In the heart of the Riverina region of New South Wales, Griffith is known for its fruitful grape and wine production and growing arts scene. Developed by Italian migrants, the town’s European culture and history is celebrated annually at A Taste of Italy Griffith. If you’re visiting while the festival is taking place, make sure you stop by to enjoy authentic Italian food, wine and festivities. If you’d like to take the rental car out for a drive while in town, there are endless landscapes to explore nearby including a trip to the picturesque Murrumbidgee River where you can swap four wheels for a boat ride along this peaceful setting. From wine tours to historic landmarks, we’ve curated a selection of highlights and hotspots to make your time in Griffith a memorable one.
Wine and Dine
Wine lovers, rejoice! With fertile soil and a favourable climate for crop growth, Griffith is renowned for its abundance of cellar doors and vineyards in the area. For those looking for a taste of varietal wines, Yarran Wines is known for its single-grape selections and sustainable approach to winemaking. A short drive from the centre of town, head to Yarran Wines to sample whites, reds and everything in between. Cellar door experiences include delectable cheese pairings, tastings of your choice and picnics on lush lawns. If you’re interested specifically in Italian grape varieties, the team at Calabria Family Wines use their cultural heritage to influence their winemaking. From the Calabria Iconic Shiraz to the Bevi Prosecco Spritz, Calabria Family Wines have 12 signature bottles, ready for you to discover your new favourite. Choose from eight cellar door experiences including classic and premium wine tastings, authentic Italian experiences, and tastings of signature Riverina bottles. Whichever winery you choose to visit, both promise a delicious collection of wines and unique tasting experiences. Driving the rental car back to your accommodation? Remember to appoint a designated driver to get you there safely.
There’s nothing better than a flavourful glass of wine paired with an appetising meal. For a fine dining experience in the heart of Griffith, visit Limone Dining. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Limone serves up a European-inspired menu set in a rustic dining hall. With a farm-to-table approach, the team at Limone prioritises the use of fresh produce, using local ingredients sourced from the Piccolo family farm. Whether you’re after an à la carte experience or prefer a sharing menu, indulge in an elegant dining affair at Limone. If casual dining is more your speed, Zecca Restaurant will be right up your alley. Zecca specialises in handmade Italian food, fresh pasta made daily and ingredients procured from local farmers. Dine here to experience vibrant cuisine with an exciting menu that changes daily. Wherever you choose to eat, your tastebuds will thank you after these culinary experiences.
Unearth a Unique and Diverse History
Step back in time and deep-dive into the development and history of Griffith at the Pioneer Park Museum. With an array of artefacts, heritage buildings and intriguing displays to explore, visitors can easily enjoy a whole day here at the Museum. Wine connoisseurs can visit the Wine and Irrigation Building to learn about the city’s unique climate for grape production, and history buffs can discover the impact of Italian immigration on the city at the Italian Museum and Cultural Centre. Take a stroll along the street of Bagtown - a recreation of eight stores frozen in time, depicting what life was like in ‘Old Griffith’ - and browse the Museum shop for souvenirs and local handmade goods. On the first Sunday of the month, the Museum also runs a guided tour onboard a heritage-inspired train, so be sure to hop on if you’re in town.
A visit to Griffith isn’t complete without a look at Hermit’s Cave - a collection of stone structures, rock shelters and hideouts positioned atop Scenic Hill, just outside of town. As the name suggests, the cave was once home to an Italian-Australian hermit who built the structures and lived within the caves for 23 years in the 1930’s. Today, you can learn about the history of the cave, how the numerous formations were made, and picture life through the hermit’s eyes with a hike to the scenic lookout. Bring your hiking boots and trek the signed heritage trail for a deeper look into the life of the hermit.
From a hit at the local Golf Club, to intriguing exhibits at the Griffith Regional Art Gallery, there’s truly something for everybody in Griffith. Fans of food, wine and vibrant culture will appreciate time spent in this town and feel right at home with a community that’s ready to share its rich heritage with you.
