Overview
Rugged mountains loom over farmland plains in the Grampians – home to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, unique native plants and animals, majestic waterfalls and vibrant wildflowers.
A world within a national park
Immerse yourself in the mountains and forest of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, which springs up from the surrounding plains. Explore the local eco-systems and learn about the diverse array of native plants and animals, some of which are unique to the area. See evidence of Aboriginal people's long association with the Grampians at rock art sites throughout the park. Start your journey at Halls Gap, the gateway to the national park or make your own way in from one of the many surrounding towns.
View from the top
Survey your surrounds from any number of scenic lookouts and admire The Grampians' unique rock formations and varied landscape. Traverse walking trails to well-known lookouts at mounts Abrupt, Rosea and Stapylton, as well as Boronia Peak, The Balconies and The Pinnacle. Short on time? Access the Boroka, Reed and Mt William lookouts by car.
Ascend the summit of Mt Arapiles for vast views of the region, or marvel at the delicate balance of natural forces in Little Desert National Park, a desert in name only.
Wildflowers, wallabies and roaring waters
Visit the region in springtime to see the 'garden of Victoria' covered in a carpet of colourful wildflowers. The Grampians support an astonishing 975 native plant species, including more than 75 orchid species, representing one third of Victoria’s flora. If you’re lucky you might spot a Grampians pincushion lily (Borya mirabilis), one of the rarest native lilies in Australia.
Cross paths with kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and emus in national parks, along quiet country roads and even on the grounds of your accommodation. Twitchers will delight in the opportunity to see galahs, kookaburras and cockatoos, including the endangered red-tailed black cockatoo, in their natural habitat.
Witness the power of water as deafening torrents cascade down rock faces and gorges into lush pools below. Take the walk out from Halls Gap to the plunging whitewater of MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria's largest waterfalls.
