Griffith

Griffith, a sun-drenched town in the Riverina region of New South Wales, surprises visitors with its Italian heritage, fertile vineyards, and a laid-back, food-focused energy that feels a world away from the big cities. Established as an irrigation settlement in the early 20th century, it attracted a wave of Italian migrants who transformed the arid plains into a patchwork of citrus groves, olive trees, and vineyards. Today, Griffith is a vibrant hub for wine lovers and foodies, offering a slice of la dolce vita in the Australian bush. The town’s wide, palm-lined streets and a backdrop of the Cocoparra National Park make it an ideal stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Riverina.

Highlights & What to See

• Griffith Regional Art Gallery: Housed in a striking modernist building, this gallery showcases contemporary Australian art with a strong focus on Indigenous and regional works.
• McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate: One of Australia’s oldest family-owned wineries, offering cellar-door tastings and a fascinating look at the region’s winemaking history.
• Pioneer Park Museum: An open-air museum with restored buildings and vintage machinery that tells the story of Griffith’s irrigation pioneers.
• La Scala Italian Restaurant: A local institution serving authentic Italian cuisine – don’t miss the homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza.
• Scenic Hill Lookout: A short drive from town centre, this lookout offers panoramic views over the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area and the distant mountains.
• Cocoparra National Park: Just north of Griffith, this park features dramatic sandstone gorges, walking trails, and abundant birdlife – perfect for a half-day hike.
• Griffith Farmers Market: Held on the first Saturday of the month, this market is a feast of local produce, from citrus and olives to cheeses and artisan breads.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least two full days to experience Griffith’s highlights. Spend the first day exploring the town’s cultural sites and dining scene, and the second day visiting wineries and the Cocoparra National Park. If you’re a keen foodie or wine enthusiast, consider adding an extra day to linger over long lunches and sample more of the region’s produce. A self-drive itinerary could easily combine Griffith with nearby towns like Leeton or Narrandera for a week-long Riverina road trip.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Leeton: 40 minutes north, this town is the heart of the rice-growing region and home to the stunning Fivebough Wetlands, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
• Narrandera: 45 minutes west, on the Murrumbidgee River, offering historic buildings and riverine walks.
• Wagga Wagga: 2 hours east, the largest city in the Riverina, with a lively arts scene, the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, and the Botanic Gardens.
• Mungo National Park: 2.5 hours north-west, a UNESCO World Heritage site with the famous Walls of China – a must-see for its ancient landscapes and Aboriginal history.
• Junee: 1.5 hours east, known for the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory and the historic Monte Cristo homestead.

Please check official sources for current details.