Known as the wine and food village of the Grampians, Great Western is a charming town with an array of gourmet experiences to explore. The town was first settled in the 1840s by sheep graziers and over the years developed through the discovery of gold and grapevine plantations. Today, Great Western is home to pioneering wineries that produce some of Australia’s finest wines, welcoming cafés showcasing local produce and more.
Seppelt Wines are the region’s original winemaking pioneers. Experience the beauty of country Victoria at the historic cellar door for a tasting, a light lunch or a cheese platter. Be sure to try the 2017 Salinger Vintage Cuvée which was recently listed in James Halliday’s Top 100 wines of 2022.
No visit to the Grampians is complete without a tour of the amazing underground cellars at Seppelt Wines. The underground tour takes visitors through the rustic tunnels that stretch over 3km long beneath Seppelt Wines vineyard. “The Drives” were first excavated in 1868 and are the longest in the southern hemisphere, home to much of Australia’s wine history. Don’t forget to ask about the story of Dame Nellie Melba’s bath.
Immerse yourself further in the history of Seppelt with their Underground Dining package. The experience combines wine tasting with a magical three-course meal deep within The Drives. It’s the perfect location for a dining experience you will never forget
Great Western is also home to three more cellar doors that are all worthy of a visit. Sip award-winning cool-climate Shiraz at Grampians Estate, enjoy a tasting on the foothills of Great Western at Miners Ridge, or sample wine made from some of the oldest vines in Australia at Best’s Wines.
Seppelt Wines also houses the Seppelt Vine Lodge. Its beauty, charm and history are ideal for large groups accommodating up to seven guests.
Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, Salingers Café offers modern dining in an eclectic, historic building. Established in 1861, the café has since become a go-to for those touring the Grampians region for delicious coffee and meals. The exposed brick walls and polished floors create a warm ambience where diners can relax.
The tasty menu highlights the region’s local produce, with some ingredients even coming straight from the Salingers Kitchen Garden. The café also has an extensive beer and wine list which features many wineries from the Grampians region.
If you’re visiting Salingers Café this season, the Moroccan Lamb Salad is a must-try. Pair this with a glass of Miners Ridge Merino Block Riesling. The touch of sweetness pairs perfectly with either the salad or even Mixed Berry Buttermilk Pancakes.
Salingers Café is also home to a self-contained, three-bedroom cottage. This is perfect for groups of friends or families looking for a base to explore the region.
Located next door to Salingers Café, Great Western General Store is more than just a newsagency. The store brings visitors a range of local produce, artisan items, delicious takeaway food and giftware. Stop by for a quick snack or even pick up some basic supplies for your stay in the Grampians. You can’t go past a loaf of Great Western Granary Artisan Sourdough, perfect for preparing a post-hike sandwich.
Situated in the heart of town, Great Western Hotel is known for its amazing, classic pub feeds. The warm and welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect location to unwind and refuel. The atmosphere is both warm and relaxing, with unbeatable service from the friendly staff.
The brand-new menu features mouth-watering dishes like Prawn, Mango and Macadamia salad. Or, if your go-to meal is a Parma, stop by on a Tuesday for the Hotel’s weekly Parma Night, with specials such as chorizo, BBQ sauce and cheese. Did you know that every single Grampians Wine is available at the Great Western Hotel? With over 170 different wines in the cellar, you can pair your meal with the varying flavours of the Grampians region.
Ensure you explore the full breadth of Great Western experiences with a local stay. Hounds Run Vineyard offers a gorgeous Tiny House with spectacular 360 views of the Grampians, Black Range and Sugarloaf Hill. The house features a spacious queen bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom, gas heating and air-conditioning – it’s like a little home away from home.
For a unique camping experience, Wanderlust Glamping is situated in the stunning gardens of Seppelt Winery. The glamorous bell tents are perfect for those who like to get outdoors without compromising comfort.
Whether it be a romantic escape, a girl's wine wanderer weekend, a weekend away with foodie friends or an adventure with the kids, Great Western is a hidden Victorian gem that will have you coming back for more.
