The Hunter Valley is built around wine and the good life. Cellar doors open daily across the region, most offering free or low-cost tastings; some of the best known — Tyrrell's, Brokenwood, McWilliam's Mount Pleasant — have been at it for well over a century. Between tastings, Hunter Valley Gardens offers a break from the wine trail, and hot-air balloon rides at dawn are a popular splurge. Cycling between wineries is feasible in the Pokolbin area and lets you leave the driving to someone else.