If summer tastes like anything, its the juicy flavour of a sun-warmed cherry straight off the tree – & Cherry-picking in Yarra Valley is just the ticket for a sweet day out of Melbourne. You’ll find family orchards scattered between Warburton and Coldstream bursting with a staggering 30+ varieties of cherries – deep red beauties, crisp ones that are firm to bite into, even some white ones for those who like to try new things. Pick-your-own is a real hoot for all ages: grab a bucket, wander down the rows, take a bite as you go & take in the stunning scenery of the ranges while the sun shines down.
Explore the picturesque Yarra Valley with our cherry Yarra Valley Wine Tours from Melbourne. Indulge in premium wine tastings and soak in the beauty of the region’s cherry orchards.
Cherries in the Yarra Valley
The cherry-haven growers in Warburton and the Yarra Valley take advantage of the rich soils and temperate climate to grow the best cherries for you to enjoy. Different varieties are grafted onto rootstocks in the orchard. Most farmers have at least ten varieties watered at varying times of the year.
Every week, at least one variety is ready for harvest. Each variety has its unique taste and texture, and there are even sour white varieties. There are many self-service cherry orchards in the region where you can bring friends and family to pick fresh cherries right off the tree. Visitors should look for firm, bright, shiny cherries with fresh green stems. Ask to try a few different varieties to determine which you prefer!
Most people are surprised at the size of the cherries that can be picked in Yarra Valley orchards. They are larger and better tasting than anything you can buy in the supermarket. It’s best to call ahead to ensure you arrive when the orchards are open and the cherries are ready to pick.
Group and bus tours are generally welcome, but it’s best to call ahead to check and book.
Cherry season
The cherry season begins in most regions around the first or second week of November and lasts until mid-January. The season peaks in the weeks before Christmas. In Australia, cherries are closely associated with the Christmas table and are an everyday treat and gift during the festive period.
Cherry blossoms
In September, the gardens of Warburton and the Yarra Valley are dressed in many colours as the cherry trees come back to life after the winter months.
It is also a particular time for the Japanese who celebrate Hanami, meaning ‘looking at flowers’, and it is a well-known annual Japanese tradition to picnic under the ‘sakura’, or cherry blossom trees as they are known in Japan. Gardens organise events dedicated to the blossoms throughout this period.
CherryHill Orchards
CherryHill Orchards is Victoria’s largest and most famous cherry-picking orchard. For many, a favourite summer tradition is to have a picnic lunch, enjoy the views of the Yarra Ranges, and pick more than 30 varieties of cherries straight from the tree, which taste delicious.
As well as cherry picking, you can also visit the Farmgate cafes and shops at Wandine East and Coldstream Orchards throughout the cherry season. Buy fresh, high-quality preserved cherries, try cherry ice cream or enjoy a drink in the picturesque atmosphere of the Yarra Valley.
The cherry harvest takes place every year from mid-November to early January. The event dates are subject to weather and harvest conditions; please check the website for the latest information. Reservations are required.
Fruit tastings
The RaRayner’s Orchard has over 450 varieties of fruit available all year round. Take part in a guided tour to taste seasonal fruit on the tree and choose the ones you want to take home. During each visit, you can taste at least 7 or 8 varieties of fruit.
Come and taste the quality of fresh fruit plucked straight from the tree! Bring your kids for a healthy day out and get them outdoors and in touch with nature. It’s also an excellent idea for a children’s birthday party. Every child who celebrates their birthday receives a certificate from RaynerRayner’s Tasting Adventure Tours team, open daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Rayner’sd.
FAQ
When is cherry season in the Yarra Valley?
Cherry season usually starts in the first or second week of November and runs until mid-January, peaking just before Christmas.
Do different cherry varieties ripen at the same time?
No, more than 30 varieties ripen at different times throughout the season, so each visit offers new flavours to try.
Can visitors taste cherries before picking?
Yes, most orchards allow you to sample different varieties so you can choose your favourites before picking.
Is booking required for cherry picking?
Yes, many popular orchards like CherryHill require reservations, especially during peak season.
What else can you do besides picking cherries?
You can enjoy picnics with views of the Yarra Ranges, visit farmgate cafés, try cherry ice cream, or explore other local fruits at nearby orchards.
