Things To Do in Grampians
From hiking to wildlife spotting, there is no shortage of things to do in the Grampians. Explore this iconic Australian destination today. Are you in search of the ultimate Grampians experience?
Grampians National Park is a treasure trove of adventures waiting for you. If the Grampians are on your travel list, prepare for an unforgettable journey!
Embark on scenic hikes, dive into art and culture, taste the region’s fresh local delicacies, and marvel at the stunning waterfalls sprinkled throughout the Grampians.
Stretching from Horsham to Stawell and Ararat, the expansive Grampians in Victoria offers many experiences.
Halls Gap, the bustling heart of Grampians, promises an exciting day. Yet, the parks and neighbouring towns hold their own allure.
Ready to explore some of the top activities in the Grampians? As one of the destinations we adore most in Victoria, I hope this guide enhances your experience, making your stay as memorable as ours.
Embark on a Hiking Adventure in the Grampians
When it comes to incredible hiking, the Grampians take the cake-it’s a major draw for visitors. The hiking paths in the area guide you to some of the prime spots and are a highlight of many Grampians National Park tours
Setting off from Halls Gap, you can tackle renowned trails like the Grand Canyon walking track, Chautauqua Peak, and Boronia Peak, all while feasting your eyes on the breathtaking landscapes of the Grampians ranges. For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, more accessible walking paths are available, with the Venus Baths Halls Gap trail highly recommended.
Embark on a delightful stroll from the enchanting Halls Gap Botanic Gardens and discover the hidden gem of Venus Baths. This magical oasis beckons you to indulge in its refreshing waters, the perfect sanctuary to beat the summer heat.
Keep reading to discover more exceptional trails like the Pinnacle, Mount William—the tallest peak in the Grampians—and the legendary Grampians Peaks Trail.
Discover Wildlife at Halls Gap Zoo
Don’t forget to embark on a wild adventure at the Halls Gap Zoo, Victoria’s largest regional zoo, perfect for a fun-filled family outing!
With more than 160 diverse animals ranging from giraffes and monkeys to snakes and crocodiles, the zoo offers an engaging experience for all ages. The zoo is well-equipped with facilities like BBQ, picnic spots, and a fun-filled children’s playground. If you’re interested in closer interaction with the animals, the zoo offers specialized experiences such as giraffe feedings, meeting meerkats, and even a rhino encounter.
Halls Gap Zoo Details:
Location: 4061 Ararat – Halls Gap Road, Halls Gap 3381
Timing: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Adults: $38.00, Children: $19.00, Family (up to 4 kids): $95.00, Concession rates available.
Experience the Grampians from Above with a Helicopter Tour
Looking for an extraordinary way to see the Grampians? Consider hopping on a helicopter tour with Grampians Helicopters.
Embark on a breathtaking adventure with four sky-high tours that will take you soaring over the majestic Grampians National Park. From the thrilling ‘Mini Mountain Tour’ to the awe-inspiring ‘Full Grand Loop,’ there’s a tour for every adventurer seeking the ultimate aerial experience.
Tours start at $225 and are available every day of the week.
Mini Golf in Halls Gap
Embark on a joyous journey of family delight at Halls Gap Mini Golf, where you can unleash your inner golfer and conquer the thrilling 18-hole course with every putt!
Set amid the stunning Grampians scenery, the course features waterfalls, tunnels, and vistas aplenty. Wildlife like emus, kangaroos, and deer might even make an appearance!
Location: 475-481 Grampians Road, Halls Gap 3381
Hours: Mon, Thu, Wed: 10 a.m – 5 p.m, Sat-Sun: 10 a.m – 8 p.m (Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, open every day during school holidays)
Admission: Adults: $17, Concession: $16, Children: $12
The Pinnacles Lookout
Witness the expansive Grand Canyon and a variety of incredible sandstone formations on the Pinnacles trek. The Pinnacle provides a stunning panorama of the national park’s landscape. The 4.2 km round-trip hike starting from the Sundial car park is a must-do. The path is marked by yellow arrows painted on rocks to guide you. Get ready to conquer the wild outdoors by donning the perfect gear and stepping into the unknown with sturdy shoes that can handle any terrain!
Escape the Crowds at Silverband Falls
Although not as large as Mackenzie Falls, Silverband Falls is equally captivating and less crowded.
A brief 700-meter flat walk from the car park takes you through a wooded area and across a small stream to a clearing where the waterfall drops.
Located a bit farther from Halls Gap, this hidden gem is well worth the drive.
The Eerie J Ward Ghost Tour in Ararat
J Ward, once a prison and later an asylum, is Ararat’s most famous attraction.
Originally built as a prison for violent criminals, it later served as a facility for the criminally insane.
Tours of the grim, high-security facility are available, either as a two-hour guided ghost tour or an overnight paranormal investigation.
Note: The tours are not recommended for children under 12.
Extend Your Visit to Ararat Asylum
If J Ward leaves you intrigued, consider visiting Ararat Lunatic Asylum, also known as Aradale Asylum.
Formerly a psychiatric facility, it’s now essentially a ghost town since its closure in 1993.
Over 1,000 patients were once housed here across 65 heritage-listed buildings.
‘Friends of J Ward’ volunteers conduct tours every Sunday and Wednesday at 10 am.
Admission: Adult: $22, Concession: $18, Child: $5
Location: Grano Street, Ararat 3377
Hours: 10 a.m. Sunday and Wednesday
Entry: Adult: $22, Concession: $18, Child: $5, Family: $50
Fish in the Lakes of the Grampians
While the Grampians mountains usually steal the spotlight, don’t overlook the region’s lovely lakes.
Lake Fyans crowned the ‘finest swimming lake in the Grampians’, boasts a beautiful sandy shore and calm, secure waters for splashing around.
If swimming’s not your thing due to the weather, consider boating. Fishing in Lake Fyans is also a favourite activity among both residents and tourists.
Just 30-minute drive from Halls Gap, Lake Wartook is a more private body of water ideal for a laid-back day with loved ones.This lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, kayakers, and those who love to take a dip in its refreshing waters. Located just a short 5-km drive from Halls Gap’s central shopping area, Lake Bellfield is a magnet for swimmers, sightseers, and anglers. Ample parking, a picnic spot, and public restrooms make it easily accessible.
Enjoy Exceptional Sunset Vistas at the Balconies or Reed Lookout
Speaking of notable Grampians vantage points, Reed Lookout and The Balconies are among the top attractions in the area. Here, you can marvel at the expansive views of Victoria Valley and the mountainous landscape. The lookout is conveniently situated just a 20-minute drive from Halls Gap and right beside the parking area. While no amenities are available at the lookout, a brief 2 km round-trip walk will take you to another splendid viewpoint, The Balconies. This is an excellent alternative during high-traffic seasons when Reed Lookout may be crowded.
Grampians Ale Works
For those nearer to Stawell, Grampians Ale Works is another excellent option.
This local brewery boasts a friendly environment, live entertainment, and bar games.
Enjoy regional spirits, locally produced small-batch wines, or onsite brewed craft beers.
The magical Chalambar Hops, cultivated in the enchanting Ararat region, are the secret ingredient that gives their brews an unrivalled flavour.
Location: 3 Victoria Place, Stawell 3380
Hours: Friday: 4 p.m – 10 p.m, Saturday: 12 p.m – 10 p.m, Sunday: 2 p.m – 8 p.m
Grampians Rock Climbing
Grampians is renowned for its rock climbing, particularly its world-class sandstone formations.
Embark on a thrilling journey from the enchanting Bundaleer to the picturesque Halls Gap valley, where the majestic ‘Watch Tower’ awaits, offering exhilarating climbs for adventurers of all skill levels.
Novices needn’t worry; the Grampians offer excellent opportunities for beginners and make for a family-friendly experience.
Two reputable operators near Halls Gap include Hangin Out and Absolute Outdoors.
Rates start at approximately $100 for a three-hour session.
Discover Artistic Genius on the Silo Art Trail
Art aficionados should not miss the 200-km (124-mile) Silo Art Trail, featuring creations from internationally acclaimed street artists.
Embark on a thrilling journey along the entire trail by car, immersing yourself in its wonders for a mesmerizing six to seven hours. However, if you’re short on time, fear not! You can still experience the brilliance of some standout installations in just a few magical hours.
Don’t miss Sheep Hills and Rupanyup among them.
Victoria’s Silo Art is a relatively recent addition, winding through the northern Grampians’ rural areas.
Sample Regional Wines at Grampians Wineries
Seppelt Winery
Seppelt Great Western is your destination if you’re searching for premier wineries in the Grampians. The winery features a selection of 20 standout wines from their award-winning range for you to taste. Tours of their immense underground cellars, underground dining experiences, and wedding arrangements are also available.
Discover the hidden gem of the cellar door, tucked just 15 minutes north of Ararat and a scenic half-hour from Halls Gap.
Seppelt Great Western
- Address: 36 Cemetery Road, Great Western 3374
- Hours: Cellar Door 10 a.m.–5 p.m., open every day
Pomonal Winery
Renowned for its excellent wines and delectable local cuisine, Pomonal Winery has rapidly garnered local and global attention. It also features a microbrewery and cider house.
Just a short and scenic 10-minute drive from Halls Gap, you’ll find the magnificent estate along the picturesque Ararat Road.
Pomonal Estate
- Address: 2079 Pomonal Road, Pomonal 3381
- Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Wed-Sun; open every day during Victorian school holidays
Grampians Estate Winery
Grampians Estate stands tall as the region’s reigning champion of boutique wineries.
You can choose from various wines, including sparkling, cool-climate shiraz, and delightful summer rieslings. The winery’s cellar door is on the Western Highway in Great Western.
Grampians Estate
- Address: 1477 Western Highway, Great Western 3374
- Hours: Open every day from 10 a.m.
Boroka Lookout
Located roughly 20 minutes by car from the town of Halls Gap, Boroka Lookout in the Grampians offers a magnificent perspective. A brief 5-minute stroll will reveal stunning panoramas of the Grampians and the northern part of the adjacent town. For an unparalleled experience, consider visiting early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch a glorious sunrise.
Mackenzie Falls
Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of Mackenzie Falls, a must-see gem nestled within the enchanting Grampians National Park.
Always bustling with sightseers, this waterfall is remarkable year-round, as it’s one of the few in the region that remains flowing even in the driest seasons. A short distance from the parking area, the viewing platform is readily accessible to those with limited mobility and young kids. For thrill-seekers, the trek to the base of Mackenzie Falls is a steep one but pays off with the refreshing mist that sprays up from the waterfall.
Embark on a Subterranean Tour at Seppelt Wines
Explore the National Trust-classified ‘Drives,’ a 3 km underground tunnel system built in 1865 by Joseph Best for wine storage. These tunnels can house up to 3 million bottles of Seppelt wines, making it Australia’s largest underground cellar system. The 50-minute guided tour provides a captivating look into Australia’s pioneering viticulture.
Seppelt Underground Cellar Tour
- Address: 36 Cemetery Road, Great Western 3374
- Tour Times: 11 a.m./1 p.m./3 p.m.
- Admission: Adults $22, Children $8 (free for under 5s), Concession $18
Savor Craft Beers at Grampians' Breweries
Indulge in a sampler of craft beers brewed locally at Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co.
Located in Halls Gap, this brewery offers an excellent selection of charcuterie boards to complement your beer-tasting experience.
Spending an entire afternoon or evening here is quite easy to do.
A rotating menu and live performances ensure there’s always something interesting happening.
However, securing a table can be challenging, particularly in the evening. Early arrival is recommended.
Online reservations are available through the Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co. website.
Location: 119 Grampians Road, Halls Gap 3381
Hours: Thu – Mon: 12 p.m – 8 p.m
Brambuk: The National Park & Cultural Centre
Head to Brambuk Cultural Centre to deepen your understanding of the area’s Indigenous history.
The centre showcases various exhibits and artifacts that narrate the importance of Gariwerd (also known as the Grampians) to the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung communities.
You can explore Brambuk or shop for Indigenous crafts and Australian souvenirs in the gift store.
Brambuk: The National Park & Cultural Centre
Location: 277 Grampians Road, Halls Gap 3381
Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week
Visit The Stawell Gift Hall Of Fame
Step into the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame and discover a haven for running enthusiasts and an enchanting escape on a rainy day.
The venue showcases 130 years of memorabilia and artifacts relating to the Stawell Gift, which began in 1878.
Location: Central Park in Stawell
Hours: 10 a.m – 4 p.m, Tuesday – Saturday
Admission: Adults $5, Children under 16 free
Ancient Aboriginal Rock Art at Bunjil Shelter
Experience the remarkable Aboriginal rock art at Bunjil Cave, one of Victoria’s most important art sites.
Here, you will find the only known depiction of Bunjil in human form. The Grampians referred to as Geriward by the Aboriginal community, are believed to be the creation of the ancestral Eagle spirit, Bunjil.
The shelter can be found between Pomonal and Stawell and is open year-round, 24/7.
Indulge in Local Produce at Five Ducks Farm
You can fill your basket with delectable organic products at the Five Ducks Farm Farmgate store.
The farm is operated by Andy and Anita, who are committed to sustainable farming and local goods. They craft a variety of products from the natural abundance surrounding their land.
The farm is just a 10-minute drive from Halls Gap en route to Pomonal.
Five Ducks Farm
Location: 3621 Ararat Halls Gap Road, Pomonal 3381
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Purchase Premium Olive Oil at Grampians Olive Co.
Looking for quality olive oil? You can acquire top-tier organic olive oil precisely as nature intended at Grampians Olive Co.
The farm boasts 28,000 olive trees and employs a cold-pressing technique within hours of harvesting the olives. The unrefined, unfiltered oil is hand-bottled in limited quantities to maintain optimum freshness.
Grampians Olive Co.
Location: 376 Olive Plantation Road, Laharum 3401
Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed on weekends and public holidays
Explore the Lesser-Known Alexandra Gardens in Ararat
If you’re searching for non-touristy activities in Grampians National Park, consider a trip to the scenic Alexandra Gardens in Ararat. Featuring a multi-tiered fernery, stepped lawns, and a decorative pond, it’s a perfect spot to unwind for a couple of hours. The park also boasts a lake path accessible to both prams and wheelchairs, along with play equipment, a dedicated area for toddlers, and shaded seating spots.
Experience the One Tree Hill Lookout Near Ararat
Just a short distance from the town of Ararat, you’ll find another magnificent vantage point offering breathtaking vistas.
Behold the breathtaking view from this lookout, where the majestic Grampians stretch to the West and the enchanting Pyrenees captivate to the East.
Convenient picnic tables are also available for a leisurely meal while soaking in the landscape.
Challenge Yourself on the Grampians Peaks Trail
This trail is a haven for the truly adventurous. The complete 13-day, 12-night route traverses the entirety of Grampians National Park, showcasing some of its most striking scenery. If you’re not up for the whole journey, don’t fret—the Grampians Peaks Trail can also be broken down into shorter, more manageable segments. You can select from a range of options, including overnight stays and simpler day hikes.
Ascend Mount William (Duwil)
Located to the south of Halls Gap, Mount William stands at a height of 3,829 feet and offers some of the most panoramic views of the national park. Reaching the peak of Mount William—the highest point in the park—will take a moderately fit individual approximately 45 minutes on foot.
Attend the Pomonal Native Flower Show
For something a bit different, the APSGG organizes an annual display of native Australian flora, including species exclusive to the Grampians region. If you happen to be in the area in early October, be sure to visit and check their Facebook page for exact dates. Entry costs $5 for adults, but children can attend for free.
Join us on a Grampians tour and witness breathtaking views, majestic waterfalls, and unique wildlife. Experience the best of this natural wonderland with knowledgeable guides.
FAQ
What are the best hikes in the Grampians?
Popular trails include the Pinnacle, Grand Canyon walking track, Chautauqua Peak, and Boronia Peak. For an easier option, try the Venus Baths walk from Halls Gap Botanic Gardens.
Where can I see wildlife in the Grampians?
Visit Halls Gap Zoo, Victoria’s largest regional zoo, or spot kangaroos, emus, and native birds on bushwalks around Halls Gap and the national park.
Are there scenic lookouts worth visiting?
Yes – Reed Lookout, The Balconies, Boroka Lookout, and Mount William offer panoramic views of the Grampians ranges, valleys, and sunsets.
What other unique activities are available besides hiking?
You can take a helicopter tour, explore Aboriginal rock art at Bunjil Shelter, follow the Silo Art Trail, sample local wines, or go rock climbing with local guides.
When is the best time to visit the waterfalls?
Mackenzie Falls flows year-round, while others like Silverband Falls are best seen after rain. Spring and early summer offer lush scenery and strong water flow.
Related Tours
