Naturipe Fruits is a fantastic spot in Bacchus Marsh, perfect for a day out picking your own fruit. They've got three farms actually, two in Bacchus Marsh and another over in Ballarat. It's a real hands-on experience, you can grab punnets of strawberries, cherries, apples, peaches, and nectarines straight from the trees and vines. Think about those juicy Albion strawberries, they're a highlight from October through to May, known for their great colour and flavour. And if it's cherries you're after, November and December are your best bet. Even if you miss the picking season for some fruits, you can usually pick up some freshly picked produce, plus they do gourmet goodies like strawberry jam. It's a cracking spot for families, easy to get to from Melbourne or Geelong, and kids get a discounted rate for entry to the strawberry fields. Just make sure to check their picking updates online before you head out, as fruit availability changes daily.