If your idea of a great getaway involves food, wine and a romantic rural setting, head west to Orange in Central West NSW.
The Orange region is renowned for its produce and cool climate wines, both of which are showcased in Australia’s longest-running food festival, Orange F.O.O.D Week held annually in April.
The birthplace of Banjo Paterson, with its rich agricultural land, undulating hills and inspiring setting is bound to bring out the poet in anyone. Soak up the rich heritage and culture of Orange with a self-guided heritage trail, ambling along country streets taking in local architecture and attractions.
Orange is the ideal place for food lovers to meet the maker, chat with a vigneron and discover the best places to eat and drink. You’ll also find plenty of places to stay from camping, charming B&Bs to luxury hotels for the perfect weekend getaway.
Here’s everything you need to know about Orange to make the most of your next Orange getaway.
It’s easy to reach Orange, a comfortable 3.5 hour drive west of Sydney or north of Canberra. REX Airlines provides regular connections between Sydney and Orange, while Fly Corporate provides regular flights between Brisbane and Melbourne to Orange. Train and coach services are also available.
The City of Orange’s rich history spans from the traditional Wiradjuri land owners to gold miners and commercial traders. Pick up a brochure from the Visitors Information Centre and take a self-guided tour of the local streets with the Orange Heritage Trail discovering the architectural beauty of the city. Orange region offers plenty of natural attractions and National Parks with Mount Canobolas a popular spot for bushwalking, bird watching, picnics and camping.
Orange produces cool climate wines of distinction and is known for crisp white wines and spicy, lighter-bodied red wines. With more than 80 vineyards in the Orange wine region, wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Orange. You’ll find plenty of cellar doors to sample including Philip Shaw Wines open daily from the beautifully renovated bluestone barn. Sample premium wines at Swinging Bridge with a bucolic outlook towards Mount Canobolas. Hop on a local wine tour, head on a seasonal truffle hunt or sample the local delights during the Orange Wine Festival for the ultimate foodie experience.
There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Orange. One of the best places to stay in Orange is de Russie Boutique Hotel a chic apartment hotel designed to appeal to the visiting urbanites. One of the region’s first motels, The Oriana Hotel has had a stunning transformation, recently completing an extensive refurbishment. If you prefer the comfort of a major hotel chain, Mercure Orange provides modern rooms in the heart of the Orange Central Business District.
There are a fine selection of cafes and restaurants in Orange, each pairing delectable Orange region wine with fresh local produce to be savoured.
Orange is known for its eccentric food week, where you can ride a vino train into town, enjoying drops from the central west area en route. The more obscure events involve apple degustations, crumpet workshops, raclette rackets, and even a vegan dinner in the vines. However, the celebrations also incorporate incredible tastings and food events featuring traditional fare from local producers – and it’s a week not to be missed.
Wine tours are the most popular attraction in Orange and there are plenty of options including full-day tours or private charters. Orange Wine Tours day includes visiting wineries, lunch and the opportunity to meet the maker with a private tasting with a vigneron.