Travel guide New South Wales

There may or may not be gold in ‘them there hills’, but Orange is certainly a place with many golden opportunities to enjoy yourself.  Set in the glorious explorer territory of the Central West, one of the first things you notice about Orange is its sense of history.  An easy few hours drive from Sydney, Orange is a city that has become a mecca for those who enjoy the good things in life, along with a flavour of the country.

Ophir Valley Cabins are a short drive from the centre of Orange, and are the perfect place to stay while you discover all that Orange and the surrounds have to offer you, whether you are looking to keep the family happy, or are on the gourmet trail with friends or a special someone.

You have a choice of staying in “The Lodge”, “The Retreat” or “The Ranch”.  The Lodge is a fully self-contained two-bedroom cabin, which can sleep up to 6.  Both bedrooms have queen-size beds, and there is a futon in the living room.  The Retreat is also a two-bedroom cabin, which can sleep up to four, and makes the most of the beautiful outlook with a wrap-around verandah.  The Ranch boasts three bedrooms, one with a king-size bed, another with a queen-size bed and a single and the third room has a double bed.

The cabins have all the space and facilities that you could ask for, including log fires and a slate-based pool table so there are activities for those who prefer the indoors to the great outdoors!  Pets are welcome outdoors.

All the cabins make the most of the natural beauty and serenity of the area, and the land abounds with wildlife such as kangaroos – you may spot a platypus if you are lucky; there are many walks through the state reserves and just 500 metres away from the cabins is a magnificent waterfall (rainfall dependent, of course!).

Pan for gold in the creek or visit the historic 1851 Chinese water race.  Ophir is where the first ‘payable gold’ in Australia was discovered and there are many reminders of its golden history.  Fossicking is a favourite pastime and you will find many opportunities to turn up your own flashes of gold.

If the lure of gold is not for you, then perhaps a visit to nearby Mt Canobolas Recreation Area is more your speed.  From the summit of the peak - 1395 metres above sea level – is an awe-inspiring 360-degree view of Orange, the beautiful countryside and even the Blue Mountains in the distance. Lake Canobolas lies at the foot of the mount and has many facilities for water sports, picnics, BBQs and nature walks.

Orange is one of those fortunate Australian cities that truly has four seasons and snow is not uncommon in the winter months.  This cooler climate is perfect for wine and there are many wineries specialising in premium cool climate blends.  There is plenty of shopping for lovers of retail therapy, and the local antique shops are a treasure trove for those who prefer to fossick for furniture, rather than gold.

With so much to see and do in the area, at the end of the day you will be happy  to return to Ophir Valleys Cabins to sit on the verandah – or in front of the log fire – and enjoy the clarity of the air, the bird song and of course, a glass of local wine.