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Southern Grampians

Discover the South

Visit the Greater Hamilton region and experience the heartbeat of a thriving farming district — Victoria’s first area of pastoral settlement. The regional city of Hamilton retains the feel of a grand old country town, but with a vibrant arts scene, retail shopping, delicious food and stylish accommodation.

The ultimate way to combine the great outdoors with life’s pleasures, including chef-hatted food and the region’s most sought after sourdough, is to base yourself in Dunkeld. It is home to Australia’s award-winning restaurant Wickens @ Royal Mail Hotel and the legendary Dunkeld Old Bakery.

If you feel like getting closer to nature, pull on your hiking boots and head for the hills. Take on the mountain trails and enjoy majestic views from Mt Sturgeon (Wurgarri), Mt Abrupt (Mud-Dadjug) and the Piccanninny (Bainggug).

Penshurst’s past is sure to fascinate. Wander up a dormant volcano and learn more about the region at the Volcanoes Discovery Centre. Step forward thousands of year when you explore the Settler’s Walk in Cavendish and hear the story of its pioneers.

With many lush vineyards, the Henty Wine Region offers plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of Victoria’s best wines. And make sure to leave some room in the boot so you can take some home for later!

Towns of the South

Dunkeld

At the foot of Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri), the southern tip of the Grampians and the Great Dividing Range, is the village of Dunkeld. Its charming main street features shops, trendy art-space cafes like Koopmans, and the Royal Mail Hotel which is regularly voted one of the best dining destinations in Australia.

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Hamilton

A stylish provincial city located in the heart of Victoria’s south west, Hamilton offers a variety of experiences for visitors. One of Australia’s finest regional galleries, the Hamilton Gallery, holds a vast collection of works and is complemented by a dynamic program of changing exhibitions.

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Coleraine

There is history around every corner in Coleraine for those who are eager to learn its fascinating past. It is one of the oldest country towns in Victoria with a settled history dating back almost 200 years. In fact, the local cricket club claims to be the second-oldest continuously playing cricket club in the world

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Penshurst

Penshurst is steeped in volcanic history. Mt Rouse rises 100 metres above the surrounding plans and the road access to the Mt Rouse Lookout provides panoramic views of the lava plain. A visit to the Volcanoes Discovery Centre will reveal the unique story of the lava flow formations known as the Kanawinka Geotrail.

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Cavendish

The small township of Cavendish is home to culinary talent, country hospitality, exceptional events and serene stays all within a short distance of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

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Follow the Southern Foodie Road Trip here

Wickens deal2 Royal mail hotel kitchen garden mt sturgeon Royal Mail Hotel Dunkeld AU Kitchen Garden Tour with Guests lr

Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel

Awarded two hats by the Good Food Guide in 2015 and 2016, the Royal Mail Hotel offers nature-based cuisine focusing on the highest quality locally sourced produce. With one of Australia's best chefs, Robin Wickens, leading the kitchen team, innovative menus inspired by the hotel's huge organic kitchen garden are created.

The Royal Mail Hotel proudly shares the opportunity to choose wine to enjoy from their vast collection. This collection has been privately curated over the past 40 years and is regularly awarded internationally.

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