Things to do in Orange, NSW
By Sitchu
From the scenic backdrop to the gourmet delights, there is so much to experience during a weekend in Orange. Lucky for you, Sitchu have done the hard work and put together the best places to eat, drink, stay and shop so you can do it all!
Drive just a few hours west of the Blue Mountains and you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful countryside, where rolling hills of rich greens and scattered grey gums sprout sporadically — these are telling signs that you’ve indeed arrived at Orange.
Whilst out-of-towners venture here for the wine, being renowned as one of Australia’s best wine regions, Orange is far from being a one trick pony. Here, the food is just as much of a drawcard, with many fine dining restaurants, local cafés and casual eats, placing great focus on locally sourced produce. Equally, the flourishing cosmopolitan lifestyle is also beyond question, attracting more and more boutique fashion and homeware stores to its stylish streets.
However, regardless of its burgeoning nature, Orange maintains its pace and authenticity as a rural region, where the word ‘community’ is not merely a buzzword, but instead, it’s the very heartbeat, and what makes this destination so appealing.
Here are merely a few reasons why you should make a treechange to Orange — even if only for a short (but sweet) visit.
Previously a bowling club, The Greenhouse of Orange was transformed into a multi dining venue in 2017, and quickly become a popular eatery locale. On site, there’s various kitchens available, offering multiple menus — all of which give a nod to the regional produce of Orange. There are also multiple sitting sections, including an indoor dining space filled with abundance of plants and an expansive open-air deck with raised garden beds to the side.
231-243 Anson Street, Orange
One of Australia’s most celebrated winemakers, Philip Shaw Wines, established his own vineyard in Orange back in 1989. Today, this family-owned and operated winery, now run by three industrious members of the Shaw clan, consists of a tasting room, restaurant and wedding venue — all centered around a restored turn-of-the-century stone barn. Expect the wines here to have a bright fruit flavour with an intense elegance and complexity.
100 Shiralee Road, Orange
Part of the nearby La Colline vineyard, Racine is an award-winning restaurant, famed for their excellence in food and service. This fine dining experience places a focus on the best local produce and a huge selection of local wines, matched only by its stunning, idyllic location. In addition to the restaurant, there’s also the adjoined charming venue space called The Apple Shed, available for larger groups and special events.
42 Lake Canobolas Road, Nashdale
Rowlee Wines & Vineyard also has its very own private, luxury guesthouse set within the estate. This lovingly renovated one-bedroom cottage displays a comfortable and sophisticated setting, with a single master bedroom, making it perfect for couples. There’s plenty of space to relax too, with double French doors that open onto a private verandah with views across the lush gardens.
From $795 per person (two nights as part of Ultimate Wine Escape package)
19 Lake Canobolas Road, Orange
Another winery with onsite accommodation, yet with a slightly more unique design, is Nashdale Lane’s luxury glamping tents, set right amongst the vines. The two spacious timber and canvas tents, named ‘Rustig’ and ‘Kalmte’, feature hardwood floors, kitchenette, comfortable queen bed, and a private toilet and shower facilities. There’s even a wood fire for the cooler months, and a cushioned deck seating, along with a BBQ — perfect for those warm summer evenings.
From $250 per night
125 Nashdale Lane, Nashdale
Specifically designed as a couples’ retreat, Lakeview Luxury Retreat offers clear views over Lake Canobolas, in separate spacious and modern 5-star villas. Along with your stay amongst the hills just outside of Orange, you’ll be provided with all the local ingredients to cook up your own breakfast in the self-contained kitchen, or on the BBQ out on the deck. And make a point to say hello to the friendly herd of Highland cattle who roam the adjoining paddocks.
From $290 per night
Stanford Road, Orange
The Sonic is a lovingly renovated old Masonic hall (hence the name, ‘Sonic’), housing two different stores — JUMBLED, a colourful display of homewares and lifestyle products, as well as Nimrods, an intimate and relaxing cafe towards the back. The now white-washed hall has a grand presence from the street, with an equally impressive show going on inside. Best to put aside a decent amount of time treasure hunting here and make sure to grab a coffee to keep you company.
33-35 Sale Street, Orange
Much like that of Sweet Sour Salt above, The White Place is another great example of how a heritage home can be given a brand new purpose. Laid out inside a Victorian terrace, each room inside this beautiful homewares store is filled from top to bottom and corner to corner, with homewares, cushions, rugs, clothing, furniture and art — sourced both locally and internationally. There’s even the option to stay at their separate self-contained cottage, adorned with more of the store’s finest, which are also for sale.
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