Want a picture-perfect post-lockdown activity? Look no further than CherryHill Orchards. This summer, the Orchards are hosting a suite of activities, from BYO cherry picking picnics to package deals including a sunrise hot air balloon ride and champagne breakfast. Located just an hour’s drive from the CBD, the orchards’ rolling green hills offer a welcome break from city life. So pick your favourite friends, family or sweethearts for a very merry, cherry good time. 
Cherry picking is the main attraction at the orchards, but you’ll find more tasty treats onsite to sweeten the deal. Upon arrival, our crew made a beeline for the pink coffee caravan. After fueling up, we were guided to rows of trees dripping with ripe cherries. (The orchards are planted with a number of different varietals, from early to late season cherries, so fresh fruit is ready for picking throughout the entire season.) Our booking included all the cherries we could eat while onsite (and was a lot). 
Luckily, we saved room for local wines and savoury woodfired pizzas. The Rochford winery is popping up at the orchards, with nine different wines on offer for tastings. We took it upon ourselves to sample the range and recommend pairing your pizza with a pinot or kicking back with the single vineyard chardonnay and enjoying the scenery. The cherry on top of the day was a sweet selection of ice-cream. (We hear the cherry chocolate chip is a staff favourite). 
This year CherryHill more than doubled its size with a second orchard open to the public for the first time, so guests can enjoy a social day out that’s not too crowded. We loved our laid back day filled with delicious produce, beautiful scenery, and friendly staff. Next time, we’re planning on following up our afternoon in the orchards with live music at the Rochford.
– Jenny
Jenny S. is an event adventurer. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
CherryHilll Orchards is open for cherry picking through early January. Tickets include eat all the cherries you can eat onsite; any take-home cherries are charged per kilogram upon leaving. Bookings required.
Coldstream Orchard (NEW)
739 Maroondah Hwy
Coldstream, VIC
Wandin East Orchard
474 Queens Road
Wandin East, VIC
