We know travelling this year is different. You need to spend time thoughtfully planning ahead, seeking government advice, finding out what’s open and what’s closed to ensure the safety of your family and friends.
So where should you start and how can you keep everyone safe when travelling to the Grampians? We’ve compiled 10 tips to help you travel safely and responsibly.
Before embarking on your Grampians journey, take the time to research and plan your trip in advance. With so many of our operators having to make changes and implement new protocols, you’ll want familiarise yourself with these before you hit the road.
For example, we suggest making bookings in advance for attractions and experiences like Halls Gap Zoo, Grampians Helicopters, and Grampians Wine Tours. Take the time to have a look at our accommodation listings, transportation advice, and outdoors activities to assist with your research but be sure to contact each provider directly for the most up to date information.
Whether it be for a short stay, holiday or just a day visiting friends and relatives, the Grampians can be where you find your happy space. We’re excited to welcome back explorers, wine enthusiasts and curious wanderers and we ask that when you visit us, please respect the guidelines and protocols that our operators have put in place. Respect and consideration create an enriching experience for all involved– not just the traveller.
If you’re planning on camping or heading to a more rural area in the Grampians, stock up with the essentials before your Grampians road trip begins (i.e. groceries, toiletries). It’s recommended you contact your accommodation provider to find out what protocols are in place, especially when it comes to camping grounds and communal spaces. We also encourage you to support local and discover a number of awarding winning wineries and local producers in the region, many of whom are now offering online shopping.
Another tip: create your own Travelling Kit, with all the essentials including hand sanitizer, soap, gloves, and toilet paper. If you’re prepared and packed, this will help reduce touch points with our communities.
Enjoy the Grampians’ breathtaking scenery and diverse natural environments knowing you’ve taken a few simple steps to stay safe. We encourage you to practise social distancing to help protect one another during this time. Follow our safety tips and the recommendations from the state Government to learn about preventative measures. Also research our operators to understand the steps they are taking, and any requests they may have of you, to keep you and our community safe.
If you normally travel with big groups of family or friends, consider travelling in a smaller group when visiting the Grampians. Travelling with fewer people makes it easier for you to practise social distancing in public and may have less of an impact on the region. You might even find that it’s easier to make bookings for attractions, restaurants and tours when you are travelling in smaller groups.
The Grampians is blessed with an abundance of outdoor wonders like lakes, rivers, waterfalls, mountains, vineyards and wildlife. When exploring the Grampians outdoors, always leave the area in a better state than when you arrived. Respect our local wildlife, minimise campfire impacts, pack out what you pack in, and dispose of waste properly.
Our majestic open terrain and countless experiences appeal to the outdoorsy, outgoing, passionate and curious. You can hike, bike, climb or casually explore in the Grampians but no matter what outdoor activity you are planning, please be prepared. Remember to research and plan ahead before you head off. This list of adventures and activities to experience in our region in a great place to start.
As our operators progressively open for business again and people embrace the freedom to explore, understand our streets may be a little busier than usual. With restrictions in place, attractions, restaurants and tours may book out. We suggest you have a Plan B researched and ready in case your first choice isn’t possible. Choose your adventure and discover countless attractions and the best of the Grampians. Be calm, patient, and kind, and remember, we’re all in this together. The Grampians is the place to slow down so no worries!
Our operators are eager to welcome you back and your support is more crucial than ever. With many borders currently closed, our community is relying on Victorians to visit the region. For now, our fellow Victorians have the regional all to themselves, and what better opportunity to experience the Grampians and immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking natural wonders, award-winning wineries and local hospitality. Make the most of it.
You can also support local businesses from your home, with a number of operators offering online sales and delivery options.
We’re lucky the Grampians region is rich with vast open landscapes and diverse communities. When exploring the Grampians consider a slower travel pace. Rather than attempting to visit as many sights or towns as possible in a short trip, take time to explore each destination considerately and experience the local lifestyle. For now, slow down, choose a destination and use that as a ‘home-base’ for making the most of each moment of your Grampians holiday.
Plan your next adventure The Grampians Way here
