Orange

Orange, a city of grand heritage buildings and a thriving food and wine scene, sits at the foot of Mount Canobolas in the Central Tablelands. Its cool climate produces some of NSW's best wines, particularly chardonnay and pinot noir, while the surrounding orchards and farms supply a bounty of seasonal produce. The town itself blends 19th-century architecture with a contemporary café culture, making it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring the region by car.

Highlights & What to See

• Wine tasting at cellar doors such as Philip Shaw, Ross Hill, and Swinging Bridge – the orange wine region is compact and easy to tour.
• Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area – hike to the summit of an ancient volcano for panoramic views over the region.
• Orange Regional Museum – engaging exhibits on local Wiradjuri culture, gold rush history, and the area's agricultural heritage.
• Cook Park – a beautifully maintained Victorian-era park with a conservatory, duck pond, and picnic spots.
• Heifer Station Wines – a family-owned vineyard with a relaxed cellar door, live music on weekends, and a popular grazing platter.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow two full days to experience Orange properly. Spend the first day exploring the town's heritage precinct, museums, and Cook Park, then dedicate the second day to a self-drive wine tour, including a walk on Mount Canobolas. If you have only one day, focus on the wine trail and a lunch at one of the region's acclaimed restaurants like Charred Kitchen & Bar.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Millthorpe – a heritage-listed village 15 minutes away with a famous pub, antique shops, and a farmers' market.
• Blayney – a historic town on the Belubula River, known for its country charm and the Blayney Windmill.
• Canowindra – a 40-minute drive to the Age of Fishes Museum, showcasing Devonian fish fossils, and hot-air ballooning over the Lachlan Valley.
• Bathurst – 50 minutes east, home to the Mount Panorama racing circuit and a rich gold-rush history.
• Mudgee – an hour north, another renowned wine region with a different terroir and a vibrant food scene.

Please check official sources for current details.