Hunter Valley, NSW is a renowned wine and gourmet destination. Its diverse climate also makes fruit picking a must-do, offering a rich variety of fresh, seasonal produce. Whether you’re planning a family weekend trip or a romantic countryside escape, a day of fruit picking promises a refreshing break from the ordinary.
In this guide, discover the best seasons, fruits, and local orchards you can visit – all while enjoying the region’s unique charm.
What Is The Best Fruit Picking Season In Hunter Valley?
Summer is the ideal season for fruit picking in Hunter Valley. Between December and February, the region enters its annual harvest period, with dry heat ripening both grapes and citrus fruits. These months are when vineyards come alive, and local orchards brim with vibrant produce.
Two popular fruits you can pick during this time are grapes and citrus (especially oranges). Grapes are harvested for wine – making this one of the most unique things to do in Hunter Valley, especially when paired with a wine tasting experience. Meanwhile, citrus orchards offer refreshing family-friendly activities.
Planning your visit? Check out the best time to visit Hunter Valley to make the most of your fruit-picking adventure.
Fruit Picking in Hunter Valley All You Need To Know! – Image source InternetGrapes Picking in Hunter Valley
Summer is grape season – and in Hunter Valley, it’s more than just fruit picking. This is the heart of wine country. The vineyards are bustling with energy as ripe bunches are harvested to create the region’s iconic wines.
You can experience grape picking and even learn about the winemaking process at several vineyards:
Oakvale Wines – Crush Party
- Location: Oakvale Wines, Hunter Valley, NSW
- Date: Held annually in February | Next tickets on sale: December
- Price: $200 per person
Oakvale Wines’ annual Crush Party is a hands-on celebration of the harvest season, giving guests the chance to experience winemaking from the inside out. Held every February, the event includes grape picking, grape crushing, barrel tastings, and behind-the-scenes insights from the winery team.
Guests also enjoy games, a three-course lunch paired with Oakvale’s current vintage wines, and live music performances standout set at the most recent celebration.
The day is brought together by the warm hospitality of the Oakvale team, with catering by Hunter Valley Catering. Tickets for the next Crush Party will be available starting December.
McLeish Estate – Autumn Vintage Festival
- Location: McLeish Estate, Hunter Valley, NSW
- Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025 | 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Price: Ticketed event – prices available on McLeish events page
Celebrate 4 decades of winemaking at McLeish Estate’s 40th Anniversary Vintage Festival. Set among autumn vines, the event features a fire-cooked feast by Chef John Ralley, live music by local artist Patrick McMahon, and hands-on vintage activities like grape stomping and barrel rolling.
Enjoy great wine, seasonal food, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Hunter Valley. Bus transfers available from Newcastle and select Hunter accommodations.
Glandore Picking Day
- Location: Glandore Wines, Pokolbin, Hunter Valley, NSW
- Date: Saturday, 25 January 2025
- Ticket Cost: $90 per person
A once-a-year chance to join the grape-to-glass journey at Glandore Wines. Start the day with a winemaker’s breakfast and coffee, then head into the vineyards to pick grapes by hand.
Back at the winery, you’ll take part in foot stomping the fruit, just like in the old days. A long, leisurely lunch with Glandore wines follows, along with the light-hearted Bocci Tournament. Whether you drink or not, it’s a fun and flavourful celebration of the harvest season.
Many wineries also offer picnic areas and wine tasting sessions, perfect for couples or groups. It’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy both hands-on experiences and indulgent treats. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection – summer days can be quite warm.
For couples, this is also a perfect thing to do in Hunter Valley, blending romance with rustic charm.
Fruit Picking in Hunter Valley All You Need To Know! – Image source InternetCitrus Picking in Hunter Valley
While grapes steal the spotlight, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are also a seasonal highlight. In the warm summer months, citrus trees thrive across parts of Hunter Valley.
A great spot to visit is Hillsdale Citrus Orchard, where families can enjoy picking bright, juicy oranges straight from the tree. The experience is simple, fun, and ideal for kids. Most orchards allow you to pay by the bag or kilo – prices vary but are typically affordable (around $10-$20 per bucket, depending on size and fruit type).
Fresh citrus can be enjoyed on the spot or taken home for juices, jams, and healthy snacks.
Citrus picking is a laid-back, feel-good activity, offering a refreshing contrast to the wine-centric experiences of the region.
Hermitage Lodge: Accommodation for Your Hunter Valley Visiting
Located in Pokolbin, Hermitage Lodge places you right in the heart of Hunter Valley-just minutes from some of the region’s most popular wineries and attractions. With a range of rooms and vineyard views, modern amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere, the lodge offers a comfortable base for couples, families, and weekenders.
Whether you’re here for wine tastings, local dining, or seasonal experiences like grape-picking tours nearby, Hermitage Lodge ensures you can explore Hunter Valley with ease-all year round.
References:
