Stay and Play - Grampians, VIC
With towering, craggy peaks, flowing falls, and a rich Indigenous past, the Grampians region delivers exciting experiences at every turn.
Where is it?
The Grampians (Halls Gap) is 255km west of Melbourne, reached by a 3hr drive.
Why go?
For its astounding natural beauty, centred on the national park of the same name. This is a nature lover’s ultimate playground.
The essentials – things to do in The Grampians, VIC
Grampians National Park
With world-famous hiking trails, Grampians National Park needs to be on everyone’s list! There are mountain panoramas, grand waterfalls, and views as far as the eye can see. And that's just some of what’s in store at this renowned park.
Halls Gap Zoo
What’s a weekend away without an excursion to see native animals? Halls Gap Zoo just so happens to be Victoria’s largest regional zoo. It’s home to 160 native and exotic animals, and you’ll encounter wombats, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and dingoes, to name just a few.
The Grampians Rail Trail
Hop on your bike and embark on this scenic path. It’s 11km of picturesque riding through the best of the Grampians and ending at Heatherlie Quarry.
MacKenzie Falls
In one word: Breathtaking! Part of Grampians National Park, these falls are some of the largest on offer in Victoria. It’s an impressive sight as water cascades down massive cliffs before descending into the deep pool below. Warning – camera is essential!
Halls Gap
Did you even go to the Grampians if you didn’t stop for a bite of lunch or ice cream at Gelato Guys in Halls Gap?! This cute little township will charm you with sweet café hangouts and restaurants to try.
Appreciate the local Indigenous culture
The Grampians region teems with Aboriginal culture. It’s home to the most significant number of rock art sites in southern Australia, and the residence of over 80% of VIC’s rock art sites. Be sure to visit Brambuk, the cultural centre located in Halls Gap.
Soak up the views at Boroka Lookout
In a less than a 5min stroll, you will reach two lookout platforms that you’d be crazy to miss out on viewing. Sunrise is spectacular from these viewpoints, but a visit at any time of the day is worthy.
Where to hike in Halls Gap
The Pinnacle Lookout
One of the most iconic walks in the Grampians region. Choose one of three paths to the pinnacle, depending on your fitness level, and marvel at dazzling views of Halls Gap and the many peaks.
The Balconies/Reed lookout
Wander through impressive rock formations and be greeted with all-encompassing views of the dense forest land and the Victoria Valley. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer quick and easy walks, as the track is a simple 2.3km.
Hollow Mountain
A 40-minute drive from Halls Gap, and you’ll reach the walk for Hollow Mountain. It’s a combination of stair climbs and rocky trails on this 3.2km (return) walk. Keep your eyes peeled for the caves (and the paintings within).
Mt William
Venture to the highest point in the Grampians, and we can assure you that you won’t be disappointed! It’s a steep hike, with the first 600m being the steepest, but the views at the end are worth the sweat!
Day trips from the Grampians
Northern Grampians – St Arnaud
For a place less travelled and frequented than Halls Gap, make your way to St Arnaud. With a gold-rush past, you can uncover the town’s history with old buildings and a silo art trail, or enjoy a hearty meal at one of the landmark pubs.
Distance from Halls Gap: 105km.
Eastern Grampians – Ararat
Explore the sweeping lands of Ararat on a day trip. Visit One Tree Hill for magnificent views of Ararat or go on an evening ghost tour at Ararat Asylums. Or simply relax with a bit of lakeside luxury at Alexandra Gardens.
Distance from Halls Gap: 50km.
Southern Grampians – Hamilton
Visit the flourishing farming district of Hamilton. With three charming townships to discover (Dunkeld, Byaduk, and Balmoral), each accommodates various tastes; small-batch wineries, artworks steeped in history, and scenic country views.
Distance from Halls Gap: 95km.
Random fact
After scaling Mt Duwil (Mt William), the highest peak in the Grampians in 1836, Major Thomas Mitchell christened the mountains. He chose 'the Grampians' as it’s known today, while paying homage to the rugged region in his native Scotland.
Accommodation in The Grampians, VIC
Searching for accommodation in The Grampians? We got you! Choose from two top parks.
Breeze Holiday Parks – Halls Gap
Park type: Partner.
Shadowed by the Grampians’ imposing peaks and set among classic Australian bushland, this centrally located park is hugely enticing. Variable cabins mix with ample caravan and camping sites; each with pet-friendly options. A camp kitchen and stone hut are among leading features, and regular kangaroo sightings are thrown in for good measure.
Park type: Partner.
Also nestled beside the famed national park and close to town, NRMA Halls Gap is another excellent base for exploring the wondrous region. A generous assortment of accommodation is complemented by a heated swimming pool and wading toddler pool, bouncing pillow, tennis court, fire pit, games room, and more.
Time for a Grampians getaway? Click or tap on one of the parks below to get started.