Grampians, Pyreness & Goldfields
WELCOME TO THE Grampians, Pyrenees & Goldfields
The Grampians, Pyrenees and Goldfields regions are renowned for their picturesque scenery, rich history and sumptuous wines.
The Grampians, Pyrenees and Goldfields are bountiful regions that offer plenty of things to see and do to satisfy even the most curious visitor.
The Grampians National Park boasts many natural attractions which include the majestic McKenzie Falls, The Pinnacle and Reeds Lookout, among many other destinations. Alternatively you can relax and unwind at the many wineries in the area. With a range of exciting events and a rich tapestry of arts and culture, the Grampians offer something for everyone.
The Pyrenees region, renowned for its wines, saw the first vineyards planted as far back as the 1880s. Popular for its
robust whites and sparkling wines, the Pyrenees is a great place to treat your palate. Be sure to stop in at one of the quaint townships in the region or go bushwalking in the Pyrenees Ranges.
The Goldfields is an area steeped in history. Maryborough’s iconic Railway Station is well worth a visit and the many antique stores in the area offer the opportunity to unearth some once-loved treasures.
There’s so much more to see and do in the Grampians, Pyrenees and Goldfields. Just make sure you take some of the tranquil spirit of the region home with you.
Horsham
Boasting a vibrant shopping and cultural precinct, Horsham offers an ideal base for exploring this picturesque region.
See exhibitions at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery, attend one of the many great performances at the Horsham Town Hall and get along to some of the many great festivals throughout the year.
For nature lovers, the Grampians region offers plenty of scenic bushland, mountains and waterways. Visit one of the surrounding towns of Wartook Valley, Dadswells Bridge and Natimuk only a short drive away.
Wartook Valley and Dadswells Bridge in the Northern Grampians boast picturesque views and bushwalking. Natimuk offers historical walks and Mt Arapiles offers walking tracks and world famous rock climbing.
HAVEN MARKET
1st Saturday of the month, 9am – 1pm Outskirts of town - Hamilton Highway
JUNG MARKET
Last Saturday of the month, 9am – 1pm Jung Reserve
HORSHAM THINGS TO SEE AND DO
• Take a walk along the banks of the peaceful Wimmera River.
• Stroll around the beautiful Botanic Gardens located in Firebrace Street.
• Go kayaking or canoeing on the Wimmera River.
• Relax and do some fishing on one of the many lakes close to Horsham.
• See excellent exhibitions and fine art at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery.
• Visit one of the many wineries in the region.
• Play a round of golf at Horsham’s beautiful 18-hole golf course, situated on Golf Course Road.
• Enjoy a range of local produce such as olives, olive oil, lentils, chickpeas, fruit and vegetables.
• Enjoy the weekly Wimmera River Parkrun.
• Children can explore the Apex Adventure Island or visit Kids Capers indoor playground.
• Enjoy the many local events throughout the year.
• Experience great food at one of the many restaurants, cafes or hotels.
• Discover unique locally-owned and operated retail outlets in the city centre.
Stawell
Stawell’s strong commercial hub makes for another idyllic base for exploring the Grampians region.
During the gold rush in the 1850s, the region swelled with an influx of thousands of hopeful gold diggers. The era paved the way for the development of a township which, in 1858, was decreed Stawell. By the time the 1860s arrived, alluvial gold was becoming more difficult to come by and was replaced by reef mining. Between 1853 and 1926, the region produced 2.7 million ounces of gold.
Today, Stawell has a vibrant and lively main street with a Grampians’ outlook. The town has a proud, friendly and authentic country feel. This is evident in a number of fine historic buildings, including the Town Hall.
The Stawell Cultural Heritage Trail is a self guided driving or walking tour of Stawell which links interpretive signage throughout the township. An enjoyable, nostalgic experience, the Stawell Heritage Trail provides an excellent introduction and taste of local history. Built in 1877, Stawell’s historic railway station on Napier Street is now a gallery showcasing paintings, sculptures and craft.
Stawell is an ideal base from which to explore the Grampians Ranges and nearby wineries for their delicious wines. The township really comes alive during Easter when it plays host to the iconic Stawell Gift. Amazingly, the race has been running since April 1878.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
• During Easter you can witness the magic of the Stawell Gift first hand.
• Visit the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame, located at Central Park, which showcases artefacts, memorabilia and archives dating back to its inception.
• Walk the main street and see all the Gift winners’ plaques on the pavement.
• Walk through the Ironbark Forest and search for wildflowers.
• View the fascinating rock art when you take a walk to Bunjil’s Shelter in the nearby Black Range.
• Visit cellar doors to meet the winemakers and enjoy a tasty drop.
• Tee off for a round of golf at the Stawell Golf Course.
• Visit the Pioneer Memorial and lookout in the Big Hill area for views of the town and gold mining heritage.
Essential Services
Halls Gap
Walking tracks lead from central Halls Gap directly into the Wonderland Range. One of the most popular sections of the Grampians, the Wonderland Range includes fascinating rock formations, canyons and lookouts.
A network of roads from the town leads to other scenic drives and a wealth of walking trails. Sites not to be missed include McKenzie Falls, the Balconies and Boroka Lookout. Visitors should orientate themselves at Brambuk National Park and Culture Centre where they can experience local Aboriginal culture and access the most up to date information on the Grampians National Park. Lake Wartook and Moora Moora Reservoir are all within an easy drive of the township. Halls Gap also offers some great dining options, both within the town and its immediate surrounds.
HALLS GAP CRAFT MARKET
Labour Day, Easter Sunday, Queen’s Birthday & Melbourne Cup Week, 9am – 2pm Halls Gap School
THINGS TO SEE & DO
• Go abseiling or rock climbing in the area. For a guided rock climbing tour, contact Hangin’ Out in the Grampians.
• Make sure you experience the Halls Gap Zoo located at 4061 Ararat-Halls Gap Road.
• Play a round of mini golf and visit the cafe and gallery at Adventure Golf.
• Visit the Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre.
• Take a Grampians National Park walk.
• Enjoy some canoeing.
• Try mountain bike riding.
• Visit a historic site.
• View beautiful waterfalls.
• Witness wildflowers blooming in spring.
• Visit a winery and sample the region’s signature varietal, shiraz.
• Dine alfresco with the stunning Grampians Mountains as a backdrop.
Pomonal
The picturesque village of Pomonal, below Mt Cassel and adjacent to the Grampians National Park, was originally the centre of a thriving tobacco, fruit and farming area.
Today the area attracts visitors for its plant nurseries, art and craft shops, lavender, olives, local glass blower and private galleries (open by appointment). Enjoy a cappuccino, wine tasting, a relaxing massage or a stroll through the wildlife zoo.
Pomonal’s wealth of attractions, stunning views and close proximity to Lake Fyans all add up to a great place to stay, sample and savour everything the township has to offer.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
• Visit Lake Fyans, located between Stawell and Pomonal.
• Take a pleasant walk around Wildflower Drive to view some beautiful wildflower gardens.
• Visit the Pomonal Village Market, which occurs on the last Sunday of the month between 10am-2pm.
• Do the Mt William Walk from Bomjinna Picnic Ground.
• Enjoy some fine regional wine and handcrafted beer and cider at Pomonal Estate.
• Browse through antique, and art and craft shops.
• Take the Pomonal Nature Walk, a simple one hour walk.
• View the Kalymna Falls situated on Mt William Picnic Ground Road.
Ararat & District
Bearing the legacy of the gold rush period, Ararat is worth visiting for its history as well as a range of other attractions. The Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre located on Lambert Street pays homage to Ararat’s Chinese Heritage. The centre recounts the migrant experience of the Chinese miners and their challenges during the Victorian Goldfields. Enjoy panning for gold, Chinese calligraphy, interactive displays, historic artefacts, and more. Open 11am to 4pm daily, entry costs $12 for adults, $8 for concession and $5 for children. You can also visit the Ararat Gallery - Textile Art Museum Australia located on the Western Highway.
Natural attractions include the Grampians National Park, Mt Langi Ghiran, Mt Cole and Mt Buangor. Ararat is also the gateway to a historical and expanding wine district.
THINGS TO SEE & DO IN ARARAT
• Enjoy the region’s finest foods and local produce.
• Wander down Barkly Street and enjoy a coffee.
• Visit the Ararat Regional Art Gallery located on the Western Highway.
• Visit Alexandra Gardens and enjoy a picnic or take a stroll.
• Discover Ararat’s gold heritage at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre on Lambert Street.
• Explore the region’s many natural attractions including the Grampians National Park, Mt Langi Ghiran, Mt Cole and Mt Buangor.
• Take a drive up One Tree Hill for a 360 degree view of the eastern edge of the Grampians National Park.
• Glance into the past at the notorious J-Ward Gaol.
• Embark on a guided tour of Aradale Asylum.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk around the Cemetery Creek Walking Track.
ARARAT FARMERS' MARKET
Every 2nd Sunday of the month, 9am – 1pm Elizabeth Park
Set amongst spectacular mountain ranges and fringed by fertile grazing country, the township of Ararat and its surrounding district boasts some of the most picturesque scenery in Victoria.
Essential Services
Ararat
St Arnaud
St
Located at the south-eastern edge of the Mallee Plains, St Arnaud is a service centre to a district focused on farming, merino wool, grains, legumes and vineyards.
The township was established as a result of the gold rush of 1850. Originally named the New Bendigo Goldfield, the settlement was renamed St Arnaud shortly afterwards, honouring the commander of the French Forces in the Crimean War - Jaques Leroy de St Arnaud - Marshal of France and a senator. He lies buried in Les Invalides in Paris, along with Napoleon.
Many streets in the town are named after British military leaders involved in the same war. Over the years, modern facilities have been subtly introduced to the town without detracting from the old world character and charm associated with its history. Like other towns born of the gold rush, St Arnaud is richly endowed with solid civic buildings, hotels and stores lavished with cast iron lace work. Another unique feature of the town is the bushland which completely encircles it, providing habitat for many native animals and plants.
The St Arnaud area is also surrounded by wonderful wetlands, rivers and lakes including Teddington Reservoir, Avoca River, Lake Batyo Catyo, Lake Wooroonook, Volcano Reservoir, Lake Jil Jil and Walker’s Lake. Gold detecting areas still remain close to the town.
THINGS TO SEE & DO IN ST ARNAUD
• View the historic pebble church.
• Go gold detecting.
• Visit the Bible Museum and butterfly house.
• Enjoy a picnic at the Bell Rock picnic area.
• Explore the wildflowers.
• Wander the Queen Mary Botanical Gardens on McMahon St.
• See the Edna Walling design garden at Pioneer Park.
• Take the St Arnaud Heritage Walk.
UNCLE BOB'S MARKET
2nd Saturday of the month, 8.30am – 1.30pm, Napier Street
Services
Arnaud is a town steeped in history. Its development commenced with the Gold Rush of 1850.
Moonambel
Today the population sits at just a couple hundred people. Nonetheless, history abounds in and around Moonambel, and there are some charming vineyards and fine wines to sample in the area.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
• Visit one of the wineries - Taltarni, Summerfield, Grape Farm, Dalwhinnie, Bigibila, Equus, Warrenmang, Gwynnyth. For more information visit www.pyrenees.org.au
• Watch the sun set over the Pyrenees region.
• Go bush walking in the Pyrenees.
MOONAMBEL MARKET
2nd Sunday of every month, 9am – 1pm Moonambel Reserve
Avoca
Avoca is a small township located in the Pyrenees Shire.
With old facades reminiscent of the gold rush days, this is truly a place where you can relax and unwind by taking a walk in the bush or visiting one of the great cellar doors in the Pyrenees region.
AVOCA RIVERSIDE MARKET
4th Sunday of every month, 9am – 1pm Cambridge Street along the Avoca River
Essential Services
At the peak of the Gold Rush period, the population of Moonambel swelled to 20,000.
Maryborough
The first inhabitants of the Maryborough region were the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal tribe who named it Tuaggra. The first European settlers were Scottish sheep farmers, the Simson brothers, who moved into the region in 1840. In 1854, the township of Maryborough was founded and when the gold rush was in full swing swelled to a population of around 53,000 people. As mining waned, the last surviving gold mine was shut down in 1918, giving rise to a new wool industry. In 1961, Maryborough was declared a city.
Today’s visitors come to Maryborough for many reasons: to wander through the lovely box-ironbark forests with its wildflowers, for the birds and superb display of wattle in the spring, to research family history, to visit nearby wineries or explore markets, galleries and museums. The eight cycling trails, which are part of Cycle Central Goldfields, provide a relaxing way to take in the beautiful scenery and link to all of the region’s smaller townships.
For anyone up for a gold prospecting adventure, the Coiltek Gold Centre located on Drive-in Court has your needs covered. The centre also provides guided tours on Fridays and Saturdays if you’re in need of a little direction.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MARYBOROUGH
• Visit Maryborough’s iconic Railway Station.
• Visit the Antique Emporium containing antiques, treasures, collectables and memorabilia.
• Visit the Central Goldfields Regional Art Gallery on Neill Street.
• Check out the architectural feats of the Court House, Town Hall, Post Office and Old Fire Station.
• Enjoy the local bush with a walk in the Paddy’s Ranges State Park.
• Go fossicking for gold.
• Dine on fine foods at one of Maryborough’s fine dining establishments.
• Have a picnic in one of the beautiful parks or gardens.
• Visit one of the boutique wineries. For more information on wineries in the area, visit www.visitmaryborough.com.au
• Take a ride along one of the many cycling tracks.
• Head to Bristol Hill Lookout for great views.
• Try a spot of fishing at one of the local rivers or reservoirs.
• Embark on one of three self-drive tours to explore this beautiful, historic region.
MARYBOROUGH DUNOLLY STREET MARKET
2nd Sunday of the month, 9am – 2pm Main Street
MARYBOROUGH TOURIST MARKET
1st Sunday of the month, 8am - 1pm, cnr Nolan & Alma Street
TALBOT FARMERS MARKET
3rd Sunday of the month, 9am – 1pm Scandinavian Crescent
Maryborough’s grand buildings, historic cottages and gracious homes are a testament to its rich past.
Essential Services
Calendar of Events
JANUARY
• Seppelts Salingers Great Western Cup, Grampians
• Grampians Toy Club Show & Shine
FEBRUARY
• Bendigo Bank St Arnaud Harvest Festival
• The Vintage Motorcycle Club Rally, Maryborough
• Grampians Music Festival
• Ararat Model Train Show
MARCH
• Grampians Textures
• Ararat Jailhouse Rock Festival
• Horsham Country Music Festival
• Cycle Central Goldfields
APRIL
• Grampians Art Trail
• Stawell Gold Cup
• Great Western ‘Good Friday’ Rodeo Street Sensation
• Stawell Gift
MAY
• Grampians Great Escape
• Mother’s Day Classic Walk, Stawell
• Run the Gap, Grampians National Park
JUNE
• Horsham Art is... Festival
JULY
• Winter Woollies Festival
AUGUST
• Words in Winter, Maryborough-DunollyCarisbrook-Avoca
• Wonderland Run, Grampians
• Pomonal Arts Show & Festival
SEPTEMBER
• Seriously Shiraz, Pomonal Estate
• Grampians Brushes
• Stawell Orchid Society Spring Show
• Horsham Show
OCTOBER
• Spring Fling, Goldfields
• Pomonal Native Flower Show
• St Arnaud Agricultural Show
• Grampians Wildflower Show
• St Arnaud Country Music Festival
NOVEMBER
• Horsham Kannamaroo Festival
• Nati Frinj Festival
DECEMBER
• StawellBiz Christmas Parade
• Christmas Tree Light-up Events
For the most up to date calendar of events and dates, go to www.visitgrampians.com.au/see-do/events