New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour

Rating: N/A (0 reviews)
Location: Sydney, Australia
Price: $52.28 per person
Supplier: Ozia Tours
Contact: +61481452092, [email protected]

Introduction

If you’re after a day trip that combines scenic views, a taste of racing history, and the simple pleasure of picking your own cherries, this New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour might just be the ticket. While I haven’t personally tried it, the itinerary whispers promises of fresh fruit, breathtaking outlooks, and a relaxed pace.

What really caught my eye are three standout points: the opportunity to pick your own cherries—a rare treat for city dwellers, the stunning vistas of the Blue Mountains, and the drive through Mount Panorama, home to Australia’s famous V8 races. Plus, the tour is quite affordable considering the full-day experience.

A possible downside? The long 13-hour duration may be a stretch for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a packed schedule and those eager for a mix of nature, culture, and a touch of adrenaline.

This tour works well for families, couple adventurers, or anyone curious to explore beyond Sydney’s city limits while enjoying some authentic Aussie countryside vibes.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $50, this tour offers a well-rounded day with multiple stops.
• Includes Scenic Highlights: Visit Echo Point, Mount Panorama, and the charming town of Orange.
• Unique Experience: Get permission to pick your own cherries, adding a personal touch to the day.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines sightseeing, a quick taste of motor racing history, and fruit picking.
• Flexible for Most Travelers: Suitable for most ages, with most activities being accessible.
• Limited Free Time: The tour is tightly scheduled, with most stops lasting between 20 minutes and 2 hours.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Echo Point Lookout

The tour kicks off with a visit to Echo Point, a well-known vantage point for spectacular views of the Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters. We loved the way the guide smoothly positioned us for the best photo ops and shared interesting insights about the area. This quick 20-minute stop, free of charge, sets a scenic tone for the day. Expect to take in sweeping vistas that are perfect for snapping a few memorable pictures.

Reviewers mention that the view at Echo Point is truly stunning, with some noting it’s an “ideal start to a day of varied experiences.” The brief nature of this stop means you won’t get long to soak everything in, but it’s enough to feel the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mount Panorama: Racing and a Quick Drive

Next, the tour takes you to Mount Panorama, famous for hosting the Bathurst 1000 V8 races. Here, you’ll enjoy a drive along the iconic mountain circuit before heading to town for lunch. The drive itself gives you a unique view of a racing legend, with many visitors commenting on the thrill of passing such a famous track.

The stop allows about 45 minutes for lunch, with options like McDonald’s, KFC, or Hungry Jack’s. While these fast-food choices aren’t gourmet, they’re quick and familiar, allowing you to fuel up for the afternoon ahead. Some reviews appreciated the convenience but noted that exploring Bathurst itself might be limited due to time constraints.

Orange: The Cherry-Picking Paradise

The highlight for many is Orange, a charming regional town in New South Wales. Here, you’ll spend around 2 hours and 15 minutes in an area dedicated to cherry picking. This part of the tour really stands out because it offers an authentic, hands-on experience—you’re permitted to pick your own cherries, which you can then buy for $8-$12 per kilogram (cash only).

Travelers mention that the cherries are deliciously ripe and sun-kissed, and the chance to choose your own adds a fun, personal element. Several noted that the experience was relaxing and interactive, especially for families with kids, as it’s not just sightseeing but a tactile activity.

Reviews reveal that the cherries are a highlight—some wish they could stay longer, but the allocated time feels adequate to pick a basket or just enjoy the fresh air.

Additional Stops and Inclusions

Throughout the tour, the return transfer ensures you’re comfortably shuttled between locations, with most travelers appreciating the smooth transportation and the compact group size—capped at 60—keeping things intimate and manageable.

The tour also provides permission to pick cherries and visits to Mount Panorama, rounding out a mix of natural beauty, racing history, and farm-fresh fun.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation

The tour includes return transfers from Sydney, making it a hassle-free way to escape the city without renting a car. Expect comfortable, air-conditioned buses, with most travelers remarking on the ease of the ride and the friendly guide.

Duration and Timing

With approximately 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening, it’s a lengthy day but packed with activities. The itinerary’s timing means you’ll get a good taste of each stop without feeling rushed, though those with tight schedules might want to plan for a relaxed evening afterward.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Most bookings indicate a maximum of 60 travelers, which balances the camaraderie of group travel with enough space to move comfortably. The reviews suggest that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall pleasant experience.

Cost and Value

At around $52.28 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops, the opportunity for cherry picking, and the scenic views. While meals are not included, the chance to buy cherries directly from the farm adds a personal, fresh touch not often found on similar excursions.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to budget for your own meals, and cash payments are required for the cherries. Also, personal expenses or souvenirs are separate, but these are typical for day tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families looking to introduce children to farm life and nature, couples wanting a relaxed day of sightseeing, or adventurers eager to combine scenic views with a tactile activity like cherry picking. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in seeing parts of regional NSW without the hassle of self-driving.

Keep in mind, the long duration and tightly scheduled stops mean it’s best for those comfortable with full-day outings—no one’s going to have hours of free time, but the variety of stops keeps it engaging.

The Sum Up

This New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour offers a well-rounded day combining iconic scenery, racing history, and fresh farm produce. The chance to pick your own cherries adds a personal, memorable touch that many travelers will enjoy. The views from Echo Point and the drive along Mount Panorama make it more than just a farm visit—it’s a snapshot of regional NSW life, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

For travelers seeking an affordable, engaging day outside Sydney with a mix of nature, culture, and fun activities, this tour is a solid choice. The experience is best suited for those eager to explore at a relaxed pace, enjoy authentic local flavors, and capture some spectacular scenery along the way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cherry picking experience is fun for kids, and the scenic stops make it family-friendly. Be mindful of the long day and bring snacks or entertainment for the travel portions.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers return transfers, visits to Echo Point and Mount Panorama, and the permission to pick cherries at Orange.

Can I buy the cherries I pick?
Yes, cherries can be purchased for $8-$12 per kilogram, paid in cash.

How long are the stops at each location?
Expect about 20 minutes at Echo Point, 45 minutes for lunch at Mount Panorama, and 2 hours and 15 minutes for cherry picking in Orange.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to buy lunch during the Mount Panorama stop.

Is this tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour accommodates a variety of ages and mobility levels, but be prepared for a full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for cherries, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

This tour offers a great way to step outside Sydney and enjoy some genuine regional experiences with a dash of adventure. Whether you’re into scenic vistas, motorsport history, or just love fresh cherries, it delivers on multiple fronts.