The Grampians is renowned as one of Victoria’s best family travel destinations - lucky us! We’ve compiled some hot tips for bringing the kids along.
Spend time together soaking up some of the Grampians’ natural beauty with kid-friendly walks - the Grampians National Park is home to a vast number of trails and tracks for all levels of ability. The short walk from the carpark to the Boroka Lookout delivers breathtaking views across Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. The delightful Venus Baths are naturally formed rock-pools the kids will love to splash around in and an easy stroll from the centre of Halls Gap.
Our region is also home to plenty of stunning watering holes. Lake Fyans is an enchanting place for a swim and to take in the sunset. Head to glorious Lake Bellfield for a swim, a paddle or to drop a line.
Be sure to take in the majestic Mackenzie Falls - guaranteed to make your jaw drop in wonder!
Whether you're nature-lovers or curious explorers, there’s an activity for everyone in the Grampians.
At Halls Gap Zoo you can get up close and personal with over 160 native and wild animals including cheetah, giraffe, meerkats, koalas and kangaroos.
The grown-ups and older kids will get a thrill on the legendary JWard Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour. Hear stories of murderers, ghosts and spend hours in the Museum reading early case histories and gazing in wonder at the equipment of the early days of the hospital.
Journey through the spectacular Grampians National Park to Horsham - a great launching pad for the Silo Art Trail. Imposing wheat silos along the 200km Trail have been turned into giant works of art by internationally recognised street artists, celebrating the rich heritage and unforgettable characters of the region. Capture your togetherness with a photo at one of the Framing the Wimmera installations.
Continue west to Dimboola and visit the Pink Lake and enjoy a picnic at Little Desert National Park.
Be sure to gather in pretty Pomonal, known for dazzling wildflowers and charming farm gates, wineries and gourmet food producers. Located on the eastern side of the Grampians, it’s the perfect place to stock empty Eskies before the journey back to Melbourne. Pomonal Estate has kids’ games and activities and a wonderful selection of wines, ciders and beers to taste and gather. Enjoy a final meal together at Red Rock Olives’ lovely café and select from their extensive range of olive goods to take home.
While there’s accommodation for all tastes in the Grampians, visiting families tend towards the excellent camping spots the Grampians is renowned for. For self-sufficient caravanners Old Man Emu Stay in Halls Gap and Acacia Caravan Park and Holiday Units in Ararat are great options.
If camping’s not your thing, a stay at The Shearer’s Quarters might be. This historic eight-bedroom farm stay is situated on Mount William Station, a working sheep and cattle farm.
We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options, whether it be something special for the parents or casual eateries with generous outdoor space for kids to run wild in.
Meet up for dinner at The Wander Inn in Wartook. This welcoming restaurant is often visited by kangaroos and birdlife and is much loved by locals and tourists alike.
We suggest breakfast or lunch at Livefast Lifestyle Cafe where the coffee’s great, the food’s fresh and the people are vibrant.
