Photo: Red58bill / CC BY 3.0
Nestled in the lush green hills of the Hawkesbury region, Bilpin Cider is a rustic orchard and cellar door that embodies the spirit of Australia's apple-growing country. Just a scenic 90-minute drive from Sydney, this family-run operation offers tastings of crisp, artisanal ciders made from heritage apple varieties. The setting—rolling orchards, a cozy tasting room with a wood fire, and a sunny deck overlooking the valley—makes it a perfect rural escape for foodies and nature lovers alike.
Highlights & What to See
- Cellar Door Tastings: Sample a flight of ciders from bone-dry to fruit-forward, including the flagship Bilpin Cider and seasonal specialties like sparkling or pear ciders.
- Orchard Walks: Meander through the apple and pear orchards, especially beautiful in spring blossom or autumn harvest.
- Farmgate Produce: Pick up fresh-pressed juice, local honey, and artisan cheeses to pair with your cider—perfect for a picnic on the grounds.
- Bilpin Fruit Bowl: Just down the road, this iconic roadside stall sells local apples, pies, and jams; a great stop for provisions.
- Bilpin Maze: A giant hedge maze nearby offers family-friendly fun with a coffee shop and farm animals.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least 1–2 hours for a relaxed tasting and wander through the orchard. If you’re combining with a meal or picnic, budget half a day. The venue is best visited as part of a leisurely loop through the Hawkesbury region, with lunch at a nearby farm café or a stop at the Bilpin Fruit Bowl. The drive itself is part of the experience—winding roads with views of the Blue Mountains escarpment.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Kurrajong: A charming village with antique shops, bakeries, and the Kurrajong Common café; start your day here for breakfast.
- Mount Tomah Botanic Garden: Part of the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, featuring cool-climate plant collections and panoramic views—20 minutes north.
- Bells Line of Road: A scenic drive through apple orchards and vineyards, linking Bilpin to the Blue Mountains’ northern villages.
- Zig Zag Railway: A heritage steam train experience through the Lithgow valley—worth the detour for railway enthusiasts.
- Richmond: Historic Hawkesbury town with a racecourse, markets, and the Hawkesbury Regional Museum; a good base for the region.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.