Pack your bags and pick up a luxurious Apollo campervan to explore the Hunter Valley region.

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find serenity in the Hunter Valley. Renowned for its tranquil ambience, world-class wineries, and top-notch dining options, this charming region is an idyllic destination for a weekend retreat.

Instead of splurging on Airbnb or hotels, consider renting a luxurious camper van from Apollo. Proudly Australian-owned for over 35 years, Apollo offers high-quality vehicles that serve as your home away from home. With a range of options including self-contained motorhomes, compact campers, and rugged 4WD campers, you can explore the wonders of Australia at your own pace.

Pick up your van and embark on a journey to discover some of our favourite spots in the Hunter Valley.

Where to eat:

Jimmy Joans

Tucked away in Lovedale, Jimmy Joans is as an essential stop on your journey. With its quaint vintage decorations and inviting fireplace, it creates the perfect atmosphere for a cosy break. Swing by early for a delectable pastry paired with a cup of quality coffee, or drop in for lunch and savour their array of gastro pub favourites including Chicken & Leak Pie and expertly crafted Scotch Eggs.

Magoony’s Coffee House

Situated in Broke, Magoony’s Coffee House stands out as a hidden gem for a memorable pit stop. Despite its unassuming exterior—a weathered old shed—inside, you’ll find the area’s finest coffee awaiting you. Indulge in a tempting array of treats, from freshly baked pastries to decadent cakes, along with savoury breakfast delights like bagels topped with salmon, eggs, or bruschetta.

Yellow Billy

After indulging in campervan cuisine for a while, treating yourself becomes a priority. Yellow Billy in Pokolbin is an excellent dining choice where fire cooked meats and vegetables take centre stage. Wander through the gardens teeming with fresh produce, which finds its way onto the custom fit pit and onto your plates. The menu is all about feasting and share plates, and an excellent selection of Hunter Valley made wines are available.

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With the savings accumulated from renting the Apollo campervan instead of splurging on accommodation, why not treat yourself to a visit to our favourite upscale restaurant in Pokolbin? We recommend reserving a spot at the bar, where you can witness the chefs meticulously crafting your meal with precision. Indulge in a multi-course chef’s feast that pays homage to the premium produce and wines sourced directly from the region.

Where to drink:

Margan

Margan Winery is an ideal starting point for your winery tour, nestled in Broke with breathtaking views of the mountains from their picturesque gardens. Housing both a cellar door and restaurant, it offers a complete wine experience. Spanning over 100 hectares, Margan’s vineyards embrace regenerative agricultural practices and proudly boast a certification for Sustainable Farming. At the Cellar Door, indulge in wine flights accompanied by cheese and olive platters, immersing yourself in the flavors of the region amidst stunning natural surroundings.

First Creek Wines

Our next stop is First Creek Wines, founded by Greg and Jenny Silkman, renowned for their premium wines. Nominated for Winery of the Year in James Halliday’s Wine Companion 2024, it offers an immersive cellar door experience. Enjoy informative tastings and bookable wine experiences, or simply relax on the veranda with views of kangaroos grazing amidst wide open spaces.

Mount Plesant

Nestled within the picturesque vineyard estate, Mount Pleasant’s cellar door offers an idyllic setting to savour Australia’s finest wines. Whether you opt for alfresco seating amidst panoramic vineyard views or the newly revamped indoor space with luxury interiors, the ambience promises tranquility. Treat yourself to a guided wine-tasting experience showcasing Mount Pleasant’s century-long legacy of crafting refined wines, complemented perfectly by an artisanal cheese plate available for pairing.

Usher Tinkler

Situated within a stunningly renovated church in Pokolbin, Usher Tinkler promises a breathtaking setting for a distinctive wine-tasting experience. Renowned for his unconventional approach to winemaking in the Hunter Valley, Usher crafts some exceptional minimal intervention wines . Enhance your visit by indulging in one of their exceptional platters, showcasing the finest local cheeses and charcuterie.

The beauty of visiting these wineries in the Apollo is that when you’ve indulged a bit too much, you can simply retreat to your campervan, open the back doors, and relax with stunning views until you’re ready to hit the road again.

Where to play:

Hunter Valley Gardens

Nestled in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Gardens offers the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in nature. Spanning 29 acres of lush greenery, it’s a beloved destination in the region. What sets it apart are the 10 international themed gardens scattered across the grounds. With enchanting features such as a 10-meter waterfall, topiary displays, tranquil ponds, statues, murals, and distinctive architectural structures, the gardens provide a walk-through experience that’s unparalleled.

Pokolbin Mountains Road Lookout

Fortunately, Apollo vans are equipped to handle a bit of off-road terrain, so head towards Pokolbin Mountains Road Lookout, nestled on private property. You might even encounter a friendly local who can offer directions. Taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to traverse, the journey is well worth it once you reach the summit, where panoramic views of the region’s oldest vineyards await.

McNamara Park

If you’re seeking an overnight spot for your van, McNamara Park in Broke is an excellent choice. Conveniently situated amidst the wineries and attractions, it’s a free campsite offering on-site toilets for added convenience. Nearby Stewart McTaggart Park provides additional amenities such as a playground, skatepark, and barbecue facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for travelers.

We highly recommend Apollo campervans for a weekend getaway. Equipped with all the essentials, they offer exceptional comfort and convenience, ensuring a memorable travel experience.

This article is proudly brought to you in partnership with Apollo. Thanks for supporting the partners that make Eat Drink Play possible.