Young

Young, known as the 'Cherry Capital of Australia', is a charming country town in the South West Slopes region of New South Wales. Famous for its abundant cherry orchards and the annual National Cherry Festival, this friendly town offers a delightful taste of rural life. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Young is a perfect stop for foodies and nature lovers exploring the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Cherry Orchards and Fruit Picking – Visit local orchards like Ballinaclash or Wombat Heights to pick your own cherries (in season November–December) or enjoy fresh stone fruits in summer.
• Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens – A serene garden commemorating the Chinese miners who worked the goldfields, with a lake, pagodas, and peaceful walking paths.
• Young National Cherry Festival – Held annually in December, this lively event features a parade, carnival, and the crowning of the Cherry King and Queen.
• Grove Estate Wines – A family-run cellar door offering cool-climate wines, with a lovely picnic area overlooking the vineyards.
• Historic Railway Station and Museum – Explore the restored station and local history museum, which tells the story of Young's gold rush and agricultural past.

Suggested Time to Spend

Young can be enjoyed as a day trip from nearby towns like Wagga Wagga or Canberra, but to fully experience the orchards and wineries, plan for an overnight stay. Two days allow you to visit the gardens, do a wine tasting, and explore the countryside at a relaxed pace. If you're here during the Cherry Festival, book accommodation well in advance.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wagga Wagga – The largest inland city in NSW, with the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the Botanic Gardens, about 1.5 hours west.
• Canberra – Australia's capital, with its national museums and attractions, is a 2-hour drive southeast.
• Cowra – Famous for its Japanese Garden and World War II history, about 1 hour north.
• Tumbarumba – A charming town in the Snowy Valleys, known for its wineries and outdoor adventures, about 2 hours south.
• Gundagai – A historic town with the iconic Dog on the Tuckerbox and the Mount Parnassus lookout, about 1.5 hours northeast.

Please check official sources for current details.