, and access to national park walks.
• Newcastle – A 45-minute drive east, offering beaches, a vibrant food scene, and the iconic Bogey Hole ocean pool.

Please check official sources for current details.