Famous for its apples and punctuated by stunning panoramic vistas of orchard and grazing country, Batlow is a beautiful little township in the hills.
While Batlow’s orchards take centre stage, the region is also home to chestnuts, hazelnuts, truffles, and a thriving sheep and cattle industry.
Midway between Tumut and Tumbarumba, large native and softwood forests cover the hillsides around the town, and just south is the village of Laurel Hill, where you’ll find the stunning Pilot Hill Arboretum, in Bago State Forest.
Batlow boasts four genuine seasons and sees snow during winter, just enough for a snowball fight, or perhaps a small snowman.
Things to do
In Batlow, apples aren’t just a crop, they’re a way of life, so it’s only natural that cider features prominently on the local menu. Head to Crafty Cider’s welcoming cellar door to sample their small-batch creations or enjoy the full orchard-to-glass experience at The Apple Thief Cider
House. From wandering through the trees to relaxing in the modern tasting bar with a bite to eat, it’s an experience to savour.
Seasonal farmgate stops let you pick your own apples or stock up on fresh local produce. Mouat’s Farm Shop is a favourite for crisp
apples, sweet cherries, farm-fresh eggs, homemade jams and local honey. For something a little different, Yesteryear Plantations offers a look into the traditional process of eucalyptus oil distillation, along with a charming shop filled with unique products made on-site.
Batlow is home to eight striking artworks that form part of the Snowy Valleys Sculpture Trail adding a creative touch to the town’s scenic charm and inviting visitors to explore art in the heart of nature.
Accommodation options include pub stays, cottages, B&Bs, farmstays, and camping in Bago State Forest. Batlow is also a CMCA RV-friendly town and offers free parking for self-contained vehicles for up to 3 nights at Batlow Memorial Park.
History
The township dates to the 19th century goldrush. In 1854, prospectors converged on Reedy Creek (the name by which Batlow was first known). Farms and orchards were established to help feed the gold seekers. Perfect climate and soil conditions meant that fruit quickly
became a major industry. The first cool stores in NSW were built in Batlow in 1923. This milestone was quickly followed by the formation of the Cool Stores co-operative and the Batlow Packing House.
Learn about the area by visiting the Batlow Historical Society Museum.
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