Hunter Valley Gardens is a large formal garden complex at Pokolbin in the heart of the Lower Hunter wine region, covering some 25 hectares with more than a dozen themed garden sections. The gardens include an Italian Grotto Garden, an Asian Rainforest, a Rose Garden, a Kitchen Garden, and several others, all connected by paths that can occupy a couple of hours of easy walking.
The complex sits alongside a resort hotel and a shopping village, which gives the whole thing a slightly theme-park atmosphere — but the gardens themselves are well maintained and genuinely pleasant. They are a good option if you have a non-wine-drinker in the group, or if you simply need a break from cellar doors. Entry requires a ticket; check the website for current prices and any special events.