After a day of hiking, sampling award-winning wine and exploring the Grampians’ region, there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting back and admiring a glorious sunset.
With rugged mountain peaks and vast ranges, the Grampians region has some of the best vantage points for watching the sunset. Follow our guide below to find the best spots for watching mother nature’s brilliant and vibrant sundown show.
The Pinnacle Walk is one of the most popular hikes in the Grampians. It’s also especially beautiful during the evening golden hour. The 2.1km walk to the lookout will take you less than two hours and presents you with grand easterly views overlooking Halls Gap, Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and beyond. Here, you can watch vibrant explosions of red and pink across the sky, illuminating the remarkable rock formations.
Prior to sunset viewing, circumnavigate the Gariwerd (Grampians) National Park with Ambush Grampians Tours’ hop on and off tours and Grampians Trike Tours, or explore Halls Gap yourself with an e-bike from Halls Gap E-Bike Hire.
For a slower pace, test your skills with a round at Grampians Adventure Golf, get up close with friendly safari animals at Halls Gap Zoo or admire unique artwork at MOCO Gallery.
Located just 12km from Halls Gap, Reed Lookout is arguably one of the best locations to appreciate a Grampians sunset. Marvel at the vibrant orange and red hues as the sun sets over Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, Lake Wartook and the Gar (Mt Difficult) Range. The hike to the platform is short and steep, but certainly worth it.
From Reed Lookout, it’s an easy 1km walk to The Balconies. Here, you’ll discover panoramic views of Victoria Valley and surrounding ranges. Watch as the sunset light dances across the unique rock formations and mountains.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, we recommend exploring the delicious food offerings in Halls Gap. Visit Spirit of Punjab Restaurant for authentic Indian cuisine; Flame Brothers for Texas-style smoked meats with a view; Paper, Scissors, Rock Brew Co for craft beers and burgers; or Kookaburra Hotel for a hearty pub meal.
Complement your sunset viewing with a picnic at Big Hill Lookout. Located in Stawell, this lookout offers incredible views across the region, including the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. It’s easily accessible by car via Scenic Rd. Set up under the memorial gazebo with a spread of local delights as you relish the colourful sunset.
After the sun goes down, settle for the night in the neighbouring town of Halls Gap. Sleep in designer cabins with minimalistic décor at DULC Cabins; settle into Icon Central Halls Gap and its huge oval spa overlooking gentle sloping woodlands; or experience a home away from home with the rustic charm of Cedar Country Retreat. Alternatively, venture the short drive to Wartook Valley and experience a stay at Meringa Springs. Here you can watch the golden hues dance across the valley from the heated infinity edge pool.
From Ararat, take the short drive to One Tree Hill Lookout for unparalleled views of the town and beyond. Visitors can drive right up to the summit via One Tree Road, or if you’re looking for a challenge, walk the 4.8km from Ararat. Head to the lookout on a clear day and enjoy sweeping views of rugged mountainsides and ranges gleaming with sunset hues.
Make the most of your time in Ararat with a stay at Acacia Holiday Park. Pitch a tent in the park’s relaxing and shady camping sites. In the morning, enjoy a big breakfast and delicious coffee at Ararat Hotel and Bistro.
For those seeking a challenge, Duwul (Mount William) is the Grampians’ tallest peak and provides spectacular views over the region – perfect for sunset viewing. You can drive almost all the way to the top of the mountain before parking your car and walking the rest of the way. The hike takes approximately 45 minutes to walk to the summit. Be sure to come prepared with head-torches for the hike down after sunset.
Take your sense of adventure to the next level with Absolute Outdoors, choose from rock climbing mountainsides or paddling across pristine lakes. Relax with a luxurious stay amongst grape vines at Pomonal Estate or experience a quintessential country Aussie getaway at Pomonal Cottages.
Just a 15-minute walk from Dunkeld township, Dunkeld Arboretum offers a unique sunset viewing experience. Instead of hiking up mountains, watch the sun rise from a quaint, tranquil lakeside setting surrounded by a showcase of the world’s trees. Find a comfortable space on the grass, or set up at the picnic facilities, and gaze out as the sun sets over the spectacular mountain ranges and pristine lake.
While in Dunkeld, stop in at Dunkeld General Store to pick up local artisan items or plan a visit to Izzy’s Café for delicious homemade treats and coffee. For accommodation, check into the charming Grampians Retreat or Southern Grampians Cottages for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Taylors Lake is just 20km south-east of Horsham. It’s a spectacular haven during the warmer months for swimming, fishing, boating skiing and camping. When the sky is clear it’s also the perfect location for watching the sunset, especially if you prefer viewing from ground level. After a dip in the lake, settle in with a sunset picnic beside the serene waters.
