As the weather cools right down, and an icy chill is in the air, it’s a perfect time to explore our natural surroundings.
There’s something quite magnificent in witnessing a winter sunrise through a tree canopy, smelling gum trees through the morning mist, and hearing the sing-song of resident birds as they start their day.
These are all signs that you’re out there exploring the great outdoors and the beautiful Grampians region and you don’t have to be super fit to enjoy the secluded tracks and trails that criss-cross the national park, with families, couples and hard-core hikers alike, finding their perfect Grampians experience.
But if all that isn't quite enough to motivate you to move away from the heater and strap on your hiking shoes, the prospect of a gourmet foodie experience at the end of your outdoor activities might just be the perfect carrot to dangle and reward you for all that physical exertion!
The best part is, you can actually plan your winter walk to end at one of the wonderful local foodie haunts, and enjoy a hot coffee, delicious pastry or an icy cold beer paired with a steak.
Here's our favourite "walks + rewards" pairings, The Grampians Way:
A steep walk up Mount William to the summit, to watch the beautiful sunrise at dawn. Afterwards, pop in for breakfast at Livefast Cafe where you can break your fast on sweet potato, pea & haloumi fritters washed down with an almond mylk chai latte.
A lunch time rock scrambling hike to the Pinnacle from Sundial Carpark to experience the breathtaking views over Lake Bellfield and Halls Gap, followed by a hearty steaks and cleansing ale on the verandah at Halls Gap Hotel.
Embark on the challenging Wonderland Loop Hike and when you’re finished, tuck into a hot lamb rogan josh and garlic naan dinner at the Spirit of Punjab Indian restaurant (make sure you pair it with one of the award-winning, local spicy Shiraz on the wine list!)
After something a little more challenging? A power walk up Mount Abrupt in the southern Grampians will really get your heart pumping and deserves a foodie reward to match! Treat yourself with an indulgent 5-course degustation at Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel with matching wines.
A gentler walk, that’s also kid friendly, is the Piccaninny in the southern Grampians. Once you’ve enjoyed the views, head down to town to the Dunkeld Old Bakery and devour delicious hot house made pies from the historic oven followed by hot coffee and pastries.