Spend a full day out of Sydney visiting Echo Point, driving Mount Panorama and picking sun-ripened cherries at a Central Tablelands orchard. This practical guide outlines what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of the season.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the coach into a cool rim of eucalypt air at Echo Point, with the Jamison Valley dropping away like a page being turned. The Three Sisters watch over the cliff edge while the valley drafts a wind that seems to usher you toward the day’s next stop — a working orchard where branches sag with glossy, sun-warmed cherries.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
13 hours (full-day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires getting on/off coach, short walks on uneven ground, and standing while picking fruit.
Wildlife
History
The Blue Mountains were formed from uplifted Triassic sandstone and have long been significant to local Aboriginal peoples; Bathurst later grew as a colonial inland settlement and motorsport center.
Conservation
Orchards operate within the Central Tablelands’ agricultural landscape, so practice low-impact picking and follow on-site guidance to avoid damaging trees; stick to marked paths at lookouts to protect fragile vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Timing the season
Book for Australian summer (December–February) for peak cherry ripeness and longer daylight; outside of peak the trees may be sparse.
Dress in layers
Lookouts and orchard rows can vary in temperature — a lightweight fleece or windbreaker is useful for morning fog and cooler afternoons.
Bring a small cooler or insulated bag
If you plan to take cherries home, an insulated bag keeps fruit fresh for the return coach ride.
Footwear for uneven ground
Orchard rows and short lookout trails are often uneven; closed-toe shoes with grip help on mud or loose soil.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protects feet on orchard rows and short lookout trails.
Sun protection (hat + sunscreen)
Open lookouts and orchard rows offer little shade during summer.
summer
Insulated bag or small cooler
Keeps picked cherries cool for the trip home.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated on a long day of travel and outdoor activity is important.