I woke up before sunrise, eager to witness the dawn. I made myself a chai, wrapping my fingers around the steaming mug, as I stepped onto the front porch. The horizon was painted with a soft yellow just above the distant mountains, and soon the sun rose above them. Despite the chill in the air, birds sang their sweet morning songs, the grass was covered in dew, and spider webs glistened in the morning sunlight. A new day had broken in Hunter Valley!

As the sun climbed higher, the valley came to life, promising a day filled with wine tastings, tours, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by such natural beauty. The Hunter Valley was waking up, and with it, so was I, ready to explore and enjoy all it had to offer.

Our first destination for the day was the Hunter Valley Gardens Chapel. The serenity of the chapel was profound, offering a perfect moment of reflection and peace. As I settled into the front pew, my eyes were drawn to the altar. There, inscribed in elegant script, were the words: “I am the vine, you are the branches.” The phrase seemed particularly fitting for the Hunter Valley Wine Country, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. The connection between the words and the surrounding landscape was profound.

As I made my way out, I noticed a sign on the door that read: “Go out and bear fruit that will last.” What a wonderful reminder for churchgoers as they leave a Sunday morning service and head home to start a new week.

It was a fitting reminder to me too, that, just like the vines around me, we are all capable of nurturing something lasting and meaningful in our lives.

After leaving the chapel, we made our way across the street to the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, a charming collection of small boutique shops and eateries. The village buzzed with a quiet energy, its pathways lined with quaint shops offering local crafts, gourmet treats, and wine.

For breakfast, there was only one choice for me, Ronnie’s, because my son-in-law’s name is Ronnie. We headed there, a cozy café with a warm atmosphere. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods greeted us as we walked in.

Ronnie’s was the perfect spot to start the day, offering a taste of Hunter Valley’s culinary delights and a welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home.

Can you imagine how excited I was when I discovered a gingerbread chai on the drinks menu?

As the warm, comforting aroma emanated from the cup, I took my first sip, and instantly, a wave of delight washed over me. The blend of spicy gingerbread and creamy chai danced on my taste buds, evoking memories of cosy Christmases.

With each sip, I felt a sense of contentment settle over me, as if all worries and stresses melted away in the comforting embrace of this delightful drink. It was a moment of pure bliss, a small indulgence that brought me immense pleasure.

The Hunter Valley Gardens beckoned nearby, and we eagerly made our way there. The journey was filled with anticipation, as we looked forward to immersing ourselves in the beauty of one of Australia’s most renowned botanical wonders. As we approached, the landscape transformed, giving way to meticulously manicured gardens bursting with vibrant colours and fragrant blooms.

Entering the gardens felt like stepping into a dreamland, where every turn revealed a new enchanting vista.

We strolled along winding pathways, marveling at the diversity of flora that surrounded us. From cascading waterfalls to tranquil ponds adorned with lilies, each feature seemed to beckon us deeper into the heart of this botanical paradise.

The Rose Garden turned out to be an unexpected highlight for me. At its centre, magnificent bronze statues of Imelda Roche and her thirteen grandchildren grace the garden, earning it the affectionate nickname “Grandmothers Garden.”

This beautiful tribute celebrates the special bond between grandmothers and their grandchildren, a sentiment that caught me off guard.

As I began reading the plaque describing the sculptures, emotions overwhelmed me, and tears welled up uncontrollably. The inscription spoke of the timeless love that connects generations, stirring memories of my own grandchildren, present and future, and the cherished lessons passed down by my own grandmother.

It was a profoundly moving experience that touched the depths of my soul. Only after wiping away my tears was I able to pose for this photo.

(Dana Knight photography)

The love I hold for my grandchildren is a boundless, profound emotion that fills my heart to the brim.

Equally profound is the love I carry for my own grandmother, a woman whose wisdom and kindness shaped me in ways I’m only beginning to comprehend. Her gentle guidance, her unconditional support, her unwavering belief in me – these are the gifts she bestowed upon me, gifts that continue to enrich my life each and every day.

The bond between grandmothers and their grandchildren is truly something special, a connection that defies explanation yet is felt in the deepest recesses of the heart. It’s a bond built on a foundation of love, trust, and shared experiences, a bond that endures through the passage of time and the trials of life.

As a grandmother myself, I am keenly aware of the importance of nurturing this bond, of cherishing every moment spent with my grandchildren and imparting to them the same wisdom and love that was bestowed upon me. It’s a privilege and a joy unlike any other, one that brings me immeasurable happiness and fulfillment.

In the embrace of this sacred bond, I find solace, strength, and a profound sense of purpose. It is a reminder of the power of love to transcend generations, to shape lives, and to leave an indelible mark on the world. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Perhaps these are the enduring fruits, we read about in the chapel this morning?

Following our time at the Rose Garden, we ventured towards the whimsical setting of The Story Book Garden. As we stepped in there, it felt as though we were entering the pages of a beloved tale brought to life.

(Dana Knight photography)

Everywhere we looked, there were gestures to classic stories and fairytales, from whimsical sculptures to colourful flowerbeds arranged in intricate patterns.

(Dana Knight photography)

We tiptoed through secret pathways, half-expecting to stumble upon hidden treasures or encounter a fairytale character around every corner.

Our hearts full and spirits lifted, we carried with us the echoes of stories untold and adventures yet to come.

Our experience at the Hunter Valley Gardens was truly magnificent. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to these gardens.

(Dana Knight photography)

After our time in the gardens, we returned to the Hunter Valley Shopping Village before embarking on our wine tour.

Our very first stop on the wine tour was Audrey Wilkinson.

Situated atop a foothill of the Brokenback Mountain Ranges, Audrey Wilkinson stands as one of the most frequented cellar doors in the region, and after our visit this morning, I understood why. The vistas and the wine alike are truly spectacular. Interestingly, our accommodation from the previous night was just a stone’s throw away from this winery.

On a day as flawless as today, with views as breathtaking as these and a glass of wine in hand, what more could one ask for?

From Audrey Wilkinson to Hanging Tree Wines, the tour continued.

At Hanging Tree Wines, we found ourselves immersed in the charm of boutique cellar doors. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and vineyards, this hidden gem offered a more intimate wine-tasting experience. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the inviting aroma of oak barrels and the warm hospitality of the staff.

The ambiance was cosy and relaxed, inviting us to linger awhile.

As we sampled their limited release Sparkling Moscato, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the unique flavour and aroma that danced across our palates.

Our third stop on the wine tour took us to Iron Gate Estate. As we arrived, we were greeted by rows of lush vineyards stretching towards the horizon, with the imposing iron gate marking the entrance to this picturesque estate.

Being that De Bortoli Wines is my preferred winery in Yarra Valley, Victoria, I was eager to explore their counterpart in Hunter Valley today.

While the winery was impressive, I still hold the Yarra Valley one as my favourite.

Peterson House is renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines and charming ambiance, with the words “Life’s flat without bubbles” written by the front door.

It was our wine tour stop number five. As we arrived, we were greeted by the elegant facade of the estate, adorned with lush greenery, a gorgeous chapel and a handmade chocolate shop.

We departed, Dana delighted with her Pink Sparkling Moscato, and me happy about the selection of handmade chocolates from the chocolate shop.

Pepper Tree Wines exuded an air of sophistication and refinement from the moment we arrived. It was our final stop along our wine tour.

The Hunter Valley had made a lasting impression on us, and we will cherish this day with great fondness.

We proceeded with our journey to our accommodation in Moorland, arriving just as the sun dipped below the horizon.

(Dana Knight photography)

Surrounded by cow farms, we were warmly greeted by our airbnb hostess as well as the serene countryside landscape. The evening was made cozy as we gathered around a fire pit, enjoying its warmth and crackling flames. Tomorrow, as we awaken, we look forward to exploring our surroundings more thoroughly in the light of day.

Our travel map for today: