23 of the best Orange wineries you must visit

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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From vineyards with a view to Australia’s first carbon-neutral winery, Orange is the ideal wine destination.

Stretched out over the mineral-rich contours of the extinct volcano Gaanha bula (Mount Canobolas), Orange has wineries popping up quicker than winemakers can harvest their grapes. The Orange wine region is Australia’s highest-altitude wine region and these conditions create world-class cool-climate wines including pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

An independent and artisanal spirit underpins the often family-run operations here, which – when teamed with abundant local produce and idyllic country settings – makes for a winery experience like no other. Here’s our pick of Orange wineries not to miss.

1. Borrodell Estate

Set a lofty 1000 metres above sea level on the slopes of extinct volcano Gaanha bula, Borrodell Estate is one of the most picturesque spots to sip on a sauvignon blanc, pinot noir or heritage apple cider.

a scenic vineyard at Borrodell Estate
Borrodell Estate boasts world-class wines produced from grapes grown at the scenic vineyard. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s home to a vineyard, SkyBar cellar door, restaurant, and onsite accommodation, as well as a cherry, plum and heritage apple orchard and trufferie. Don’t miss lunch on the balcony at award-winning Sister’s Rock Restaurant, one of Orange’s best restaurants, where you can dine on delicious fare paired with the wines grown metres from your table.

friends enjoying wine tasting at Borrodell Estate
Dine on delicious fare next to the picturesque vines.

Address: 298 Lake Canobolas Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 9am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

2. Rowlee Wines

A few minutes drive from Borrodell, Rowlee Wines is a single vineyard winemaker with its roots in the Dalmatian wine country. Today, its wine combines European heritage with new-world practices and is showcased in a contemporary cellar door.

the exterior of Rowlee Wines, Orange
Visit Rowlee Wines’ boutique winery and cellar door.

Enjoy a wine-tasting experience, dine at the newly opened Rowlee Dining and Bar and explore the property’s grounds in the verdant foothills of Gaanha bula. You can also opt to have a two-night ‘Ultimate Wine Escape’ in Rowlee’s vineyard estate.

a couple walking along the scenic vineyard in Rowlee Wines
Stroll past the lush and picturesque vineyard in Rowlee Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 19 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–4pm Monday to Friday. Bookings preferred.

3. ChaLou Wines

Founded by partners Steve and Nadja, ChaLou Wines is a boutique, family-owned winery that might be the region’s best-kept secret. Award-winning wines are sourced from a 6-hectare estate vineyard at 900m elevation, just outside Orange. Their approach is a true bud-to-bottle approach, meaning the winemakers are intimately involved in every step of the process, from vine growth to final bottling. The result is a collection of stunning small-batch wines that embody place, season, and passion.

Orange wineries
Swing by for a transformative tasting of small-batch wines. (Image: Monique Lovick)

The cellar door boasts idyllic vineyard views, which are to be enjoyed while you make your way through a tasting of drops such as syrah, pinot noir (the 2024 ChaLou Pinot Noir is a must-try), chardonnay, pinot gris, sauvignon blanc and riesling. 

Orange wineries
Enjoy picturesque views of their 6-hectare estate vineyard. (Image: Monique Lovick)

Address: 569 Emu Swamp Rd, Emu Swamp
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–4pm Friday to Monday. Bookings preferred.

4. Nashdale Lane Wines

A 10-minute drive out of town in the fruit-growing hub of Nashdale, you’ll find Nashdale Lane Wines: a boutique winery and cellar door with onsite glamping. The cellar door is based in an old apple-packing shed and, through the preservation of corrugated iron and well-worn concrete floors, the history of the region shines through. Warmed with eclectic rugs and furnishings, it’s rustic yet strikes a contemporary tone in harmony with the vibrant collection of award-winning, single-vineyard wines.

the cellar door at Nashdale Lane Wines during sunset
Let the afternoon unravel at Nashdale Lane Wines.

Sample the whole colour wheel from the crisp and delicate 2017 colour series chardonnay to the 2019 legacy tempranillo with earthy tannins and notes of dark cherry and plum.

the entrance to the Nashdale Lane Wines cellar door
Step inside the cellar door for a wine-tasting session.

Address: 125 Nashdale Ln, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Thu to Mon; 11am–5pm, Tues and Wed; 12pm–3pm. Bookings preferred.

5. De Salis Wines

Pull up a pew at De Salis Wines for one of the best tasting experiences in the region. This family-operated winery is located at an altitude of 1050 metres on the northern slope of Gaanha bula, on the appropriately named Lofty Vineyard.

the rustic vineyard landscape at De Salis Wines
De Salis Wines is nestled on the northern slope of Mt Canobolas. (Image: Destination NSW)

Its cellar door has stunning views over the valley and its tasting room in a galvanised tin shed is dressed to eclectic effect with stage scenery. Head to this authentic, down-to-earth and downright funky spot to get a unique insight into its maker’s wines and minimalist philosophy.

scenic views of the valley at De Salis Wines
Soak up stunning views over the valley at De Salis Wines.

Address: 125 Mount Lofty Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

6. Heifer Station Wines

Located in a spot conducive to producing excellent chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot gris, merlot and shiraz, Heifer Station Wines has been operating its cellar door, inside a 100-year-old woolshed, since 2016.

the cellar door exterior of Heifer Station Wines
Head to Heifer Station Wines for a wine tasting. (Image: Destination NSW)

A proud family business, Heifer Station is family-friendly by design and even includes a ‘funny farm’ that’s home to a small herd of alpacas, highland cattle, goats, chickens and Tilly the mini-Shetland pony. And if simply visiting for a wine tasting doesn’t suffice, Heifer Station Wines also has a range of experiences to be booked, from private picnics and walking tours to helicopter flights around the winery.

the grape vines at Heifer Station Wines
Tour the vineyard and the funny farm at Heifer Station Wines.

Address: 1034 The Escort Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings essential.

7. Printhie Wines

Orange’s version of ‘the Swift effect’, this award-winning wine dynasty is owned and operated by the Swift family. Known for its handcrafted SWIFT sparkling range that was crowned best Australian sparkling in 2022 and best NSW sparkling for the last six years at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships in London, Printhie Wines is the entire package.

an aerial view of the vineyard at Printhie Wines
Printhie Wines sits on 50 acres of picturesque land.

Settle into Printhie’s state-of-the-art cellar door that overlooks vineyards and rolling hills, as you sample its range of cool climate wines. Freshly shucked oysters can also be sampled, as peculiarly, Printhie Wines is the only restaurant and cellar door to have an oyster tank onsite. It’s quite the feat when one acknowledges Orange’s distance from the coast. Enjoy the oysters with Printhie’s signature vinaigrette.

freshly shucked oysters at Printhie Wines
Slurp on freshly shucked oysters.

And if you plan to visit from Thursday to Sunday, treat your senses and book into the onsite, one-hatted restaurant Printhie Dining to indulge in an innovative four-course degustation. As a member of the Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia group, you can also partake in premium ‘beyond the cellar door’ experiences including vineyard picnics, fly fishing, a sparkling masterclass and a luxury helicopter winery tour.

the riddling rack with wine bottles at the cellar door of Printhie Wines
Grab a handcrafted SWIFT sparkling bottle from the riddling rack.

Address: 208 Nancarrow Ln, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Thu; 11am–4pm, Fri and Sat; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

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8. Philip Shaw Wines

Another Orange original, Philip Shaw Wines set the benchmark for the region’s unconventional traditions when it planted its vineyard Koomooloo, one of Australia’s highest and coolest, in 1988-89.

the grape vines at Philip Shaw Wines
Venture down the verdant vineyard at Philip Shaw Wines.

Located just outside Orange, the winery and cellar door are within an old bluestone barn with contemporary architectural additions and landscaped gardens. Today you can tour the winery and vineyard, taste at the cellar door and go a step beyond with a wine and food tasting experience.

pouring wine into a glass at Philip Shaw Wines' cellar door
Sample wines at the Philip Shaw Wines’ cellar door.

The Koomooloo Wine Tasting combines a selection of Philip Shaw wines – which represents the best wines from the vineyard and the best years – with carefully matched morsels; meanwhile the Koomooloo Taste and Plate combines a selection of Philip Shaw wines with a grazing plate featuring locally made cheese and accompaniments.

an aerial view of Philip Shaw Wines
Well-landscaped gardens are spread across the winery.

Address: 100 Shiralee Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Thu; 11am–4pm, Fri and Sat; 11am–5pm. Bookings essential.

9. Ross Hill Wines

A six-minute drive from Philip Shaw Wines, is Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral winery, Ross Hill Wines – a sustainable family-run operation that’s been in business since 1994.

making grape juice using a traditional wine press at Ross Hill Wines
Ross Hill Wines prides itself as Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral winery. (Image: Destination NSW)

Set off for this idyllic spot where an expanded cellar door, with its modern take on country style, offers tasting experiences matched with a local tasting plate of olives, hazelnuts, cheese and cured meats. The cellar door also houses the Barrel and Larder School of Wine and Food – which runs cooking classes of all persuasion: book ahead to participate in a range of different masterclasses.

the verdant vineyard setting at Ross Hill Wines
Be surrounded by lush grape vines at Ross Hill Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 134 Wallace Ln, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 10.30am–4.30pm every day. Bookings essential.

10. Swinging Bridge Wines

A canopy of flowers adorns the wooden beams above the entrance to the Swinging Bridge Wines petite cellar door. The family-owned estate is the perfect place to sit and watch the sun go down at the end of the day as you enjoy a selection of Orange’s finest light- to medium-bodied wines. Passionate viticulturist and winemaker Tom Ward produces a small but exceptional range of handcrafted cool-climate wines that showcase the premium pinot noir and chardonnay grapes grown on his vineyard.

sunset view from the vineyard at Swinging Bridge Wines
Watch the sun slip below the valley at the Swinging Bridge Wines.

Standouts in the Winemaker Series (each named after members of the founding Ward/Payten family) include the 2022 William J shiraz and the 2021 G&A blanc de blancs, while the 2022 #006 tempinot from the Hashtag Series blends tempranillo and pinot noir grapes into a beautifully balanced drop that showcases the innovation behind the brand. And for a special occasion, purchase the 2019 Hill Park Block 7 chardonnay from the Single Vineyard Series.

the grape vines growing in the vineyard at Swinging Bridge Wines
Pinot noir and chardonnay grapes grow abundantly in the verdant vineyard.

Address: 701 The Escort Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: 10am–4pm every day. Bookings preferred.

11. See Saw Wine

See Saw Wine might’ve been a certified organic vineyard since its first vintage in 2007, but it only opened its rustic, pet-friendly cellar door in 2023 to showcase its delightful organic wine selection. Choose between the signature wine tasting or the seasonal tasting experience that comes with paired seasonal produce.

outside of the cellar door at See Saw Wine, Orange
See Saw Wine is set in a rustic yet relaxed setting in the wine region. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Opt to sit outside with a grazing board to take in picturesque views or book the firepit for a three-hour session, inclusive of a glass of Invergo range wine, a grazing board with locally sourced cheese, meats, dips, olives and bread, and wood to keep the fire stoked.

people sitting inside the cellar door of See Saw Wine, Orange
Join a wine-tasting session. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Address: 42 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Fri; 11am–4pm, Sat and Sun; 11am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

12. Colmar Estate

This six-hectare vineyard sits 980 metres above sea level, with a cool, continental climate similar to the classic French wine regions Burgundy and Alsace that inspired them.

lush greenery surrounding Colmar Estate in Orange
Colmar Estate is set in a scenic six-hectare vineyard.

Colmar Estate produces six grape varieties in its vineyard – chardonnay, riesling, pinot gris, Gewürztraminer, pinot noir and shiraz. At its cellar door, book either the estate wine tasting for a sample of six wines or the premium wine tasting for up to eight.

harvesting grapes at Colmar Estate, Orange
Spread across the vineyard are six grape varieties.

Address: 790 Pinnacle Rd, Canobolas
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Fri; 11am–4pm, Sat and Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

13. Stockman’s Ridge Wines

As you arrive at Stockman’s Ridge Wines, you’ll pass down the elm tree-lined driveway before reaching an intimate cellar door surrounded by impeccable gardens. Warm up by a bonfire and BBQ, sample the unique wine collection and soak in the atmosphere that all led to Stockman’s Ridge Wines’ inclusion in Australia’s top 10 winery experiences at the 2023 Halliday People’s Choice Awards.

There’s live music every Saturday and a range of experiences to be had at the winery, from a pinot noir experience and a free vineyard walk to high tea and a wine and chocolate tasting.

the view from the vineyard at Stockman’s Ridge Wines
Stockman’s Ridge Wines cultivates premium winegrape vines and pear orchards.

Address: 21 Boree Ln, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: Sun to Fri; 11am–5pm, Sat; 11am–8pm. Bookings preferred.

14. Orange Mountain Estate Wines

Orange Mountain Estate Wines is a small winery, owned by Terry and Julie Dolle, that fits just 12 people inside at any given time. And with wine so carefully handcrafted using traditional methods, visiting this quaint winery is a must.

When you arrive for a wine tasting, you’ll be taken on a tour around the vineyard and winery before sampling the basket-pressed wines. Plus, if you love to shop local, Terry and Julie’s teenage son Joshua makes and sells his own raw honey too.

Address: 10 Radnedge Ln, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Sat and Sun; 9am–5pm. Bookings essential.

15. Strawhouse Wines

Taking its name from the strawbale house next to the vineyard, Strawhouse Wines is a family-run winery and tasting room that sits on the northern slopes of Gaanha bula.

the gate at Strawhouse Wines
Step into the family-run Strawhouse Wines on the northern slopes of Gaanhabula.

Open from Friday to Sunday each week, tastings are done in hour-long time slots, so make sure you book in to reserve your spot. With a sun-drenched deck and a firepit, you’ll keep warm regardless of the weather. And if you want to enjoy the Orange winery even further, you can book Strawhouse’s boutique accommodation for the night.

a bottle of wine alongside a empty glasses on the table inside Strawhouse Wines
Head inside the strawbale house and sample wines next to the vineyard.

Address: 116 Boree Ln, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Sun; 12pm–5pm. Bookings essential.

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16. Mortimer’s Wines

Following a successful professional rugby league career in the ’70s and ’80s, Peter Mortimer and his wife Julie began Mortimer’s Wines in the 1990s.

an aerial view of the vineyard at Mortimer’s Wines
The Mortimer’s Wines vineyard is set in stunningly beautiful scenery.

Visit the unique cellar door housed within an old, converted schoolhouse and sample the winery’s delicious selection, from the shiraz with notes of blackberry, vanilla and spice to the citrusy chardonnay. Book a night at Mortimer’s onsite accommodation and settle in with a bottle (or two) of Mortimer’s if you’d like to stay on the vines and really immerse yourself.

an accommodation surrounded by vines at Mortimer’s Wines
Linger a little longer and spend the night surrounded by vines.

Address: 780 Burrendong Way, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Thu; 12pm–4pm, Fri to Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

17. Patina Wines

Surrounded by a hectare of manicured gardens, Patina Wines’ cellar door is the perfect location to taste your way through the wine list. Sit in the courtyard beside the calming waterfall or bring a picnic and rug to enjoy a bottle of the nutty and delicate 2021 Patina Reserve chardonnay or the 2021 Patina rosé in the garden.

a bottle of Patina Reserve chardonnay
Settle in for a bottle of Patina Reserve chardonnay.

Patina Wines owner and winemaker Gerald Naef blends science and technology with traditional winemaking methods to create complexity and elegance in his wines. At the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion Awards, Patina submitted six wines, each receiving 95+ points, which the awards said made Patina “worthy of Winemaker of the Year considerations."

manicured gardens at Patina Wines
Patina Wines is surrounded by a hectare of manicured gardens.

Address: 109 Summer Hill Ln, Lucknow
Cellar door opening hours: Sat and Sun; 11am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

18. Bloodwood Wines

One of Orange’s first wineries, the vineyard at Bloodwood Wines was planted over four decades ago in 1983. Today, Bloodwood has a focus on sustainability, organic farming practices and simplicity, with the winemaker’s hand-pruning, handpicking and handmaking each wine.

Head out to Bloodwood’s cellar door (make sure you book an appointment) and indulge in their exquisite wine collection. All of which have been created to be paired with food.

Address: 231 Griffin Rd, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Open by appointment only.

19. Cargo Road Wines

Another of Orange’s oldest wineries, Cargo Road Wines was also established in 1983. The vineyard is run holistically, with the intention of leaving the land better than it was found.

a flock of sheep at Cargo Road Wines
You’ll find a flock of sheep wandering around the vineyard. (Image: Destination NSW)

Head to the cellar door for an hour-long wine-tasting experience that will see you trying a wide variety of exceptional wines, from Nebbiolo, zinfandel and lagrein to Gewürztraminer and riesling. Book your tasting in advance and save $5 each.

old wine barrels at Cargo Road Wines
Cargo Road Wines produces wines aged in old barrels. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1064 Cargo Rd, Lidster
Cellar door opening hours: 11am–5pm every day. Bookings preferred.

20. HOOSEGG

This quaint winery is the brainchild of a familiar name in the Orange wine scene. Philip Shaw transferred ownership of his eponymous winery to his sons in 2015 and opened HOOSEGG, a small-scale operation utilising his six-decade experience and fruit from the Koomooloo vineyard he established 30 years ago, to create small parcels of wine that can stand amongst the finest wines from anywhere.

a scenic vineyard setting at HOOSEGG, Orange
Take in picturesque views from the vineyard.

HOOSEGG’s cellar door is open by appointment, with all the wines available for tasting. And while the tasting fee is $50 per person, if you buy six bottles or more, 50 per cent of the tasting fee will be refunded. That’s a win-win in our books.

friends enjoying a wine-tasting session at HOOSEGG, Orange
Pull up a chair at HOOSEGG and enjoy a memorable wine-tasting experience.

Address: 45 Caldwell Ln, Borenore
Cellar door opening hours: Open by appointment only.

21. Logan Wines

Known for its award-winning Mudgee winery, the Orange outpost of Logan Wines provides the same quality wines from a gorgeous new cellar door that reflects winemaker and owner Peter Logan’s passion for architecture.

an al fresco seating area at Logan Wines, Orange
Logan Wines in Orange is equally enchanting as its award-winning Mudgee location. (Image: Monique Lovick Photography)

Enjoy a tasting that includes the Ridge of Tears, Clementine and Logan labels, and pair it with a delicious charcuterie board for the whole experience. If a tasting isn’t what you’re looking for, buy a bottle and set yourself up outside to take it all in.

a charcuterie board at Logan Wines
Order a delicious charcuterie board.

Address: 1320 Castlereagh Hwy, Apple Tree Flat
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Sun; 10am–5pm. Bookings preferred.

22. Word of Mouth Wines

Word of Mouth Wines is a small, family-owned vineyard sitting 1000 metres above sea level (one of the highest Orange wineries). With a focus on traditional and alternative grape varieties such as pinot gris, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, gruner veltliner, Mencia, petit manseng and Gewürztraminer, Word of Mouth is the one-stop-shop for single-origin, organic wines.

Book a grazing board, bring your furry friends along (the cellar door is dog-friendly) and indulge in Word of Mouth’s delightful vegan wines.

Address: 42 Wallace Ln, Canobolas
Cellar door opening hours: Fri to Mon; 10am–5pm. Bookings essential.

23. Ferment the Orange Wine Centre

While not technically a winery, Ferment the Orange Wine Centre is the official cellar door for 19 Orange wineries including Cargo Cult Wines, Cumulus Wines and Tallwood Wines.

the interior of Ferment the Orange Wine Centre
Partake in a long table wine-tasting session at Ferment the Orange Wine Centre.

A bright and characterful wine bar in a central Orange heritage building, Ferment acts as a great introduction to the cool-climate wines of the NSW Central Ranges and beyond.

Settle in for a wine tasting or a glass or two, but if you arrive out of wine-tasting hours, Ferment has state-of-the-art Enomatic wine dispensers that let you try before you buy!

long tables and chairs inside Ferment the Orange Wine Centre.
Ferment the Orange Wine Centre is actually a cellar door for 19 Orange wineries.

Address: 87 Hill St, Orange
Cellar door opening hours: Mon to Sat; 11am–5pm (for wine tastings), 11am–9pm (for wine sales), 5pm–9pm (for wine bar and Enomatic wine tastings).

This article was originally written by Imogen Eveson with updates by Emily Murphy.

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Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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8 reasons it’s time to explore Lismore’s vibrant villages

(Image: Visit Lismore)

    Angela Saurine Angela Saurine
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    Think you know Lismore? Think again. From pop-up feasts to a buzzing nightlife to a thriving arts scene, discover a new side of the Northern Rivers.

    Scratch beneath the surface of Lismore and its surrounding villages and you’ll discover a side of the Northern Rivers many travellers don’t expect. Here lies a region bursting with creativity, where vibrant street art, innovative eateries and enriching cultural experiences shape everyday life. Best of all, it’s authentic, and can be enjoyed without the crowds. Here are eight reasons why it deserves a closer look.

    1. Nights come to life

    Lismore's vibrant villages have Patrons enjoying a night out at Eltham Hotel.
    Stay out a little longer and experience the vibrant nightlife. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    The Lismore region stirs after the sun sets, with wine bars, pub gigs, pop-up dinners and live music events at atmospheric country pubs and halls. The Eltham Hotel is a hinterland institution, its verandah regularly echoing with rootsy live music. Nimbin Bush Theatre’s Sonic Bloom nights bring pop-up dinners, films and DJ sets. The Channon Tavern hosts weekend sessions, while Il Carretto’s pizza nights fill Clunes Cafe on Thursday nights and Bexhill Hall on Fridays. Rider Taco Pop Up also brings a laid-back Mexican feast to Clunes, where guests spread out on the grass or gather in the old hall to share freshly made tacos.

    2. A thriving arts and culture scene

    Racing on Molesworth Steet, Lismore for the BBCC Lismore Cycling Festival. Lismore's vibrant villages is filled with murals.
    Follow the Art & Culture Trail. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    The Northern Rivers has long attracted artists, makers and free thinkers, and nowhere is that creative energy more evident than in Lismore and its neighbouring hamlets. The city’s Art & Culture Trail shines a spotlight on the city’s flourishing arts scene, linking galleries, studios and public art across the region. Start at the Lismore Regional Gallery, which has a dynamic mix of contemporary works and community-focused exhibitions. Also keep an eye out for events at The Quad, an open-air space that lights up with live music, projections and family-friendly events. Beyond the city, discover the colourful street murals of Nimbin, browse local art at Blue Knob Gallery or get your hands dirty during a clay workshop at Silt Studio.

    3. Boutique shopping

    Inside Two Ravens Antiques & Collectables in Lismore's vibrant villages.
    Uncover one-of-a-kind finds. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    For travellers who love discovering independent labels and one-of-a-kind finds, Lismore and its nearby villages offer a treasure trove of boutiques. Here, you’ll find everything from clothes and hand-crafted trinkets to books and homewares, each store reflecting the personality of its makers and curators. Highlights include Hanging Rock Flowers, where seasonal blooms meet beautifully chosen artisan gifts, and Two Ravens Antique and Vintage, where a collection of objects whisper stories of the past. Little Polli and the Blackbird offers whimsical fashion and homewares, while Folk Modern champions eclectic textiles and global finds and Valley of the Craftsmen showcases refined handmade artistry.

    4. Diverse food offerings

    Bartenders at the The Levee Lounge and Bar, Lismore
    Settle in for an evening of great drinks and live tunes. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    Lismore’s dining scene is celebrated for its paddock-to-plate produce, global cuisines and cafe culture. At Two Mates Brewing small-batch beers are crafted for easy afternoons, often best enjoyed with a food truck bite, while The Levee Lounge and Bar brings a touch of Melbourne-style polish to town, with cocktails and wine served against the hum of live music.

    Heritage bones meet a modern buzz at The Bank Cafe & Espresso, while smoked meats and fried chicken take centre stage at The Stockpot Kitchen. Housed in a former butter factory, Channon Tavern is the ideal place to while away the day on the grass by Terania Creek, and the The Eltham Hotel offers an upscale food menu with old school charm.

    Find Annies Country Bakery in Modanville on Lismore’s Great Pie Trail, serving award-winning pies, open every day, it’s a great stop on a scenic drive on route to nearby national parks and Rocky Creek Dam. Or pop into Clunes Cafe for regular hosted dinners, each with its own unique flair. Listen to live music while you’re there, and maybe even join in a line dance.

    5. Alternative lifestyles reign

    Streetscape of Nimbin with buskers, Northern Rivers
    Discover a place where freedom, art and community are part of everyday life. (Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast)

    This area has long been a free-spirited community, where counterculture values and creative expression shape everyday life. Its roots trace back to the 1973 Aquarius Festival, when thousands gathered in the hills near Nimbin and the one-time dairy town’s once-quiet streets were painted in kaleidoscopic colour. Many never left, establishing communes and laying the foundations of a community built on sustainability and freedom. Events such as the annual Nimbin MardiGrass festival keep its activist, grassroots spirit alive, while continuing to welcome diverse travellers in search of something a little different.

    6. Breathtaking nature on the doorstep

    Person enjoying a walk through the rainforest in Nightcap National Park.
    Step into a world of ancient forests. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    Lismore acts as the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular ancient Gondwana rainforests and untouched wilderness. Nearby Nightcap National Park offers UNESCO-listed rainforest walks and waterfalls, while Rocky Creek Dam is a tranquil spot for picnics and birdlife – and you may even spot a platypus if your timing is right. Whian Whian State Conservation Area reveals lush subtropical trails and hidden swimming holes, while the Northern Rivers Rail Trail winds through farmland and forest, passing historic railway bridges along the way.

    7. Boutique stays

    Contained in Nimbin Accommodation.
    Experience award-winning eco stays. (Image: Contained in Nimbin)

    Accommodation in the Lismore region tends to favour character over gloss, with stays that trade uniform luxury for a stronger sense of place and personality. Lismore Gateway Motel and Invercauld House offer easy comfort close to Lismore CBD, while The Eltham Hotel pairs a lively pub atmosphere with individually designed rooms that reflect the building’s heritage character. Nightcap Ridge secluded luxury eco retreat and Rummery Park Campground in Whian Whian State Conservation Area, and Contained in Nimbin’s award-winning eco cabins, all bring you closer to nature.

    8. Form community connections

    Crowds enjoying the Lismore Lantern Parade on the North Coast.
    Celebrate winter solstice at the Lismore Lantern Parade. (Image: Visit Lismore)

    If you are wanting to immerse yourself more in the community, there are some standout events that embrace Lismore’s individuality. Lismore is known for its markets, so they’re a great place to start. The fire twirling at Lismore’s weekly Thursday produce markets makes for a particularly fun spectacle.

    Friday Meet and Make offers relaxed crafting at The Artisans Table, while Fire Twirling in The Quad delivers a high energy evening spectacle. The legendary Tropical Fruits New Years Eve Festival is a bold celebration of inclusion; Lismore Lantern Parade glows through streets with handmade lanterns on the winter solstice and Italian festival LisAmore! brings music and romance to the town.

    Start planning the ultimate getaway at visitlismore.com.au