The 23 Best Orange Wineries To Visit

From vineyards with a view to Australia’s first carbon-neutral winery, Orange is the ideal wine destination.

Stretched out over the mineral-rich contours of the extinct volcano Gaanha bula (Mount Canobolas), Orange has wineries popping up quicker than winemakers can harvest their grapes. The Orange wine region is Australia’s highest-altitude wine region and these conditions create world-class cool-climate wines including pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

An independent and artisanal spirit underpins the often family-run operations here, which – when teamed with abundant local produce and idyllic country settings – makes for a winery experience like no other. Here’s our pick of Orange wineries not to miss.

1. Borrodell Estate

Set a lofty 1000 metres above sea level on the slopes of extinct volcano Gaanha bula, Borrodell Estate is one of the most picturesque spots to sip on a sauvignon blanc, pinot noir or heritage apple cider.

a scenic vineyard at Borrodell Estate — Borrodell Estate boasts world-class wines produced from grapes grown at the scenic vineyard. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s home to a vineyard, SkyBar cellar door, restaurant, and onsite accommodation, as well as a cherry, plum and heritage apple orchard and trufferie. Don’t miss lunch on the balcony at award-winning Sister’s Rock Restaurant, one of Orange’s best restaurants, where you can dine on delicious fare paired with the wines grown metres from your table.

friends enjoying wine tasting at Borrodell Estate — Dine on delicious fare next to the picturesque vines.

Address: 298 Lake Canobolas Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 9am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

2. Rowlee Wines

A few minutes drive from Borrodell, Rowlee Wines is a single vineyard winemaker with its roots in the Dalmatian wine country. Today, its wine combines European heritage with new-world practices and is showcased in a contemporary cellar door.

the exterior of Rowlee Wines, Orange — Visit Rowlee Wines’ boutique winery and cellar door.

Enjoy a wine-tasting experience , dine at the newly opened Rowlee Dining and Bar and explore the property’s grounds in the verdant foothills of Gaanha bula. You can also opt to have a two-night ‘Ultimate Wine Escape’ in Rowlee’s vineyard estate.

a couple walking along the scenic vineyard in Rowlee Wines — Stroll past the lush and picturesque vineyard in Rowlee Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 19 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–4pm Monday to Friday. Bookings preferred.

3. ChaLou Wines

Founded by partners Steve and Nadja, ChaLou Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery that might be the region’s best-kept secret. Award-winning wines are sourced from a 6-hectare estate vineyard at 900m elevation, just outside Orange. Their approach is a true bud-to-bottle approach, meaning the winemakers are intimately involved in every step of the process, from vine growth to final bottling. The result is a collection of stunning small-batch wines that embody place, season, and passion.

Orange wineries — Swing by for a transformative tasting of small-batch wines. (Image: Monique Lovick)

The cellar door boasts idyllic vineyard views, which are to be enjoyed while you make your way through a tasting of drops such as syrah, pinot noir (the 2024 ChaLou Pinot Noir is a must-try), chardonnay, pinot gris, sauvignon blanc and riesling.

Address: 569 Emu Swamp Rd, Emu Swamp
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–4pm Friday to Monday. Bookings preferred.

4. Nashdale Lane Wines

A 10-minute drive out of town in the fruit-growing hub of Nashdale, you’ll find Nashdale Lane Wines : a boutique winery and cellar door with onsite glamping . The cellar door is based in an old apple-packing shed and, through the preservation of corrugated iron and well-worn concrete floors, the history of the region shines through. Warmed with eclectic rugs and furnishings, it’s rustic yet strikes a contemporary tone in harmony with the vibrant collection of award-winning, single-vineyard wines.

the cellar door at Nashdale Lane Wines during sunset — Let the afternoon unravel at Nashdale Lane Wines.

Sample the whole colour wheel from the crisp and delicate 2017 colour series chardonnay to the 2019 legacy tempranillo with earthy tannins and notes of dark cherry and plum.

the entrance to the Nashdale Lane Wines cellar door — Step inside the cellar door for a wine-tasting session.

Address: 125 Nashdale Ln, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Thu to Mon; 11am–5pm, Tues and Wed; 12pm–3pm. Bookings preferred.

5. De Salis Wines

Pull up a pew at De Salis Wines for one of the best tasting experiences in the region. This family-operated winery is located at an altitude of 1050 metres on the northern slope of Gaanha bula, on the appropriately named Lofty Vineyard.

the rustic vineyard landscape at De Salis Wines — De Salis Wines is nestled on the northern slope of Mt Canobolas. (Image: Destination NSW)

Its cellar door has stunning views over the valley and its tasting room in a galvanised tin shed is dressed to eclectic effect with stage scenery. Head to this authentic, down-to-earth and downright funky spot to get a unique insight into its maker’s wines and minimalist philosophy.

scenic views of the valley at De Salis Wines — Soak up stunning views over the valley at De Salis Wines.

Address: 125 Mount Lofty Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

6. Heifer Station Wines

Located in a spot conducive to producing excellent chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot gris, merlot and shiraz, Heifer Station Wines has been operating its cellar door, inside a 100-year-old woolshed, since 2016.

the cellar door exterior of Heifer Station Wines — Head to Heifer Station Wines for a wine tasting. (Image: Destination NSW)

A proud family business, Heifer Station is family-friendly by design and even includes a ‘funny farm’ that’s home to a small herd of alpacas, highland cattle, goats, chickens and Tilly the mini-Shetland pony. And if simply visiting for a wine tasting doesn’t suffice, Heifer Station Wines also has a range of experiences to be booked, from private picnics and walking tours to helicopter flights around the winery.

the grape vines at Heifer Station Wines — Tour the vineyard and the funny farm at Heifer Station Wines.

Address: 1034 The Escort Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings essential.

7. Printhie Wines

Orange’s version of ‘the Swift effect’, this award-winning wine dynasty is owned and operated by the Swift family. Known for its handcrafted SWIFT sparkling range that was crowned best Australian sparkling in 2022 and best NSW sparkling for the last six years at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships in London, Printhie Wines is the entire package.

an aerial view of the vineyard at Printhie Wines — Printhie Wines sits on 50 acres of picturesque land.

Settle into Printhie’s state-of-the-art cellar door that overlooks vineyards and rolling hills, as you sample its range of cool climate wines. Freshly shucked oysters can also be sampled, as peculiarly, Printhie Wines is the only restaurant and cellar door to have an oyster tank onsite. It’s quite the feat when one acknowledges Orange’s distance from the coast. Enjoy the oysters with Printhie’s signature vinaigrette.

freshly shucked oysters at Printhie Wines — Slurp on freshly shucked oysters.

And if you plan to visit from Thursday to Sunday, treat your senses and book into the onsite, one-hatted restaurant Printhie Dining to indulge in an innovative four-course degustation. As a member of the Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia group, you can also partake in premium ‘beyond the cellar door’ experiences including vineyard picnics, fly fishing, a sparkling masterclass and a luxury helicopter winery tour.

the riddling rack with wine bottles at the cellar door of Printhie Wines — Grab a handcrafted SWIFT sparkling bottle from the riddling rack.

Address: 208 Nancarrow Ln, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Thu; 11am–4pm, Fri and Sat; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

8. Philip Shaw Wines

Another Orange original, Philip Shaw Wines set the benchmark for the region’s unconventional traditions when it planted its vineyard Koomooloo, one of Australia’s highest and coolest, in 1988-89.

the grape vines at Philip Shaw Wines — Venture down the verdant vineyard at Philip Shaw Wines.

Located just outside Orange, the winery and cellar door are within an old bluestone barn with contemporary architectural additions and landscaped gardens. Today you can tour the winery and vineyard, taste at the cellar door and go a step beyond with a wine and food tasting experience .

pouring wine into a glass at Philip Shaw Wines' cellar door — Sample wines at the Philip Shaw Wines’ cellar door.

The Koomooloo Wine Tasting combines a selection of Philip Shaw wines – which represents the best wines from the vineyard and the best years – with carefully matched morsels; meanwhile the Koomooloo Taste and Plate combines a selection of Philip Shaw wines with a grazing plate featuring locally made cheese and accompaniments.

an aerial view of Philip Shaw Wines — Well-landscaped gardens are spread across the winery.

Address: 100 Shiralee Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Thu; 11am–4pm, Fri and Sat; 11am–5pm. Bookings essential.

9. Ross Hill Wines

A six-minute drive from Philip Shaw Wines, is Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral winery, Ross Hill Wines – a sustainable family-run operation that’s been in business since 1994.

making grape juice using a traditional wine press at Ross Hill Wines — Ross Hill Wines prides itself as Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral winery. (Image: Destination NSW)

Set off for this idyllic spot where an expanded cellar door , with its modern take on country style, offers tasting experiences matched with a local tasting plate of olives, hazelnuts, cheese and cured meats. The cellar door also houses the Barrel and Larder School of Wine and Food – which runs cooking classes of all persuasion: book ahead to participate in a range of different masterclasses.

the verdant vineyard setting at Ross Hill Wines — Be surrounded by lush grape vines at Ross Hill Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 134 Wallace Ln, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 10.30am–4.30pm every day. Bookings essential.

10. Swinging Bridge Wines

A canopy of flowers adorns the wooden beams above the entrance to the Swinging Bridge Wines petite cellar door. The family-owned estate is the perfect place to sit and watch the sun go down at the end of the day as you enjoy a selection of Orange’s finest light- to medium-bodied wines. Passionate viticulturist and winemaker Tom Ward produces a small but exceptional range of handcrafted cool-climate wines that showcase the premium pinot noir and chardonnay grapes grown on his vineyard.

sunset view from the vineyard at Swinging Bridge Wines — Watch the sun slip below the valley at the Swinging Bridge Wines.

Standouts in the Winemaker Series (each named after members of the founding Ward/Payten family) include the 2022 William J shiraz and the 2021 G&A blanc de blancs, while the 2022 #006 tempinot from the Hashtag Series blends tempranillo and pinot noir grapes into a beautifully balanced drop that showcases the innovation behind the brand. And for a special occasion, purchase the 2019 Hill Park Block 7 chardonnay from the Single Vineyard Series .

the grape vines growing in the vineyard at Swinging Bridge Wines — Pinot noir and chardonnay grapes grow abundantly in the verdant vineyard.

Address: 701 The Escort Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 10am–4pm every day. Bookings preferred.

11. See Saw Wine

See Saw Wine might’ve been a certified organic vineyard since its first vintage in 2007, but it only opened its rustic, pet-friendly cellar door in 2023 to showcase its delightful organic wine selection. Choose between the signature wine tasting or the seasonal tasting experience that comes with paired seasonal produce.

outside of the cellar door at See Saw Wine, Orange — See Saw Wine is set in a rustic yet relaxed setting in the wine region. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Opt to sit outside with a grazing board to take in picturesque views or book the firepit for a three-hour session, inclusive of a glass of Invergo range wine, a grazing board with locally sourced cheese, meats, dips, olives and bread, and wood to keep the fire stoked.

people sitting inside the cellar door of See Saw Wine, Orange — Join a wine-tasting session. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Address: 42 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Fri; 11am–4pm, Sat and Sun; 11am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

12. Colmar Estate

This six-hectare vineyard sits 980 metres above sea level, with a cool, continental climate similar to the classic French wine regions Burgundy and Alsace that inspired them.

lush greenery surrounding Colmar Estate in Orange — Colmar Estate is set in a scenic six-hectare vineyard.

Colmar Estate produces six grape varieties in its vineyard – chardonnay, riesling, pinot gris, Gewürztraminer, pinot noir and shiraz. At its cellar door , book either the estate wine tasting for a sample of six wines or the premium wine tasting for up to eight.

harvesting grapes at Colmar Estate, Orange — Spread across the vineyard are six grape varieties.

Address: 790 Pinnacle Rd, Canobolas
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Fri; 11am–4pm, Sat and Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

13. Stockman’s Ridge Wines

As you arrive at Stockman’s Ridge Wines , you’ll pass down the elm tree-lined driveway before reaching an intimate cellar door surrounded by impeccable gardens. Warm up by a bonfire and BBQ , sample the unique wine collection and soak in the atmosphere that all led to Stockman’s Ridge Wines’ inclusion in Australia’s top 10 winery experiences at the 2023 Halliday People’s Choice Awards.

There’s live music every Saturday and a range of experiences to be had at the winery, from a pinot noir experience and a free vineyard walk to high tea and a wine and chocolate tasting.

the view from the vineyard at Stockman’s Ridge Wines — Stockman’s Ridge Wines cultivates premium winegrape vines and pear orchards.

Address: 21 Boree Ln, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Fri; 11am–5pm, Sat; 11am–8pm. Bookings preferred.

14. Orange Mountain Estate Wines

Orange Mountain Estate Wines is a small winery, owned by Terry and Julie Dolle, that fits just 12 people inside at any given time. And with wine so carefully handcrafted using traditional methods, visiting this quaint winery is a must.

When you arrive for a wine tasting , you’ll be taken on a tour around the vineyard and winery before sampling the basket-pressed wines. Plus, if you love to shop local, Terry and Julie’s teenage son Joshua makes and sells his own raw honey too.

Address: 10 Radnedge Ln, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Sat and Sun; 9am–5pm. Bookings essential.

15. Strawhouse Wines

Taking its name from the strawbale house next to the vineyard, Strawhouse Wines is a family-run winery and tasting room that sits on the northern slopes of Gaanha bula.

the gate at Strawhouse Wines — Step into the family-run Strawhouse Wines on the northern slopes of Gaanhabula.

Open from Friday to Sunday each week, tastings are done in hour-long time slots, so make sure you book in to reserve your spot. With a sun-drenched deck and a firepit, you’ll keep warm regardless of the weather. And if you want to enjoy the Orange winery even further, you can book Strawhouse’s boutique accommodation for the night.

a bottle of wine alongside a empty glasses on the table inside Strawhouse Wines — Head inside the strawbale house and sample wines next to the vineyard.

Address: 116 Boree Ln, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Sun; 12pm–5pm. Bookings essential.

16. Mortimer’s Wines

Following a successful professional rugby league career in the ’70s and ’80s, Peter Mortimer and his wife Julie began Mortimer’s Wines in the 1990s.

an aerial view of the vineyard at Mortimer’s Wines — The Mortimer’s Wines vineyard is set in stunningly beautiful scenery.

Visit the unique cellar door housed within an old, converted schoolhouse and sample the winery’s delicious selection, from the shiraz with notes of blackberry, vanilla and spice to the citrusy chardonnay. Book a night at Mortimer’s onsite accommodation and settle in with a bottle (or two) of Mortimer’s if you’d like to stay on the vines and really immerse yourself.

an accommodation surrounded by vines at Mortimer’s Wines — Linger a little longer and spend the night surrounded by vines.

Address: 780 Burrendong Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Thu; 12pm–4pm, Fri to Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

17. Patina Wines

Surrounded by a hectare of manicured gardens, Patina Wines’ cellar door is the perfect location to taste your way through the wine list. Sit in the courtyard beside the calming waterfall or bring a picnic and rug to enjoy a bottle of the nutty and delicate 2021 Patina Reserve chardonnay or the 2021 Patina rosé in the garden.

Settle in for a bottle of Patina Reserve chardonnay.

Patina Wines owner and winemaker Gerald Naef blends science and technology with traditional winemaking methods to create complexity and elegance in his wines. At the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion Awards , Patina submitted six wines, each receiving 95+ points, which the awards said made Patina “worthy of Winemaker of the Year considerations."

manicured gardens at Patina Wines — Patina Wines is surrounded by a hectare of manicured gardens.

Address: 109 Summer Hill Ln, Lucknow
Cellar door opening hours: Sat and Sun; 11am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

18. Bloodwood Wines

One of Orange’s first wineries, the vineyard at Bloodwood Wines was planted over four decades ago in 1983. Today, Bloodwood has a focus on sustainability, organic farming practices and simplicity, with the winemaker’s hand-pruning, handpicking and handmaking each wine.

Head out to Bloodwood’s cellar door (make sure you book an appointment) and indulge in their exquisite wine collection. All of which have been created to be paired with food.

Address: 231 Griffin Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Open by appointment only.

19. Cargo Road Wines

Another of Orange’s oldest wineries, Cargo Road Wines was also established in 1983. The vineyard is run holistically, with the intention of leaving the land better than it was found.

a flock of sheep at Cargo Road Wines — You’ll find a flock of sheep wandering around the vineyard. (Image: Destination NSW)

Head to the cellar door for an hour-long wine-tasting experience that will see you trying a wide variety of exceptional wines, from Nebbiolo, zinfandel and lagrein to Gewürztraminer and riesling. Book your tasting in advance and save $5 each.

old wine barrels at Cargo Road Wines — Cargo Road Wines produces wines aged in old barrels. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1064 Cargo Rd, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

20. HOOSEGG

This quaint winery is the brainchild of a familiar name in the Orange wine scene. Philip Shaw transferred ownership of his eponymous winery to his sons in 2015 and opened HOOSEGG , a small-scale operation utilising his six-decade experience and fruit from the Koomooloo vineyard he established 30 years ago, to create small parcels of wine that can stand amongst the finest wines from anywhere.

a scenic vineyard setting at HOOSEGG, Orange — Take in picturesque views from the vineyard.

HOOSEGG’s cellar door is open by appointment, with all the wines available for tasting. And while the tasting fee is $50 per person, if you buy six bottles or more, 50 per cent of the tasting fee will be refunded. That’s a win-win in our books.

friends enjoying a wine-tasting session at HOOSEGG, Orange — Pull up a chair at HOOSEGG and enjoy a memorable wine-tasting experience.

Address: 45 Caldwell Ln, Borenore
Cellar door opening hours: Open by appointment only.

21. Logan Wines

Known for its award-winning Mudgee winery, the Orange outpost of Logan Wines provides the same quality wines from a gorgeous new cellar door that reflects winemaker and owner Peter Logan’s passion for architecture.

an al fresco seating area at Logan Wines, Orange — Logan Wines in Orange is equally enchanting as its award-winning Mudgee location. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Enjoy a tasting that includes the Ridge of Tears, Clementine and Logan labels, and pair it with a delicious charcuterie board for the whole experience. If a tasting isn’t what you’re looking for, buy a bottle and set yourself up outside to take it all in.

a charcuterie board at Logan Wines — Order a delicious charcuterie board.

Address: 1320 Castlereagh Hwy, Apple Tree Flat
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

22. Word of Mouth Wines

Word of Mouth Wines is a small, family-owned vineyard sitting 1000 metres above sea level (one of the highest Orange wineries). With a focus on traditional and alternative grape varieties such as pinot gris, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, gruner veltliner, Mencia, petit manseng and Gewürztraminer, Word of Mouth is the one-stop-shop for single-origin, organic wines.

Book a grazing board, bring your furry friends along (the cellar door is dog-friendly) and indulge in Word of Mouth’s delightful vegan wines.

Address: 42 Wallace Ln, Canobolas
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Mon; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

23. Ferment the Orange Wine Centre

While not technically a winery, Ferment the Orange Wine Centre is the official cellar door for 19 Orange wineries including Cargo Cult Wines, Cumulus Wines and Tallwood Wines.

the interior of Ferment the Orange Wine Centre — Partake in a long table wine-tasting session at Ferment the Orange Wine Centre.

A bright and characterful wine bar in a central Orange heritage building, Ferment acts as a great introduction to the cool-climate wines of the NSW Central Ranges and beyond.

Settle in for a wine tasting or a glass or two, but if you arrive out of wine-tasting hours, Ferment has state-of-the-art Enomatic wine dispensers that let you try before you buy!

long tables and chairs inside Ferment the Orange Wine Centre. — Ferment the Orange Wine Centre is actually a cellar door for 19 Orange wineries.

Address: 87 Hill St, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Sat; 11am–5pm (for wine tastings), 11am–9pm (for wine sales), 5pm–9pm (for wine bar and Enomatic wine tastings).

This article was originally written by Imogen Eveson with updates by Emily Murphy.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

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