Embarking on a road trip through the Eastern Grampians promises a blend of history, adventure and natural beauty. Buckle up and hit Route 222, Ararat-Halls Gap Road, for a journey filled with fun activities, picturesque landscapes and delicious experiences.
In Ararat, the adventure begins with a day at Alexandra Gardens Park, full of outdoor activities for families. Roam Ararat Gallery TAMA, where art aficionados can find solace among significant collections of textile and fibre art. For a spine-chilling experience, explore the historic J-Ward, once a goldfields prison turned Lunatic Asylum. Tours by Friends of J Ward volunteers provide a riveting insight into its dark past.
Green Hill Lake beckons with a variety of activities, from swimming and boating to bird watching. One Tree Lookout offers panoramic views, and mountain biking enthusiasts can explore Ararat Regional Park.
Just outside of Ararat you’ll find the towering granite cliffs and loamy red soils of Mount Langi Ghiran, continually listed as one of the most beautiful wineries in Australia. Mount Langi Ghiran is an acclaimed producer of Shiraz, and the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon sipping on sensational cool climate wines while enjoying iconic views of the Grampians’ natural wonders.
Take a short drive to Miners Ridge Wines, which sits nestled on a gentle ridge in the foothills of The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. The winery offers a large range of small batch wines. With only a limited quantity produced each year, each bottle is a special delight. Andrew and Katrina, the passionate vintners, have taken small parcels of their finest fruit and crafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Modern harvesting and winemaking methods are combined with traditional techniques, resulting in wines with a medium-bodied style that are a true expression of the Grampians.
As the day winds down, settle into Acacia Caravan Park, owned by Kaylene and Matt (pictured left). Guests can enjoy use of the camp kitchen, free barbecues, free Wi-Fi and a solar-heated swimming pool. For families with furry companions, Acacia Caravan Park offers select pet-friendly cabins and fenced pet-sites, ensuring that your entire family can revel in the beauty of the Eastern Grampians.
In search of the perfect holiday house to complete your stay in Ararat? Browse Flairbnb, where you’ll find options ranging from this fully renovated Californian bungalow to charming dog friendly cottages.
Hit Route 222 towards Moyston for a morning of paintball at Grampians Adventures, providing a fun and safe setting. But Moyston is not just about the rush; it is also the self-proclaimed "birthplace of Australian Football", based on its connection to the sport's founder, Tom Wills, who grew up in the area in the 1840s, and according to some, played Marn Grook with the Indigenous people of the area.
Uncover the story behind Clayfield Wines, a sustainable organic vineyard practising traditional winemaking with a focus on Grampians cool climate Shiraz. Visiting their compact winery and cellar door in Moyston is a no-nonsense affair, where you receive personal attention from vigneron Simon Clayfield (pictured right). The Shiraz is 100% estate grown and produced on-site, showcasing the regional flavour, elegance, and balanced structure of classic Grampians wines.
Stay at Grampians Park Station and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Grampians. Group accommodation features 8 family rooms for up to 32 guests, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, breakfast room, and outdoor amenities such as a BBQ and bonfire area.
Proceeding to Pomonal, don’t miss the chance to taste seasonal small-batch preserves and indulge in homemade ice cream at Five Ducks Farm. Owned by Anita and Andy, Five Ducks Farm handcrafts delicious preserves from fruit grown at the foot of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. The farm gate shop at Pomonal offers a range of preserves, honey, ice cream and fudge. Join a farm tour to meet the chickens, ducks, and geese, and support local growers while getting a taste of the Grampians.
Once your appetite awakens, venture into Barney’s Bar and Bistro. This dining gem offers great food, friendly service, and an abundance of outdoor space for kids to play. With local wines, popular beers and generous portions, Barney’s offers a delightful experience for the whole family.
Take a short drive to Pomonal Estate Cellar Door to enjoy exquisitely prepared local produce, wine, and beers crafted by in-house brewer, Adam. Sip and savour their wines as a wine flight, or enjoy refreshing handcrafted beer and cider paddles.
A short stroll from Barney’s Bar and Bistro are Pomonal Cottages, offering six 2-bedroom self-contained cottages, a glamping tent, and two powered sites set on 14 acres in the heart of Pomonal. The property features a swimming pool, large recreation area with barbecue, playground, scenic views, wildlife and native gardens. The Mt Cassel Villa at Pomonal Estate accommodates six to eight people, providing a sense of space and rejuvenation with the Grampians as your backdrop. Pomonal Estate also has six newly built luxury villas on site, 1 & 2 bedrooms and 1 accessible.
As your road trip through the Eastern Grampians unfolds, each stop reveals a new experience, from historical explorations to adrenaline-pumping adventures, culinary delights, and tranquil retreats. With diverse accommodation options and activities catering to every interest, this journey promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of Victoria’s hidden gems. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the Eastern Grampians weave its magic on your next road trip adventure.
