SPRING is the perfect time to jump in the car and explore our beautiful countryside.

Often, we book plane tickets to go away somewhere far and exotic, but when was the last time you really explored areas close to home?

Millthorpe is just a short drive away and full of as much country charm as you can fit in a gingham material lined cane picnic basket.

Visit there early in the week and you'll almost be guaranteed of having the place to yourself.

Take a drive there on the weekend and you'll find this little village buzzing.

Cafes and restaurants just bursting with local produces, boutique stores filled with treasures you won't be able to tear yourself away from and more than just a few places to have a cool drink.

Grab a newspaper or magazine from Millthorpe Corner Store, fold it and pop it under your arm and venture off to find somewhere to eat.

There are hearty weekend breakfasts, gourmet lunches, exquisite dinners and delightful sweet treats – there is an eatery in Millthorpe that will leave any food lover’s mouth watering.

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For wine lovers, the Slow Wine Co and Angullong showcase the best in local, cool climate wines.

If you are more into history, Millthorpe offers you the chance to step back into the pioneering era.

The quaint village still retains much of its original architecture and charm, and the entire village is classified by the National Trust.

There are cobbled, bluestone bordered streets and walks to take in some of the village's stories. To find out more, visit the Golden Memories Museum.

After Millthorpe, why not drive a little further down the road to Spring Hill. It’s buildings date back to the 1870s and a heritage trail has been established for visitors.

The name Spring Hill was first mentioned in 1855, the Central NSW Museum website states. Visitors are encouraged to discover the history of the village through the Spring Hill Heritage Walking Trail, brochures are available from the Orange Visitor Information Centre.

If you're still hungry, make sure you drop into the Railway Hotel at Spring Hill.

Located at 19 Spring Street, with a sweeping view over the region, the hotel serves up good food and cold beers. Sit in the large beer garden, or take a seat at the front for a view out over the street.