Orange is a country town with a rich colonial history and a welcoming community that will make you want to extend your stay.
Go Deep
The Borenore Caves, contained within the Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve, can be found on the road between Orange and Forbes – it’s a beautiful drive that takes you past vineyards and orchards. The Tunnel and Arch Caves are both worth exploring, and there’s lots of walking tracks for above ground adventures too. The Reserve is well equipped with barbeques and picnic areas so there are plenty of scenic places to dine alfresco and really take in the beauty of the bushland here.
Soak up some Art
The Orange Regional gallery has an interesting focus on modern Australian art, and often has really fascinating mixed media exhibits. They pride themselves on making their gallery accessible and friendly, while promoting the work of and creating opportunities for local artists in the area. It is well worth a few hours of your time to see what they have on show while you’re there.
Wines at the Schoolhouse
Mortimer’s Wines has a converted schoolhouse as its centrepiece, and with the vineyards all around it is one of the most scenic spots in town. They open up the courtyard in warmer weather and light the fireplaces in the wintertime, so it’s great to visit any time of the year. They have a coffeehouse and an amazing selection of cheeses to sample along with the wine, and they have great accommodation here too in case you just can’t drag yourself away.
Fun at the Falls
The Falls at Summer Hill Creek is just a little way out of town, and offers beautiful waterfalls, a swimming pool and some of the locals’ favourite fishing spots. Birdwatchers also prize this area because of the large variety of species that make this place home. It’s a lovely place to get some fresh air and take in the scenery.
Spa days are good days
Nestled in the heart of town, the BellaSpazio spa is the perfect place for some serious pampering. Whether its massage, facials or cosmetic treatments you’re after, the friendly team and serene atmosphere here will make you feel at home instantly. Every holiday needs a bit of a beauty break, and this is your chance to feel, and look rejuvenated.
Strike Gold at Ophir
The historical site of Australia’s first gold rush, The Ophir Reserve is a beautiful camping and picnic grounds now, but it still remembers its colonial past. Unlike other restored sites, they have chosen to preserve the diggings as they were for the most part so it is n interesting place to explore where you can get a real sense for what it would have been like in the hustle and bustle of the gold rush. You can rent a gold pan from the Visitor Information Centre and try and find a nugget of your very own in the waters of Summer Hill Creek – you might not make an instant fortune but you’re sure to have a lot of fun trying.
