Orange is nestled in the central west of the New South Wales Central Tablelands. Located only 260 kilometres west of Sydney, Orange is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Positioned on the western side of the Great Dividing Range, its close proximity to regional centres Bathurst and Dubbo, make Orange a popular destination for a wide range of visitors.

Originally known as 'Blackman's Swamp', Orange has adapted the more inviting name of 'The city of Colour'. Although the name may suggest it, this location is not known for growing oranges. In fact it is just the opposite! Orange is a huge grower of apples and provides half of the New South Wales crop. Yet this is not the only thing that keeps this regional haven so strong. A diverse economy and status as the largest city in the central-western district makes it a much talked about metropolis. The mix of history and cosmopolitan are evident in the beautifully restored buildings that line the main street. The elegance and splendour of the 19th Century are unmistakeable in the buildings' stained glass windows and the wide, tree-lined streets. The town is scattered with attractive parks and gardens, which are highlighted throughout the four distinct seasons, bringing the city to life.

While visiting Orange, you will never run out of things to do. To gain a historical understanding of the city, drive along the Orange Heritage Trail, which takes you on a tour of the grand old buildings. On this drive you will see Orange as it once was, with special focus on the old churches, the historic courthouse and Town Hall.

To experience the natural settings of Orange, explore the multitudes of parks and gardens. The Botanical Gardens and the Cook Park Heritage Park are particularly stunning, with easy walking tracks and trails. Venture up into the mountains, Mount Canobalas to be exact, for a more rugged environment. Here you can visit the lake and either canoe or engage in some very rewarding fishing (depending on the season).

To gain more of the historical significance of Orange, spare a day to visit the local caves. Head along Trunkey Creek - Goulbourn Road and you will come across Abercrombie Caves. This historical site is fantastic cave tours, camping, hiking, fossicking for gems and gold, swimming and fishing. It is also the home of 'The Archway', the largest natural arch in the Southern hemisphere. Another short, scenic drive from Orange is to the Borenore caves. This tourist attraction is ideal for a relaxing family day out and is the dwelling of several tunnel and arch caves.

When visiting the Orange region, another 'must-do' to add to your list is a visit to the Nungar National Park. The park is home to dramatic escarpments and spectacular views of the Nangar Ridge, a magnificent cliff line. The terrain is rather rugged, so it would be wise to hire a 4WD to trek through this particular area. However, it is well worth it because the lookout on the top of the ridge has the most breathtaking views you could hope for.

Orange is not just famous for its apples, as it is actually the birthplace of the famous Australian poet, Banjo Paterson. While in town, make sure you visit the Banjo Patterson Park, which abodes the Memorial of the great Australian writer. There is also a monument in the civic gardens, which pays tribute to the most famous and admired bush poet, who wrote those all too familiar words of "Waltzing Matilda".

Seeing Orange from the ground just may not be enough for some of those adventurous thrill seekers out there! So, take a short drive to the village of Canowindra, the 'Hot Air Ballooning Capital of Australia!" See Orange and all of its splendour from the air and experience the true wonders of the New South Wales Tablelands.

All that Orange has to offer can be enjoyed while you settle into one of the vast range of accommodation options on offer. Chose to campervan or camp in one of the local caravan parks, or for a more comfortable stay, chose from the welcoming bed & breakfast's or hotels and motels. Orange is guaranteed to offer something for all!



So whether it's from the air, the ground or on the edge of the Nangar Ridge, Orange is certain to entice, excite and exhilarate you!

Christine Barton