Grampians: Vibrant Villages, National Parks and Natural Wonders
The Grampians region of central Victoria is home to the stunning Grampians National Park, historic towns and villages, fine food, and wine producers and an abundance of wildlife.
Whether you are looking for adventure, extreme sports or a natural encounter, this is a destination rich in rewards.
Halls Gap lies at the heart of the Grampians, situated on the Fyans Creek and between the Wonderland and Mount William Ranges. It’s an ideal town in which to base yourself with plenty of facilities and easy access to the national park, bushwalking trails and scenic lookouts. The historic villages of Hamilton and St Arnaud offer beautiful heritage architecture, lovely parks, cafés and antique stores. Visit one of Dunkeld’s many galleries or the wonderful Royal Mail Hotel – a contemporary restaurant that makes use of organic and heirloom produce, and with a world-class degustation menu that entices diners from all over the country and the globe.
Glorious Grampians National Park is one of Victoria’s best known and is known for its myriad of bushwalking trails. Trek to one of the scenic lookouts for breathtaking views, discover plunging waterfalls, fern-lined gullies and spectacular canopies of towering trees. Little Desert and Mt Arapiles National Parks are close by and also afford exciting walking options.
The Australian Aboriginals have long had a relationship with this striking destination they have known as Gariwerd. Across the region lie hundreds of historic rock art sites, many of which are open to the public.
You can join a tour to some of these sites from Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap. Australia’s longest running Aboriginal cultural centre is also home to exhibitions and artefacts, dance displays and the Bushtucker café, featuring contemporary and traditional bush tucker meals.
The Grampians offers great rock climbing, four-wheel driving, hiking, kayaking and even paragliding.
Looking for something more serene? How about a nature stroll, birdwatching tour or canoeing across a tranquil lake? There’s a wide variety of wildlife in the area including wallabies, kangaroos, emus and birds. Or head to Halls Gap Zoo for an animal encounter with a native or international favourite at close range.
There is accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, including camping in the national park or enjoying an inn-to-inn hiking adventure, lobbing at the backpackers hostel in Brambuk, or staying in a rustic cabin, comfortable cottage, hotel, or luxurious eco retreat in one of the towns or surrounding villages of the Grampians.
