A dog-friendly trip to the Hunter Valley.
What’s better than sipping on some of NSW’s finest wines? Enjoying every drop with your fur-baby by your side, of course! We've put together the ultimate guide for a dog-friendly weekend getaway to the Hunter Valley, featuring the best wineries, restaurants, and accommodations where your pup is just as welcome as you are. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a relaxing escape, this is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley with your four-legged friend.
Wineries
Stomp Wines, Lovedale
Pawsome Rating: 4/5
Stomp Wines is where wine tasting meets relaxation and approachability. Nestled in the heart of Lovedale, this dog-friendly winery offers an expansive outdoor area where you can enjoy hand-crafted wines with your furry friend by your side. The family-owned winery specialises in Semillon, Chardonnay, Verdelho, and Shiraz, offering a delightful tasting experience guided by the knowledgeable owners.
Pepper Tree Wines, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: 5/5
A visit to Pepper Tree Wines offers a picturesque and quintessential Hunter Valley wine experience, right in the heart of Pokolbin. The friendly team is as eager to welcome your four-legged companion as they are to host you. While you indulge in a wine tasting, your pup might even be treated to a little something special. Known for producing some of Australia’s finest wines, Pepper Tree Wines is a multi-award-winning winery offering premium varietals of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Semillon. With its dog-friendly atmosphere and stunning vineyard views, it's the perfect spot for both you and your furry friend to enjoy a relaxing day out.
Pepper Tree Winery, Pokolbin.
Irongate Winery, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: 4/5
Nestled in the heart of Pokolbin, Irongate Winery is a charming boutique winery that warmly welcomes pets, making it the perfect destination for wine lovers and their furry companions. Specializing in Hunter Valley's renowned white varieties—Semillon, Chardonnay, and Verdelho—as well as rich reds like Shiraz, Cabernet, and Tempranillo, Irongate offers a truly delightful tasting experience. With its relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere and stunning vineyard views, visiting Irongate feels like stepping into a Tuscan getaway, where you and your dog can enjoy both exceptional wines and the tranquil surroundings.
Ironbark Hill Brewery, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: 4/5
For the Beer lovers of the group, be sure to check out Ironbark Hill Brewhouse. With 12 beers and ciders on tap, ranging from Pale Ales and Lagers to Stouts and Porters – all beers are brewed on-site. Why not try them all, they are famous for their beer paddles! Plus, grab a bite to eat at Wildstreak Pizzeria and Kitchen, serving up delicious pizzas, salads, wings and sides. Pooches are welcome on lead and will be bound to get a pat or two from the friendly staff.
Ironbark Hill Brewhouse, Pokolbin
Dining
Cafe Enzo, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: 4.5/5
Step into the enchanting courtyard of Cafe Enzo, where you can indulge in an Italian-inspired menu filled with delicious homemade dishes made from locally grown produce. Located on the picturesque grounds of Pepper Creek, it’s the perfect spot for a post-wine tasting lunch. As you savor your meal, enjoy the chic tunes playing in the background while your pooch explores the outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery. With plenty of space for your furry friend to sniff and relax, Cafe Enzo offers a truly delightful experience for both humans and dogs alike.
Cafe Enzo Courtyard, Pokolbin
Lovedale Smokehouse, Lovedale
Pawsome Rating: 5/5
If you're after a casual but tasty lunch, Lovedale Smokehouse is the place to be. This food truck-inspired café offers a delicious range of house-made smoked produce, from smoky bacon on the breakfast menu to small-batch charcuterie and mouthwatering Low n Slow BBQ dishes like ribs and brisket—perfect for any meat lover. The café is both family and dog-friendly, with a special dog treat menu featuring Pupcakes, Doggy Donuts, and Puppuccinos for your furry companion. Enjoy your meal in the covered courtyard with relaxing water features and vineyard views, or bring a picnic rug to enjoy your smoky feast picnic-style. It’s a laid-back, dog-friendly spot where both you and your pup can relax and indulge.
The Deck Cafe, Lovedale
Pawsome Rating: 4/5
Nestled at Gartelmann Wines, The Deck Cafe offers a serene setting to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch, all while overlooking a picturesque dam. With its spacious deck, it’s the perfect spot to relax with your pup by your side as you indulge in delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, you can continue your wine tasting adventure just next door at Gartelmann Wines. A great spot to enjoy great food, beautiful views, and a welcoming atmosphere for both humans and dogs alike.
Accommodation
Voco Kirkton Park, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: /5
Nestled in the heart of Pokolbin and just a 12-minute drive from Cessnock, Voco Kirkton Park is a hidden gem located right on the doorstep of some of the Hunter Valley’s best vineyards. Offering dog-friendly rooms for an additional fee, it’s the perfect place to stay while you and your furry friend explore the stunning Hunter Valley Wine Region.
Spicers Retreat, Hunter Valley
Pawsome Rating: 5/5
For those seeking a luxurious getaway, Spicers Retreat is the perfect destination. With a stunning French countryside-inspired design, expansive gardens to explore, and an onsite vineyard, it offers a serene escape for both you and your furry friend. Enhance your stay with one of their exclusive Pooch Packages, which include a daily à la carte breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and a plush dog bed and bowl for your four-legged companion. Whether you're relaxing in the picturesque surroundings or enjoying the comfort of your dog-friendly accommodation, Spicers Retreat ensures a pampered experience for both humans and dogs alike.
Pooch Package at Spicers Retreat, Hunter Valley.
The Convent, Pokolbin
Pawsome Rating: 4/5
Nestled in the heart of Pokolbin, The Convent is a charming retreat set amidst lush gardens and rolling vineyards. Just minutes away from some of the region’s most prestigious wineries, it offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. For dog lovers, The Convent provides dog-friendly pooch packages in their Premier Room or Garden Suite, which include a plush dog bed and dog bowl, ensuring your furry friend feels right at home. With its serene setting and close proximity to world-class vineyards, it's an ideal spot for both you and your four-legged companion to unwind and explore the Hunter Valley.
PLUS, many much more dog-friendly accommodation on Airbnb and Stayz.
Tours
Vino Paw Tours, Hunter Valley
Pawsome Rating: 5/5
Take your dog on a unique holiday experience with Vino Paw Tours, where you can explore the Hunter Valley’s best dog-friendly wineries, accommodations, and attractions. This tailor-made package allows you and your furry friend to visit handpicked dog-friendly wineries, stay in pet-friendly accommodations, and travel in comfort aboard a dedicated dog-friendly bus. Tours set off every Friday night, with a Saturday winery tour, an overnight stay at Vacy Hunter Valley Lodge, and a leisurely Sunday before heading home. It's the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the Hunter Valley while bonding with your dog and meeting other like-minded dog lovers!
Guests enjoying a Vino Paws Tour, Hunter Valley
Grape Getaways, Hunter Valley
Pawsome Rating: 5/5
Grape Getaways offers the ultimate luxury experience for wine-loving dog owners with their seven-hour, all-inclusive private tours. Designed for up to three guests (and your furry companion), these tailored tours take you to the best dog-friendly spots across the Hunter Valley. From cellar doors and cafes to breweries and high-end restaurants, you'll visit up to six boutique dog-friendly venues. Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle driven by a local guide, with doggy seat belts, water, and treats provided for your pooch. It’s the perfect way to explore the valley’s finest offerings while ensuring your dog enjoys the adventure just as much as you do!