LOVEDALE
When you exit the Hunter Expressway at Lovedale Road and turn left you’ve arrived in Lovedale, a relaxed neighbourhood east of Pokolbin.
Lovedale is the perfect spot to get that Insta shot of Skippy among the vines as the rambling vineyards and pastures are full of huge mobs of kangaroos and wallabies.
Its most famous claim to fame would have to be the Lovedale Long Lunch, a weekend celebration of wine and food held each May. It’s a progressive style lunch at seven wineries with food cooked by local chefs and live music that will get you dancing.
The winding country roads are lined with tasty eateries (13 at last count) and small, boutique cellar doors, so you can meet the owners and enjoy a more personal experience, while tasting local wines and gourmet snacks.
Lovedale is also home to many artists so no surprise there are galleries to explore, plus you can go horseriding, hot-air ballooning or take a cooking class with a local chef.
There’s a wide variety of accommodation to tempt you - chic boutique retreats, family cottages and a 5-star resort hotel - many set high on the Molly Morgan Ridge with views over vineyards, horse studs and rolling hills. And let’s not forget those stunning Lovedale sunsets with the magnificent Brokenback Range as the ever-present backdrop.
It’s no wonder it’s a favourite wedding destination, with couples getting hitched in cute chapels or outdoors among the vines.
OUR TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN LOVEDALE
- Discover a warm welcome at one of the boutique wineries or cafes
- Experience the iconic wine and food event Lovedale Long Lunch in May
- Spoil yourself with a massage, have a picnic in the vineyards, wander about a gallery, float in a hot air balloon or enjoy a round of golf
- Take a cooking class with a local chef or indulge in hand-made charcuterie and craft beers
- Horse ride the beautiful Molly Morgan Range, soaking up the spectacular views of the Hunter Valley
