Fodor's Expert Review Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens

This good-value hotel is hard to beat when it comes to location: it's next door to the Hunter Valley Gardens and boutiques and within walking distance to half a dozen wineries, including Roche and Hope estates, which both host big-name musicians such as Elton John and Fleetwood Mac at regular concert events. Facilities include a restaurant, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and tennis court, but it's more hotel than resort—rooms are functionally comfortable rather than opulent. Superior rooms have a gorgeous sunken bath underneath a skylight so you can stargaze while you soak. The guest lounge is the perfect place to curl up with a good book and glass of local wine beside the roaring open fire in winter.