From camping amongst the gum trees, swimming in tranquil waterholes, kayaking up streams, connecting with important cultural sites and fishing in some of Victoria’s most pristine waters, the Grampians region boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country and visitors are spoilt for choice with beautifully rugged terrain and exceptional flora and fauna across the Grampians National Park and surrounding areas.
The immaculate waters of the Grampians National Park and its surrounding lakes and rivers offer some of Victoria’s most idyllic fishing spots. The most popular spots include Lake Fyans, Lake Wartook, Rocklands Reservoir, Taylors Lake and Lake Bellfield. Families are also attracted to these spots for their calm water, perfect for cooling off on warm summer afternoons. The Grampians region is a road tripping paradise with an abundance of picturesque towns, wineries and cellar doors, breathtaking lookouts, secluded swimming holes, hiking and walking trails, water sports, galleries and public art displays to discover. Located just 2.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne and 1.5 hours from Ballarat, visitors are encouraged to plan their next road trip the Grampians way.
STAY: The region offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all groups, styles and budgets from luxurious B&Bs, boutique inns, relaxing family holiday parks and cabins through to unique camping and glamping experiences within the national park.
From luxury accommodation like the famed Royal Mail Hotel, Boroka Downs or Meringa Springs, to more affordable options like The Grampians Motel, Comfort Inn Country and Plaza Halls Gap to exquisite camping options at the Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park, Wimmera Lakes Caravan Resort or at various sites within the Grampians National Park.
CULTURE: Known by the traditional owners as Gariwerd, the Grampians has a long and storied cultural history that follows not four, but six distinct seasons. The early summer period, known as Ballambar, begins in November and marks the beginning of long days and warm weather as butterflies fill the sky. The rich cultural heritage of the region’s indigenous population can be traced back thousands of years. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local stories at cultural sites dotted across the rugged terrain including the Brambuk Cultural Centre and significant ancient Aboriginal rock art that can be found throughout the Grampians National Park. The Grampians is also a cultural hub in Victoria with many significant sites within its borders. These include the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, the Silo Art Trail and the Horsham Regional Art Gallery.
FINE FOOD & WINE: In addition to the region’s distinguished natural and historic beauty, the Grampians features some of the finest local produce, food and wines in the country. The region’s celebrated wineries and cellar doors are an excellent gateway to some of the oldest and most established vineyards in the country.
REGIONAL EVENTS: The Grampians region supports some of the greatest regional events, celebrating the area’s fine tastes in food, wine, music and entertainment. Events this summer include:
- Makers Gallery and Studio Christmas Market – December 2019
- Great Western Cup – January 26, 2020
- Grampians Music Festival – February 2020
