25 May 2022
Uncover the hidden gems of the Grampians with a little help from our locals. Will Hudson from Livefast Café and Paper Scissors Rock shares his insider tips on how to make the most of the Grampians.
From tasting award-winning wines and experiencing spectacular sunsets to kayaking across pristine lakes and hiking to new heights, now’s the time to hit the road, The Grampians Way.
Why should we visit the Grampians this season?
Autumn and early winter are sensational in the Grampians. The aroma of campfire smoke starts to drift back into the evenings, the night air is crisp, and the day offers perfect temperatures for exploring the mountains.
There is a lot of activity in the region too, like the Grampians Grape Escape, which is a not-to-be-missed local food and wine celebration. 2023 will be the 30th anniversary of the Grampians Grape Escape so start planning your trip now. Dates for the diary at the 6th and 7th May 2023.
What should visitors TASTE when they’re in the Grampians?
The region has some stunning wineries in Pomonal and Great Western. It’s also well worth a visit to some of the other farm gates and businesses in the area like Grampians Olive Co, Old Dunkeld Bakery, and the Bunyip Hotel in Cavendish. The entire region’s food culture has been improving dramatically over the last decade and there are some hidden gems that are worth a short drive to find.
What should visitors SEE when they’re in the Grampians?
If the weather is on the damp side it’s worth braving the elements and checking out the new section of the Grampians Peaks Trail that takes in the Lower Waterfalls of Gar, as they are spectacular immediately after rain.
Hiking the moderately steep Mt William during a sunset gives you stunning views of the Wonderland Range, all the way to the west. It’s strenuous but breathtaking. Other lookouts accessible by car will give you sunset and sunrise views, such as Reed Lookout and Boroka Lookout.
I prefer to escape the crowds and explore the harder to get to locations, but with so many options available there is something for everyone.
If you want to get off the beaten path, exploring some of the Indigenous rock art sites on the western side of the Grampians is fascinating and you also can squeeze in a short hike up to the Chimney Pots while over that way.
What should visitors DO when they’re in the Grampians?
Where to start? The Grampians has 4 or 5 lakes in the area with great views from a kayak! There are hundreds of kilometres of trail to hike, walk and run; amazing mountain bike trails to cycle; waterfalls; wineries; breweries; four-wheel drive tracks; helicopter tours, there’s so much to see and do.
Finally, do you have any hidden gems that you’d like to share?
Why not check out Kalymna Falls on the Eastern side of Mt William?
I also love getting into the Vic Valley to explore the lesser frequented spots or to kayak Moora Moora Reservoir. The Hollow Mountain (Wudjub-guyan) Walk in the North also has a lot to see and experience, and over West, I would recommend driving Wallaby Rock Tracks for a bushland escape.
