18 December 2020

Canberra Day Trips: Murrumbateman

| Canberra Day Trips
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Mollie is a popular fixture at Murrumbateman Winery, where dogs are very welcome. Photo: Glynis Quinlan.

Just over half an hour from the national capital, nestled in the Yass Valley, is the delightful village of Murrumbateman. It’s at the heart of the Canberra district wine region and the focus of the cool climate boutique wineries in the area. Canberra Day Trips has visited Murrumbateman’s wineries before, so this time, we’re exploring everything else the town has to offer.

Why you’ll love it

The scenery is spectacular, with lush rolling hills, picturesque vineyards and a country setting making Murrumbateman a great place to kick back and enjoy the country air.

There’s a fine range of cellar doors where you can enjoy a quality meal and pick up some local produce.

Murrumbateman has some fabulous events, including the village market which runs twice a month on Sundays and sells fresh local produce, wines and gourmet delights, and the Canberra District Wine Harvest Festival, usually held each April, which is a chance to meet winemakers, indulge in fabulous tasting experiences and kick back in the lovely countryside.

Don’t miss

Picture-perfect entrance to Olleyville. Photo: Sophia Brady.

Here are our picks of places to visit in and around Murrumbateman.

Robyn Rowe Chocolates

Robyn Rowe Chocolates Robyn makes her handcrafted delicacies near Murrumbateman using traditional European methods and fresh local ingredients, including home-grown walnuts and locally-produced Muscat. With 26 delicious varieties of chocolate in the shop, including the divine Butterscotch Schnapps Truffle, it’s worth turning off when you see the signs on the Barton Highway onto Nanima Road.

Olleyville at Shaw Vineyard Estate

Shaw Vineyard Estate’s restaurant Olleyville is the perfect place for a spot of lunch that showcases the best of the region’s fresh local produce. The menu has something for everyone, from rustic share plates to family feasts.

Poachers Pantry

Poachers Pantry is the perfect place to while away a few hours in an idyllic setting. The family-run business has been going strong for more than 25 years and now includes a restaurant which serves up local produce and exciting flavours, and a vineyard, farm shop and cellar door. Don’t miss the chance to pick up some delicious smoked goods made onsite, with lines including kangaroo prosciutto, smoked lamb rack and smoked chicken breast. We can highly recommend the smoked duck breast and smoked chicken with tarragon and lemon.

Sculpture in the Paddock

Sculpture in the Paddock is set in a rolling 50 acre paddock on Shaw Vineyard Estate, Murrumbateman, the event is free and is only a 40-minute drive from Canberra. It usually runs in September/October.

Murrumbateman Village Market

Murrumbateman Village Market is a vibrant local market specialising in local produce and handicrafts. There are around 50 regular stalls serving up coffee, sweets and pastries, cookies, jams and chutneys, sourdough bread, sauces, olive oils and hot food. Local native plants and tree suppliers can supply all your garden needs. If you need your pets minded and treats for your dog they have that covered too. Craft stalls include rustic metalwork, wooden toys, garden ornaments, jewellery, bags and cushions, soaps and alpaca goods.

Win’s Creek Meadery

Win’s Creek Meadery is where you’ll find award-winning mead made from the property’s honey, as well as hand-crushed apple cider, honey beer and craft-brewed soft drinks. It’s set in an 1879 building, and the café offers light meals focused on regional, free-range produce and, of course, honey. Pick up some gourmet honey products and hand-crafted beeswax candles and giftware while you’re there, and enjoy the work of local artists in the gallery.

Aerial shot of a Murrumbateman Field Day. Photo: Facebook

Murrumbateman Field Day

Murrumbateman Field Days usually happen once a year, and whether you have a small backyard garden, a hobby farm or a large acreage, you’ll find a range of businesses displaying their products and services. There is live entertainment and a children’s farmyard.

Getting there

Getting to Murrumbateman is easy. From North Canberra, it’s a comfortable drive along the Barton Highway, which will take you all the way to the town.

When to go

Idyllic rural countryside near Murrumbateman. Photo: Supplied

There’s something to discover in Murrumbateman all year round, but check out the events calendar for regular happenings and special events before you go.

Key details

  • Duration: It takes around 35 minutes to drive to Murrumbateman from the centre of Canberra.
  • Distance from Canberra: Around 40km each way.
  • Recommended for: Food and wine aficionados and anyone who enjoys getting away to the country.
  • More information: Visit NSW.

Have you been to Murrumbateman lately? Do you have any recommendations for visitors to the area?

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