Photo: Ben Novakovic / CC BY-SA 2.0
Escape to the rolling hills of Orange, a cool-climate wine region that pairs exceptional cellar doors with a vibrant farm-to-table food scene. The Orange Food and Wine Trail weaves through vineyards, orchards, and artisan producers, offering a taste of the region's celebrated cool-climate wines—think crisp Chardonnay, elegant Pinot Noir, and aromatic Sauvignon Blanc—alongside seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted chocolates. This is a self-drive paradise where every stop feels like a discovery, from boutique wineries with sweeping views to farmers' markets brimming with local bounty.
Highlights & What to See
- Cellar door hopping: Sample award-winning wines at iconic wineries like Philip Shaw, Rowlee Wines, and Printhie Wines, where knowledgeable staff guide you through flights in stunning settings.
- Local produce markets: Visit the Orange Farmers' Market (every Saturday) for seasonal fruits, artisan breads, honey, and olives—perfect for a picnic.
- Foodie pit stops: Dine at acclaimed restaurants such as Charred Kitchen & Bar or the Agrarian Kitchen Eatery, which champion paddock-to-plate cuisine.
- Orchard experiences: Pick your own apples or cherries at orchards like Nashdale Lane or Heifer Station, depending on the season.
- Craft breweries and cideries: Take a detour to Badlands Brewery or Small Acres Cyder for craft beer and traditional cider.
- Mount Canobolas: Drive to the summit for panoramic views over the region—a perfect spot to watch the sunset with a glass of local wine.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan at least two full days to explore the trail without rushing. Day one can focus on wineries and lunch at a vineyard restaurant; day two can be split between a farmers' market visit, orchard picking, and a relaxed dinner in town. If you have a third day, add a hike at Mount Canobolas or a cooking class at a local farm. The trail is easily self-driven, with most stops within 15–30 minutes of Orange town centre.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Millthorpe: A charming heritage village with antique shops, a renowned pub, and the Millthorpe Providore.
- Blayney: Explore the Blayney Wind Farm and historic railway station, plus the Blayney Farmers' Market.
- Canowindra: Known for its hot air ballooning and the Age of Fishes Museum, set along the Belubula River.
- Bathurst: A short drive away, offering the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit and the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.
- Mudgee: Another renowned wine region, perfect for a multi-day road trip combining both areas.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Millthorpe — VirtualSteve / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Blayney — Bluedawe / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Canowindra — Blaky4 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Bathurst — Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Mudgee — MDRX / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Mount Canobolas — w:User:Tirin / CC BY-SA 3.0