Currently in the running of Top Tiny Tourism Town in NSW, Broke Fordwich is the ultimate place for those wanting to take the road less travelled.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Yellow Rock escarpment, Broke-Fordwich is waiting to welcome you to unwind and reconnect to the simple life in its peaceful, secluded setting. Unearth some of the Hunter Valley’s best kept secrets, from trophy-winning wines and delicious local cuisines to idyllic accommodation. Plus, it’s just a two-hour drive from Sydney via the road less travelled, the Tourist Drive 33 scenic route.
STAY
A stay in Broke Fordwich promises ultimate relaxation, usually paired with a view of the vineyard and an award-winning bottle of wine.
Winmark Wines
Stay in style at Winmark Wines who offer a collection of luxury vineyard stays set amongst 30 acres of premium Chardonnay vines. Choose between Winmark’s sophisticated homestead, Mio Monte, the perfect abode for a group of friends seeking a luxurious vista to celebrate a special occasion, the cosy Villa Vino tiny-home perched right alongside a vineyard, perfect for a couples getaway, the Rock View spacious 5-bedroom home with stunning mountain views and surrounded by kangaroos and wallabies, or the luxurious Residence with an interior design boasting impressive collection of Asian antiquities, aboriginal art and indigenous African artefacts. Cosy up near the outdoor fire pit whilst admiring the vineyard views and watching the sunset on the Brokenback Mountains.
Binbilla Vineyard Estate by Hunter Valley Stays Australia
Arrive along the tall cherry blossoms and pear tree driveway, elegantly designed and beautifully appointed estate. Set on 100 acres at the foot of the mountains in Broke, Binbilla Vineyard Estate is a spacious retreat ideal for group getaways. With six bedrooms, a pool, billiard room, and wraparound verandahs overlooking the vines, it’s a relaxed and stylish base just minutes from the region’s cellar doors.
Arenridge Hunter Valley Stays Australia
Wake up to vineyard views and the sound of nature at Arenridge, a stunning country stay tucked away on 28 acres in Broke. Enjoy 180 degree sweeping views over vines and across the panoramic Brokenback Range, crackling fireplace, and a wraparound deck perfect for sunset drinks.
Marlu Station
Marlu Station features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a cosy fireplace, and a stunning 10-metre private swimming pool and spa. Set on 112 acres, there's plenty of space to roam, spot local kangaroos, and soak up the peace and quiet of the countryside.
Talits Estate
Often listed as one of the top unique properties in the Hunter Valley, the French Provincial Talits Estate is a true bucket list stay. Situated on 50 acres of beautifully crafted gardens, olive trees and meticulously managed vines, this property is sure to make you think you have been transported to the French countryside.
Tinonee Vineyard Estate
Stay among the vines at Tinonee Vineyard Estate, a boutique working vineyard set against the striking backdrop of Yellow Rock. The estate features two beautiful homes: The Residence, a grand, light-filled homestead ideal for group stays, with soaring ceilings, generous living spaces and a wraparound verandah; and The Cottage, a fusion of character and charm with modern and luxurious interiors perfect for a peaceful escape.
Whispering Brook Guesthouse
Unwind at Whispering Brook Guesthouse, a charming country house surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The stay features accommodation for 10-18 guests, large indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, an open fireplace, open plan kitchen, air-conditioning and panoramic views. .
Krinklewood
Escape to the peaceful oasis of Krinklewood Estate, a biodynamic vineyard in the Hunter Valley. The property features a French-colonial farmhouse offering self-catered luxury for up to eight guests, with a pool, tennis court, and sprawling gardens perfect for an elegant group getaway. Also on site are architecturally designed, sustainable tiny homes by renowned Australian architect Peter Stutchbury. Overlooking the vines, these thoughtfully crafted cabins offer a tranquil vineyard stay and a unique insight into the future of eco-conscious living.
DRINK + EAT
With wineries and vineyards aplenty, Broke Fordwich is a treasure trove for bespoke wineries and experiences.
Whispering Brook
Tucked away amongst the natural beauty of Broke, sits Whispering Brook, a boutique family-owned vineyard specialising in Portuguese varietals. Take a journey through their artisan wine growing and winemaking process in their guided wine tasting experience, discover their estate-grown olive oils or simply enjoy the view of a glass of wine and artisan cheese and antipasto platter filled with local cheeses, olives and sundried tomatoes.
The Little Wine Co
The latest edition to the region, The Little Wine Co only opened their doors in Broke at the beginning of 2024. Established by winemaking duo Ian and Suzanne Little, the Little Wine Co invites you to experience emerging varieties such as Pecorino, Albarino, Vermentino, Barbera, Sangiovese & Tempranillo.
Krinklewood
Krinklewood’s boutique cellar door offers guests a blend of award-winning biodynamic wines in provencal-style gardens, and an abundance of roaming peacocks. Krinklewood vineyard and farm became Certified Biodynamic Organic in 2007 and the whole property, including the winery, is certified with Australian Certified Organic and is audited annually to maintain biodynamic organic certification. An exciting new addition to Krinklewood, Cézan Trattoria & Bar opened this May. The menu celebrates Mediterranean sensibilities and the art of slow, seasonal dining, offering a farm-to-plate grazing-style experience.
Greenway Wines
Journey just down the road to find Greenway Wines, a cute, little red barn on the banks of the Wollombi Brook serving varieties such as Fiano, Rose, Gewürztraminer and Shiraz. Enjoy the warm welcome and hospitality of the family owned and operated vineyard and an intimate wine tasting experience.
Talits Estate
Find the spirit of Provence in the Hunter Valley at Talits Estate. An award winning, family owned vineyard with a luxury Provencal house on the 50 acre estate, discover their range of boutique wines at the foothills of the Brokenback Mountain Range. Guests can also indulge in locally-sourced charcuterie boards while children are welcomed with outdoor lorn games.
Winmark Wines
A must-visit for Chardonnay lovers, Winmark Wines is a premium Hunter Valley producer dedicated solely to crafting exceptional Chardonnay. Set on 28 acres of vines, the estate offers more than just award-winning wine. Wander through the sculpture park showcasing Australian artists, explore the on-site art gallery, and grab a coffee from the vineyard’s cart. It’s a unique blend of fine wine, art and natural beauty, all in one stunning destination.
1813
The 1813 cellar door offers a boutique wine tasting experience that’s as much about the setting as it is the wine. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Yellow Rock and the Brokenback Range, this elegant glasshouse-style space invites you to sample estate-grown, single-vineyard wine from crisp Fiano and Verdelho to their flagship reserve Shiraz, The Governor, each pour reflects the unique terroir of the Broke Fordwich region
Margan Wines and Restaurant
Dine in style at Broke Fordwich’s hatted restaurant, Margan Wines & Restaurant. With a key focus on sustainability and a hyper-local focus, the seasonal menu is crafted entirely around the harvest from their one-hectare kitchen garden & orchard. They also have free range chickens, beehives and raise their own lambs all of which is incorporated into our menus. Take a look behind the scenes from paddock to plate with the ultimate foodie experience followed by a degustation meal. Or simply book in and enjoy the fresh flavours of harvest. Step through the restaurant doors to find their cellar door, which was crowned the 2024 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the year. Enjoy a range of sustainably produced, single vineyard wines accompanied by a range of artisanal cheese and charcuterie.
Hunter Lavender Farm
If you're seeking something other than wine and food, be sure to check out the Hunter Lavender Farm, open to visit for only a couple of weeks during summer. The Lavender farm opens for visitors to enjoy a picturesque walk among the purple fields, learn how to harvest some of the estate-grown raw honey, taste Lavender-based drinks and gelato and shop their exclusive range of Lavender products.
This blog was created by the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association.