Orange to Forbes road trip: Distance, drive time & tips for best stops
The Orange to Forbes drive covers a 116km distance in a driving time of around 1h18m. Top road trip stops include Arch Cave and Nangar National Park.
The drive from Orange to Forbes links two of the most appealing towns in the Central West region of New South Wales. Orange is known for its wineries, while Forbes does a nice line in sculptures and heritage.
Orange activities include gourmet picnic lunches in the vineyards and wine-tasting by trike. For the top Orange accommodation options, book here.
Orange to Forbes distance and driving time
By car, the distance from Orange to Forbes is 116km. That makes for a driving time of around one hour and 18 minutes.
Five memorable experiences to book in Orange
- Private wine-tasting tour – on board a rather cool-looking trike.
- Sparkling wine masterclass – with vineyard tour and three course lunch.
- Helicopter tour to a top winery – with wine-tasting.
- Private picnic in the vineyard – with wine included.
- Half day foodie tours – taste the best the region has to offer.
Where to stay in Orange
The top Orange accommodation choices are:
- For style and cool factor: Byng Street Boutique Hotel.
- For a solid motel with (usually) cheap rates and free parking: Ophir Hotel.
- For a glorious three bedroom cottage in a vineyard: Borrodell Vineyard.
- For quality, business traveller-friendly apartments: Quest Orange.
- For studios with spa baths: De Russie Boutique Hotel.
The quickest route is along the Escort Way, which quickly passes the Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve. Here you can take the short, easy walks to Arch Cave and Verandah Cave. Arch Cave has the more impressive stalagmites, stalactites and other cave formations, should you be short on time.
Orange to Forbes road trip stops: Nangar National Park
The route then goes through Cudal and passes Nangar National Park. The 6km return Mount Nangar Walking Track and 8km return Mount Murga Walking Track bring plenty of wildlife and wildflowers if you decide to stretch your legs.
The Orange to Forbes drive then continues to unremarkable Eugowra, then continues through rural landscapes before it reaches the Lachlan River.
What to do in Forbes
Forbes is on the Lachlan, and its top attractions are by the water. These include several parks around Lake Forbes and the Sculptures Down The Lachlan sculpture trail. Also worth a look is the Forbes Historical Museum, which tells stories of legendary bushranger Ben Hall.
Top Forbes accommodation choices include the cheap and central Adrian Motel, plus the well-reviewed and pool-equipped Country Mile Motor Inn.
More Orange distances and driving times
Orange to Bathurst: Distance 57km, driving time 47m. (More Bathurst driving times)
Orange to Canberra: Distance 279km, driving time 3h17m.
Orange to Cowra: Distance 91km, driving time 1h6m.
Orange to Dubbo: Distance 142km, driving time 1h41m. (More driving times to Dubbo)
Orange to Parkes: Distance 99km, driving time 1h8m. (More driving times to Parkes)
Orange to Sydney: Distance 256km, driving time 3h32m. (More Sydney road trips)
Orange to Lithgow: Distance 119km, driving time 1h39m.