Day One: Journey to Orange

Orange is a very easy journey today. Morning tea in the Blue Mountains along with time to enjoy the stunning views before lunch provided further along the way. After lunch continue through Bathurst to Orange. This afternoon you will be welcomed to the Best Western Plus Ambassador – 02 6393 7500 (L,D)

Day Two: Explore Orange

This morning, subject to suitable weather conditions, your coach will travel to the summit of majestic Mount Canobolas, an ancient volcano rising 1,395 metres above sea level and often capped with snow during winter. From the top, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views across the City of Orange, the rolling countryside and, on a clear day, the distant Blue Mountains. Please note that on occasion the road may be closed at certain times of the year due to frosty or misty conditions. On our return, enjoy a brief town tour of Orange, a vibrant city known for its elegant streetscapes, heritage buildings and beautiful parks and gardens. Orange is proudly known as Australia’s Colour City, and with four distinct seasons it is easy to see why — especially in the magical Cook and Robertson Parks where seasonal colours are on full display. Lunch today will be at the elegant Rowlee Wines at Nashdale, one of Orange’s boutique cool-climate wineries (subject to availability). Set on the volcanic slopes of Mount Canobolas at around 950 metres above sea level, Rowlee produces refined, small-batch wines that truly showcase the character of the Orange wine region. Following lunch, we travel 20 minutes east of Orange to the quaint village of Lucknow, where you will visit The Outfitter (formerly 2 Fat Ladies) clothing store, with time also to explore a couple of unique local shops in the village. This afternoon, you will have the option to explore the Orange town centre and attractions at your own pace. Orange boasts an impressive range of country boutiques, specialty stores and welcoming cafés to enjoy. (B,L,D)

Day Three: The Canowindra region

Canowindra is home to the world renowned Age of Fishes Museum with its 360 million year old fossil collection. The specially constructed Museum is very impressive & first stop today. After the Museum continue onto the nearby Rosnay Organic Farming community for a farm tour with a wine & local produce tasting with your lunch. Rosnay was created by the Statham family in 1997, and produces certified organic wines, olives, and figs. Certified organic since 1998, the vines and orchards have never been sprayed with harmful chemicals, a family commitment that began with Richard’s father Clive Statham. The family’s wine growing heritage begins on the other side of the family, with Florence Statham’s French grandfather, Alberic Dulong de Rosnay, after whom the farm is named. The family’s commitment to organics culminated in the winning of the inaugural Organic Pioneers Award in 2012, through the NSW Department of Primary Industries. Its commitment to making good wine has led to the winning of the Greg Johnson Trophy for Best Local Red Wine at the Cowra National Wine Show, in 2012, 2013 and 2014 and the NASAA Wine Estate Organic Wine of the Year in 2016. Drive back into Canowindra with time to explore the fascinating & historic range of stores in the main street. (B,L,D)

Day Four: Molong & Manildra

Manildra lies on the banks of the Mandagery Creek, north-west of Orange & is home to Australia’s oldest operating picture theatre, the Amusu. Allan Tom started the business in 1923 as a travelling picture show, which settled in its current position in 1936.The theatre in Manildra is now operated by a dedicated committee, including Allan Tom’s daughter Lyn. The AMUSU Theatre still boasts the original seating including the “love seat”, original flooring and curtains. Original old movie posters of yesteryear decorate the walls. A special screening has been organised for you today with some memorable shorts & news that are sure to bring back some fond memories of the way things used to be at the “pictures”.  It is only a short drive to Molong, with its many poplar trees and lovely, rolling countryside. The main street is classified by the National Trust with many historic buildings scattered throughout the town. See the Bi-Centennial Screen depicting 200 years of Molong’s history in the Cobb & Co Coach House, next door to the Molong Yarn market Cottage & craft store. Lunch will be provided before some free time in the Yarn market & for a stroll down the quaint main street of Molong. (B,L,D)

Day Five: Bathurst

Mount Panorama. The name alone invokes a quickening of the heart and memories of some of Australia’s most fought racing battles. It’s where legends are made. Experience a slow (unfortunately 60 km/h speed limit) lap around our most famous racetrack ending in the city centre for morning tea. Drive through to collect your tour guide who will give you an informative insight into the history and buildings of this Macquarie town. Visit historic Abercrombie House for lunch and tour. Abercrombie House is a heritage treasure of the Bathurst Region and celebrated 50 years of tourism in 2019.​ Built in the 1870s by Bathurst pioneers the Stewart family, since 1969 it has been the home of the Morgan family who have spent the last 50 years restoring and maintaining the magnificent house and its outbuildings and grounds and sharing it with the community. (B,L,D)

Day Six: Journey Home  

Depart Orange with a morning tea break along the way before lunch at a convenient location. This afternoon as you travel home, we hope you are taking with you many happy memories of your time in Orange. Thank you for choosing this holiday. (B,L)