How to Find The Perfect Private Wine Tour in the Hunter Valley in 2025

Forget the crowded cellar doors and cookie-cutter tasting tours—2025 is the year to upgrade your wine weekend with a private Hunter Valley wine tour that’s all about boutique venues, gourmet experiences, and luxury comfort. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just escaping the city, our private wine tours deliver unforgettable moments for groups big and small.

Hunter Valley’s award-winning cellar doors, stunning scenery, and fresh produce make it the perfect backdrop for a curated day of indulgence. But with over 150 wineries and countless experiences on offer, how do you choose the right one? That’s where we come in.

Even large groups can go on epic private group wine tours in the Hunter Valley!

1. The Signature Broke-Fordwich Tour

Perfect for: Groups wanting rare wines & a relaxed pace
Duration: 9 hours
Group size: 6–27 people
Price: From $189pp
Availability: 7 days a week

Tucked away in the tranquil western end of the Hunter Valley, Broke Fordwich is where wine meets calm. Known as the region’s hidden gem, this historic pocket offers breathtaking views, estate-grown wines, and a slower pace that feels a world away from the crowds. With artisan producers, olive groves, and charming cellar doors, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to savour, not rush. If you're after a more refined, relaxed wine country experience—this is it.

Includes:

• Three exclusive boutique winery visits

• VIP seated tastings (no bar standing!)

• Gourmet long lunch at award-winning Margan or Kawul

• Luxury transport with leather seats, USBs, aircon

• Optional: cheese/chocolate pairing, brewery finale

Instagram Moment: That long table lunch with mountain views and glasses mid-cheers 🍷

2. Pokolbin Private Tour

Perfect for: First-timers who want the best of the classics
Duration: 8–9 hours
Group size: 6–50 people
Price: From $179pp
Availability: 7 days a week

The Pokolbin region is the undisputed heart of the Hunter Valley—and for good reason. It’s where time-honoured winemaking meets modern excellence, with a mix of award-winning cellar doors, boutique estates, and family-owned vineyards. From iconic Semillons to elegant Shiraz, Pokolbin delivers a classic Hunter experience that’s ideal for first-timers wanting a true taste of the region. Expect scenic vineyard views, welcoming hosts, and unforgettable wines in every glass.

Includes:

• Three boutique cellar door visits

• Seated tastings at each venue

• Gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant

• Comfortable transport from Sydney or Newcastle

• Option to add distillery, cheese stop, or brewery

Instagram Moment: Group shot by the vines at golden hour 🌿

3. The Mixed Bag Experience

Perfect for: Friends or teams who want wine AND fun
Duration: 8–10 hours
Group size: 6–41 people
Price: From $199pp
Availability: 7 days a week

If your group can’t decide between wine, beer, or spirits—why not do it all? The Mixed Bag Experience is designed for those who want a little bit of everything, without compromising on quality. With stops at boutique wineries, small-batch distilleries, and craft breweries, this Hunter Valley wine tour adds a fun twist to the traditional itinerary. It’s perfect for social groups or team outings where variety (and a good laugh) is the priority.

Includes:

• Boutique winery tasting

• Distillery visit with spirit paddle

• Craft brewery experience

• Gourmet lunch + grazing boards

• Transport in luxury mini coach or 41-seater

Instagram Moment: Cheersing espresso martinis post-lunch ☕🍸

4. The Indulgence Tour

Perfect for: Foodies, romantics, and luxe seekers
Duration: 9–10 hours
Group size: 6–24 people
Price: From $239pp
Availability: 7 days a week

For those who want their Hunter Valley wine tour to feel a little extra, The Indulgence Tour is all about going beyond the standard cellar door experience. This premium itinerary is crafted for guests who appreciate the finer things—think award-winning wineries, exclusive tastings, and long lunches worthy of a celebration. Whether you’re marking a milestone or simply treating yourself, this is luxury wine touring done right.

Includes:

• Premium tastings at 3 top-tier wineries

• Behind-the-scenes access & meet-the-winemaker

• Two-course gourmet winery lunch

• Optional: helicopter arrival, overnight stay

• Chilled onboard drinks & curated playlists

Instagram Moment: That private tasting in a candlelit barrel room ✨

5. Hens & Bucks Wine Tours

Perfect for: Pre-wedding memories that aren't cliché
Duration: 8–9 hours
Group size: 8–41 people
Price: From $179pp
Availability: Weekends book fast!

Planning a hens or bucks that’s stylish, social, and far from awkward? Our Hunter Valley Hens & Bucks Wine Tours strike the perfect balance between relaxed and celebratory. With boutique wine tastings, great food, and plenty of optional add-ons, this experience is ideal for pre-wedding groups who want more than just a party bus. Think curated fun with a touch of class—and a few iconic group photos along the way.Includes:

• 2–3 boutique wine tastings

• Group grazing lunch

• Optional: distillery visit, paint & sip, cheese stops

• Spotify control on the coach (yes, even ABBA allowed)

Instagram Moment: Everyone holding wine glasses under the "bride tribe" banner 🍾

6. Corporate & Team Wine Tours

Perfect for: Christmas parties, EOFY, reward days
Duration: 8–10 hours
Group size: 8–100+ people
Price: From $189pp
Availability: 7 days a week

Whether you're planning a standout work Christmas party, rewarding your team, or just want to escape the boardroom, a private corporate wine tour in the Hunter Valley is the ultimate way to reconnect outside the office. These full-day experiences are curated to balance team bonding, gourmet food, and great wine—with none of the awkward small talk. Ideal for end-of-year celebrations, client hosting, or EOFY rewards, it’s the kind of team day out that actually feels like a thank-you.

Includes:

• Three venues handpicked to suit your team

• Seated group tastings and grazing lunch

• Optional icebreaker games or blind tastings

• Custom branding or signage is available

• Invoicing across departments is available

Instagram Moment: Team cheers with wine flights on a sunny lawn ☀️

7. Overnight Wine Tour Packages

Perfect for: Ultimate weekend escapes
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Group size: 6–27 people
Price: From $469pp (incl. accommodation)
Availability: Custom dates

If one day in wine country just isn’t enough, our overnight Hunter Valley wine tour packages are made for you. Designed for milestone birthdays, group getaways, or out-of-towners wanting to make it a full weekend, this experience blends boutique tastings with beautiful accommodation and plenty of time to unwind. It’s the perfect Hunter Valley weekend escape—complete with sunset dinners, breakfast among the vines, and optional extras like massage, yoga, or a cooking class.

Includes:

• Return transport from Sydney

• 2-day wine & food itinerary

• Boutique group accommodation

• Sunset dinner + breakfast

• Flexible add-ons: massage, yoga, cooking class

Instagram Moment: Vineyard sunrise with coffee in hand ☕🍇

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Why Choose Urban Legends for Your Hunter Valley Wine Tour?

We’re more than just a wine tour company—we’re group travel specialists with a passion for creating seamless, premium experiences across NSW. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a weekend escape, here’s why groups love touring with us:

• Over 500 five-star reviews from happy groups
From birthdays to corporate getaways, we’ve helped thousands of people experience the Hunter Valley in the best way possible—fun, stress-free, and perfectly tailored.

• Exclusive access to boutique-only venues
No big crowds or rushed tastings. We’ve built strong relationships with boutique cellar doors that deliver high-quality, seated experiences you won’t find on mainstream tours.

• Luxury transport for every group size
Our fleet includes 13-seater vans, 27-seater midi coaches, and 57-seater luxury coaches—all featuring leather seats, USB charging, air conditioning, Bluetooth for playlists, and generous luggage/eskie storage. Whether you're a tight-knit group or a full office crew, we've got the perfect ride.

• Tour hosts who genuinely love wine (and people)
Expect friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep things informative, relaxed, and fun—no boring scripts or forced energy.

• Door-to-door pickups across NSW
We service Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, the Hunter Valley, Western Sydney, Byron Bay, and the Central Coast. Whether you’re leaving from a home, hotel, office, or Airbnb—we’ll pick you up, wherever your adventure begins.

• Customisable itineraries for ultimate flexibility
Want to swap a winery for a distillery? Add a chocolate stop or brewery finale? No problem. We’ll tailor your itinerary to suit your group’s pace, preferences, and priorities.

Should you Choose Large Wineries or Boutique Wineries?

The Hunter Valley stands out for its remarkable diversity of wineries—from long-established estates to hidden boutique gems. With a winemaking heritage dating back to the early 1800s, the region is home to iconic producers such as Ben Ean Winery, Tempus Two, Tyrrell’s, and Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard. These renowned cellar doors aren’t just about exceptional wine—they also showcase stunning architecture that reflects their deep roots in the valley. You’ll find many of them in Pokolbin, the heart of the Hunter wine region, and most tour companies include them in their standard itineraries.

Prefer a more intimate wine experience? Your private Hunter Valley wine tour can be fully customised to include smaller, boutique wineries—or even a blend of both iconic and off-the-beaten-path. Often located beyond Pokolbin’s busy centre, these family-run, small-batch producers offer some of the region’s finest handcrafted wines. Known for warm hospitality and unique tasting experiences, boutique cellar doors give you the rare chance to chat with winemakers and explore the artistry behind each bottle.

At Urban Legends Tour Co., we specialise in connecting guests with the Hunter Valley’s most outstanding boutique wineries. Whether you're chasing prestige labels, undiscovered gems, or a mix of both, our team will tailor the perfect itinerary for your group. Explore our private group wine tour packages and let us help you craft an unforgettable day in wine country.

Read more about 15 Reasons to visit a boutique winery in Australia and how to find them.

The Private Group Tasting Experience

With such a wide variety of wineries in the Hunter Valley, it’s no surprise that wine tasting experiences can vary significantly—especially on a private group tour. In general, larger wineries tend to offer standing tastings, while smaller, boutique cellar doors usually provide more intimate seated tastings. Of course, each winery has its own style, but seated experiences often come with a personal touch. You’ll typically be guided through a curated selection of premium wines, tailored to your preferences, and served by someone closely connected to the winemaking process.

At standing tastings, you can expect a faster-paced experience—often 15 to 30 minutes—with a cellar door host giving a brief introduction to each wine. In contrast, seated tastings at boutique wineries are slower and more immersive, often lasting 60 to 90 minutes. These venues allow more time for storytelling, questions, and truly appreciating each drop. Because of the extended format, we often recommend visiting fewer wineries on this kind of tour to avoid feeling rushed.

When booking a private group wine tour in the Hunter Valley, it’s worth considering what style of tasting your group prefers. Some operators focus on visiting more locations with quicker tastings, while others (like us) emphasise quality over quantity. At Urban Legends Tour Co., we offer both options—but we do love treating our guests to relaxed, seated tastings that feel more like a VIP experience than a checklist.

A private wine tasting amidst the vineyards, why not!

Taste Artisan Cheeses and Chocolates

The Hunter Valley isn’t just famous for its wines—it’s also a haven for artisan produce, particularly cheese. When planning your private group wine tour, it’s worth checking what’s included when it comes to cheese pairing. Some tours include a gourmet artisan cheese platter as part of the experience, others offer it as an optional add-on, and a few don’t include it at all.

Many operators will promote a cheese tasting stop, but it’s important to ask for the details. In some cases, this might simply mean a visit to a local shop—like the well-known Smelly Cheese Shop—where you can sample cheeses at the counter. While it’s always fun to browse a specialty store, it’s not quite the same as relaxing with a generous grazing board during a seated wine tasting at a vineyard.

The difference between quickly popping into a bustling shop and enjoying a slow, scenic wine and cheese pairing can make or break the flow of your day. At Urban Legends Tour Co., we’ll walk you through the options to match your group’s style—whether that’s adding an indulgent platter at a boutique winery or building in a dedicated stop for local produce lovers.

In our humble opinion, a private wine tour in the Hunter Valley really isn’t complete without tasting all that the region has to offer. Cheese is life, amirite! Feasting on different compotes, cheeses, chocolates, or even a wood fire pizza really completes this special day. We love including gourmet cheese platters with amazing local cheeses during your wine tasting in our Hunter Valley Private Group Wine Tours as you can see by browsing through our packages.

Read more about What to expect on a NSW wine tour: All your questions answered here

Are Your Tasting Fees Included in a Private Group Wine Tour?

One of the most important things to check when booking a private Hunter Valley wine tour is whether your wine tasting fees are included. Nearly all wineries in the region—whether boutique or well-known—charge tasting fees that typically range from $5 to $20 per person. These fees help cover the cost of pouring premium wines, though most cellar doors still operate on the hope that guests will fall in love with a bottle (or two) and make a purchase.

Supporting local wineries doesn’t have to mean buying a case—even a single bottle or some gourmet condiments shows appreciation for the experience and the people behind it. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way, especially at family-run or small-batch producers.

Many wineries also require advance bookings, particularly for private group tastings. In fact, some boutique cellar doors are appointment-only—even for couples or small groups—so showing up unannounced isn’t always an option.

The benefit of booking through a reputable tour provider like Urban Legends Tour Co. is that all tasting fees, reservations, and scheduling are handled for you. We take care of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the wine, the scenery, and the day.

Discover Craft Breweries, Cocktail Bars or Distilleries

Looking to mix things up? A private Hunter Valley wine tour doesn’t have to be all about wine (though we won’t blame you if it is). The region is bursting with diverse experiences that can be tailored to suit every personality in your group.

• Fancy a stop at a craft brewery for cold, locally brewed beers? Easy.
• Keen to sample small-batch spirits like gin, schnapps, or vodka from award-winning local distilleries? We’ll make it happen.
• Prefer a relaxed picnic with panoramic vineyard views? We know the perfect spots.

At Urban Legends Tour Co., we specialise in building fully customisable tours for both small and large groups. Whether you're after an indulgent seated tasting at 5-star James Halliday-rated wineries, exclusive access to boutique cellar doors, or venues that don’t usually open for groups—we’ll take care of the details. You just turn up and enjoy a day that’s genuinely designed around your group.

Explore our Hunter Valley tour packages here and start planning an experience your crew won’t stop talking about.

Cheese Tasting Hunter Valley: Your Hunter Valley Cheese Tasting Guide!

You know we’re big fans of the Hunter Valley for its fantastic wines, craft beers, olives and other fantastic local produce. But are you looking for a cheese tasting adventure in stead? Home to a variety of cheesemakers and tasting venues that are sure to satisfy your taste buds, the Hunter Valley is still the perfect destination! Located just a short drive from Sydney, and home to our favourite wine tours, is the perfect destination whether you're a seasoned cheese aficionado or just a casual cheese lover, there's something for everyone in the Cheese Tasting Hunter Valley scene.

Where to Go for Cheese Tasting in Hunter Valley?

If you're eager to try some fantastic cheeses, you're in luck! There are many great cheese artisans in the Hunter region, but here are a few of our favourites.

A Classic Cheese Tasting Room: Hunter Valley Cheese Factory

The Hunter Valley Cheese Factory is one of the oldest and most well-known cheese producers in the area. Located in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin, their range of cheeses is impressive, from classic cheddars to creamy bries, and everything in between. You can stop by their tasting room for wine pairings and cheese platters. Their location also makes them perfect to visit some close-by located wineries.

A Lesser Known Cheese Artisan: Binnorie Dairy

Binnorie Dairy is a great spot for artisanal cheeses and is a bit more off the beaten track if you’re looking for a smaller cheese artisan. They use traditional methods to create a stunning range of handmade soft cheeses, including delicious labne, marinated feta, triple cream brie, various goats cheeses -swoon-, and much more! Their tasting room also offers wine pairings and cheese platters.

The Popular Kid in Town: Smelly Cheese Shop

The Smelly Cheese Shop is a cheese retailer with two locations in Hunter Valley, and a popular stop amongst for many wine tour operators. They offer a wide variety of cheeses from all over the world, wine pairings, and cheese platters. They also offer cheese appreciation classes and workshops if you're looking to improve your cheese game.

The Smart Way: Join On Of Our Hunter Valley Wine Tours

We may be biased, but we love all the cheese artisans that we feature on our Hunter Valley Wine Tours! We love including the abundant local cheese and picnic platters to spoil our clients on each tour. This means that you’ll get a chance to taste a variety of artisan cheeses in one visit while enjoying the stunning views we like to pick out. Book your wine tour now and ensure an insanely good-looking cheese platter!

Creating the Perfect Cheese and Wine Pairing

Pairing cheese with wine can be a bit tricky, but it's definitely worth the effort. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect cheese and wine pairing:

Match Intensity in Your Wine and Cheese

When it comes to cheese and wine pairing, you want to match the intensity of the cheese with the intensity of the wine. Strong, bold cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar pair well with full-bodied red wines, while lighter, milder cheeses like brie or goat cheese pair well with lighter white wines. If you want to really step it up, start with milder cheeses accompanied by your favourite white wines, and move your way up to bolder flavours, both in wine and in cheese!

Consider Complementarity

Another approach to cheese and wine pairing is to think about complementarity. This means pairing flavors that complement each other, like pairing a creamy brie with a crisp, acidic white wine. The idea is to create a harmonious balance between the cheese and wine flavors.

Try Regional Pairings

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try pairing local cheeses with local wines? This is a great way to get a taste of the Hunter Valley's unique terroir. For example, you could pair a Hunter Valley cheddar with a Hunter Valley shiraz or a Hunter Valley blue cheese with a Hunter Valley semillon.

Put your Knowledge to Practise and try wine and cheese pairings

One of the most popular cheeses in the Hunter Valley is the locally made brie like the one from Binnorie Dairy or one of the many other locally-made bries in the region. This soft, creamy cheese pairs perfectly with a crisp, acidic white wine, such as the Semillon, a grape variety the Hunter Valley is famous for! The fresh citrus notes of the Semillon bring out the buttery, nuttiness of the brie, creating a great balance in flavours.

Another local cheese you should try is the Hunter Valley cheddar, like for example from Hunter Belle Cheese, located in Muswellbrook. This hard, crumbly cheese pairs well with a full-bodied red wine like Shiraz, like the one from Brokenwood Wines. The bold, fruity notes of the Shiraz complement the nutty, sharpness of the cheddar, creating a rich combination.

For a more adventurous pairing, try a local blue cheese like the Blue Moon from the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop. This bold, creamy cheese is perfect with a sweet dessert wine like a Late Harvest Semillon, like the De Iuliis Late Picked Semillon 2021. The sweetness of the wine cuts through the tangy, sharpness of the cheese, creating a truly unique and satisfying experience.

Take Home a Taste of Hunter Valley

Don't forget to bring some local cheeses and wines home with you to impress your friends at your next dinner party or simply to enjoy after a long day in the office! It's a great way to share your Hunter Valley experience with friends and family, and it makes for a fantastic gourmet gift idea. Most of the cheesemakers in the region offer cheese and wine for sale, so stock up on your favourites before you head home!

Chocolate and Olive Tastings

Of course, the Hunter Valley is not just about cheese or wine. The region is also famous for its local chocolate and olive tastings, so you can savour the region's flavours to the fullest. If you want to add a chocolate or olive tasting to your tour experience, simply head to our booking page or contact our team!

Make the Most of Your Hunter Valley Experience

Look guys, we might be biased, but we’ve poured so much love in creating our tour itineraries that we really think we can offer you an experience like no other! What makes Urban Legends Wine Tours unique? You get to visit exclusive boutique wineries that usually don’t take group bookings with a fun and knowledgable local tour guide whilst listening to your favourite tunes along the way. If you want to experience the ultimate gourmet adventure in the Hunter Valley, our tours are the way to go.

The 5 Coolest Sydney Day Tours For Groups

Whether you're visiting just Sydney or living in the city and looking for a fun day out, there are plenty of Sydney Day Tours to choose from. In this article, we'll dive into all the Sydney tour options for you and your group and help you figure out which day tour is perfect for you! See Sydney in a day, go adventuring in the Blue Mountains, taste all the wines in the Hunter Valley or the Southern Highlands, or stay close to home by spending your Sydney day tour in the inner west!

Photo by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

Best Day Tour For Groups: See the Sydney sights on a private bus tour or by bicycle!

Sydney is a large city, is it possible to see Sydney in a day? Of course! With that right tour guide that is. Sydney is jam-packed full of amazing sights, but getting to see them all in a day can be challenging. So can you see the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, discover the hip inner-west and see one of the famous beaches? Especially if you are wrangling a group of mates! We say, Hell yeah! But how? Sure, public transport can be a way to go, but Sydney is notorious for its 1-hour bus rides everywhere and forget about parking several cars in the CBD.

We recommend hopping on a private bus tour (psssst, we organise a few epic ones!) and finding a company that is willing to customise your trip. A private bus tour is a fantastic option for both small and large groups. Anywhere between 4 and 52 people can hop on one a private Sydney bus tour and see the city. No more worrying about being on time or whether your group is having fun. At Urban Legends, we love customising tours to make sure that you and your group see everything that you want to see, something that is not offered by all Sydney tour companies.

Another option to see Sydney with a group is to move that body and jump on one of our bicycle tours. Accompanied by long-term Sydney locals, we show you the coolest spots. You know, those spots that are hard to find if you haven't lived in the city. Bike riding will also give your group the option of stopping to admire Sydney's best views. Who doesn't love that?! Did you know it is only a 40-minute bike ride from Sydney Opera House to Bondi Beach? You got this!

Explore the Blue Mountains with a group of mates! Image by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

Go on an Adventurous Sydney Day Tour In The Blue Mountains

One of our favourite escapes from the big smoke is a Blue Mountains tour. Whether you are looking to see the famous three sisters, Jenolan Caves or you want to visit one of the lesser knows waterfalls, the Blue Mountains National Park is full of epic places to explore. The hard part is, not getting to the Blue Mountains, but choosing between all the possible hikes, lookouts and waterfalls! If you get the opportunity, we recommend staying overnight and including a sunrise hike to one of the many excellent sunrise lookouts.

Whether your group is visiting the Blue Mountains for the first time and want to get the full tour or whether you are looking to organise transport for your group of experienced hikers to and from a hike, our buses can get you there.

Taste all the wines in the Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is the most famous wine destination in NSW and for good reason. We love the Hunter Valley so much that you can find us exploring boutique wineries in the region every weekend. Boutique wineries in the Hunter Valley are our favourite because these beautiful small wineries, which are often family-run, provide the nicest service and serve excellent wines! We are always learning something new about their craft and adore tasting the wines that the Hunter Valley is known for. If you need any more reasons why you should visit boutique wineries, read our blog post here!

The Hunter Valley is located at a 2-2.5h drive from Sydney, so planning a day tour from Sydney means that you will have to have an early start for a day trip! Even though it will be a long day, it is very worth your time. We love this destination so much that we even offer several customisable Hunter Valley wine tours! If you would rather have a shorter day tour, check out the scenic tours of the Southern Highlands below.

The gorgeous Southern Highlands is known for it’s beautiful flower gardens and great cool weather wines.

Scenic wine tasting in the Southern Highlands

The Southern Highlands is a wonderful destination all year round and is particularly popular in the autumn season due to its large number of deciduous trees. The colder climate also makes the region perfect for producing excellent Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Location at only 1.5h drive, it is actually our favourite NSW winery tour location for a Sydney day tour!

Become a craft beer expert in Sydney's Inner West

Who says that you have to leave Sydney for an epic Sydney day tour! One of the best ways to get to know the real Sydney is through bar hopping the Inner West of the city. The local craft breweries serve a few of Australia's best craft beers and allow you to soak up the local culture better than any other activity. The area of Sydney's inner west is full of beautiful murals and street art and there is more delicious food than you can ever finish!

Plan your own walking brewery tour by sticking to one suburb, Marrickville, or get your group to join one of our popular Sydney brewery tours. This tour combines all the best Sydney craft beers together in a meticulously organised day so your group can relax and focus on having fun. All our tours include a behind-the-scenes tour where you learn how these delicious beers get made and are combinable with one of the many fun add-ons such as axe-throwing, lawn bowls, go-karting, and more!

Feature image by Christopher Burns via Unsplash

Best Half Day Wine and Brewery Tours Hunter Valley: Discover The Hunter Valley in Less Time

So you want to see the beautiful Hunter Valley, but you only have half a day to spare? Or maybe you know your night is going to be a bit too much fun and you want a late start? No worries! You can spend less time on a half day wine and brewery tour in the Hunter Valley and still have an epic time!

The Hunter Valley is the most well-known wine region close to New South Wales' capital, Sydney, for good reason! With heritage of the first settlers dating back over 200 years, the area of Pokolbin is known for its quality wine production. It's therefore not surprising that it became the heart of wine tasting tours in the Hunter Valley. The area is blessed with so many varieties of wines that you will not get bored.

But the Hunter Valley does more than just producing fantastic wine, the region is also home to, amongst others, craft breweries, artisan cheeses, and chocolates. On top of that, the Hunter Valley wine region also has an amazing offer of activities: mountain biking, hiking, hot-air ballooning, and much more. You can even head to the Hunter Valley for a spa day!

Half Day Wine and Brewery Tour Hunter Valley: What can you see in a half day?

The Hunter Valley is a 2.5h drive from Sydney. When heading to the Hunter Valley from Sydney for a half-day, planning is crucial. You need to know which wineries or breweries to visit and potentially book and, maybe more importantly, which Hunter Valley wineries you really want to buy a few bottles of!

There are over 120 wineries in the Hunter Valley to choose from, so we always recommend having a chat with Jared, the founder of Urban Legends Tour Co., to see which wineries and breweries are going to be your favourites! We are biased towards the smaller boutique wineries as we love supporting small family businesses and because they make stellar wines.

That doesn't mean that you'll be spending all your time in the car through! Having your transport sorted by hopping on one of our mini-vans or luxury vehicles means that you can get picked up and dropped of at your home or your booked accommodation, as we do for all of our tours. Put on some tunes and we'll drive you straight to the first boutique wineries on your personalised schedule!

On our half-day Hunter Valley tours, we visit 3 beautiful wineries where you get to try artisan cheeses, olives or chocolates. Another option is to choose to visit only one winery and then head to 2 craft breweries or distilleries. Whether you're on a double date, celebrating a birthday, or want to escape the office with your small team, these half day tours are the ideal relaxed city escape!

The Half Day Hunter Valley Tour 3 Epic Legends Wineries + Chocolate, Cheese & Olive Tasting

A half day winery tour allows you to have a nice and lazy start to your day. We head straight to one of our favourite boutique wineries where you can have a wine tasting and also enjoy local produce such as cheeses, chocolates and olives. From there, we head to boutique winery number two. Here you will enjoy a premium seated wine tasting experience.

Around lunch-time, you have a few options. You can pack your own lunch, book a lunch experience (we know all the best places) or have a picnic with one of the gourmet platters that we love so much.

Time to head to the final destination of the day, another amazing small family-run winery that will blow your mind. We love that the wineries chosen for this half-day tour often have their winemaker themself explaining all about the wines that they produce. No rushed wine tastings here! You can really feel the love for their craft during your visit. Book this epic half-day adventure here.

The Hunter Valley Epic Half Day Tour with 1 Epic Winery + 2 Breweries or Distillery

Love wine but want to taste the beers or distilleries that the Hunter Valley has to offer as well? I can't blame you! After all, there are plenty of breweries and distilleries to discover. Of course, we have a few favourites and we're more than happy to take you to them.

Even though we love a good craft beer, we always start these half day Hunter Valley tours with a stop at your preferred boutique winery. We hope you don't mind starting with an excellent wine tasting and a few artisan cheeses, chocolates and olives before heading to the breweries or distilleries of your choice. For the ultimate wine, brewery, and distillery half-day tour, book here!

Don't forget to bring a bottle home!

We like to look at our half day wine and brewery tours in the Hunter Valley as an escape from the big smoke, but also as an excellent opportunity to bring home some fantastic bottles of wine. At Urban Legends Tour Co., we focus on bringing you to the best boutique wineries that are usually small family businesses. They have had a rough year (haven't we all!) and can use you support! Therefore we ask you to buy a few bottles during your tour. This will not financially benefit Urban Legends Tour Co, but it will support these small local business like you wouldn't believe. If you want to read more about the expectation to buy wine, read our elaborate article on what to expect on a winery tour here!

What about the current restrictions?

At the time of writing this piece (beginning of September), the restrictions of tours are limited to 10 people or less. When restrictions change, we will follow whatever the current restrictions in place are. Read of our COVID-19 safety page or reach out to our team directly if you want to know more.

The good news, however, is that our half day wine tours in the Hunter Valley are perfect for a smaller group! You can book these epic short tours from a group of 4 up to 10 people (with the current restrictions in place). They will still be available when the allowed amount of participants go up again so you can also choose to do them with a big group at a later time in the year. But not quite yet!

That's all legends! No go ahead, be your group's organising hero & find out today why we are the Hunter Valley’s most experienced, epic wine tour specialists.

Featured photo by Chelsea Pridham on Unsplash

4 Unique Bucks Party Ideas in Sydney (+ Tips for a Successful Bucks Party!)

4 Unique Bucks Party Ideas in Sydney

+ Tips for a Successful Bucks Party!

That time has come, you are now officially the best man at your best friend’s wedding! Time to plan an epic bucks party in Sydney. Stag nights, bachelor nights, bucks parties, or whatever you want to call it are a time for you and your best mates to come together and celebrate your friendship! Let's make sure it is a night to remember. To make your life easy as, we've rounded up 4 unique bucks party ideas in Sydney.

Minimal planning and a great time? This day is all about you, your mates, and, of course, the groom-to-be! We're throwing in a few unique bucks party ideas in Sydney but will also give you one epic bucks party idea out of the city. Why are these ideas unique? They focus on an actual freaking good time with your mates and skip the strippers. These ideas won't disappoint! Sounds right up your alley? Keep reading!

The bucks party ideas mentioned below are there to inspire you! Love the sound of a few of them? Don't hesitate to combine. It's your best mate's bucks and nobody knows what he likes better than you. But feel free to drop us a message for some more information on how to best combine certain activities!

Try Sydney's Best Craft Beers on an Inner-West Brewery Tour

No groom will deny that bar-hopping from one great craft brewery to the next is a hell of a good afternoon. And you're in luck because Sydney is home to a few of Australia's best craft breweries.

Visit the self-proclaimed 'fat dads' at legendary brewery Willie The Boatman, try an old-fashioned batch brewed beer at Batch Brewery Company, and enjoy live music at Yulli's Brews for a mindblowing lunch. Or you can ask our own craft beer connoisseur and founder of Urban Legends Tour Co., Jared, for his expert opinion on where your group should head to next!

Adrenaline Rush Hour: Axe-Throwing, Go-Karting or Indoor Rock Climbing

What is a buck's party in Sydney without a bit of adrenaline! Choosing an activity such as axe-throwing, go-karting or rock climbing is a fantastic way to get the group to bond at the beginning of the day. After all, bucks parties often consist out of a bunch of people that have never met each other. An adrenaline-filled activity gets all that awkwardness out of the way in a heartbeat and allows everyone to enjoy their day so much more. Plus, any of these activities pair perfectly with a visit or three to one of the inner-west craft breweries that we love so much!

Bucks Party Private Yacht

Sydney is a city full of scenic views and what better way to see those than from a boat! Our Sydney-based bucks party ideas lend themselves perfectly to finish the evening with a beyond epic private yacht party. Get in touch with the team and we'll get you straight from the beers to the boat.

Get Out Of Sydney: Hunter Valley Brewery and Winery Tour

While we adore Sydney, sometimes there is nothing nicer than getting out of the city. The Hunter Valley is one of our favourite destinations jam-packed with amazing activities and produce to try. Why not go all out and organise one of the overnight packages so you can easily continue the party after.

An overnight stay in the Hunter Valley has too many activities to choose from. Combine a winery or brewer tour with Mountain Biking, golfing, or a hike through the area. After everyone is hungry for some golden nectar, you can simply get onto the Urban Legends Tour Co. bus and we'll take care of the rest. We find that the best bucks parties dig into all of the products that the Hunter Valley has to offer: craft beer, wine, cheeses, spirits and so much more!

Why jump on a tour for the Bucks Party?

Why bother worrying about who will be your sober driver when you can get picked up at your doorstep and dropped off at the final bucks party location? There are many reasons why choosing a bucks party tour in Sydney is simply the way to go:

• Literally no hassle, we basically organise the part for you

• We know Sydney better than anyone

• Get picked up and dropped off in a private bus

• Play your own tunes during the entire day!

• So much more...

Tips for planning a Successful Bucks Party in Sydney

There are a lot of moving pieces when organising a bucks party in Sydney! To make your life as easy as possible, we've jotted down a few tips to make everything go smoothly.

• Don't plan in too many stops. We recommend only 2-3 stops if you are visiting wineries and maybe 1 extra if you are choosing a brewery tour. This will allow you and your mates to enjoy each location to its fullest. Especially when the beers start flowing, you'll be grateful for this extra breathing time at each stop.

• Are you planning a big bucks party of 10+ people? Plan in even fewer stops. This will account for the time of the group getting on and off the bus. While small, that lost time can make a massive difference. Not sure how many stops to plan in? Contact our team and they will be more than happy to help you figure it out!

• Plan a bit of extra budget to buy a beer or wine on location. This will come in great when getting ready for the wedding on the day itself or to drink at the accommodation if you're staying overnight!

• Gives your mates a dress code. Wear something comfortable and easy for the day. If you are looking for a theme, we recommend plaid, white shirts, hats or other classy get-ups. The animal costume or itchy Hawaiian shirt? Best leave that one at home for now.

• Get the playlist together in advance. We always let our guests play their music so gather your favourite tunes and enjoy the day!

Transport for Bucks Party in Newcastle, Central Coast, South Coast or Wollongong?

While Urban Legends Tour Co. is a Sydney-based operator, we can organise pick-ups from all surrounding areas around Sydney. Are you based in Berry, Bowral, Newcastle, Central Coast or Wollongong? Just reach out and have a chat about how we can make the bucks party go as smoothly as possible.

We can even pick you up and drop you off at any overnight accommodation booked for the bucks party. That means that if you have a house booked in the Hunter Valley, Bowral, or down the coast, you don't have to worry about sober drivers at all.

Don't hesitate to reach out to our fantastic team to customise your ideal bucks party in Sydney! See you then legends!

Stay safe and keep in touch.

Kind regards,

Marijs Vrancken & Jared Malcolm

Urban Legends Tour Co

Classy Hens Party Ideas for Sydney (+ Hens Party Packages Sydney and surroundings)

Classy Hens Party Ideas for Sydney

+ Hens Party Packages Sydney and surroundings

Do you cringe at the thought of wearing a princess outfit all day or are you less than keen on having a half-naked stranger dance on your lap on one of your last days as a single women? Or are you organising a special day for one of your best mates and know that she wants to have a fun, but truly meaningful day? Then we have some great classy hens party ideas in Sydney and surroundings for you!

Sydney is the city of gorgeous beaches, insane vistas, and beautiful weather for a large part of the year. It is also a great city to organise your hens party with plenty of classy hens party activities at your fingertips. Whether you are Sydney-based or flying in for the hens party, we know you and your loyal group of girls will have a fantastic time. But what should you do to organise an effortlessly cool hens party? We've got you covered!

In this article, we'll be covering epic classy hens party ideas in and around Sydney. That means that if you are in Newcastle, Central Coast, or Wollongong, you can definitely also use these ideas!

Classy Hens Party Ideas In Sydney

There is a lot to discover within Sydney's suburbs! One of the finest features of Sydney is the unique character of each suburb. Do you like the CBD with its high-rise buildings and hidden bars, or The Rocks with epic views on the Harbour Bridge, and an obligatory stop at the Sydney Opera House? Or maybe you prefer the close-by Botanic Gardens with the all-too-famous Lady Macquarie’s Chair? What about Sydney Habour's newest builds in Barangaroo and the adjacent Barangaroo Reserve, a landscaped park with 75,000 native trees and shrubs and thousands of sandstone blocks. The surrounding suburbs are home to historic buildings, great bars, distilleries, gorgeous beaches and headlands, and much, much more!

Sydney provides the perfect backdrop to more hens party possibilities than you can count! Are you, or the bride you're organising the hens for, obsessed with the ocean or does her heart beat faster when tasting a newly-distilled gin that nobody has heard of? We've gathered the best classy hens party ideas in Sydney. You can stick to one idea or combine a few of these to organise an unforgettable hens day!

Sydney Scavenger Hunt in Scenic Locations

Sydney truly is a playground filled with scenic locations. From Bondi Beach, the Harbour Bridge to local secrets such as Blackwattle Bay along the Glebe Foreshore. Why not take a trip down memory lane and visit all those spots that are important for your bride and her significant other? Is your bride a first-time visitor of the city? Give her a chance to see one of Australia's most beautiful cities on a guided bus tour! These locations are perfect to plant a few clues along a scavenger hunt that will entertain both your bride and your entire group of mates.

Here are a few tips and tricks to organise a successful Sydney hens scavenger hunt:

• Include locations that relate to the relationship of the bride and her fiance

• Include a drink and snack stops (why not a great distillery?). Scavenger hunts without snacks make for a hangry group of mates.

• Keep your group together or split up, why not organise two luxury vans to drive your group around

• Include at least one beautiful scenic location with the whole group -gotta have those photo ops!-

• Engage the whole group, not just the bride. While this day is all about the bride, if you engage the full group, the bride will get to enjoy her day without worry.

• Put a time limit on the games to keep it exciting and don't make it too long (max 2-3h).

Go Paddle boarding in Rose Bay or Kayaking on Sydney Harbour

For a more adventurous bride, a water-based activity is a must! Sydney is, after all, famous for its beaches and harbour. No sunny day would be complete without a bit of fun on the glassy waters of the city. A paddle session or kayak is easily included as a part of your classy hens party or great to experience on its own!

With so many locations to choose from, we love heading to Rose Bay for a paddle boarding session or a kayaking session in Sydney Harbour on our guided tours. Views of the harbour bridge and luxury vehicles to your location are included in all our hens party packages!

Cocktail and Distillery tours (and have a cheeky craft beer)

Sydney is blessed with a multitude of amazing cocktail bars (have you discovered all the hidden bars yet?) and the finest distilleries. Why stick with one bar on your hens party when you can visit 3 or 4 on an inner-west distillery tour? From gin to high-end whiskey, Sydney allows you to taste the world's best cocktails! We'd even bet that the bridal party would love you even more if you threw a craft beer into the mix. Who said women don't enjoy a good craft beer!

Cycle Around Sydney

Does your bride love to stay fit and is she looking for an adventurous day? Take your classy hens party to the next level with a Sydney bicycle tour! Sydney is filled with extraordinary mountain bike trails and has too many vistas and photo ops to count. We love exploring one of the many secret local locations with easy to cycle paths. Why not combine the idea of a scavenger hunt with some paddle boarding and a few cocktails to round up the day? Your whole group will love it!

Classy Hens Party Ideas Around Sydney

One of the biggest perks of being based in Sydney is the multitude of amazing getaway locations! Whether you are organising a hens day party or a hens weekend, the options are endless. The surroundings of Sydney have so much on offer: local produce, many NSW wineries, craft breweries and stunning vistas. We'll be giving you a few classy hens party ideas in the Hunter Valley, the Southern Highlands, and the South Coast.

Hunter Valley Wineries and Gourmet Cheeses

As the closest and most famous wine region, the Hunter Valley offers over 150 wineries to choose from. Due to its fertile soil and abundance of delicious produce to try, the Hunter Valley will not make narrowing down your hens party activities easy. But that's why we're here!

A successful hens winery tour starts off with a private pickup in Sydney or the Hunter Valley itself (or anywhere in between). We'll head straight to one of the boutique wineries that you selected with our help (we love Moorebank winery) and we'll make sure to include the gourmet cheese or chocolate platters (if selected of course)!

The Hunter Valley has so much more to offer than just wine though. We recommend including a few stops at one of the Hunter Valley distilleries or breweries. But the day doesn't have to end there. After a day full of indulgence, why not stay overnight with one of our overnight hens party packages? The Hunter Valley is full of idealistic accommodation and we know a few that are perfect for a memorable weekend getaway!

South Coast Picnics With Ocean Views

Have you been to the Hunter Valley one too many time and want to offer your bride a unique experience? How about the lush green rolling hills of the South Coast? Image this, a beautiful carpet on a hillside with a pillow-lined table filled with a breathtaking gourmet grazing platter. It literally could not get more classy than a South Coast winery tour!

Top your classiest of classy hens party with a visit to the Coolangatta Estate. Built on the site of the first European settlement on the South Coast of NSW, you are stepping into a part of Australia's history. The family-owned boutique wineries that we visit on the South Coast offer a wide variety of wines including Chardonnay, Verdelho, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. But let's not forget about the incredible local cheeses and seafood that can be consumed with views on let's say ... 7 Mile Beach. Oh yeah, we know all the best local spots for the perfect group photo!

Best for Autumn: Southern Highlands Winery Tour

Found out that you need to organise a last-minute hens party now that regional travel will be allowed again? How about colourful vistas filled with more orange, red and yellow leaves than you imagined possible? That's the Southern Highlands. Better-known as a wedding destination, it is also an epic winery destination!

Specialised in Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, this area is known for its fantastic wines and its great photo opportunities (why else do you think so many weddings are hosted here?). We love this area as it really offers a different experience than a coastal wine tour or the frequently-visited Hunter Valley. And the best part? You can head here on short notice! Perfect for a last-minute Autumn hens party! Contact us to see what is possible within your dates.

But hey, we're not here to box The Southern Highlands into only being visited in autumn. After all the area is also abundant in beautifully landscaped gardens that are particularly photogenic all year round!

Tips for a Successful Wine Tour Hens Party

Ok, we've gone over three amazing areas that you can treat your bride to. But, we didn't want to let you go without giving a few extra tips to make this special day go even smoother!

• Limit your wine tour hens party stops to 2-3 wineries in a day. This will leave enough time for everyone to enjoy each location and will allow for time to visit a few scenic locations as well. This is especially important if you are planning a big hens party. The bigger the group, the longer it will take for everyone to get on and off the bus. While that might seem like a small detail, we know from experience this will make all the difference between a rushed day and a smooth experience.

• Tell your bridal party to wear comfy shoes! While we all love a good stiletto heel, winery tours involve a bit of walking and some of the scenic locations tend to be less than heel-friendly.

• Plan for a bit of extra budget to buy a few wines for the wedding day. Not only is it good tasting etiquette, but you can also enjoy these bottles when getting ready for the wedding! What better detail than bottles of wine you hand-selected on your hens day to enjoy on the special day!

• Have a dress-code for the day. It's not only the wedding day that should have a dress-code! A classy hens party is not complete without a beautiful invite letting the guests know what to wear on the hens day. We recommend garden-chic, all-white or cocktail dress.

• Don't forget the playlist! You will be spending a bit of time on the bus getting driven from one location to the next. While we have a few great playlist for the ride up our sleeve, why not make a personalised playlist so you know your bride will have the best time!

• Want to know more about what to expect on a NSW winery tour? Read our dedicated article here!

Organising your Hens Party in, Berry, Bowral , Newcastle, Central Coast or Wollongong? 

Reading all these classy hens party ideas and thinking "well, that's great, but I'm not in Sydney!". That is not an issue at all. While Urban Legends Tour Co. is a Sydney-based operator, we are more than happy to organise a pick up from Berry, Bowral, Newcastle, Central Coast or Wollongong! Just reach out and have a chat with our wonderful team and we can sort you and your bride out!

Did you know that we can even start the tour from the planned location itself? Staying overnight in the Hunter Valley? Not a problem at all. Already down on the South Coast? What time do you want to start?

Booked an airbnb in Bowral? even better we can pick you & your group up from your front door!

That's it legends, we look forward to helping you plan a memorable and classy hens party!

Stay safe and keep in touch.

Kind regards,

Marijs Vrancken & Jared Malcolm

Urban Legends Tour Co

What to Expect on a NSW Winery Tour: All your questions answered

What to Expect on a NSW Winery Tour: All Your Questions Answered

Going from winery to winery, tasting the best wines that NSW has to offer? We couldn't think of anything better! New South Wales is home to three amazing wine regions: the Hunter Valley, the Southern Highlands, and the South Coast. The Hunter Valley shines with its 200-year old winemaking history and is by far the most famous wine region in NSW. The Southern Highlands and the South Coast are worthy competitors however with excellent boutique wineries and scenic landscapes. We get a lot of questions on what to expect on a NSW winery tour. So, we decided to answer all of them!

Don't have time to read them all?

Table of contents

Look & CLICK THROUGH this table of content to guide you towards your specific question!

• Cheese platters

• Buying wine & why this is so important on any wine tour

• What’s included

• Boutique wineries

• Tasting fees

• What to wear

• The different wine regions

• Etiquette

• Different tour styles

• The tour industry and more…

We are so lucky to have such a great variety of wineries in NSW that provide such different experiences. You can visit large-scale wineries such as Ben Ean Winery and small boutique wineries that you have never heard of, but that serve some of the best wines and deliver the best tasting experiences of the region. Some tastings will be conducted by the cellar door staff and others will be by the winemaker himself, which always is an amazing treat. Tastings could take place standing at the counter for $5 or you might get spoiled with a free tasting and locally made complimentary cheeses. Some wineries allow you to rock up with your mates while others only take appointments or don't even allow groups. The best tastings for large groups in our opinion are always done seated, and usually cost 2 or 3 times more than these cheaper, quick standing style tastings. You see, there is a lot involved in planning your NSW winery tour. Thankfully, we have put in the hard yards for you. Happy wine tasting legends!

** All photos in this blog post below are from real Urban Legends Tours **

Can I go on a winery tour by myself or do you recommend a tour?

Visiting the vineyards of NSW is a great day out! All three wine regions of NSW, the Hunter Valley, South Coast and Southern Highlands, can be visited both through a tour or with your own vehicle. What option is best for you depends on a few factors. We will go into the pros and cons of both so you can make the best choice for your group.

Self-drive winery tour

Let's start with the self-drive option! First things first, this adventure cannot be taken without an appointed sober driver. Are you the 'flipping a coin' or 'drawing straws' kind of group? While the driver will be able to do a little bit of the tasting here and there, we do not recommend taking on this adventure without someone who's prepared to miss out on all these delicious wines!

Heading out and finding vineyards is easily possible with resources that you can find online and maybe even a quick Google Maps search. We also recommend popping into the local tourism office for extra advice. They might even give you the names of some insider wineries that you would not have found yourself. The trick is finding wineries that allow visitors without an appointment and that accept your size of group. While a couple driving around the vineyards might be able to squeeze in, a group will be turned away in many wineries. With over 150 wineries to choose from, it is a little tricky finding all the best spots with out a little insider knowledge.

Winery Tours

So how are you able to get into all of the best boutique wineries that don't accept groups? That is, my friends, where tours come in. Many tour operators, including our founder Jared, have spent many years developing a good relationship with unique winery owners that might otherwise be reluctant to receive groups. On a NSW winery tour, you gain access to the best wineries without having to call around yourself or being turned away at the door.

The very best tour operators also work to cultivate special experiences that are exclusive to their relationship with the winery, for example epic gourmet picnic platters , longer tastings, private areas, expert sommeliers and wine makers, extended tastings and bonus wines.

Just as there is a huge variety between wineries, no tour on offer is the same. The tour price will often dramatically effect what is included, and the quality of tasting experiences you will be given. It's your job to find the perfect one for you, but we're here to help! Start by looking at the types of wine you want to taste (small artisan wines or larger scale wines) and the type of tasting you prefer (quick and dirty at the counter or slow and comfortable at a seated tasting). You’ll also need to decide if you are happy with just wine or if you want to spoil your group with incredible home made cheese platters to share during your wine tasting. Still struggling? Here are a few questions to ask yourself and your tour operator.

• Do you want to learn lots about wine and bring home the best bottles, or are you just looking to taste as many wines as humanly possible?

• Do you want lunch included with a variety of options, or do you prefer to take your own picnic?

  Picnic by the sea are the picnic specialists on the south coast!

• Do you want to enjoy epic complimentary cheese platters or artisan chocolates during your wine tasting, or do you not mind just being dropped off at the local cheese store instead?

• Do you want to learn with recommendations from the winemaker, or do you prefer to drink and dash from less experienced cellar door staff?

• Do you want to see exquisite landscapes during the tour with an operator that also takes time to show you the sites, or would you be happy with a shorter urban indoor experience?

• Do you like to taste anything else along the way such as craft beers or liquors such as vodka, gin or schnapps?

But wait a minute this all sounds a bit too serious? is the tour still fun? We would also argue that is also one of the major differences between the best tour operators and the best wine tasting experiences. Your tour will select only a few wineries so you want to make sure they have the best of both worlds so that the tour always exceeds your groups expectations. Your tour should certainly be loads of fun for everyone involved!

Lots of things to think about! Want to know what is included in the Urban Legends tours? Keep on reading!

I want to book a tour! What is the day going to look like?

Awesome, we're so excited to have you and your group on one of our tours. At Urban Legends, we know how important it is to get value for money and make sure the person who organises the tour looks like a hero by the end of the day. That is why we spend plenty of time figuring out the best type of experience for each and every group. No Urban Legends tour is the same!

While we do have lots of fantastic ready made packages available, we always make a discovery call to make sure the package is right for you and tailor the tour accordingly.

A winery tour allows you to sit back and relax without having to worry about who will be the sober driver. You will also never have to worry about having enough space for all that wine that you want to bring back. We will pick you up from your chosen location, keep all your wine on ice and you can fully customise your winery tour to your group's wishes! We specialise in groups and can take any size of group in one of our private airconditioned standard or luxury buses and coaches. Our best tour guide Jared is licensed to drive any size vehicle from a 10 seater mini bus right up to a 57 seat luxury coach that looks like a private jet inside!

With Urban Legends tours you know that all the legwork has been done for you. We tend to visit only 2-4 wineries in a day and take you somewhere special for lunch. We also include at least one amazing scenic location. We focus on visiting fewer venues, but making sure they are all epic full range tasting experiences with up to 10 wines each, this allows for a smoother less rushed schedule and gives you more time to fully enjoy the experience. This is more and more important the larger your group is. Large groups take much longer to get on and off the bus as well as in and out of each wine tasting.

The perfectly laid out schedule focuses on the best boutique wineries which we only know about because we have spent a lot of time cultivating relationships with the winery owners. This means that you will never be treated like 'just another tour'. Our wineries are actually super happy to see you coming through the door! Our guests are often treated like royalty with premium seated wine tastings, explanations by the winemaker or owner himself and artisan cheeses or chocolates to accompany the star of the show, the wine!

As mentioned above, we provide winery tours to The Hunter Valley, the South Coast, and the Southern Highlands. As every wine region is a little bit different, we recommend that you check out the more detailed descriptions on each Urban Legends winery tour below:

• Hunter Valley Winery Tours

• South Coast Winery Tours

• Southern Highlands Winery Tours

Still can't choose? We've listed out all why we love each and every region below!

Which wine area should i choose? Hunter valley, South coast or Southern Highlands?

We might be biased but we love all of NSW! It is an amazingly diverse state which means that all these areas are great for different reasons.

The Hunter Valley is the most famous wine region close to Sydney due to its 200-year old winemaking history. There is an abundance of wineries to choose from (over 150) and plenty other delicious produce to try. The Hunter Valley's soil produces high quality vines, olives, great dairy, and much more. It also draws in craftsmen that make chocolates and distilleries that produce different kinds of liquor. There are even a few breweries and you bet that we love a good craft beer!

The best winery in the Hunter Valley? What an impossible choice! We can, however, let you in one of our favourites at the moment: Moorebank winery. The winery serves a fantastic selection of wines during their seated tasting and even includes an incredible homemade cheese and picnic platter for our tours. It's one of the best platters we have ever seen! Our guests are treated to a private tasting room “the press room” which is home to the 2nd oldest wine press in the Hunter Valley ! This family run winery has been shared by 3 generations of wine makers. You will likely be greeted by the Summer, the beautiful daughter of the owners Deb and Ian.

The South Coast winery tour has the obvious advantage of ocean views. It's also home to lush green rolling hills and due to high rainfall, this area has an incredibly fertile soil! Visit Coolangatta Estate, which is built on the site of the first European settlement on the South Coast of NSW, have a picnic by the sea and make sure to check out one of the other 5 cellar doors in the area.

Last, but not least, the Southern Highlands. While the area is better-known as a wedding destination, it is also a fantastic location for your winery tour! The area has many beautiful gardens to visit with an abundance of deciduous trees. The colder climate and high elevation above sea level contributes to the area's specialisation in Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Head here during the autumn to see the colourful foliage and try a Pinot Noir or three.

Bendooley estate pictured below

Can we visit a boutique winery? What's the difference?

All Urban Legends wine tours include visits to boutique wineries. This is quite unique as many tour operators focus on the easier to visit cheaper, larger wineries. What makes boutique wineries so special is the level of care that is given to visitors. These craftsmen take their time to show you all of their best bottles in the hope that you fall in love with at least one. The wines usually come with a unique story and expert tasting and pairing notes. The visits are often accompanied by complementary artisan cheeses or chocolates, bringing out the flavour of the individual wines even more. This can be in stark contrast with wineries where the tastings are done standing by the bar where a cellar door staff member gives you a quick recap of each wine and the entire tasting can be finished in 15- 30 mins instead of 1-1.5 hours at a good boutique winery.

Due to the nature of their business, many of the boutique wineries will ask you to make an appointment or call in advance. After all, they might be out working on the vineyard when you pop in. They also often are only big enough to host 1 large group at a time. If you want to visit only boutique wineries with a group, the easiest way to visit them is with tour. This way, you won't need to spend any time calling around to make sure that you can get in.

The tasting fee for both boutique wineries and larger scale wineries varies between $0-$15,+ the cost of cheese platters if included by the tour operator which should all be included in the price of your tour (it always is in ours). Keep in mind that the less you pay for a tasting, the more that is included and the longer the tasting goes for, the more the winery depends on visitors purchasing wine to keep the business going. So, do pick up a bottle when you go to show your support.

Tasting Fees

The tasting fee for both boutique wineries and larger scale wineries varies between $0-$20 per person,+ the cost of any cheese platters if included by the tour operator. This is all usually included in the price of your tour (it always is in ours). 6 - 10 premium wines are usually poured out averaging about 3.5 standard drinks in a 1 hour seated tasting experience. It is worth noting that the relatively small fee payed for a tasting, with the volume of wine that is included, as well as the time spent inside the venue, does mean the wineries depend heavily on the visitors purchasing wine to keep the business going & insure large group wine tastings are financially worth while for the wineries. So please do pick up a bottle when you go to show your support and keep the tour industry alive for large groups.

Are Gourmet cheese platters usually included on a wine tour?

The short answer is no not really, but this will depend which tour operator you choose. Cheese and produce spreads are usually an optional extra and they vary in price depending what’s included in them, how big they are, the variety of cheeses and condiments, how big your group is and whether they are locally sourced or imported just to name a few. We have seen hundreds of cheese platers over the years and they vary in quality from winery to winery and region to region. In our experience the standard for cheese platters is a lot higher in the Hunter Valley, especially at the boutique wineries we use. However they are also often included on the South Coast and Southern highlands , but tend to be a lot smaller and cheaper in these 2 areas.

In the Hunter Valley most tour operators offer the option of a cheese tasting on their tour. It is important to realise that many cheaper tour operators might just take you to a local cheese shop, such as the Smelly Cheese Shop, rather than providing a real tasting. After all, this costs them nothing as the cheese shop will be the one investing the time & money into the tasting. Our tours, however, offer the option of gourmet cheese platters with amazing local cheeses during all of your wine tastings. Hand made by the wineries with local Hunter valley cheeses. This will give you and your guests a more authentic and tastier experience. Having a cheese platter during your wine tasting will also provide you with an extra experience with better use of time, rather than having to rush to an additional stop such as a local cheese shop. We pay extra at each winery to provide our guests with gourmet cheese platters during each and every wine tasting for the ultimate Hunter Valley experience.

Should i bring extra budget on my winery tour?

Great, your tour is booked! Time to sit back and enjoy the ride. You're about to be spoiled with fantastic wines to taste, cheese platters, chocolates and panoramic views. Before you leave, we have to let you in on a little, but very important, secret. What is one of the best parts of winery tours? The wines, chocolates, local cheeses, condiments, olives and vodkas you take home!

We know that the expectation to buy wine is not talked about often, but we wouldn't be supporting our friends in the wine business if we were to let you go without telling the truth. It is actually incredibly important, both for our business and the wineries, that your group buys some bottles of wine at the wine tastings. In fact all tastings including cheese, chocolate, olives and vodka all run on this same premise. We will explain why below.

Are you on a really tight budget and can't afford a whole bottle? That is totally fine! Try buying a glass of your favourite wine instead. Or maybe a few of the cheeses or condiments that are on sale. Share a bottle with your friend or you could even buy the chutney to enjoy at home. Trust me when I tell you that buying just one glass of wine or a jar of condiments makes a massive difference. It is an important gesture of good will that you have appreciated the effort the wine maker has put in to their tasting and the many premium wines they have poured out for you and your large group.

Why it is important to buy wine on a winery tour (self-guided or in group)?

To understand why it is important to buy wine on a winery tour, we have to explain how the wine industry works. Don't worry, we won't bore you! Did you know that making wine is a long process? A winemaker invests anywhere between 3 and 5 years to grow a vine up to wine-producing quality. Knowing that most wines also need time to age before they can be sold, it can take up 7-8 years before for a wine maker is able to sell his best product. Sure, they can produce wine with the grapes off a 3-year old vine and sell it the next year, but a strong wine-making business is not built on these young wines. So how do wineries survive and thrive?

Enter the tasting system! Winemakers like our friends at Two Figs Winery pictured here bring their finest product to customers so that they are sure you are taking home your favourite wine. However, to survive, a winery needs to sell their wines by the bottle, not through the tastings. If a winery's turnover only consists out of their tasting fees, there would not be a wine industry. While the small tasting fee might cover the cost of the tasting, it does not cover the cost of their location, their over heads, the staff, the land, the cheese, and so much more. If a winery chooses to not charge or only charge $5-$10 for their tastings (which many do) they cannot even cover the cost of all the delicious wine you just had. Especially large groups, which is our specialty, can cause cash-flow problems for a winery if there are not enough bottle sales. A winery simply cannot compensate for a large group doing a free or low-priced tasting if they don’t make sales.

Especially for our Saturday tours, it is important to pick up a bottle. As this is the winery's busiest day (the weekdays are so much quieter!), it is such a great opportunity for a group to make a positive impact by buying a few bottles!

This also especially important for boutique wineries that often do not sell their wines in bottle shops.

Yes, you legends are already paying for a winery tour and this price includes your tasting fees, the transport, our wonderful guide, all the research that went into setting up the perfect tour and so much more. While we love you for joining our tours and they enable us to show people around our favourite wineries, this alone is not enough to keep the wine industry going. Especially the smaller family-run wineries, which Urban Legend Tours focuses on, which really struggle without enough cellar door sales. So, go ahead, take a bottle home for you AND for your mum, we know you'll both love it!

Remember the wine makers beautiful stories that come with each vintage and variety, and then share the story when you eventually decide to open that special bottle with your friends and family.

The Wine industry and tours

A lesser-known fact about our industry is that the wine industry and winery tours have a bit of a love-hate relationship. On the one hand, it is great that tours allow for so many people to get introduced to NSW's best wines. All wineries, big or small, love receiving people and get so much joy from seeing people enjoying their wines. It's an industry that is all about passion, hard work, and connection with their customers.

On the other hand, tour operators who bring in big groups (which is our specialty) can cause a problem when tours focus too much on the 'cheap' drinking experience. As we explained above, if a small winery lets all our guests try their best wines for a very small fee, they quickly run into trouble without the sales of bottles. Did you know that many tour operators have actually been banned from wineries all around the state? Before we knew as much about the wine industry as we do now, we even got temporarily banned from 9 wineries in the Hunter Valley for wasting their time and poor group behaviour.

The industry is still grappling with the boom in tour groups and the changes this brings to the business model. For now every winery deals with this differently, the tasting fees are always changing, groups are being more and more restricted and wineries are becoming more and more selective over which tour operators they allow.

Our prescription to help both the small tour companies and the small wineries out? Buy a few bottles on our tours and enjoy your bounty with your friends while reminiscing on the day! Didn't like the wine in one of the wineries? Buy some condiments for your next BBQ or DIY cheese platter instead!

What should i wear on a winery tour?

Another question that we get asked a lot is what the correct wine tasting attire is. Flip flops or sneakers? Something light and airy or something that protects yourself from the elements? What about themes? Could you wear that animal costume you bought for a festival last year? Sometimes it's not that easy to figure out what to wear on your wine tasting day.

Winery attire is a special type of outfit that you whip out for a day of breathtaking sceneries, plenty of photo-ops and for meeting a few of the best craftsmen in the country. The ideal outfit consists out of comfortable footwear (think flat sandals or sneakers) and a comfortable, yet stylish, outfit that you won't mind wearing on the bus ride. Throw in a hat and a jacket and you’re ready to roll. Think more chic garden party, less rowdy beach party! So, the animal costume or your loud Hawaiian shirt? Best to leave that one at home. Some of our favourite dress themes include special head peace, all white and cocktail dress, Do you want more inspiration? Check out this article!

Is there any ettiquette while at the wineries?

Yes there is a few things you should ideally keep in mind during a wine tasting, while usually common sense at the first tasting, your friends may need reminding by the end of the day.

• Tastings are always fun and social experiences where you will of course always be chatting and having a great time amongst your friends through out the day.

• It is worth mentioning though that it is polite to use inside voices , when in large groups and to not be shouting over the top of each other, so as not to affect the experience of other guests inside the venue.

• It is also polite to pause conversation and listen if and when the wine maker is explaining a new wine he or she is about to pour.

• It is quite frowned upon to pour your wine into your friends glass, you should always pour it into the spittoon if you don’t like the wine.

• You must also never open take away alcohol of any kind, including wine or vodka, while still on a wineries property as this is against the liquor licensing laws the wineries must adhere to.

• RSA remains a serious consideration for boutique wineries, if guests appear to be overly intoxicated from BYO alcohol or previous venues they may be denied service or entry to the venue

Supporting the Local Legends

We're not sugar-coating it, 2020 has been a rough year for our small businesses and, in particular, the rural community. First a drought, followed by the bushfires, floods and now a major health crisis. Many small businesses will struggle greatly to get back up on their feet after this is all done. Including us.

Therefore, we would love to encourage you to bring a little extra budget the next time that you go on one of the Urban Legends winery tours. The best thing you can do to help the rural community right now is buying an extra bottle or ordering an extra glass of wine. Until then order a a case of wine delivered! Both the businesses that we work with and our own business will be very grateful for this extra gesture of support!

Whoop Whoop, you just finished a very long post, congratulations! Do you still have more questions? Contact us here.

Stay safe and keep in touch,

Kind regards,

Jared Malcolm & Marijs Vrancken

Urban Legends Tour Co