Orange Wine Region

Perched on an ancient extinct volcano, the Orange Wine Region is one of Australia’s highest and coolest wine areas, delivering crisp, elegant cool-climate wines that rival the best in the world. With its four distinct seasons, the region offers a vibrant food and wine scene, stunning autumn foliage, and a relaxed country-town vibe that makes it a perfect escape from the coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Wine Tasting – Explore over 30 cellar doors, from boutique family-run estates like Bloodwood and Ross Hill to larger names such as Philip Shaw. Don’t miss the signature sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and pinot noir.
• Mount Canobolas – Hike to the summit of this dormant volcano for panoramic views over the region and beyond; in winter, it’s often dusted with snow.
• Orange Farmers’ Market – Held on the second Saturday of each month, this market showcases local produce, artisan cheeses, and seasonal fruit – perfect for a picnic.
• Cook & Dine – The town of Orange boasts a thriving restaurant scene, with farm-to-table dining at places like Charred Kitchen & Bar and Lolli Redini.
• Historic Village – Stroll the tree-lined streets of Orange’s heritage-listed centre, with Victorian-era buildings housing galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least two full days to experience the wine region properly – one day for cellar-door hopping and a vineyard lunch, and another for hiking Mount Canobolas and exploring the town. A three-day weekend gives you time to relax and also visit nearby attractions like the Lake Canobolas Reserve for a swim or barbecue.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mudgee – Another top cool-climate wine region just an hour north, with a historic town centre and the stunning Gulgong heritage precinct.
• Bathurst – Famous for the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit and a rich gold-rush history, less than an hour’s drive east.
• Canowindra – A charming historic village known for its ballooning festival and the Age of Fishes Museum, about 45 minutes north-west.
• Blue Mountains – If you’re coming from Sydney, the Blue Mountains make a natural stopover, with dramatic sandstone cliffs and bushwalks.
• Cowra – Known for its Japanese garden and WWII history, an easy hour’s drive south-west.

Please check official sources for current details.