Summer in Melbourne means many things, but one of our favourites is that it's cherry season. These juicy fruits make the perfect Christmas present, dinner table centrepiece or beach snack.
Victoria's cherries are ripe for the taking from early November to mid-January, depending how the season goes – there's even a cherry-picking festival dedicated to grabbing as many of these ruby gems as possible.
But another option is to support and explore eight regional orchards across the Yarra Valley and Ranges, Upper Goulburn Valley and Macedon Ranges. Some will offer you the chance to go cherry-picking, and you can also purchase freshly picked fruit at all of them.
There are more than 80 varieties of cherries in Australia alone, and you’ll get to try types like Stella, Regina and Sweet Georgia, to name a few. These cherries are heart-shaped with dark maroon skin. They’re sweet and rich in flavour and will make the perfect accompaniment to any Christmas celebration.
Make sure to check the websites or contact the orchard prior to your visit. It’s always best to ensure they have availability and will be open as they are weather dependent.
For more information, you can download your Victorian Cherry Trail Guide here. Happy picking!