Where can you find a town named for one fruit although it is better known for growing another? The same region has a town with a bend in its main street, and yet another was the site of the largest Prisoner Of War breakout in modern military history.

Just a few hours drive from Sydney, the Central West is close enough for a weekend break, but there is so much to see many people take a little longer. The area stretches between Orange in the north and Cowra to the south, but it is peppered with smaller villages: Milthorpe, Blayney, Carcoa, and Borenore with slightly larger Canowindra.

This lovely land has seen it all - gold-diggers to begin with, then orchards, sheep and wheat and now wines and olives - even truffles!

The Black Sheep Inn at tiny Borenore is a converted former shearing shed that celebrates its history.......

...... while pulling out all the stops for a luxury stay.

Orange, the major town, known for the apples grown in the region has much to savour with several major food and wine events throughout the year. A Slice of Orange, right in the town centre, is a regional provedore that stocks a stunning array of produce and products from nearby producers.

The town has everything you can wish for in a regional centre, parks, good shopping and places to relax - restaurants, parks and cafes such as Bill's Beans which also roasts its own coffee. But wait, there's more. The surrounding land grows almost any sort of food, including grapes, and the entire Orange-Cowra-Young (Hilltops) region has over 50 wineries.

And here is the town with the kink in its main street! Canowindra (pronounced Can-own-dra) is a delightfully preserved step back in time. As well, there is an annual hot air balloon-fest that draws visitors from around the world.

Heritage buildings like this add to Canowindra's old-style appeal.

Carcoar, one of the many towns that sprang up during the 1850s gold rush is now sleepy and quiet and ideal for a stroll, browsing in antique shops or stopping for a cup of tea.

The gardens and steep streets and the many old buildings give a sense of timelessness.

The appropriately named Everview Retreat near Canowindra has luxury accommodation in stone cottages built by the owner, Kyle Wallace.

The forever-views of the region are amazing and relaxing. Imagine sitting here with a glass of local wine in your hand!

Cowra, to the south of the region, is also worth visiting, and if you do Tinnies at Back Creek Vineyard provides relaxed and welcoming accommodation right in a vineyard. In town, Neila restaurant provides excellent dining.

This view over Cowra, the town remembered for the 'breakout' is peaceful and welcoming, an ideal destination for a weekend (or more) away.

Go and see for yourself!