In the beautiful Yarra Valley, Rayner’s Orchard is a small boutique orchard where fruit lovers and adventurers can have an experience like no other. This fruit farm has many varieties of fruit, where you can connect with nature and eat the freshest, tastiest fruit straight from the tree. From summer stone fruit to exotic picks like the Dutch medlar, the orchard is a treasure trove of natural fruit products that showcase the art of farming.
Looking for a fun fruit-picking experience, a fruit-tasting adventure or a deep dive into the art of fruit preservation? Rayner’s Orchard has a day out for families, groups and individuals.
History
Rayner’s Orchard was established in the 1940s and has evolved into a boutique orchard with an abundance of fresh produce. Today the farm is over 100 acres of fruit trees and is still family owned and operated with a focus on traditional farming practices. Known for their expertise in fruit preservation and commitment to sustainability the orchard is a favourite destination in the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
Fruit Picking Adventure
One of the benefits of Rayner’s Orchard is that we can offer fruit picking 365 days a year. With hundreds of stone fruit and other seasonal fruit to pick, there’s always something different to see. From nectarine blossoms in spring to clingstone peaches and white nectarines in summer, we have something for everyone.
Seasonal Points:
- Spring: Nectarine trees in bloom and early peaches
- Summer: Rows of peaches, kiwi fruit, stone fruit and plums for a picnic or fresh snacks.
- Autumn: Pick apples, pears and persimmons from the trees with fruit.
- Winter: Enjoy citrus fruits, oranges, lemons and mandarins.
Tractor Fruit Tasting Tours
Rayner’s Orchard is famous for our Tractor Fruit Tasting Tours. A fun way to experience the orchard. With expert guides or our friendly farm guides you’ll be educated and indulged.
What to Expect:
- Fruit tasting: Taste a selection of fruit, including fruit picked straight from the trees.
- Blossom Tours: See the orchard in bloom and learn about the fruit tree growth cycle.
- Farming practices: Learn about sustainable farming and seasonal fruit.
- Orchard Tractor ride: Ride the Orchard Tractor through the 100 acre bushland.
The Peach Café
After a day of fruit picking and adventuring, head to the Peach Café for a wholesome farm-style meal. Rustic and cozy, the café serves seasonal fruit and fruit pies, fruit jam and farm-style meals. Try their famous stone fruit ice cream or a lunch time special featuring fresh picked produce.
A Treat:
- Homemade desserts with jars of fruit, bottled fruit and fruit leathers.
- Dishes using lemons and other seasonal fruit.
- Fruit infused drinks.
Workshops and Events
Rayner’s Orchard is not just a place to visit; it’s also a place to learn. Their Fruit Bottling Workshops are for those who want to become a fruit preservation master. In these sessions you’ll get hands on experience turning fresh fruit into long lasting treats like bottled fruit, jams and fruit cans.
What to do:
- Fruit bottling: Make your own jars of preserved fruit.
- Expert advice: Tips from the experts on how to combine fruit with flavour.
- Farm Gate Shop: Buy homemade fruit products and gift shop goodies to take a piece of the orchard home.
Family Fun
Rayner’s Orchard is designed to create memories with the family. Kids and adults will love the fruit tasting tours and the family friendly atmosphere means everyone will have a great time. Combine your visit with a trip to Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close and personal with native animals or explore the gallery of locations and wine regions for a full day of fun.
Nearby Attractions:
- Healesville Sanctuary: Get up close with native animals.
- Wine regions: Combine your visit with a Yarra Valley wine tour.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Location
Woori Yallock. Easy drive from Melbourne. A stop on many Yarra Valley tours from Melbourne. Autopia Tours often include a visit to the orchard as part of their tours.
Opening Hours
- Open 7 days a week. Holidays included.
- Tour times vary. Book in advance.
Specials
- Family, group and senior deals. Fruit Unique Senior Outings.
- Seasonal packages include fruit baskets or discounts on the kilo for fruit you pick.
Why Rayner’s Orchard is Special
With so many fruit varieties, a fruit tasting adventure and hands on workshops Rayner’s Orchard is more than just a visit. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, indulge in delicious fruit and have a real Yarra Valley experience.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fruit fanatic, a natural fruit product lover or just looking for a peaceful retreat Rayner’s Orchard has something for you. From fun fruit picking to farm-style meals at the Peach Café, this boutique fruit orchard is a must-see. Add Rayner’s to your to-do list for a day of visits, where you can learn and taste the best of what nature has to offer.
FAQs
What fruit is available at Rayner’s Orchard?
Stone fruit, kiwi fruit, Dutch medlar, citrus.
Are the fruit picking tours for families?
Yes. Family friendly environment. Activities for all ages.
Can I take fruit home from the orchard?
Yes. Pick and buy by the kilo or buy prepacked fruit baskets at the Farm Gate Shop.
Do I need to book for the Fruit Bottling Workshops?
Yes book in advance for these popular workshops.
What else can I do after the orchard?
Healesville Sanctuary, wine tasting or just enjoy the Yarra Valley.