Chestnuts are one of the special nuts of autumn. They have a naturally sweet, soft flavour and are also known for their nutritional value. In many cultures they are believed to support overall health and provide energy!
During autumn in Victoria, heading into the hills to pick chestnuts is a popular seasonal activity. It is a great way to enjoy nature while spending time with family and friends, and you get to take home fresh chestnuts as well.
Here are a few places around Victoria where you can go chestnut picking.
Ruefleur Chestnuts
Ruefleur Farm is one of the well-known chestnut farms in Victoria and is located in the southern part of the state. It is about a one hour drive from Melbourne.
Thanks to its favourable location, reliable rainfall, and rich mountain soil, the farm produces chestnuts that are smooth in texture with a soft and naturally sweet taste. The farm focuses on natural growing methods without pesticide contamination.
In addition to fresh chestnuts, they also sell a range of chestnut products including chestnut jam, chestnut flour, chestnut honey, and chestnut peelers.
Payment at the orchard is cash only. You must call and make a booking before visiting, as entry is not allowed without an appointment due to limited parking.
Location
Olinda, Victoria, Australia
Sunny Creek Organic Berry Farm
Sunny Creek Organic Berry Farm is located in the Strzelecki ranges in Gippsland, about a one hour and forty minute drive from Melbourne.
Besides chestnuts, the farm is best known for growing a wide variety of berries and fruits, with over one hundred types available across the seasons. You can check their website for more details about the different fruits.
Chestnut picking season usually starts in early April, and April to May is the best time to visit.
Opening hours are generally 10am to 5pm. It is recommended to call ahead before visiting.
Entry is $5 for adults and free for kids. Chestnuts you pick and take home are $6 per kilogram.
Location
69 Tudor Rd, Trafalgar South, Victoria
Chestnut Springs
Chestnut Springs is located in Gembrook, around a 70 minute drive from Melbourne CBD.
The orchard has more than 100 chestnut trees. During April the farm usually opens on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4:30pm.
Payment is cash only. Entry costs $5 and chestnuts are $5 per kilogram. Kids can enter for free.
Gloves and buckets are provided, but the chestnut trees are some distance from the parking area and the terrain can be steep, so it is recommended to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
It is also a good idea to confirm opening times before visiting to avoid making the trip unnecessarily.
Location
30 Maisey Rd, Gembrook VIC 3783
Bella Vista Farm
Bella Vista Farm is also located in the Dandenong Ranges, about one hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD.
The farm offers both hazelnut and chestnut picking, although hazelnut season has already finished for the year.
Chestnut picking is open on weekends from 9:30am to 6pm. There is no entry fee for the U-pick experience, and you can also buy chestnuts directly at the farm. Prices vary depending on size.
Location
50 Camms Rd, The Patch VIC 3792