We begin our journey this morning, travelling south from Sydney through the scenic countryside. Our first stop is Nepean Dam, where we enjoy morning tea amid peaceful bushland and the calm waters of this impressive 1930s structure.

Continuing to Yass, we pause for a relaxed lunch before travelling on to Harden. Here, we visit the bronze statue of “Bill the Bastard”, honouring one of Australia’s legendary war horses — a remarkable tale of courage and endurance.

Arriving in Young, known for its beautiful orchards and rich rural heritage, we take a short, guided town tour to get acquainted with the area. Later, we settle into our accommodation and enjoy dinner, a fitting welcome to the Hilltops region.

Overnight: Young Federation Motor Inn
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we set out to explore the rich flavours and heritage of the Hilltops region. Our morning begins with a visit to a local Orchard, where we enjoy a guided visit and the opportunity to pick our own cherries straight from the trees — a true highlight of the season and a wonderful way to experience Young’s famous harvest firsthand.

We then make our way to Chinamans Dam, a serene spot with a fascinating gold-rush history, where we pause for morning tea. Here, we enjoy a local favourite — mini cherry pies with cream from Wilders Bakery — a sweet treat in the heart of cherry country.

Our next indulgence is at Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory, where we sample handmade sweets and browse the shelves for jams, chutneys, and regional produce. Continuing through the scenic countryside, we arrive at a local winery to enjoy a wine tasting and picnic lunch among the vines — the perfect setting to relax and soak up the region’s rural charm. 

In the afternoon, we visit the Young Heritage Museum and Visitor Centre, which tells the story of the town’s gold-rush and agricultural past. There’s also time to explore the shops and cafés of the main street before returning to the hotel for dinner together this evening.

Overnight: Young Federation Motor Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we journey south to Junee, a town steeped in railway heritage and known for its fine collection of historic buildings. We begin with morning tea before enjoying a guided tour of the Junee Roundhouse Museum, one of the few working roundhouses left in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn how this remarkable structure once serviced steam locomotives and continues to preserve a proud chapter of railway history.

Our visit continues at the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, where we take a tour and tasting before sitting down to a delicious lunch in the charming café. There’s time to browse the tempting selection of handmade chocolates, licorice, and regional gifts before we make our way back.

Travelling via Cootamundra, we pause for a stroll along the Captain’s Walk, a tree-lined tribute to Australia’s cricketing greats, including local hero Sir Donald Bradman.

Returning to Young in the late afternoon, there will be time to relax before gathering for dinner, reflecting on another enjoyable day of discovery.

Overnight: Young Federation Motor Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we check out and begin our journey home, travelling north through the beautiful countryside of the Central West. Our first stop is Cowra, where we visit the POW Theatre and Olympic Park Rose Garden, both located within the tranquil memorial precinct that honours Cowra’s unique wartime history. We then continue to the serene Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, where manicured landscapes, flowing water and seasonal colour create a peaceful space for reflection.

From Cowra we travel through the heritage village of Carcoar, often described as one of New South Wales’ most beautiful small towns, its perfectly preserved 19th-century buildings offering a glimpse into colonial life.

Arriving in Bathurst, we enjoy lunch and if time allows, we’ll take a memorable drive around the Mount Panorama circuit — an iconic Australian experience and a fitting finale to our journey. With spirits high, we then make our way back to Sydney, bringing our cherry festival tour to a close.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch