Cattai Wine Region

Just a short drive from Port Macquarie, the Cattai Wine Region is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast, where rolling hills meet the Hastings River. This cool-climate wine country is famed for its elegant semillon and verdelho, as well as a growing reputation for sparkling wines. The landscape is dotted with boutique cellar doors, many with sweeping vineyard views and a laid-back, welcoming vibe. It's the perfect detour for a leisurely afternoon of tasting, cheese boards, and soaking up the region's rural charm.

Highlights & What to See

• Cassegrain Wines – The region's flagship winery, offering a refined tasting room, a restaurant with river views, and a gallery of local art. Their semillon is a must-try.
• Bago Vineyard & Winery – A family-run estate known for its verdelho and shiraz, with a friendly cellar door and picnic areas among the vines.
• Long Point Vineyard – A boutique producer specializing in sparkling wines, with a rustic cellar door and stunning views over the valley.
• Hastings River – The river defines the region's terroir; many wineries offer riverbank seating for a serene tasting experience.
• Local produce pairing – Several cellar doors offer platters of local cheeses, olives, and artisan breads to complement the wines.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a half-day (around three to four hours) is ideal for exploring two to three cellar doors and enjoying a leisurely lunch. If you're a serious wine enthusiast, you could easily stretch it to a full day, adding a stop at a local farm gate or a walk along the river. The region is compact enough that you won't spend much time driving between venues, so you can pace the afternoon with a relaxed, unhurried rhythm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 15 minutes east, with its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and the Koala Hospital.
• Wauchope – A historic timber town with antique shops and the Timbertown heritage park, 20 minutes inland.
• Lake Cathie – A tranquil coastal lake popular for kayaking and birdwatching, a short drive south.
• Bonny Hills – Surf beaches and headland walks, perfect for a sunset stroll after a day of tasting.

Please check official sources for current details.