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.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

23 of the best Orange wineries you must visit