The Grampians region is a haven for uniquely Australian animals living in their natural environment. At dawn and dusk kangaroos and emus graze across the vast landscapes throughout the Grampians region, meaning you almost always see our native fauna without even leaving your accommodation!
During the warmer months, the Grampians region is a fantastic location to spot wallabies, echidnas and the occasional shingleback lizard basking on the road and walking trails.
Even though these animals are friendly, they are still wild animals and we ask that you do not pat or feed wildlife for both their safety and yours.
If you and your family are seeking a personal animal encounter in the Grampians, we’ve put together a couple of our favourite spots.
Halls Gap Zoo
A family trip to the Grampians isn’t complete without a visit to Halls Gap Zoo. As Victoria’s largest regional zoo, Halls Gap Zoo exhibits over 160 native and exotic animals. Located in beautiful foothills adjacent to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, witness an array of exceptional animals in front of this stunning backdrop. Don’t forget to buy some food at the entrance so you can enjoy feeding the goats that happily roam the zoo.
Families who are looking for an unforgettable experience can book an up-close-and-personal animal encounter at the zoo. These once-in-a-lifetime experiences are a unique and magical way for kids (or adults) to meet some of their favourite animals.
The animal encounters allow you to meet some common Australian animals like wallabies and dingoes, as well as some magnificent animals straight out of The Lion King; think cheetahs, giraffes, meerkats and rhinos.
If you can’t choose just one encounter, why not partake in the ultimate Halls Gap Zoo experience by becoming a zookeeper for a day? You’ll spend the whole day assisting in daily exhibit maintenance, preparing animal meals and feeding the animals.
After a day of animal encounters, settle in at one of the many comfortable and cosy accommodation options in Halls Gap. Bask in the comfort of self-contained cabins at Halls Gap Log Cabins; stay in a secluded studio surrounded by nature at D'Altons Studios; experience a home away from home complete with an onsite herb garden at Grampians Eco YHA; or relax and unwind in a warm bubble bath at Sundial Holiday Apartments.
Rosehaven Farms
If you and your family have ever wondered what Grampians farm life is like, make Rosehaven Farms the destination of your next family adventure. Located in Laharum, just a 20-minute drive from Horsham, Rosehaven Farms offers families of all ages a unique country life experience.
Take a tour of the farm and its picturesque surroundings, before encountering some soft and friendly farm animals, including docile donkeys, affectionate alpacas and woolly sheep. Enjoy the opportunity to cuddle, brush, pet and feed farm animals in a true sensory experience.
Rosehaven Farms is also home to 100 beehives from which owners Pam and David make their own natural, raw honey. You can shop their delicious range of honey from their store on the farm. You can also find a plethora of local, handmade items from soaps and lotions to beeswax wraps.
While in Horsham, take some time to explore the surrounding wineries, cafes and restaurants. Barangaroo Boutique Wines is just a 10-minute drive southwest of Horsham. This family-friendly winery is home to vast vineyards and open spaces, perfect for the kids to explore and play while you enjoy some of Victoria’s finest wines.
Next, hit up Australia’s oldest olive groves, Grampians Olive Co, for a produce platter featuring estate-produced premium organic olive oils and artisan vinegar. After a day of adventuring, unwind at ROOH Restaurant and Bar for a delicious Indian contemporary-inspired meal and beverage.
