Every season in the Hunter has lots to offer, and it can be said to be similar to a Mediterranean climate with lovely balmy days in spring and summer, whereas there are brisk nights in autumn and winter, perfect to get the fire going! Know before you go - check out the Hunter Valley forecast.
In summer, the region comes alive with temperatures averaging between 28°-30C, where the harvest is at its peak. In autumn, the abundant foliage turns to beautiful shades of browns, orange and golds making it the perfect background shot for the gram.
Winter temperatures average 16-18°C, dipping to lows of 2-4°C overnight, making it perfect to cosy up to your loved ones. Come spring, the landscape is ready to be reborn and the once bare and stark vines begin to flourish and grow full with fruit, readying themselves for the upcoming harvest where it all starts again.
1. Summer (December, January, February)
It can get pretty warm in the Hunter during summer, perfect to match up with the cool white wines by the pool. There are intermittent thunderstorms throughout the season, making sure both grapes and guests alike are cooled. This is the time at which harvest begins too (from about January to March), making it a vibrant time to visit the Hunter!
We’d recommend participating in the age-old tradition of grape stomping for some fun under the sun! There really is no feeling like jumping right into a big oak barrel of grapes and getting a little dirty:
As for an outfit guide, you could channel European Summer vibes with these chic cat-eye sunglasses, an elegant polka-dot wrap skirt and romantic heart necklace. Keep it casual in the classics- you can never go wrong!
2. Autumn (March, April, May)
The vines will turn to a warm orangey-red hue and start dropping off the vines in Autumn. It makes for a glorious time in the Hunter as the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival is held each May and June.
Take the opportunity to get on a Hunter Valley Hot Air Balloon. It's an amazing experience no matter what time of the year you do it, but we recommend Autumn and Spring since weather is more predictable, and the trees, vineyards and wild flowers look stunning too!
Channel country chic with an earthy fedora, peasant blouse and some classic denim in Autumn while you go ballooning. Take cues from the countryside with this outfit inspo! We love a statement shirt like this one by Shona Joy, with its billowy sleeves and detailed lace cut-outs. Pair it with practical denim and finish with a fedora.
3. Winter (June, July, August)
Winter in the Hunter is a gorgeous time of the year, presenting itself with clear blue skies and mild temperature of about 18°C.
Travelling with your SO or with someone a bestie? Save the money you’d normally spend on a big, grand house or an oversized hotel room and try out the latest in architectural advancements with a stay in a tiny house which is fully equipped with a kitchen, cosy bed and even fireplaces.
Add colour to the dull winter with this 100% Cotton Corduroy Mustard Pants from Rolla's, coupled with a plain coloured top. The perfect complement for this look? A Rogue Scarf around your neck, and Gold Loop Hoops. They'll be the perfect thoughtful flourish to serve this fresh look.
4. Spring (September, October, November)
The vines come to life in Spring with delicate light green foliage and rolling hills in the background! Flowers are seen everywhere and the Spring Festival of Flowers is also held in September at Hunter Valley Gardens - which is a sight to behold!
Don’t even think about skipping that visit to the Hunter Valley Gardens! There are eight kilometres of walking paths winding through 14 hectares of gardens consisting of over 6000 trees, 600,000 shrubs and over 1 million ground cover plants, plus waterfalls, statues, murals and much more. The 10 individually themed gardens showcase the artistry of gardens around the world and use both native and exotic varieties of plants.
Wine down, dress up in Spring with this jewel-toned frock from Pasduschas. This outfit has it all - florals for Spring, billowy sleeves and a romantic waist tie. Add luxe to your look with gold-tone hardware in your accessories, whether it be in your bag or your jewellery. For the ones who have champagne taste, this jewelled floral frock is guaranteed to make a statement.