Overview
Spend a slow morning cruising along the East Grampians Scenic Route. Enjoy the magnificent views along the eastern edge of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, pausing along the way to explore the towns of Ararat, Moyston, Pomonal, Halls Gap, Stawell and Great Western.
Footballing history
Kick off proceedings in Ararat. Take a short drive to One Tree Hill scenic lookout and experience the 360 degree views of the Grampians and Pyrenees ranges. Resume travelling along the Ararat-Halls Gap Road towards Moyston. Check out the monument to Thomas Wills, the co-founder and captain of the Melbourne Football Club (1859), which commemorates the birthplace of Australian Rules Football.
Festival of colour
Head on down the highway a short way and arrive in Pomonal, a pretty rural village on the eastern slopes of the Mount William Range. Pomonal was once famous for its apples, then tobacco and now is noted for its nurseries full of native wildflowers and orchids. Got a bit of spare time? Stretch your legs on the Pomonal Tunnel Walking Track. If you're visiting in early October, be sure to stop by the Pomonal Hall for the annual Wildflower Festival.
Zoos, parks and wineries
Next stop is Halls Gap, where you can choose from Halls Gap Zoo, Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre, and Halls Gap Estate. Make your return journey via Stawell for a different perspective. Enjoy a historic tour of the town and visit the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame. Finish your jaunt in Great Western, a charming village that's home to local iconic wineries, Seppelt and Best's. Settle in for a glass of vino, check out an art gallery or enjoy a brew in one of the new local cafes.