Just three-and-a-half hours drive north of Sydney lies a wide rolling basin, surrounded by mountains, and dotted with over 150 wineries, restaurants, cellar doors and spas. The Hunter Valley region provides the ideal weekend escape from the city - close enough for convenience, but far enough to feel a world away. RUSSH Fashion & Beauty Director, Billie Iveson, takes us on a tour of the picturesque wine country in the Lexus RXL.

Stay ...
This is the perfect winter getaway for wines and log fires, and there are so many different areas to stay in. Check into the Little Orchard Cottage at Molines Bistro if you can, and definitely eat at the restaurant.

Take ...
The key ingredient here is the new Lexus RXL - perfect for open highways and comfortable enough if stuck in weekend traffic heading back into the city. The sound system is made for podcasts (we’re currently listening to Fresh Air and Desert Island Discs) to while away the drive. As for what’s packed inside the car, we suggest limited luggage: lounging sets, cashmere and denim all day, and a basket to take home cellar door purchases.

Do ...
Winery visits are a must. We love Krinklewood winery for an all-day visit and to sample their organic Shiraz with a cheese board (mandatory).