The South West Volcanic Lakes and Plains region and Grampians National Park are popular destinations for fishing, kayaking and rock climbing. Lookouts at the Grampians provide 360 degree views of the area and is a favorite for families and couples to go on adventures over short and long stays. A little further south of the crater lakes Port Campbell National Park is home to the world renowned 12 Apostles.
Grampians National Park
The Grampians National Park is one of Victoria's favourite hiking destinations, but that's not all. Its four unique areas - north, south, east and west - have varying landscapes and experiences to provide any traveler the chance to do something different.
The Grampians Peak Trail is a 160km 13-day/12-night hiking experience through the unique terrain of the Grampians National Park. Starting at Mt Zero in Northern Grampians it travels through grade 4 trails to finish at Dunkeld in the Southern Grampians.
Click here for more information on Grampians Peak Trail.
Outdoors
There's activities for everyone on your trip away including abseiling, kayaking, tours and night walks. Halls Gap Zoo is regional Victoria's largest zoo and the perfect day-out for couples and families, with more than 160 species of native and exotic animals, reptiles and birds.
Grampians - Parks and gardens, walks and hikes, tours, family activities and wildlife.
Or see the region from your bike as you pass through rainforests, historic railway remnants and farm land. The Camperdown and Timboon Rail Trail is popular trail with locals and visitors, which links up to the Twelve Apostles Trail in Timboon.
Volcanic Lakes & Plains - Camperdown to Timboon rail trail, biking, golf, walking, trails and lookouts, family activities and nature & wildlife.
12 Apostles - Port Campbell National Park, outdoor activities, air adventures, tours, family activities and nature & wildlife.
Food and wine
Taste fresh baked goods from bakeries and cafes while you enjoy the small town charm of Camperdown or Dunkeld. Digest some of the regions best food and enjoy cool-climate wines that this area is known for as well as gourmet cheeses and tasty dairy products.
Follow these links for information on the wine region and restaurants in the Grampians.
Follow these links for restaurants in the Volcanic Lakes & Plains and 12 Apostles regions, serving local cheeses, ice cream and whisky. For that extra food and drink experience check out the foodies trails in the South West.
Art and heritage
The Grampians National Park holds an extensive number of Aboriginal rock art, more than anywhere else in Victoria. Tours are available for anyone that would like to be guided to the art, or visitors can grab maps from the information centre for a self-guided tour. Follow these links for plenty of information on Grampians art and culture and Hamilton Gallery.
Around the crater lakes of Camperdown the rich volcanic soils and pastoral history have left a legacy of historic streetscapes and buildings. Of course the Shipwreck coast has a plenty of history and heritage for visitors to explore.
Other links
Visit Grampians - events, deals, maps and inspiration.
Volcanic Lakes & Plains - explore, eat & drink, attractions and what's on.
Visit 12 Apostles - explore, eat & drink, attractions and what's on
Information Centres - locations of information centres across Grampians, Ararat and Hamilton.
