Sydney to Wollombi - Something for the Both of You.

Ok, so here's the thing. Not everyone is content to simply ride around the city on their motorbike, tripping to and from work. Some people are weekend enthusiasts, and take their girl out on their two days off for long, luxurious rides where they can bond in silence as they discover new places together. And as sure as Poms love warm beer, you can get sick of the same old routes every weekend. You begin to crave something a little challenging, different, or just a ride with some kind of indulgence at the end, such as an overnight stay in a little B&B or a quiet beer at a little country pub.

Well, we have a nice ride for you: Sydney to Wollombi… And the good news is, Wollombi is just a stone's throw from the Hunter Valley, home to some of New South Wales' (and, dare we say, Australia's) greatest wineries. So you can sample new delights together, and grab some fudge, while you relax in the knowledge that you'll have added to your cellar when you get home. Why not treat yourselves to a lunch at one of the restaurants in the area, and be guided as to which wine goes best with what meal?

Setting out from Sydney, it's easiest if you head to Hornsby and take the freeway for a bit, before cutting across to the old (Pacific) highway; the road is windy and will keep you on your toes. Stop at Pie in the Sky at Cowan for a… pie and a lovely view, and a hot cup of coffee. It's a popular spot for other riders and those that prefer the slower and more scenic pace of the highway over the freeway.

If time is not a real issue, you can even head to Newcastle along the coast (and through some of my favourite spots, such as The Entrance and Budgewoi) and cut across back to the freeway, then a little further north before heading west to Kurri Kurri and Cessnock (Hunter Valley region); then a bit further south and you're at Wollombi. Or, you can take the Peats Ridge Road (left at the Somersby Exchange) and head to Central Mangrove, and then through Bucketty and Laguna.

Wollombi itself is home to some beautiful old buildings (it's okay to pretend you don't like them) and plenty of wildlife, which you'll have to be mindful of while you're riding. There are also plenty of cafes and boutique stores to check out before you continue your ride, or find a quiet pub and hide from the world. Don't forget to stop at the ever-popular chocolate and cheese shops at nearby Pokolbin before you head home!