Griffith

Griffith is a surprising oasis in the Riverina region of New South Wales, where Italian and Australian cultures meld into a vibrant food-and-wine destination. Surrounded by citrus groves and vineyards, this sun-drenched town offers a taste of la dolce vita with its excellent wineries, farmers' markets, and a strong sense of community. It's a perfect stop for travellers looking to explore the inland food bowl or break up a drive between Sydney and Melbourne.

Highlights & What to See

• Wineries & Cellar Doors – Sample bold reds and crisp whites at family-run wineries like De Bortoli, McWilliam's Hanwood Estate, and the boutique Calabria Family Wines. Many offer tasting platters with local cheeses and olives.
• Griffith Italian Museum – Housed in a former bank, this museum tells the story of post-war Italian migrants who transformed the region. Personal artefacts, photos, and a re-created kitchen bring the immigrant experience to life.
• Hermit's Cave & Scenic Lookout – A short walk from the town centre leads to a cave once home to a local eccentric. The lookout offers panoramic views over the flat farmland and distant mountains – especially beautiful at sunset.
• Farmers' Markets – Held on Saturday mornings, the Griffith Farmers Market is a riot of seasonal produce: citrus, almonds, stone fruits, and artisan breads. Grab a coffee and a pastry from a local bakery stall.
• Catania Fruit Salad Farm – A working citrus farm that opens for tours and tastings. You can pick your own fruit in season and enjoy freshly squeezed juices.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least two full days to explore the wineries and immerse yourself in the food scene. A day can be spent visiting cellar doors and the Italian Museum, while a second day allows for a farm tour and a leisurely lunch at a vineyard. If you're passing through, a half-day stop for a winery tasting and a quick look at the museum is worthwhile, but you'll be tempted to stay longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Leeton – A charming town 40 minutes north, known for its Art Deco architecture and the Fivebough Wetlands, a birdwatching hotspot.
• Narrandera – On the Murrumbidgee River, about 45 minutes south-west, offering river cruises and historic buildings.
• Wagga Wagga – The largest inland city in the region, an hour's drive east, with the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the Botanic Gardens.
• Mungo National Park – A World Heritage-listed site about 2.5 hours north-west, famous for the Walls of China lunette and ancient Aboriginal history.
• Cootamundra – A historic town 90 minutes east, known for its heritage-listed railway station and the birthplace of Sir Donald Bradman.

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