Discover Nashdale

Nashdale brings together wineries, seasonal fruit offerings and the water-supply history of Lake Canobolas. The Old Pumphouse stands on the eastern shore of the lake; cellar doors in Nashdale offer different tasting formats, while activities on the lake and fruit offerings are shaped by the seasons. This overview highlights the details that may be especially important for your plans.

Water-supply history at Lake Canobolas

The Old Pumphouse is on the eastern shore of Lake Canobolas and was restored to near its original condition after more than 60 years out of operation. The lake was formerly known as Meadow Creek Reservoir and was created in 1918 to supply water to Orange. The pumphouse directed water from the reservoir to Orange. Together, the reservoir and pumphouse tell two sides of the same water-supply story: the constructed water storage and the technical process of delivering the water.

The Apex Adventure Playground is also on the eastern shore. The water-supply history and playground offer different focuses for planning. If you are travelling with children, you can consider both: the playground as an activity in its own right and the pumphouse as a historical look at the former water supply.

Wine tastings with different highlights

At Nashdale Lane Wines, owners, wine specialists or winemakers explain the winemaking process step by step during an estate wine-tasting experience. Tastings are booked per table, not per person. The vineyard’s elevation is also part of the winery’s character: it sits between 860 and 900 metres above sea level and is sustainably managed.

At RIKARD Wines in Nashdale, wines from the bottle, barrel and tank are tasted under the guidance of the winemakers. Tastings and tours are also available; confirm booking details directly with the winery. See Saw Wine offers standard tastings at its cellar door, as well as seasonal food and wine pairings. At Dindima Wines, you can enjoy a personalised wine tasting at the cellar door.

Rowlee’s cellar door is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm and offers two tasting experiences. Guided tastings introduce a selection of cool-climate wines. Opening hours may change; check the details before your visit. In the wider area around the destination, Rowlee also offers a private four-hour experience with a vineyard tour, personalised tasting and lunch. Transfers from nearby accommodation are included.

Activities and nature by the lake

Activities at Lake Canobolas change with the seasons. Depending on the season, options include cycling, sailing, canoeing, hiking, swimming and dragon boating. The choices range from activities on the water to exercise on land; the season is an important factor in planning.

In Lake Canobolas Reserve, in the wider area around the destination, a walking track circles the lake. The reserve is considered a haven for native birds and other wildlife. It also has picnic areas, barbecue facilities and fishing spots. Lake Canobolas is open daily from early morning until sunset. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash. As operating information may change, check the details before your visit.

Seasonal fruit and dining

Nashdale’s seasonal fruit includes cherries, peaches, plums, apples, figs and quinces. Depending on the season, you can pick your own fruit or buy it fresh directly from farm gates; availability varies. This means your travel dates also matter when deciding which harvest offerings suit your plans.

Rowlee Dining and Bar in Nashdale serves lunch from Thursday to Sunday and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. These hours may also change, so it is worth checking them before your visit.

Planning around time and seasons

Planning schedules vary: a private Rowlee experience lasts four hours, activities at Lake Canobolas and Nashdale’s fruit are seasonal, and tastings at Nashdale Lane are booked per table. If you are looking for a hotel, you can use these differences as a starting point: would you like a set wine experience to shape your day, do you want to plan seasonal activities by the lake, or are you interested in harvest time?

Discover more destinations: North Albury, Howlong, Varroville, Summer Island, Silverton, Holbrook, Breadalbane, Lower Portland.

For the broader travel overview: New South Wales.