Photo: BrisbanePom / CC BY-SA 3.0
Nestled along the lush Hastings River, the Port Macquarie Wine Region offers a delightful escape into rolling vineyards and boutique cellar doors. This emerging wine destination is renowned for its subtropical climate, producing vibrant Semillon, Verdelho, and Chambourcin. Beyond the wines, you'll find a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where passionate vintners share their craft.
Highlights & What to See
- Cassegrain Wines – A standout estate with a French-inspired cellar door, known for its award-winning Semillon and Verdelho. Enjoy a tasting platter overlooking the vines.
- Bago Vineyard & Maze – A family-friendly spot offering tastings of their fruit-forward wines, plus a giant maize maze for fun between sips.
- Little Fish Café – Tucked within a vineyard, this café serves fresh local seafood and wine pairings with river views.
- Hastings River Drive – A scenic route connecting several cellar doors, with stops at historic Wauchope and the Ellenborough Falls.
- Port Macquarie's Coastal Walks – Combine wine tasting with a stroll along the coastal track from Town Beach to Tacking Point Lighthouse.
Suggested Time to Spend
Dedicate a full day to explore the region at a relaxed pace. Start mid-morning at Cassegrain Wines, then meander along Hastings River Drive, stopping for lunch at Little Fish Café. Afternoon visits to Bago Vineyard and a final tasting at a smaller cellar door like Long Point Winery round out the day. If you're pressed for time, a half-day hitting two or three key wineries is still rewarding.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Port Macquarie – The lively coastal town offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and a vibrant dining scene.
- Wauchope – A charming historic town with antique shops and the Timbertown heritage park.
- Ellenborough Falls – One of Australia's tallest waterfalls, a short drive inland for a rainforest hike.
- Camden Haven – Serene waterways and national parks, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.
- Crowdy Bay National Park – Coastal wilderness with dramatic rock formations and whale-watching opportunities.
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
- Port Macquarie — Inas / CC0
- Ellenborough Falls — Nick Connolly / Public domain