Young

Surrounded by orchards, vineyards and olive groves, Young is a historic gold rush town famous for its delicious cherries. Nestled in the cool climate Hilltops wine region, you’ll discover gold rush history, fun festivals and outdoor adventure in this abundant region. 

Australia’s cherry capital 

The fertile soils of the Young region burst with cherries every year, and you can enjoy cherry-picking season from October to January. A fun way to celebrate this delight is the National Cherry Festival in December, which includes a parade and pie-eating contest.

You’ll also find many other orchards to explore, spilling with fruits such as plums and apricots. Savour some local jams at Poppa’s Jam and Fudge Factory, Ballinaclash Orchard and Cellar Door and Valley Fresh Cherries. The events calendar is full of festivals and markets.

Hilltops wine region

The Hilltops wine region’s high altitude and distinct seasons are ideal for growing stone fruits and cool climate wine grapes. You can visit wineries directly or join a wine tour for an organised tasting at cellar doors. Enjoy the views of Young at acclaimed Grove Estate.

You can also sip your way through nearby towns and villages, such as Boorowa and Harden. Between Young and Harden you can enjoy a slice of Italy at Freeman Vineyards, home to Australia’s only plantings of Rondinella and Corvina.  

Gold rush heritage

Gold fever struck the Young area, then known as Lambing Flat, in 1860. About 20,000 European and Chinese miners flocked to the goldfields within a year, leading to the famous Lambing Flat Riots. Learn about this volatile history at Lambing Flat Folk Museum.

Take a self-guided heritage walking tour of Young. The Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens recognise the contribution of the Chinese community to Young. Step back in time at The Rustic Maze and Country Garden, a fun family outing.

Getting there and where to stay

Young is around four hours’ drive from Sydney and two hours from Canberra. It’s also a great stop on a Sydney to Melbourne road trip. The nearest airports are in Canberra, Wagga Wagga and Bathurst, all around two hours away. There are many places to stay including motels, B&Bs, riverside camping and farm stays.