Explore one of Australia’s most stunning landscapes, a short drive away from Melbourne.

Only a 2.5-hour drive West of Melbourne, the flat plains of West Victoria morph into a breathtaking landscape rolling with summits and valleys that make up the Grampians National Park.

The Grampians are a magnificent set of vast sandstone ranges formed over millions of years.

This landscape is an impressive endpoint to the Great Dividing Range. The Grampians National Park is a must-do while you’re in Victoria. Visit the Grampians for an opportunity to connect with nature, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city of Melbourne.

Whether you’re into nature, wine, photography or adventure…there are plenty of wonderful things to do in the Grampians!

Hiking

Hiking in the Grampians National Park

The Grampians are a hiker’s playground. The Grampians National Park offers plenty of hiking trails that route through bushland or circle mountains and waterfalls. These intertwining trails range from easy strolls on flat paths to challenging climbs across uneven terrain.

Easy hikes include the Venus Baths circuit (30 minutes return), or the Gulgurn Manja Shelter (20 minutes return). For a sunrise/sunset hike, check out The Balconies Lookout and Reed Lookout (2km return, 30 minutes).

 

Go to the zoo

Kangaroo with green grass in background

What’s a trip into the bush without seeing Australian wildlife? Halls Gap Zoo homes over 120 native and exotic animals across 52 acres. This ZAA-accredited zoo gives visitors the chance to marvel at Australia’s most iconic animals up close.

Spot several different species of wallabies, kangaroos, quokkas, and crocodiles. Visitors can book tickets beforehand online.

 

Watch the sunrise

Misty orange sunrise on Boroka Lookout point

Want to see a sunrise that’s worth the early wake-up? Treat your eyes to a sunrise at Boroka Lookout. The east-facing lookout captures a magnificent golden sunrise across the landscape. Only 15km from Halls Gap, it’s an easy walk to the lookout – just two minutes from the car park.

Sunrises might be chilly, so pack a jacket.

 

Visit a winery

Glass of red wine with vineyard background

Transport yourself back to the 1800s with Best’s Wines Great Western Winery. Just a 30-minute drive from Halls Gap, this charming little establishment offers a rustic cellar-door experience in a winery full of character.

Some of the oldest vines in Australia exist here. The unchanged building captures the raw ambience of its 1866 establishment.

Book a tasting and sample their selections of specialty Riesling or Shiraz. Don’t forget to take the self-guided tour through the winery’s underground tunnels.

 

Go to a waterfall

Mackenzie Falls in Grampians National Park

From thin trickles to thunderous shelves of water, there are plenty of waterfalls to visit in the Grampians.

The most popular waterfall is Mackenzie Falls. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on the challenging waterfall hike that promises an impressive cascade of water at the end. To round out your waterfall-hopping, check out Wannon Falls or Nigretta Falls.

 

Go kayaking or swimming

Man on red kayak floating on lake

Would your Aussie adventure be complete without visiting a body of water? Cool off for a swim at Lake Bellfield, perfect after a long hike. In colder months, float on a kayak to soak up the striking landscapes that surround the lake.

 

Want to check out the striking scenery of the Grampians without the hassle of organising it? Immerse yourself in nature. Come and join our 1 Day Grampians Tour.

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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