Pokolbin was announced recently by Wotif.com as the top NSW destination, placed second nationally, in the Wotif 2021 Aussie Town of the Year Awards.

Now in its fourth year, Wotif’s Aussie Town of the Year Awards recognise ten locations across the country for their contribution to Australian tourism.

Designed to celebrate the many Australian cities, towns and regions worthy of the spotlight, the awards provide travellers with inspiration on where to go in Australia in 2021.

The 2021 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards are based on a data index which considers a destination’s accommodation quality, affordability and traveller satisfaction on Wotif.com from January 2020 – September 2020.

This year’s winning destinations, which NSW dominated overall, have been awarded based on their accommodation quality, affordability and traveller satisfaction.

New to this year, the awards also recognise destinations that have met the changing needs of travellers over the last twelve months, by offering increased flexibility, good-value deals and appealing activities and attractions.

Commenting on the Awards, Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent said it comes as no shock to see Pokolbin recognised as a top spot in the country.

“It’s no surprise Pokolbin is the top destination in our state. We are home to so many amazing tourism operators who provide a first-class experience, surrounded by our natural beauty,” he said.

Amy Cooper, CEO of the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association added that everyone is thrilled to see the region recognised, especially with the year that has just gone by.

“We are delighted that Pokolbin, in the heart of Wine Country, Hunter Valley has been recognised by the Awards, particularly as they recognise the positive reviews of travellers,” she said.

“After a challenging 2020, we congratulate the businesses who have worked so hard to adapt to the changing needs of travellers and who have offered a warm welcome to the many new visitors to our region in 2020.”

Of the many businesses who make up the Pokolbin region, Crown Plaza Hunter Valley, General Manager, Mark Winterton said it was great to see that the collaborative nature of Hunter’s leading businesses has made an impression with tourists.

“Crowne Plaza are delighted with this result, which is testament to the hard work of all operators in the Hunter Valley over the last year,” Mark said.

“Crowne Plaza have experienced very strong demand and bookings with many visitors coming for the first time.

“The investment in destination marketing in the region has yielded great results.”

A full list of finalists can be found on the Wotif website.

IMAGE | Pokolbin recognised as a top NSW destination for tourists by Wotif.