New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour

Introduction

If you’re looking for a day trip from Sydney that combines scenic beauty, a hint of adventure, and a sweet reward, the New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to families, nature lovers, and curious explorers alike.

What we especially like about this tour is how it seamlessly blends iconic sights like Echo Point and Mount Panorama with the more intimate pleasure of cherry picking—something that transforms a simple day into a memorable outing. Plus, the inclusion of a V8 race track drive adds a dash of excitement for car enthusiasts.

A possible consideration? The tour’s long duration—about 13 hours—might feel a bit full for some, especially if you’re traveling with young children or prefer a more relaxed pace. Nonetheless, it’s a cost-effective way to see some of New South Wales’ most celebrated locations in one action-packed day.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy varied scenery, authentic local activities, and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you value the chance to pick fresh fruit and soak in striking views, this tour offers a lot of value.

Key Points

• Scenic diversity: Enjoy both Blue Mountains vistas and the thrill of cherry picking.
• All-in-one tour: Combines iconic landmarks, a race track drive, and orchard fun.
• Value for money: At $68.14, it includes transport and several key stops.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for both adults and children, especially those who love outdoor activities.
• Long day: Expect around 13 hours, so pack snacks and be ready for a full schedule.
• Authentic experiences: Permission to pick cherries and a visit to an actual V8 race track create memorable moments.

An In-Depth Look at the New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour

Starting Early and Setting Out

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, giving you an early start that maximizes your day. You’ll meet your group and guide, then hop into a comfortable vehicle for the journey. This early start is beneficial as it allows for a relaxed pace and the chance to beat some of the crowds at popular spots. With a maximum of 60 travelers, you’re part of a reasonably sized group, which means you often get a more personal experience without feeling crowded.

First Stop: Echo Point Lookout

Your first stop is the famous Echo Point, a quick 20-minute visit that packs a big visual punch. From here, you’ll get a sweeping view of the Blue Mountains Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. This viewpoint is a top-tier photo opportunity and a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air.

While the stop is brief, it’s enough to appreciate the scale and natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The views here are often highlighted as a favorite part of the tour, thanks to their sheer grandeur. Travelers often comment on how stunning the scenery is, making this a worthwhile pit stop.

Drive Through Mount Panorama

Next, the tour takes you to Bathurst, home of the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit, where the Bathurst 1000 V8 supercar race is held. Driving along this famous track is an exciting highlight, especially if you’re a motor racing fan. The guide’s commentary makes it more than just a drive; it’s an opportunity to imagine the roar of engines and the glitz of race day.

Following this, you’ll head into town for lunch at one of three fast-food options—McDonald’s, KFC, or Hungry Jack’s. While some might prefer a sit-down meal, this quick stop helps keep the day on schedule. It’s a practical choice, given the tight itinerary, but if you’re craving local cuisine, you might consider bringing your own picnic or snacks.

The Cherry Picking Experience

After lunch, the tour’s highlight for many is the two-hour and fifteen-minute visit to Orange, where you’ll get to pick your own cherries. This part of the day is both fun and rewarding—literally. You’ll have permission to pick cherries directly from the trees, which makes for a truly authentic fruit-picking experience.

Travelers have described this segment as “delightful,” noting that the cherries are fresh and juicy. You’ll also have the option to purchase your hand-picked cherries at $8–$12 per kilogram, cash only. This is a good opportunity to take home a sweet treat, especially since the cherries are sun-ripened and freshly picked that day.

The orchard setting feels peaceful and offers a chance to experience local agriculture firsthand. Kids often enjoy the activity, and it’s a fun way to connect with nature.

Visiting Mt. Panorama

Before returning to Sydney, the tour includes a visit to Mount Panorama, a legendary race track that draws motorsport fans worldwide. The visit here is short but impactful, allowing you to admire the track’s sweeping curves and impressive elevation change. It’s a great photo op and provides insight into the racing culture that has become a staple of the region.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s $68.14 price covers all the main features: return transfers, visits to Echo Point and Mount Panorama, and the cherry-picking permit. These inclusions deliver good value, especially considering the transportation and access to various attractions.

However, meals are not included, and you will need to pay cash if you decide to buy cherries or souvenirs. Some travelers find the fast-food lunch acceptable for convenience, but if you prefer a sit-down meal with local flavors, it’s worth planning ahead.

Other personal items or extra snacks are on you, so packing a small bag with essentials is advisable.

The Practical Side: Timing and Group Size

Starting at 7:00 am, the tour concludes back in Sydney roughly 13 hours later. The long day allows you to see quite a bit without feeling rushed, but it does require stamina. The group size maxes out at 60 travelers, which strikes a balance between social atmosphere and manageable logistics.

Transport is by comfortable coach, ideal for the long drives and scenic routes. The journey itself offers plenty of opportunities for breaks and to take in the countryside.

Authenticity and Comfort

What sets this tour apart is the combination of sightseeing and hands-on activities. Picking cherries is a genuine farm experience, not just a staged stop, and it adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate. The stops at Echo Point and Mount Panorama are well-chosen, offering classic Australian scenery and motorsport culture.

While some travelers mention the tour’s length as a potential downside, most agree that the variety of sights and activities makes it worthwhile. The guide’s commentary adds context and enthusiasm, enriching the experience beyond just the visuals.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who want a full day of diverse experiences—combining natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and a dash of adventure. It’s ideal if you enjoy outdoor activities and are curious about local industries like agriculture. The cherry-picking segment makes it especially appealing for families and anyone wanting a memorable, hands-on activity.

If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace or have a tight schedule, you might find the long hours a bit exhausting. However, for those eager to see a lot in a single day and enjoy some genuine local flavor, this trip offers excellent value.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities and fruit-picking generally find this experience fun. The itinerary is family-friendly, but consider the long day before booking with very young kids.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes return transfers, visits to Echo Point and Mount Panorama, and permission to pick cherries. It’s a good value for the price.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included. You can buy lunch at fast-food outlets or bring your own snacks.

Can I buy cherries on the day?
Yes, you can purchase your hand-picked cherries for $8–$12 per kilogram, cash only.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, so be prepared for an early start.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, including travel time and stops.

Is the group size large?
Yes, the maximum is 60 travelers, allowing for a lively but manageable atmosphere.

The Sum Up

The New South Wales Cherry Picking Tour from Sydney offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and fun activities—all at a reasonable price. The combination of iconic Blue Mountains views, the thrill of race track drives, and the delight of hand-picking fresh cherries makes for a memorable day out. It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy a bit of everything and don’t mind a full schedule.

Ideal for families, outdoor lovers, and those eager to experience authentic local flavors, this tour delivers more than just sightseeing—it provides a taste of regional life and landscapes that will stay with you long after the cherries are gone.