13 May 2015
As one of Australia's premier wine, gourmet and leisure destinations, New South Wales' Hunter Valley has something to offer every traveller. Just two-hours' drive from Sydney, the urban cityscape blurs, making way for rolling valleys, vine cloaked hillsides and an eclectic mix of rustic and new age wineries nestled beside stellar golf courses, historic gardens and a much loved zoo.
For active families, loved up couples and those seeking adventure of a gourmand kind, the 'Hunter' certainly hits a sweet spot, and in recognition of this, the region's premier resort property, Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts, has just released a brand new package to give visitors a unique taste of the very best the Hunter Valley has to offer – wine, gourmet and golf.
Wine
Locals will tell you a trip to the Hunter Valley should always start and end with wine, and Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks is obliging, with guests receiving a bottle of local wine on arrival. From the serious oenophile to the wine tasting novice, there is a fascinating wine heritage to discover in Australia's oldest wine region, home to some of Australia's most acclaimed wine families with up to six generations of wine makers. And with over 150 cellar doors offering guided tours, cork and fork tastings and the chance to try the lauded Hunter Valley Semillon or biodynamic varieties from Australia's only certified organic winery; all noses and palettes will be well pleased.
Gourmet
From the paddock to the plate, taste buds will also be tempted with an array of locally grown and home made artisan produce to sample, learn how to make and take home. Join a hosted tour guided by local gourmet connoisseurs as you taste your way around the region, trying Hunter Valley specialty cheeses, teas, jams, chocolate, gelato, boutique beer and wine, or set out on your own gourmet adventure by self driving and visiting an array of local producers who are always happy to welcome new visitors. After a day of sampling, sit down, relax and indulge at Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks' casual dining restaurant and bar Bodega where your inclusive dinner for two comprises quality local produce and up to $100 credit per night, per room for two guests.
Golf
Golf enthusiasts and aspiring golfers from all over the world flock to the Hunter Valley to experience playing one of Australia's most picturesque 18-hole championship golf courses: Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club at Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks. Consistently ranked among Australia's top resort courses, the course fuses glorious panoramic views across the Hunter Valley's iconic vineyards, with a spectacular backdrop of Brokenback Mountain. The course is also home to abundant native Australian wildlife, manicured greens, a new club car fleet complete with GPS systems, over 60 bunkers and an exhilarating 6,467m par 72 course that is as challenging as it is breathtaking.
Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts' wine, gourmet and golf package includes a relaxing stay in a one bedroom villa including daily breakfast at Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks, a bottle of local wine on arrival, Australian designer amenities pack and dinner for two to the value of $100.00 daily at Bodega Restaurant & Bar. Also included is a round of golf including buggy hire for two people daily on the championship 18 hole golf course and full use of the impressive leisure facilities, including three swimming pools, tennis courts and gymnasium with prices starting from $546* per night.
To check availability and to book, visit www.oakshotelsresorts.com and enter promo code 'HUNTERGOLF'.
*Terms and conditions apply; subject to availability; based on two people sharing a one-bedroom villa.