CherryHill Orchards

Not for naught has the expression “pretty please, with a cherry on top” taken hold.

The natural treat is one of the delights of an Aussie summer.

Of course, it is a quintessential Christmas staple.

In fact, until February a plentiful supply of the premium stone fruit should be readily available.

Although the cold and wet weather resulted in a delayed start, Victoria’s cherry season is now in full swing.

The official launch of the season was marked in the Yarra Valley by CherryHill Orchards.

Located in Wandin and Coldstream, they are Australia’s largest pick-your-own cherry orchards. 

I attended the beautifully manicured Coldstream facility and, with red bucket in hand, plucked the crimson cherries from the trees with little effort.

It makes for a great day out, one in which you can subsequently, literally, enjoy the fruit of your labour.

While there are more than 900 varieties of sweet cherries grown worldwide, CherryHill produces upwards of 40 varieties.

It began when George Risborough planted his first cherry trees in 1940.

Now, the orchards have evolved to incorporate modern farm gate shops.

These stock everything from boxed cherries to alcoholic and non-alcoholic cherry beverages, ice-cream, gelati and gifts.

The Coldstream orchard will host a free Christmas Market on the 20th and 21st of December.

At the Wandin orchard, visitors are invited to the inaugural twilight cherry-picking experience on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of December.

Both orchards have vast picnic areas, where you can readily bask in the glorious surrounds.

For tickets and to find out more, go to www.cherryhill.com.au