20 of the Most Beautiful Scenic Apple Orchards Around the World

Imagine wandering through rows of apple trees, their branches heavy with ripe, vibrant fruit, set against a backdrop of breathtaking autumnal landscapes. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the serene valleys of Vermont, apple orchards around the world offer not just delicious fruit but also stunning scenery that captivates the senses.

Whether you’re an avid traveler, a nature lover or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of orchards, join us as we explore 20 of the most beautifully scenic apple orchards around the world in this story. Each one promises a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the splendor of nature’s bounty.

Apple Plateau – Naz-Sciaves, Italy

The Naz-Sciaves High Apple Plateau, located in the heart of South Tyrol, stands as Italy’s northernmost apple cultivation zone at an elevation of 730 to 890 meters. This enchanting plateau produces over 11,000 tons of apples annually, including popular varieties like Jonagold, Elstar, Golden Delicious, and Gala.

The region’s sunny conditions contribute to the exceptional quality of these apples, which many around the world have enjoyed. Each spring, the plateau transforms into a pastel-colored sea of blooming apple trees, filling the air with a sweet, delicate fragrance. Autumn brings a vibrant harvest, which is celebrated with festivals that honor the bounty of this fertile land.

This region’s apples are not only sought after for fresh consumption but also serve as key ingredients in craft ciders, offering a delightful experience for beer connoisseurs exploring diverse, fruit-infused brews. The Apple Plateau is a testament to Italy’s agricultural heritage and innovation.

Facts About The Apple Plateau (Apfelhochplateau)

Climate: The plateau benefits from a mild climate with plenty of sunshine, ideal for apple cultivation.
Apple Blossoms Festival: The region hosts an annual Apple Blossoms Festival (Apfelblütenfest) in spring to celebrate the blooming orchards with events and local traditions.
Harvest Season: The apple harvest typically occurs from late summer to early autumn, drawing visitors to witness and participate in the process.
Scenic Views: This scenic apple orchard offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which make it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers all year round.
Hiking and Cycling: Numerous cycling and hiking trails traverse the plateau to allow visitors to explore the orchards and enjoy the natural beauty.

Photo Copyright Bernd Haynold/Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Swabian Orchard Paradise – Herrenberg-Mönchberg, Germany

Swabian Orchard Paradise is a breathtakingly scenic apple orchard that spans an impressive 26,000 hectares. This century-old orchard boasts around 1.5 million fruit trees, including apples, pears and plums, making it a lush, ecological haven.

Home to over 5,000 different plant and animal species, it offers a vibrant ecosystem teeming with biodiversity. This orchard has been a cornerstone of regional agriculture for generations which contributes to local traditions and the cultural landscape.

The apples harvested here are renowned for their quality and versatility, being used in various culinary applications, from traditional apple cider and beer to gourmet dishes. This combination of historical depth and ecological richness makes Swabian Orchard Paradise a truly unique and beautiful destination.

Facts About Swabian Orchard Paradise

Location: The Swabian Orchard Paradise is situated in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany. It spans the region around Herrenberg, a town known for its medieval charm and scenic landscapes.
Cultural Significance: The region has a rich cultural history connected to fruit cultivation. It hosts various festivals and events celebrating the local produce, such as apple and cherry festivals, which attract visitors from all over.
Educational Opportunities: The area offers numerous educational opportunities for visitors interested in learning about fruit cultivation. Guided tours, workshops and informational displays provide insights into the history and techniques of orchard management.
Local Products: The fruit grown in the Swabian Orchard Paradise is used to produce a variety of local products, including fresh fruit, juices, ciders, jams and brandies. These products are available for purchase at local markets and farm shops.
Tourism and Recreation: In addition to its orchards, the region offers various recreational activities such as hiking, cycling and picnicking. Well-marked trails and scenic viewpoints make it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

Photo Copyright Olga Ernst/Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

De Olmenhorst – Netherlands

De Olmenhorst, located in Lisserbroek, Netherlands, is a renowned orchard estate celebrated for its organic fruit cultivation. Spanning over 31 hectares, the estate primarily produces apples and pears, adhering to strict organic farming practices. Established in 1854, De Olmenhorst has a rich history and has evolved into a popular agritourism destination in Europe.

Visitors can participate in the “self-picking” experience during harvest seasons to hand-pick their own fruit. It also offers guided tours, workshops and educational programs focused on sustainable agriculture and different farming methods.

De Olmenhorst features a farm shop where visitors can purchase organic produce, juices and locally made products. The estate is also known for hosting seasonal events and festivals to attract both locals and tourists seeking an immersive, eco-friendly agricultural experience.

Facts About De Olmenhorst

Farm Shop: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: €2.50/Kilo
Self-picking: Mid-September to Late October
Address: Lisserweg 481, 2165 AS Lisserbroek, Netherlands
Website: De Olmenhorst

RHS Garden Wisley – Surrey, England

RHS Garden Wisley, located in Surrey, England, is renowned for its exceptional apple orchard. Covering approximately 16 acres, the orchard features over 150 varieties of apple trees, showcasing a diverse collection from heritage to modern cultivars.

This meticulously curated space is part of the Royal Horticultural Society’s larger garden, which spans 240 acres. Wisley’s apple orchard not only offers a scenic retreat but also serves as a living repository for apple biodiversity, promoting both conservation and education.

The orchard is particularly noted for its seasonal beauty, with rows of blooming apple trees in spring and vibrant fruit displays in autumn. Visitors can explore guided tours and educational programs that highlight apple cultivation techniques and the importance of preserving diverse apple varieties.

Facts About RHS Garden Wisley

Operation Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
Reservation Service: Picnic Tables
Cost: £5-£20
Self-picking: October to November
Address: Wisley Ln, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, United Kingdom
Website: RHS Garden Wisley

Brogdale Collections, Faversham – Kent, England

Brogdale Collections is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving and educating the public about the National Fruit Collection. Established to collaborate with DEFRA’s chosen curator, Brogdale has partnered with the University of Reading since 2008 to manage public access to the collection.

Spanning over 150 acres of picturesque farmland, Brogdale Collections boasts more than 3,000 fruit tree varieties including apples, pears, quinces, plums and cherries. As a scenic apple orchard, it showcases a vast array of apple varieties to offer a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of fruit cultivation.

The orchards serve as a living repository of fruit heritage and offer educational opportunities through daily guided tours from April to November, Fruit Days, festivals, and Key Stage 1 & 2 education programs. This makes Brogdale an invaluable resource for horticultural education and a scenic destination for fruit enthusiasts.

Facts About Brogdale Collections

Operation Hours: 10 am – 4 pm
Verities of Apples: 2131
Cost: £5-£45
Self-picking: Late September to Mid-October
Address: Brogdale Collections, Brogdale Farm, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8XZ
Website: Brogdale Collections

Honey Pot Hill Orchards – Stow, Massachusetts

Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow, Massachusetts, is a historic and scenic apple orchard founded in 1926 by Clifford Martin. Initially a 70-acre all-purpose farm, it has expanded to 186 acres under the stewardship of four generations of the Martin family, currently managed by Andrew and Chelcie Martin.

The orchard is renowned for its extensive apple varieties, alongside peaches, blueberries and other small crops. Visitors can enjoy a “Pick Your Own” experience, which offers a hands-on approach to harvesting fresh fruit.

Honey Pot Hill also features a farm store stocked with fresh produce and local products and serves as an idyllic venue for outings, birthday parties, weddings and other events that make it a valuable community resource and a picturesque destination for fruit lovers.

Facts About Honey Pot Hill Orchards

Farm Store: 9 Am – 4 Pm
Cost: $15-$20/child (Approx.)
Self-picking: Early August to Early November
Address: 138 Sudbury Road, Stow MA 01775
Website: Honey Pot Hill Orchards

Riley’s Farm – Oak Glen, California

Riley’s Farm, nestled in the picturesque Oak Glen region of California, offers a quintessential apple-picking experience amid stunning scenery. Spanning over 760 acres, this historic farm combines agricultural heritage with modern amenities, which make it a prime destination for apple enthusiasts.

Anyone can explore numerous apple varieties, including the popular Fuji and Gala, amid the farm’s lush orchards. Riley’s Farm also features living history events to provide educational insights into 18th-century farming practices. With hundreds of apple trees and annual harvest festivals, this apple orchard attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing significantly to local agritourism.

The scenic backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains enhances the overall experience to make Riley’s Farm a must-visit for those seeking both beauty and a deep dive into California’s apple-growing heritage.

Facts About Riley’s Farm

Farm Store: 11 Am – 5 Pm
Cost: Differs
Self-picking: August-November
Address: 12261 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399, United States
Website: Riley’s Farm

Photo Copyright inkknife_2000 (7.5 million views +)/Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Mercier Orchards – Blue Ridge, Georgia

Mercier Orchards is a premier destination for apple enthusiasts and nature lovers. Established in 1943, this family-owned apple orchard spans over 300 acres and offers a picturesque landscape dotted with apple trees in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

Known for its “U-pick” experiences, Mercier Orchards allows visitors to handpick from over 50 different varieties of apples to ensure a fresh and engaging experience. This scenic apple orchard also features a farm market, bakery and cidery to provide visitors with a wide array of products including fresh apple cider, apple pies and hard ciders.

Visitors can enjoy seasonal events, scenic tractor tours and a charming café overlooking the orchards. With its blend of agricultural heritage and modern amenities, Mercier Orchards offers a quintessential apple-picking experience in the heart of North Georgia.

Facts About Mercier Orchards

Farm Store: 9 Am – 5 Pm
Cost: $10/person
Self-picking: August-October
Address: 8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, United States
Website: Mercier Orchards

Crane Orchards – Fennville, Michigan

Crane Orchards in Fennville, Michigan, offers a picturesque apple-picking experience on over 100 acres of rolling hills. This family-owned orchard was established in the mid-20th century and currently boasts over 20 varieties of apples to provide a diverse selection for customers and visitors.

Additionally, it offers a ‘U-pick apples’ service to allow guests to enjoy a hands-on harvest experience. Beyond apple picking, Crane Orchards features a corn maze, hay rides and a scenic trail through the property, making it a perfect family destination.

The on-site pie pantry and winery offer fresh apple pies and cider to enhance the visit with authentic, locally-made products. Crane Orchards’ blend of beautiful landscapes, engaging activities and high-quality produce makes it a must-visit destination in Michigan’s apple country.

Facts About Crane Orchards

Farm Store: 10 Am – 6 PM
Cost: Differs
Address: 6054 124th Ave, Fennville, MI 49408, United States
Website: Crane Orchards

Sky Top Orchard – Flat Rock, North Carolina

Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock is a fine option when it comes to scenic apple orchards in North Carolina. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this apple orchard spans over 100 acres to offer visitors a serene and scenic retreat.

It features over 20 varieties of apples, including Honeycrisp, Fuji and Pink Lady, catering to diverse tastes. The orchard’s amenities include a farm market, a bakery with fresh apple cider donuts and a petting zoo, to enhance the family-friendly atmosphere.

Sky Top Orchard also provides breathtaking views, especially during the fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant hues. Its commitment to sustainable farming practices and high-quality produce makes it an ideal place for both locals and tourists.

Facts About Sky Top Orchard

Farm Store: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: $9-$15/Basket
For Orchard Tours: $3/Person
Self-picking: August to Mid-November
Address: 1193 Pinnacle Mountain Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731, United States
Website: Sky Top Orchard

Libby & Son U-Picks – Limerick, Maine

Libby & Son U-Picks is a top scenic apple orchard that offers a picturesque setting for apple enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Maine’s scenic countryside, this family-owned orchard spans over 40 acres and features a diverse selection of apple varieties including Honeycrisp, Cortland and McIntosh.

The orchard also provides hayrides and a farm market stocked with fresh apple cider, homemade baked goods and locally sourced products.

Known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, Libby & Son U-Picks ensures high-quality produce and a memorable visit through Guest Pass at only $6. With ample free parking and friendly staff, it’s an ideal destination for families and apple lovers alike to explore natural beauty with agricultural heritage.

Facts About Libby & Son U-Picks

Open: 8 AM – 3 PM
Guest Pass: $6/Pass
One Quart: $12.99 (1.5lbs – 1 Person)
Big Box: $64.99 (11lbs – 6 People)
Self-picking: July to October
Address: 86 Sawyer Mountain Rd, Limerick, ME 04048, United States
Website: Libby & Son U-Picks

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard – Gretna, Nebraska

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard is another premier destination for scenic apple picking in the United States. Spanning over 400 acres, this family-operated orchard offers a variety of apple types including Honeycrisp, Jonagold and Cortland.

The picturesque landscape is enhanced by meticulously maintained rows of apple trees and charming farm structures. Vala’s also features a robust agritourism experience with attractions such as hayrides, corn mazes and live entertainment. The farm market provides freshly pressed apple cider, homemade pies and other seasonal treats.

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard hosts exclusive events, including Season Pass Holder Night for early access to attractions, the Cider & Sunflower Festival featuring fresh cider and stunning sunflower fields and the Sunflower Field Butterfly Release, where visitors can witness and participate in a beautiful butterfly release event.

Facts About Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard

Open: 9 AM – 9 PM
Cost: $12.99
People: Four (4)
Apples: 5 lbs. approx.
Time: 30-45 Minutes
Self-picking: August to September
Address: 12102 S 180th St, Gretna, NE 68028, United States
Website: Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard

Kiyokawa Family Orchards – Parkdale, Oregon

Kiyokawa Family Orchards offers a stunning backdrop of Oregon’s Mount Hood to enhance its appeal as a premier scenic apple orchard. This is another family-owned farm that spans over 200 acres and boasts over 150 apple varieties, making it a haven for apple enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the orchard through U-pick experiences while enjoying the crisp, fresh air and picturesque surroundings. Additionally, Kiyokawa Family Orchards provides a farm stand offering freshly picked fruits, homemade jams, and local honey.

Its strategic location in the Hood River Valley, combined with its extensive variety and sustainable practices, makes Kiyokawa Family Orchards a must-visit for tourists seeking an authentic agricultural experience.

Facts About Kiyokawa Family Orchards

Open: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: Differs Based on Varieties
Self-picking: July to November
Address: 5625 Hutson Dr, Mt Hood, OR 97041, United States
Website: Kiyokawa Family Orchards

Hollin Farms – Delaplane, Virginia

Hollin Farms, offers a picturesque setting for apple picking amidst the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This fourth-generation family farm, spanning over 40 acres, provides a diverse variety of apples including Honeycrisp, Jonagolds and Grime’s Golden, available for picking from late August through October.

Beyond apples, Hollin Farms also offers a wide range of seasonal fruits, vegetables and pasture-raised beef. Conveniently located near the nation’s capital, it provides a perfect escape for those seeking a blend of agricultural charm and natural beauty.

Notably, Hollin Farms employs Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce chemical use and safeguard the environment. The farm provides three seasons of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure a steady supply of high-quality, sustainably grown produce throughout the year.

Facts About Hollin Farms

Open: 9 AM – 12:30 PM
Half Peck Cost: $20
Quarter Peck Cost: $10
Self-picking: August to October
Address: 1584 Snowden Rd, Delaplane, VA 20144, United States
Website: Hollin Farms

Applecrest Farm Orchards – Hampton Falls, New Hampshire

Applecrest Farm Orchards in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, is a fantastic destination for apple picking that offers a scenic experience on its 400-acre property. Established in 1913, it is the oldest continuously operated orchard in the United States.

The farm boasts over 40 varieties of apples, including McIntosh, Cortland and Honeycrisp, available for picking from late August through October. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque New England landscape, complete with rolling hills and vibrant foliage. Applecrest Farm also hosts seasonal festivals, featuring live music, hay rides and farm-to-table food.

Applecrest Farm Orchards also offers a diverse range of seasonal fruits and produce beyond apples. One can enjoy picking strawberries, blueberries, peaches, nectarines and pears during the summer. In the fall, the farm features raspberries, pumpkins and gourds to provide a variety of fresh, locally grown options throughout the year.

Facts About Applecrest Farm Orchards

Open: 9 AM – 6 PM
Cost: Varies
Season: Mid-August to October
Address: 133 Exeter Rd, Hampton Falls, NH 03844, United States
Website: Applecrest Farm Orchards

Domaine Dupont – Victot-Pontfol, France

Domaine Dupont is renowned for its scenic apple orchards and premium cider production. Nestled in the heart of Normandy’s Pays d’Auge region, the estate spans 74 acres, featuring over 6000 apple trees of traditional French varieties such as Bisquet, Saint-Martin and Noel des Champs.

The picturesque landscape, characterized by rolling hills and verdant pastures, provides an idyllic setting for visitors. Domaine Dupont employs organic farming practices to ensure the highest quality apples for their acclaimed ciders and calvados. The estate offers guided tours for guests to explore the orchards, learn about cider-making and sample their award-winning products.

With a rich history dating back to 1887, Domaine Dupont combines tradition, sustainability and natural beauty which make it a must-visit destination for apple connoisseurs.

Facts About Domaine Dupont

Open: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: Varies
Season: September to November
Address: Lieu-dit, La Vigannerie, 14430 Victot-Pontfol, France
Website: Domaine Dupont

Hirosaki City Apple Park – Aomori Prefecture, Japan

Hirosaki City Apple Park in Aomori Prefecture offers a captivating apple-picking experience set against the backdrop of Hirosaki Castle. Covering 5.2 hectares, the park features more than 2,300 apple trees showcasing over 80 varieties, including the renowned Aomori Fuji and Jonagold.

Open from late September through November, the scenic apple orchard and park offers a range of activities, including apple picking, cider tasting and educational tours about apple cultivation. Hirosaki City Apple Park’s “Apple House” offers approximately 1,200 apple-related products, including distinctive local crafts and sweets.

Visitors can savor apple-themed delicacies at the on-site café, which features dishes like apple curry, apple sundaes and freshly made apple cider. For a deeper exploration of local apple flavors, the park also recommends cider tasting at the nearby Hirosaki Cider Factory Kimori, where guests can sample a range of expertly crafted ciders.

Facts About Hirosaki City Apple Park

Open: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: 35 Yen/100gm
Season: August to November
Address: Terasawa-125 Shimizutomita, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8262, Japan
Website: Hirosaki City Apple Park

Willie Smith’s Apple Shed – Huon Valley, Tasmania, Australia

Willie Smith’s Apple Shed, located in the picturesque Huon Valley, Tasmania, is a premier apple orchard renowned for its scenic charm and sustainable practices. Spanning 50 acres, the orchard produces a diverse array of apple varieties, including heritage breeds like the Bramley and Cox’s Orange Pippin.

The Apple Shed features a rustic, barn-style building that houses a café and tasting room, where visitors can enjoy apple-based dishes, such as apple pie and cider-braised pork, along with a range of house-made ciders. The estate also operates an on-site cider brewery, producing award-winning craft ciders from its own apples.

Surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes, Willie Smith’s offers a unique blend of agricultural tradition and natural beauty which make it a fine destination for cider enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic Tasmanian experience.

Facts About Willie Smith’s Apple Shed

Open: 10 AM – 4 PM
Cost: Varies
Season: June to August (Winter)
Address: 2064 Huon Hwy, Grove TAS 7109, Australia
Website: Willie Smith’s Apple Shed

Finnriver Farm & Cidery – Chimacum, Washington

Finnriver Farm & Cidery is known for its scenic apple orchard and cider production which is nestled in the charming Olympic Peninsula. This a family-owned scenic apple orchard that spans 80 acres and features a diverse selection of apple varieties.

Visitors can explore the orchard’s rows of heirloom apples, including the popular Arkansas Black and Kingston Black. In addition to apple picking, Finnriver offers tours that delve into cider-making processes and the history of the farm.

Over 15 years, Finnriver Farm & Cidery has expanded its legacy in Chimacum. The farm grows and ferments organic apples and pears into artisanal ciders and wines. The orchard’s stunning backdrop, with views of the Olympic Mountains and lush farmland, makes it a prime destination for those seeking both natural beauty and artisanal craft in America.

Facts About Finnriver Farm & Cidery

Open: 12 PM – 8 PM
Cost: Varies
Season: September to November
Address: 124 Center Rd, Chimacum, WA 98325, United States
Website: Finnriver Farm & Cidery

Swans Trail Farms – Snohomish, Washington

Swans Trail Farms, last but not least, is nestled in the heart of the Snohomish Valley, and the farm spans over 180 acres, among which 5 acres are allocated for apple cultivation including Honey Crisp, Jonagold, Cosmic Crisp and Ambrosia varietals.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the apple orchard with its well-maintained rows of apple trees set against a backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. The farm also offers educational tours that highlight sustainable farming practices and the apple cultivation process.

In addition to apple picking, Swans Trail Farms hosts seasonal activities such as a pumpkin patch and corn maze, which makes it a comprehensive agritourism destination. With its commitment to quality and community engagement, Swans Trail Farms provides an enriching experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and education.

Facts About Swans Trail Farms

Open: 9 AM – 6 PM
Apple Cost: $3.5/Pound
General Pass: $49.95 + Tax (Age 1-64)
Senior Pass: $29.95 + Tax (65+)
Season: September – November
Address: 7301 Rivershore Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290, United States
Website: Swans Trail Farms

Apple: Not Just A Phone Manufacturer

Exploring the world’s most scenic apple orchards offers more than just the delight of fresh fruit; it provides a window into diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes and sustainable farming practices. From the rolling hills of Italy’s Apple Plateau to the charming, family-run Swans Trail Farms in Washington, each orchard offers a unique experience that blends natural beauty with agricultural heritage.

By visiting these beautiful orchards, you not only indulge in nature’s bounty but also support local farmers and contribute to the preservation of these picturesque landscapes.

All Images Courtesy Respective Establishment, Unless Otherwise Noted