Willaura
FEELS LIKE a secret only locals know
Willaura feels like discovering a quiet rhythm hidden in plain sight. This small rural community offers a rare perspective on country life, where authenticity runs deep and time seems to move with purpose. It is a place that asks you to slow down and notice the details, the warmth of a wave from a passing ute, the soft light spilling across wheat fields, the quiet confidence of a town that knows exactly who it is.
At Lake Buninjon, dawn breaks gently over still water as anglers wait for the first ripple. Mount William Station blends history with rural elegance, and food to write home about.
The Willaura Bakery’s famed vanilla slice has become a local legend, best enjoyed with a strong coffee and a conversation with those who have always called this place home. The newly reopened Maroona Hotel serves up classic pub fare, with a gluten-free kitchen.
Nearby, the land yields fine wines at Clayfield Wines and leads to Moyston, a neighbour rich in heritage and heart. For those who seek nature’s quieter corners, Kalymna Falls offers a soft curtain of water after winter rain, tucked away within the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park where the air smells of eucalyptus and earth.
Willaura may not be loud or showy, but that is its magic. It invites you to see beauty in understatement and meaning in stillness. A secret worth discovering, waiting patiently on the edge of the Grampians.
Stay, See & Eat
FAQs
Is there anywhere to go fishing in Willaura?
Lake Buninjon is a local secret for fishing, offering peaceful waters and scenic surroundings. Note that the lake can dry up in summer, and there are no facilities for campers, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Are there any public facilities in Willaura?
Yes, the town provides public amenities including toilets, picnic areas, and parks, making it convenient for day visitors and families exploring the area.
What natural attractions are near Willaura?
Kalymna Falls is a lesser-known waterfall best visited after winter rains. The surrounding countryside and nearby Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park offer walking trails, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
Where can I stay in Willaura?
Accommodation options include the luxurious Mount William Station with both the homestead and Shearers Quarters, as well as camping at Kalymna Falls and Lake Buninjon (self- sufficient only).
How close is Willaura to other towns?
Willaura is about 45 minutes from Ararat and within an hour of Lake Bolac, making it easy to explore surrounding towns while enjoying the tranquillity of this quiet community.
