The Wine Country Motor Inn (http://www.cessnock.bestw...) Part of the Best Western group is a new motel located on the Supporters' Club complex, centrally located near the CBD of Cessnock. Perfect for those who like to watch footy and relax with a bourbon and coke.
There are a number of inexpensive motels on Wollombi Road, Vincent Street and Wine Country Drive. In general, these are basic but affordable and should be considered by any traveller visiting the area on a budget, as the accommodation available in Pokolbin and the vineyards can be extremely expensive. Unless there is a festival or concert in Pokolbin, it is not generally necessary to book at one of these motels in advance.
There are also a number of bed and breakfasts in the area, particularly in Nulkaba, which is a 5 minute drive from Cessnock or a thirty minute walk along Wine Country Drive. Nulkaba House in particular is beautiful. Alternatively, in historic Wollombi Village, just a 15 minute drive from Pokolbin, you have a range of gorgeous, quaint and very reasonably priced B&Bs to choose from including Capers, Wild Edge Retreat, Wombledown Cottage, and at Laguna, Mulla Villa. Cedar Creek Cottages are said by the Rough Guide to be the best value in the Hunter. Their self sufficient cottages are located on a beautiful 550 acre farm and vineyard at Cedar Creek, half way between Wollombi and Pokolbin (http://cedarcreekcottages...) . Lovedale is also a beautiful area with some great places to stay.
A new backpacker's hostel has also opened in neighbouring Nulkaba, on Wine Country Drive. You can reach the hostel by taxi or bus or, if you are feeling energetic, it is a thirty minute walk from Cessnock.
