Unexpected Ballarat moments / The (really) great outdoors
An exhibition that rocks / What’s on & much more
Acknowledgement of Country
Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities.
These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.
We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years.
As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.
Forget what you think you know about
Ballarat.
Discover a destination that’s brilliantly unexpected, where the past, present, culture, and creativity collide.
Today, Ballarat is a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art and a thriving regional centre filled with charm, energy, and originality. From our eclectic architecture to our world-class arts and culture, our vibrant artisanal offerings to our lively restaurant and bar scene, there’s something for everyone here.
Open your mind to Ballarat, and we promise it will open up unexpected moments and uplifting experiences for you.
We look forward to seeing you!
Bygone… but not forgotten
Ballarat is a city rich in heritage – revered, restored, reimagined and waiting to be discovered.
When a bunch of pastoralists (a.k.a. squatters) first set up sheep stations in the late 1830’s, they probably couldn’t have imagined that, in a few short years, Ballarat would boom and be seen as the world’s richest alluvial goldfield during its peak.
Ballarat’s gold rush arrived in 1851 and despite its eventual decline, it helped lay the foundations for today’s multicultural, modern city.
Today, Ballarat’s streets are like a living museum – without those annoying ‘no touching’ signs. You’ll find stunning examples of 19th and 20thcentury architecture reflecting the city’s various stages of development. Broad boulevards, imperial buildings, ornate facades and pillared verandas are all on display, with Lydiard Street particularly rich in heritage buildings.
For those who like their architecture with a sprinkle of crime and a dash of tall tales,
the night-time Eerie Ghost Tour is a must. Starting at the clock tower of Ballarat’s neoclassical train station, the tour dives into the darker, spookier side of the city, stopping at eerie sites like the old Ballarat Gaol and Craig’s Royal Hotel. Along the way, you’ll hear unsettling stories of uprisings and unpleasantness from Ballarat’s past. And, who knows, you might even encounter a few lingering spirits too!
If haunted tours aren’t your thing – I’m not scared, you’re scared! – the Quartz Mine Tour at Sovereign Hill is well worth the short yet dramatic ride on its inclined railway. The guided tour takes you into an underground world where you can experience what life was like for a 19thcentury miner, from the cramped conditions to the tools they used. There are three separate guided tours to choose from, each focusing on a particular real-life story.
Image: Einwick
Next stop, the Ballarat Tramway Museum
Quick fact: everyone loves trams, it’s a thing. The museum showcases Ballarat’s rich transport history, offering a unique glimpse into how trams once shaped the city’s daily life. The collection features over 20 vintage trams – including Ballarat Horse Tram No.1 from 1887 and a 1905 Electric Supply Company tramcar – which may sound geeky but they’re really rather lovely. Located by the scenic Lake Wendouree, the beautifully-restored trams let visitors experience travel just as it was a century ago. Ding ding!
If you find yourself near Ballarat’s Lake Wendouree – for tram-based or even naturebased reasons – switch modes and hop on board the Golden City Paddle Steamer, a replica of the original vessel that sailed the lake during the mid-1880s. Passengers can enjoy beautiful views, abundant birdlife and hear all about the history of the lake. Cruises run on most Sundays from November to April. BYO cucumber sangas and flask of tea!
For heritage you can hold, head to the Ballarat Vintage and Collectibles Market, located inside a former woolshed at nearby Warrenheip. This treasure trove offers everything from period furniture and vintage clothing to rare antiques and quirky collectibles. Whether you’re a serious collector or a casual browser, you can easily spend hours exploring the 80-plus stalls, chatting with stallholders and uncovering oneof-a-kind items.
It’s often said that the best way to experience a place is to stay there for a while. Ballarat offers a range of exceptional accommodation options to suit various needs and budgets, whether you’re looking to be close to the action or immersed in nature.
Just a half-hour drive from Ballarat and nestled in the stunning Mt Cole State Forest is the eco-conscious retreat The Glut Farm. With a commitment to low-waste living and recycling, it exemplifies how luxury and ecological responsibility can coexist. It’s even got a vineyard that sits beautifully in front of the farmhouse paddock, planted with cuttings from the original Yalumba grenache vineyard planted way back in 1889. This place is hard to leave.
Smack bang in the heart of Ballarat, Hotel Vera is an almost obsessively-restored heritage building that once served as a surgeon’s house. Blending modern luxury and elegance with historical charm, each of the hotel’s seven suites has a distinct style inspired by nearby goldfields’ townships, providing guests with signature amenities and thoughtful furnishings. On-site fine diner Babae is equally impressive.
From its notable architecture and nostalgic modes of transport to its rich heritage and excellent accommodation, Ballarat is a city filled with bygones – revered, restored and reimagined – and just waiting to be discovered.
The Quartz Mine Tour at Sovereign Hill.
Creativity that’s turning heads
Ballarat is a vibrant regional city in the middle of creative transformation – get amongst it, people!
Ballarat is a city bursting with creative energy. From vibrant arts and crafts to a cutting-edge drinks and gastronomy scene, Ballarat’s artists, makers and entrepreneurs are busy drawing inspiration from the city’s rich history and their own unique experiences to offer something fresh and unexpected.
For those arriving by train, Itinerant Spirits is found just metres away from Ballarat’s neoclassical station. Housed in a restored bluestone goods shed, Itinerant is luxe – with a capital L – with its copper distillery proudly on display behind an impressive cocktail bar.
Itinerant isn’t just about looks; its cocktails are fab too, many inspired by local people and producers. A Fruit Toast Sour pays homage to Ballarat’s Turret Bakehouse, while Salt Kitchen Charcuterie is honoured with a Pistachio & Thyme Collins. Whoever thought cured meat and sweet treats deserved a cocktail should, er, be honoured!
A five-minute walk away is Renard, a cocktail bar and social club blending bistro vibes with a touch of disco. Boujee drinks, small plates and late-night fun are the signature offerings here.
Or step back in time to the prohibition-era Grainery Lane. Hidden behind a secret wall (no, I won’t tell you where – it wouldn’t be a secret otherwise) lies a speakeasy with chandeliers, glitz and an original saloon-style bar.
Beer lovers should check out Aunty Jacks or Hop Temple, located 200 metres apart. Aunty Jacks is an eclectic brewpub with award-winning beers and a focus on brewing craft, while Hop Temple, set in a converted stable, offers over 200 craft beers in a lively atmosphere.
Hop Temple is also at the end of Hop Lane, Insta-famous for its striking display of umbrellas and murals by artists Travis Price and Bacondrum. Speaking of which, Ballarat has the largest collection of outdoor artworks in regional Australia, with over 120 pieces scattered across the city. Take one of four self-guided art walks or simply keep an eye out for local and international works throughout your travels.
Image: Einwick
Whoever thought cured meat and sweet treats deserved a cocktail should, er, be honoured!
Recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2019, Ballarat’s craft scene thrives. The region’s diverse heritage underpins a rich tapestry of crafts telling the stories of First Peoples and a modern city with a diverse population.
As Ballarat grows, it’s preserving the crafts of the past while embracing the artisanal skills and experience of its current citizens. Leathercrafters Jess Cameron-Wootten and Krystina Menegazzo were drawn to Ballarat’s creative light, relocating their Wootten leather business from Melbourne in 2017 and now operating out of the historic Gun Cotton Factory.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach to craft, the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades is dedicated to preserving rare skills and practices. There are many workshops available to enjoy, but some of the most popular are run by jeweller Rachel Grose, who offers hands-on silversmithing classes, teaching everything from ring-making to moonstone setting.
Anyone hungry? From pushing the boundaries of gastronomic excellence to championing local produce, Ballarat’s food scene is utterly deserving of an article of its own. Meanwhile, here are five favourites among visitors, critics, and locals alike...
For a high-end culinary experience, check out degustation-only Underbar, where chef Derek Boath – who honed his skills at New York’s three-Michelin-starred Per Se – sources, prepares and serves every dish on the eightcourse tasting menu.
If sustainability and local produce are important to you, visit The Shared Table and Saltbush Kitchen. Located just ten minutes from the city in Buninyong, The Shared Table is an intimate and elegant restaurant where community dining and sustainability take centre stage. Or, if you prefer cooking at home, Saltbush Kitchen offers a range of Australian native ingredients to inspire your culinary creations.
One restaurateur who’s travelled further than most is Jose Fernandez, whose hit eatery Meigas is inspired by his Spanish roots. At Meigas, the prices are reasonable, the food is exceptional and the atmosphere feels authentically Latin – with live flamenco dancing on some nights.
Lastly, and definitely not leastly, Hotel Vera’s inhouse restaurant Babae delivers provenancedriven dining with a homely take on luxury. Its seasonal menu, with a focus on local suppliers, is served in an elegant dining room –with the bonus of seven luxury suites for diners to retire to.
From luxe distilleries and quirky brewpubs to contemporary dining at its finest, Ballarat always manages to surprise at every turn. This vibrant regional city is in the midst of a transformation, bringing creativity to the fore and leaving locals and visitors spoilt for choice.
Image:
Einwick
Meigas
Richer than gold
Ballarat is claiming its multifaceted past and celebrating the rich history and cultures of local First Peoples.
WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following article contains the names of those that have passed.
You can’t really miss Ballarat’s gold rush heritage – it’s visible throughout its heritage streetscapes. But richer cultures and deeper stories thrived here for over 1,000 generations before the first prospectors arrived. Today, the cultures of the Wadawurrung, the Dja Dja Wurrung and the many other diverse First Nations peoples who now call the Ballarat region home are being celebrated and embraced locally and across the world.
A wonderful example of First Peoples’ enduring culture can be seen in the work of artist Tammy Gilson, a traditional weaver and proud Wadawurrung woman. Through her weaving, Tammy seeks to empower and embody cultural resilience, while creating and sustaining Wadawurrung culture. Tammy runs a traditional weaving workshop at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, where she teaches participants how to weave string bags (known as ‘ballang’) using jute and plant fibre collected from across Wadawurrung Country.
Tammy’s workshop provides an opportunity for people from all walks of life to connect with Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Country, and the deep history and crafts of First Peoples. The half-day workshop is a satisfying and reflective experience, with each participant able to personalise their ballang with adornments such as possum fur, gum nuts and shells. The workshop runs once a month and needs to be booked in advance.
Continuity of First Peoples’ culture is as much about reimagining as it is about reverence for tradition or the past. Arguably, no one embodied this spirit of cultural evolution more than the late Josh Muir, a celebrated Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta and Barkindji artist from Ballarat. His vibrant, contemporary works are a powerful fusion of traditional stories and modern expression which contributed to a bold new vision for Indigenous Australian art.
Image credit: Josh Muir, Forever I Live, (Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta, Barkindji) 2015 digital print on aluminium 51 x 32 cm. Private Collection. Photo: Christian Capurro.
JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live is the largest retrospective of Josh’s work. Though he passed away suddenly at the age of 30 in 2022, his artistic legacy lives on. His thought-provoking and uplifting works reflect themes central to his life and community, including cultural identity, the impacts and legacies of colonisation, mental health, addiction, personal loss, and grief. Presented by the Koorie Heritage Trust, the exhibition is on show at the Art Gallery of Ballarat until 2 February 2025.
Embracing both the traditional and contemporary First Peoples art scene is Perridak Arts, an Aboriginal community-owned and operated business in the heart of Ballarat’s CBD. Established in 2023, this unique gallery serves not only as a space for showcasing local First Peoples artists and craftspeople, but also as a therapeutic program, supporting artists in strengthening culture through their creative talents.
Visitors stepping inside are greeted by the relaxing sounds and smells of “being on Country”, where a variety of art forms invite them to engage deeply with First Peoples’ cultures. Perridak Arts is more than an art gallery; it’s a cultural experience that connects people to place, to Wadawurrung Country and to the incredible diversity of First Peoples artists that have come to call Ballarat home. The gallery is open every day except Sunday and is well worth a visit.
The value of creative activity to First Peoples is important – culturally, socially and economically – but equally significant are creation stories and oral traditions. While not solely focused on First Peoples, AURA at Sovereign Hill offers a stunning and memorable immersive experience
that weaves together the Wadawurrung creation story with the dramatic impacts of colonisation. This 90-minute show uses powerful projections to portray the transformation of the region, highlighting the richness of First Peoples’ culture and the profound disruption caused by the discovery of gold. Running after dark yearround, AURA provides a world-class introduction to the events that shaped modern-day Ballarat from both a Wadawurrung and more recent gold rush perspective.
Ballarat has experienced dramatic change over the centuries, but many ancient landscapes that hold deep significance for First Peoples remain blissfully unspoiled and can be enjoyed by all.
From Mount Buninyong (the spiritual home of the Keyeet Balug clan) to Lal Lal Falls (where Bunjil, the spirit creator of the Wadawurrung People, made his final resting place before ascending to the heavens) to the Yarrowee River, these landscapes hold many stories and are as beautiful as they are restorative. They are well worth exploring, whether by hike, bike or scenic drive.
For the First Peoples of the Ballarat region, their song lines are deeply embedded in the land. The tracks of their creation ancestors are etched into the rocks and sky, while the mountains, rivers and waterfalls that surround us play central roles in their stories.
Despite the upheavals of colonisation, First Peoples continue to inspire through both new and age-old traditional art forms and storysharing experiences. By celebrating and learning about First Peoples creation stories, art practice, protocols and local cultural authority, we invest in a shared future that is rich and innovative and provides exciting opportunities for all.
Wadawurrung Weaving with Tammy Gilson at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades. Image: Bueno Designs
Did someone say space?
Always event-full
Ballarat is home to drawcard events, festivals and exhibitions that surprise, delight and sometimes even rock, all year-round.
It’s fair to say that when it comes to hosting excellent events, sporting spectacles and fantastic festivals, Ballarat has form – and the next 18 months are no different.
One event that’s gotten melomaniacs all hot and bothered is the Medieval to Metal: The Art & Evolution of the Guitar exhibition, running until 2 February 2025 at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. This internationally-celebrated showcase of guitars is a visual and auditory feast, charting the evolution of one of music’s most iconic instruments, from centuries-old lutes to electrifying modern icons. Sharing the limelight is an epic line-up of photographs, illustrative designs and objects that celebrate the cultural significance of the guitar. Rock on!
Complementing the exhibition is the Setlist Dinner, a one-off culinary event that will pair contemporary local cuisine with the gallery’s
immersive atmosphere. Featuring gastronomic talents from Hotel Canberra, Mr Jones, The Shared Table, Black Cat Truffles and Peasant, this dinner promises a menu as inspiring as the exhibition itself. Tickets are limited and available through the gallery’s website.
Ballarat continues to make its mark as a music destination. The much-anticipated reopening of the 150-year-old Her Majesty’s Theatre will see GRAMMY award-winning artist St. Vincent among the first to take the stage as part of her All Born Screaming Tour – her first live appearance down under since 2018.
The tour is part of ALWAYS LIVE, a statewide celebration of live music supported by Visit Victoria and Frontier Touring which also features rock luminary Jack White at Ballarat’s Civic Hall and indie-folk star Andy Shauf at Volta
Medieval to Metal: The Art & Evolution of the Guitar at the Art Gallery of Ballarat Image: Nicole Cleary
And the music just keeps playing. Summer Sundays is a firm favourite on the city’s events calendar, transforming the Ballarat Botanical Gardens into a vibrant stage for live music, food trucks and laid-back, chilled out vibes. Over four Sundays in January, the event will feature a great mix of local and emerging artists, and the best part? It’s absolutely free.
Though the final program is still under wraps, Summer Sundays takes place every week from 3pm-7pm, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate warm weather, great tunes and the relaxed vibes of summer afternoons. There’s even a pop-up beer garden. So pack a picnic blanket and don’t forget your dancing shoes!
Returning to Ballarat over the Labour Day long weekend is the much-loved Ballarat Begonia Festival, a cherished local tradition that draws thousands of visitors each year. The March festival offers stunning floral displays, creative workshops, colourful parades and familyfriendly activities.
As Ballarat’s biggest celebration, the festival brings a burst of colour and creativity to the city, making it a can’t-miss event. Expect live music, performances, delicious food, markets, celebrity guests and, of course, the iconic begonias themselves.
Then there’s the Ballarat Heritage Festival –one of Australia’s leading heritage festivals and a celebration of the city’s history, community and architecture. The May festival is renowned for bringing the past to life with vintage car displays, steam trains, heritage tours, street theatre and reenactments.
The festival is all about immersing yourself in the charm of days gone by and celebrating the traditions and stories that have shaped Ballarat. Grab your tweed, wax your moustache or dust off your bonnet because it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the era.
It’s fair to say that Ballarat is a place where the past, present, creativity and community harmoniously coexist. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant music scene, culinary delights, rich history or cultural celebrations, Ballarat likes to put on a show for all types and tastes.
So if you’re thinking of heading to town, don’t just show up – plan ahead and make sure you take full advantage of everything this dynamic regional city has to offer. One thing’s for certain – there’s always something exciting and something unexpected waiting to be discovered in Ballarat.
If someone says they’re bored in Ballarat, they’re almost definitely not in Ballarat.
Okay. First up, you’re wondering if the collective noun for umbrellas is a clutch? Now you’re thinking, wait – can inanimate objects even have collective nouns? And if they could, wouldn’t it be a canopy of umbrellas, or a splash, even?
Well, this particular writer thinks ‘clutch’ best captures a multitude of umbrellas, especially those hovering above people’s heads in Ballarat’s Hop Lane. So, maybe stop pondering this slightly unexpected opening, grab a selfie stick, and do what every self-respecting visitor to Ballarat does – get artsy under the clutch. It’s really quite nice, and its proximity to Hop Temple –and its 200-plus craft beers – is somewhat of a boon!
What’s with the tone? Well, the next time you’re asked to find the common thread between jousting at a faux medieval castle, native Australian wildlife, Australia’s oldest regional gallery, and some delightfully creative boutiques, see what you come up with! I mean, where to start – beyond floating umbrellas, that is. Did someone say jousting? Let’s do this.
Inspired by his passion for medieval history, Kryal Castle was built in 1974 by Keith Ryall, a former Ballarat local and entrepreneur.
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should – but in Keith’s case, he did! And 50 years later, we have medieval jousting at a castle in regional Victoria – and guess what? It’s really rather good! (The Smashing Pumpkins’ gig there recently wasn’t bad either, but that’s another story.) It’s especially good when viewed through the eyes of a child – or if you’re actually a child. There’s also medieval dragons, medieval magic, and medieval ice cream.
For those who prefer their dragons a little more native, check out the crocodiles crunch at the Ballarat Wildlife Park. On weekends and school holidays, visitors can marvel as ‘Crunch’ the Super-Croc, one of the largest crocodiles in Australia, feeds! It’s a memorable experience to thrill the whole family. Beyond crocs, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s less bitey animals. With over 100 free-roaming kangaroos (which you can hand-feed), more than 35 koalas, various wombats and emus, and an exhibit of the world’s smallest penguins, the family-owned park is a must-visit for nature lovers young and old. You can even see Kai and Akasha, the SumatranSiberian tigers (also a bit bitey) in their state-ofthe-art sanctuary.
What if medieval history, ’grammable floating umbrellas, or native Australian wildlife aren’t your thing? No problem – head down to Sovereign Hill, one of Ballarat’s most iconic attractions, and immerse yourself in the gold rush. Pan for gold in the diggings (yes, it’s real gold), head underground for the mine tour experience Trapped, which depicts the true story of one of Australia’s worst underground mining disasters (complete with sound, wind and water effects), see the delectable raspberry drops being made – and much more.
Dang, forgot to mention, you can actually stay at Kryal Castle. There’s a hotel nestled within the castle walls, so you can truly feel like royalty for the night. Or a knight, for a night. Sorry.
Where can this article possibly go next? Might I suggest The Crafty Squirrel or Hattie and the Wolf, which, as it turns out, aren’t quirky pubs, but two proudly female-owned creative businesses. With an eco-friendly ethos, Hattie and the Wolf, run by founder Andrea Hurley, is Ballarat’s go-to store for ethically-made giftware, clothing and accessories sourced from Australia and abroad.
Equally impressive, The Crafty Squirrel, run by Morgan Wills, is located in a charming 1885 corner store. This boutique offers a delightful mix of vintage-inspired homewares, quirky gifts, and unique craft kits. Morgan’s love for design is reflected in every carefully-curated item, many sourced from her global travels. The store also hosts craft retreats, making it a must-visit for fans of handmade and creative treasures. Both businesses proudly showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of women in Ballarat’s business and creative scene.
Finally, there’s no ignoring the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional art gallery, and a place where you can easily spend hours exploring. The gallery presents a wide range of exhibitions, from cutting-edge contemporary art to themed shows drawn from its extensive collection, as well as special interest ticketed exhibitions. Housed in a heritage-listed building, the gallery has expanded to include both elegant 19th-century rooms and stunning contemporary spaces. The gallery shop features works by local artists, alongside art books, souvenirs, and gifts. Fully accessible, the gallery ensures all visitors can enjoy its rich artistic offerings.
So, there you go. Definitely not boring. Absolutely worth a visit. Always, brilliantly unexpected.
Kryal Castle
Image: Einwick
What’s on
No matter the season or the reason, there’s always plenty going on in Ballarat. From zany events to renowned festivals, charming markets to notable exhibitions, live music to live theatre, and more, here’s our guide to what’s on in and around Ballarat.
SpringFest Market
Ballarat’s favourite mega market is back at beautiful Lake Wendouree’s gardens precinct with over 450 stalls (yes, you read that right!) to meander around. The sounds of live music will float on the air as you hunt for treasure among the artisanal creations and stunning local art. Naturally, you’ll also find delicious treats and kids’ activities.
24 November
Check out a show at Her Majesty’s Theatre
The old girl has just reopened after a bit of a spruce up so it’s the perfect time to book tickets to a show. And the coming line-up is not to be missed! Marcia Hines, Daryl Braithwaite and magician and illusionist Cosentino are just some of the stars on their way to tread the (refurbed) boards.
Various dates
Summer Sundays
The Ballarat Botanical Gardens will once again be transformed into a music lover’s paradise with the return of firm fave Summer Sundays. With live performances from local and emerging artists, food trucks, chilled-out vibes and even a pop-up garden bar, be sure to make your way to Ballarat one (or more) Sunday in January.
Every Sunday in January
Medieval to Metal: Art Late & Main Road Block Party
One of Ballarat’s most eclectic shopping strips is dialling up the volume for a block party. Live music, street food, fun for the kids and dishes by local chefs – let’s party!
Do the Art Gallery of Ballarat after dark with Art Late. The next instalment features Melbourne’s kings of wild rock ‘n’ roll, CIVIC, supported by Ballarat-based Art Rock ensemble, The Hot Lemons Ticket includes supper and access to the Medieval to Metal exhibition.
Art Late: CIVIC with The Hot Lemons – 30 November Main Road Block Party – 30 November
Forage & Feast
Get set to celebrate (i.e. stuff your face with) the wares of the best growers and producers from the region with the month-long Forage & Feast. The line-up will include everything from a special Valentine’s Day truffle hunt and a picnic on a bridge to meeting all kinds of makers and getting hands-on with tasty workshops.
13 January to 16 February
Start the new year in spectacular fashion
Ballarat’s biggest fireworks display is back with a bang this New Year’s Eve at Lake Wendouree! Book dinner at one of the many bars, pubs and restaurants in and around the lake precinct and then watch on in awe at the 15-minute spectacular at 9.30pm.
31 December
Art Late at the Art Gallery of
Ballarat. Image: Astrid Mulder
Nature and then some
From forests, lakes and rolling hills, to historic trails and fertile valleys, there’s plenty to bike, hike and like.
Just beyond Ballarat’s historic streetscapes lies an impressive array of natural delights and humble wonders. We know, we know – you’re thinking ‘Ballarat’? But press pause on your doubts and read on.
Known to surprise first-time visitors – “Is that… a lake?” – the 238-hectare Lake Wendouree is a local favourite for rowing, sailing, naturespotting and picnicking. The Steve Moneghetti Track loops around the lake for 6km, offering an accessible path for walking and cycling. Keep an eye out for wildlife like the rakali (native water rat), coots, cormorants and the rare Cape Barren goose.
For those who like their nature a little less flat, the Djuwang Baring Creswick mountain bike trails offer the perfect up-and-down escape. Meaning ‘long track’ in the Dja Dja Wurrung language, Djuwang Baring is a 60km network of trails starting at Hammon Park and passing through the cultural lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. Just 20 minutes from Ballarat, these fully accessible trails cater to all people and all abilities – from gentle beginner routes to more challenging loops.
For a triple ‘ture outing – nature, adventure, and culture – the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail offers a scenic, mostly flat path through rolling countryside and native grasslands. Its highlight is the historic timber trestle Nimons Bridge,
offering a glimpse into the region’s railway past. The 53km trail stretches from western Ballarat to Skipton, with a chance to spot a platypus at Mt Emu Creek (they missed a naming trick there!).
The best nature is the kind you can eat or drink – don’t argue, it’s a fact. The nearby Pyrenees region, named for its resemblance to the French wine region, is home to renowned wineries nestled in rolling hills. Dalwhinnie and Summerfield are celebrated for their awardwinning wines and stunning locations, with cellar doors offering sweeping vistas, rich reds, crisp whites, sparkling wines and locallygrown produce.
For more delicious nature, visit Mrs Baker’s Still House, tucked away in the quiet Glenpatrick, about 50 minutes northwest of Ballarat. This micro-distillery, run by a mother-and-daughters team, prides itself on low-impact production methods and a 100% solar-powered distillation process using locally-grown botanicals.
Stepping out of Ballarat into the great outdoors, you’ll find nature at your fingertips – or your feet, pedals and lips. From cycling scenic trails to exploring state and national parks, to discovering hidden wineries nestled in the Pyrenees foothills, there’s plenty to explore at your own pace and in your own space.
To Ballarat and beyond
There’s plenty of places to wonder at –and wander around – near Ballarat
Grab your hiking boots or bike and explore the region’s rolling hills, forests and cycling trails; check out the excellent cellar doors of Pyrenees and Ballarat wineries, or discover good food, good wine and good times in the many charming townships scattered across the region.
Buninyong really stands out
Buninyong often flies under the radar which, given it’s home to an extinct volcano rising 745m above sea level, is quite a feat. Hike, bike or drive to the summit, or explore the charming, picturesque town with its gold rush-era buildings, quality eateries and shops, and seasonal markets.
Read, ride, relax in historic Hepburn
The Hepburn region is renowned for its historic townships, great hospitality and natural beauty. Culture vultures can explore Creswick or the book-lover’s haven of Clunes. Foodies can catch trout, hunt for truffles or discover organic wines. Outdoorsy types can hike or bike along the region’s many tracks and trails including the just-opened Djuwang Baring in Creswick.
Golden times in Golden Plains
More famous these days for its music festivals, Golden Plains is steeped in gold rush heritage and surrounded by open nature. One way to enjoy both is the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail, which journeys through native grasslands and past historic sites, with the very photogenic Nimons Bridge as its standout feature.
Un-wined in the Pyrenees
Named for its resemblance to the French wine region, the Pyrenees is known for its rugged landscapes, rolling foothills and renowned wineries. Celebrated for their award-winning wines and stunning locations, many cellar doors offer cracking views, rich reds, crisp whites, sensational sparklings and delicious, locallygrown produce.
There’s more to Moorabool
The Moorabool region offers more than most. Pick your own local produce or get lost in a sea of sunflowers. Embark on a medieval adventure or grab a spooky schooner. Hike Werribee Gorge’s excellent trails or appreciate the scenic and culturally significant Lal Lal Falls
Dalwhinnie Winery
Win a brilliantly unexpected adventure in Ballarat
