Young

The cherry capital of Australia, Young is a perfect escape in the beautiful Hilltops wine region in southwest NSW. There are acclaimed wineries, luscious orchards and golden wheat fields. You can explore the colonial gold rush, enjoy fun festivals, and taste elegant wines and delicious produce.

Begin your discovery of Young at the visitor information centre, in the former Young Railway Station built in the 1880s. You can taste a selection of fine Hilltops wines at the centre and pick up brochures and advice on the many wonderful things to do and see in charming Young and the splendid region.

Take a self-guided heritage walking tour of the town and browse enticing gift and antique stores and gourmet food shops. You can visit wineries directly or join Hilltops Wine Tours for wine tasting at cellar doors and a journey through nearby pretty towns and villages, such as Boorowa and Harden.

The main cherry-picking season is from late October to late January. A fun way to celebrate the juicy stone fruits is the National Cherry Festival, a popular family event in December that draws thousands of visitors. Check out the events calendar for more fun festivals, markets and shows.

Gold fever struck the area, then known as Lambing Flat, in 1860. About 20,000 miners flocked to the goldfields within a year and European miners rioted against Chinese miners, with the worst riots in June 1861. Discover more about this volatile history at the fascinating Lambing Flat Folk Museum.

The lovely, tranquil Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens recognise the Chinese contribution to the settlement of Young, which is less than two hours’ drive from Canberra and four hours from Sydney. Accommodation options in Young suit various budgets, from tourist parks to motels and retreats.