Autumn is apple pie season and according to Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre, there is no greater place to sample the finest than Bilpin.
Regarded by many, the apple growers mecca of the Western Sydney fruitbowl, Bilpin is home 11 outlets serving their take on the delicious treat.
The centre is currently promoting its Bilpin Apple Pie Trail, which maps out the vendors, which are located along a scenic 15 kilometre stretch of Bells Line of Road, either side of the township.
A new map and factsheet has been produced, containing the contact details and opening hours of each business. It is available from the centre, located at 328 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Richmond (open seven days), or by visiting the website discoverthehawkesbury.com.au.
Of course, the pies are just part of the appeal of Bilpin and visitors are sure to return home with much more than a full belly and perhaps a few tasty takeaways.
As well as the finished products, visitors to Bilpin can also take part in fruit picking - apples and other fruits - which is available at many sites throughout the year.
In the autumn months there are plenty of apples, nuts, flowers and veggies to be plucked from the vines and trees.
Madison's Mountain Retreat also offers visitors the chance to get up close with farm animals, including daily alpaca feeding (bookings essential). The Farmyard at TNT Orchard is also a popular haunt.
The What's On section of the information centre's website has details of upcoming events and open days, as do the farms themselves.
Those traveling along the trail on a Saturday would be well advised to check out the produce and craft items on offer at Bilpin Markets, located at the Hall.
Those who enjoy sampling their apples via a straw or glass are encouraged to check out Bilpin's resident cider makers.
Bilpin Cider Co. is ideal for family picnics (order through the business or bring your own) and offers monthly "Thirsty Third Sunday" live music events.
Hillbilly Cider has its own cafe with woodfired pizzas and it also hosts live music and workshops.
During the autumn months the Bilpin scenery changes dramatically and there is perhaps no greater place to take in the glorious sights than Wildwood Garden.
The picturesque 25 acre garden is open Fridays to Mondays until June 7.
Further along Bells Line, visitors will fine Blue Mountains Botonic Garden at Mr Tomah and several other gardens at Mt Wilson to explore. Some of the gardens have admission fees, but all are worth checking out.
With so much on offer, it is no suprise to find the region is a place many folk return to on a regular basis.
An added bonus of making your trek to the area now is taking advantage of the Dine and Discover promotion. Many of the businesses around Bilpin and the Hawkesbury accept the vouchers.
To find out which businesses are participating visit tinyurl.com/3zyznp7z
For more information about local tourism options visit discoverthehawkesbury.com.au
