Nestled in the heart of the stunning Riverina region of NSW, Griffith is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its natural beauty and serene surroundings, this is a great place to reconnect with nature in Griffith.
The town was designed by acclaimed architect Walter Burley Griffin during the dawn of the 20th century, as part of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme. We can thank the European migrants who settled in the Riverina in the aftermath of WWI and WWII for the wonderful food and wine culture. This culture is celebrated at length at the Spring Fest each October. But food and wine aside, Griffith is such a beautiful place to be and, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for some peace and tranquility, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here is a guide on how to get back to nature in Griffith and make the most of your visit to this charming town.
Opening image: Couple enjoying the scenic views over Griffith from Hermit’s Cave and Lookout. Image: Destination NSW.
Discover Cocoparra National Park
Griffith is blessed with its proximity to the Cocoparra National Park, just a 30 minute drive from town it’s a true haven for nature lovers. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the wilderness, where rugged cliffs, picturesque gorges, and native flora and fauna create a beautiful setting. Take yourself for a walk along the designated trails, such as Mount Brogden walking track or Woolshed Falls walking trail. Don’t forget your binoculars as you may spot some of the park’s diverse bird species in flight.
For an extraordinary experience, time your visit after rainfall to witness the waterfalls and creeks in all their glory. During Spring you’ll see a stunning array of wildflowers, orchids, wattles, and tea trees. The nesting season of the magnificent peregrine falcons and the enthralling sight of rainbow bee-eaters constructing their homes in the ground are among the seasonal delights that await you. If you love camping, you can stay the night at the Woolshed Flat camping ground.
Griffith Botanical Gardens
If you prefer a more leisurely experience, head to the Griffith Botanical Gardens. Spanning over 40 acres, these gardens are a tranquil oasis where you can wander through a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a native plant garden. Take a leisurely stroll along the paths, breathe in the fragrant scents, and relax by the peaceful lake
Discover Lake Wyangan
Pack a picnic basket filled with local goodies and head to the shores of Lake Wyangan. Just a short drive from Griffith, it’s a peaceful retreat where you can forget your worries (at least momentarily!) Settle on the grassy banks, enjoy a leisurely lunch and, if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake.
Hermits Cave
For a touch of mystery and history, venture to the Hermits Cave, located within the Bilbul Hills Nature Reserve. This intriguing sandstone cave holds tales of an early settler who sought solace in its seclusion. Take a short walk through the reserve’s bushland, and you’ll find yourself standing at the entrance of the cave where you can fully appreciate the ancient rock formations.
Explore the wineries and vineyards
Griffith is renowned for its fabulous wineries and vineyards. Treat yourself to a tasting journey as you sample the diverse range of award-winning wines on offer. Visit the famous De Bortoli Wines or the iconic McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate, where you can savour exceptional vintages while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. You can also take a deep dive in the wine-making process with a behind-the-scenes tour, and learn about the craftsmanship that goes into creating these fine wines.
Indulge in local produce
You’ll also want to savour the flavours of Griffith; from farm-fresh fruits and veggies, to locally produced olive oils and cheeses, the town’s culinary scene really is a treat. Make sure you visit the Griffith City Market, held every Sunday. For an authentic farm-to-table experience, visit one of the many orchards or farms in the area, where you can pick your own produce and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Farm stays
If you’re looking for a deeper connection with the land, you could treat yourself to a “farm stay” experience, such as the Ingelden Park farm stay which is just 15 minutes drive from town. Or Corynnia Station farm stay, (around a 45 minute drive from town) which even has a private airstrip to fly in guests!
Environmental initiatives
Griffith prides itself on its conservation and environmental initiatives; there are several programs aimed at preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. Even if you’re just visiting for a short time you can join volunteer groups, participate in tree-planting activities, or contribute to wildlife rehabilitation projects to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
If you enjoyed reading about getting back to nature in Griffith, read about Griffith’s best food and wine experiences here.
Travel to Griffith
Rex flies to Griffith. Book your flights here and check out the Rex route map below.
