On our self-drive Grampians getaway, spin around the top-notch Grampians National Park. Pop in and out of the park over three days to check out the splendour of the countless attractions and discover the best of what's just outside its borders. Kick off your trip in Halls Gap and weave your way through the grand mountains and Indigenous Australian rock art sites, pausing to soak in breathtakingly rugged scenery, top-notch local grub, prize-winning wines, and various eating spots.
Day One:
Set up camp in Halls Gap, the heart of the Grampians. Get a feel for the vastness of the surrounding landscape and uncover the ancient history of the area traditionally known as Gariwerd.
Dive into the dreamtime stories of the local Indigenous folks at the architecturally impressive Brambuk – the National Park and Cultural Centre. You'll see captivating displays of art and artefacts. Tag along on a tour with Aboriginal guides to visit rock art sites and learn about local Aboriginal culture and the land's spiritual importance.
With over 160 kilometres of walking tracks surrounding Halls Gap, stretch your legs and stroll to the stunning MacKenzie Falls, where water tumbles over huge cliffs into a deep pool, sending fine sprays of rainbow mist sky-high.
You can also head to Boroka Lookout for panoramic views of the Grampians landscape or hike to the top for even more breathtaking views. And don't miss getting up close to native wildlife at the Halls Gap Zoo, Victoria's largest regional zoo, sprawling over 52 acres!
Bunk down for the night in the BIG4 caravan park, or splash out at Boroka Downs if you're after something a bit expensive. Halls Gap has many accommodation options, especially for campers and road trippers.
Day Two:
Continue your journey around the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, visiting the towns of Moyston – the birthplace of Australian Rules Football – and Pomonal, a village nestled among rolling green hills, renowned for its native flowers and orchids.
If you're keen for a walk, Pomonal has plenty of tracks. Try the Tunnel Walking Track or climb to the top of Mt William Range for some truly breathtaking views. If you're visiting in late September, don't miss the annual Native Flower Show.
Stock up on local produce at farm gates, including olives, herbs, and fresh fruit from the orchard on Lake Fyans Tourist Road. Grab a bag of hazelnuts at Grampians Grove and high-quality olives at Red Rock Olives. Enjoy a meal at the Farm Gate cafe before heading to Dunkeld, home to the renowned Royal Mail Hotel. Indulge in a degustation at its fine dining restaurant, Wickens, or relax at Parker Street Project, its casual diner.
Stay the night in one of the Royal Mail cabins if possible. Nestled at the foot of Mt Sturgeon and Mt Abrupt, it's a stunningly beautiful spot.
Day Three:
Loaded with baked goods and local produce, it's time to leave Dunkeld and venture to Wartook Valley, the Grampians' natural amphitheatre.
Hit the nearby trails for some bushwalking, and watch for friendly wildlife and native fauna. Beehive Falls and the Mt. Stapylton Walk are great starting points. Get your adrenaline fix with a range of adventure activities. Horse riding and fishing are popular, while thrill-seekers will enjoy a quad bike tour of the valley. Team up with Absolute Outdoors Australia for rock climbing and abseiling adventures, whether you're an experienced climber or a newbie.
Wind down with a picnic by MacKenzie River, feasting on the local produce you've collected on your Grampians journey. Before leaving Wartook, stock up on fresh olives (the region's specialty) at Grampians Olive Co., located north along the C222 highway. They offer some of the finest olives and olive oil in the state.
Head back to Melbourne or spend the night at Kangaroos In The Top Paddock, a collection of rammed-earth cottages with friendly local wildlife. Don't be surprised if you spot a mob of kangaroos outside your bedroom window at twilight!
If you don't want to spend time organising a tour, then take the Grampians Tour. You will have more time to enjoy these beauties.