I’ve woken up with a smile on my face for a few reasons. For one, I’m here in Orange for Food Week – Australia’s longest-running regional food festival – and today’s my second-favourite day of the year: Forage. Picture this: 1,500 well-dressed, Country Road-type people traversing Orange’s picturesque vineyards, enjoying tasty snacks from the region’s best producers and sipping on delicious drops while slowly getting more and more tipsy.
The second reason? I feel fresh and clear-headed, which I probably don’t deserve considering the dent my friends made at Hey Rosey and Hotel Canobolas the night before. And the third? I’m staying at Quest Orange, a modern accommodation offering on Kite Street. Because I’m right in town, I can walk to a nearby café for my morning oat cap without having to get in the car, find a park or – worse – get public transport (sorry, bus lovers). Plus, the sunlight streaming through the windows right now looks really pretty. See? Lots to be happy about.
Why stay at Quest Orange?
Quest Orange has 77 room options, ranging from studios to one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments – making it an ideal and affordable option whether you’re travelling solo for fun or work, on a friend’s trip, or away with the gang on a family holiday. It’s walking distance to the centre of town, so the only driving you’ll need to do is to the nearby wineries. Got a furry best friend? Quest also lets you bring your dog – just be sure to let them know when booking. I’m also a fan of the complimentary fruit and tea on arrival.
What are the rooms like at Quest Orange?
The rooms are clean, modern, light-filled and fresh, with thoughtful touches like sleepy-time tea bags and a range of pillow options – welcome news for those of us who remember hotel pillows as hard as a brick. All rooms have comfy king-sized beds and a fully equipped kitchenette with a stove and fridge, so you don’t have to eat out every meal if you don’t want to. The apartments also come with a spacious living area, European-style laundry and some have balconies. And because this is 2025, the internet is super speedy, so you can get on with business (and Netflixing).
What are the best places to eat/drink nearby?
Where do I start? In the morning, I like Bills Beans East Orange for coffee and a B&E roll – it’s about a ten-minute stroll from Quest. Byng Street Local Store is also fab, though it’s a 20-minute walk. Good Eddy is another fave for cracking coffee and breakfast.
My top picks for wining and dining include Hey Rosey (winner of Time Out Sydney’s Best Destination Award 2025), Hotel Canobolas (order the pepperoni and hot honey puffy pizza), and you can’t go wrong with a crisp beer in The Union Bank’s courtyard under the twinkling fairy lights. Best bit? They’re all within walking distance.
What is the service like at Quest Orange?
Quest Orange is owned by local Amy van de Ven, who is warm, friendly and passionate about offering guests a fab stay. Everyone we came into contact with during our stay was a delight.
What is the gym like at Quest Orange?
I got my sweat on both times I stayed. The gym is clean and well-maintained – not the biggest in the world, but it’s got everything you need to get your endorphin hit: treadmill, bike, rower, weight machines and free weights.
What’s the area like around Quest Orange?
Quest is a few streets away from the main drag and just a couple of minutes’ walk from the train station, so it’s great if you're travelling from Sydney. Orange has a charming, village-like feel, with wide tree-lined streets, colourful shops and kind locals – plus excellent food and wine. While you’re here, check out Jumbled and Dirty Janes for shopping, as well as Swinging Bridge, ChaLou Wines and Philip Shaw wineries (as a start!).
Why should you book a stay at Quest Orange?
If you’re coming to Orange – and I really recommend you do – Quest is a central, pleasant and affordable option to base yourself. Me? I’ll see you at Forage next year.
Address: 132 Kite St, Orange, NSW, 2800
Price per night: Prices start at around $269 per night for a studio.
Closest transport link: Orange Train Station is 180 metres from Quest Orange.
Book now: You can book a stay at Quest Orange here.
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