Griffith

Griffith is a sun-baked Italian-inspired oasis in the Riverina region of New South Wales, where the Murrumbidgee River irrigates a patchwork of vineyards, citrus groves and olive orchards. Founded by Italian migrants in the early 20th century, this friendly town wears its heritage proudly – you’ll hear Italian spoken in cafes and see it on menus, where house-made pasta and wood-fired pizza sit alongside award-winning local wines. Griffith is a delight for foodies and wine lovers, and its flat, fertile surrounds are perfect for cycling and lazy country drives.

Highlights & What to See

• De Bortoli Wines – A cellar door in a historic winery, famous for its sticky ‘Noble One’ botrytis semillon and a great value tasting plate.
• Griffith Italian Museum – Housed in a former bank, this small museum tells the story of the Italian immigrants who shaped the region, with photos, tools and personal artefacts.
• Lake Wyangan – A peaceful spot for a picnic, a walk or a spot of birdwatching; bring your binoculars for the waterbirds and maybe a kayak.
• Hermits Cave – A quirky local landmark: a cave carved into a hillside by a reclusive hermit in the 1920s, with sweeping views over the valley.
• Griffith Regional Art Gallery – A surprising collection of Australian art, including Indigenous works and contemporary pieces, plus regular exhibitions.
• Catania Fruit Salad Farm – A working fruit farm where you can pick your own seasonal stone fruit and citrus, then enjoy a homemade gelato.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two days is ideal to soak up Griffith’s food-and-wine scene and explore the surrounding countryside. Spend the first day visiting wineries and the Italian Museum, and the second day cycling or driving to Lake Wyangan and Hermits Cave. If you’re on a road trip, even a single overnight stop will give you a taste – just be sure to book dinner at one of the Italian restaurants.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Leeton – A charming Art Deco town 30 minutes north, with a heritage walk and the impressive Yanco Agricultural Institute.
• Narrandera – A historic river town on the Murrumbidgee, great for canoeing and fishing, about an hour’s drive west.
• Mungo National Park – A World Heritage-listed landscape of ancient lake beds and lunettes, with the famous Walls of China; allow a full day.
• Wagga Wagga – The Riverina’s largest city, with a vibrant arts scene, the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the Botanic Gardens; 1.5 hours east.
• Riverina Wine Region – Extend your wine tour to other cellar doors around Griffith and nearby towns like Yenda and Hanwood.

Please check official sources for current details.