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Ben Nevis Summit

Natural Attractions

Borella Walk

Borella Walk is located in Mount Cole State Forest Starting Point at either Ben Nevis picnic area, Ben Nevis Road, Mount Cole or Chinamans Campground, Chinamans Road, Mount Cole. This walk can be done as a one way or return walk retracing your own steps. Named in memory of respected local bird observer Max Borella, this scenic walk celebrates the rich birdlife of the area and rewards hikers with stunning lookout points along the way. Keep an eye and ear out for native species as you make your way through the changing landscape. The track can be quite steep in sections, so it's best to take your time, pause often, and soak up the surroundings. Each rest stop offers a chance to appreciate the tranquillity of the bush and the ever-expanding views below. For those wanting to extend the experience, hikers can camp overnight at Chinaman's Campground, making it easy to turn the walk into a relaxed nature escape. At the summit of Ben Nevis, you'll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views that stretch across the region — a perfect spot to catch your breath, enjoy a picnic, and reflect on the journey.

Mount Cole VIC

3.2 km away

Langi Ghiran State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Langi Ghiran State Park

Rugged granite peaks and gentle sloping woodlands are the dominant features of this park. A pleasant walk to the mountain summit presents a view of ancient red gums on the surrounding plains skirted by Mount Buangor in the east and the Grampians in the distant west. Lar-ne-jeering (Langi Ghiran) is from the Djab Wurrung language meaning 'home of the black cockatoo'. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Dobie VIC

14 km away

Mount Buangor State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Mount Buangor State Park

Explore a variety of landscapes including eucalypt forest, creek flats, waterfalls and steep escarpments at Mount Buangor State Park. From the peak of Mount Buangor, the highest in the area, you can experience spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. There is a 15 kilometre network of walking tracks in the park; many extend into the adjoining Mount Cole State Forest. The section of the Bukkertillible and Sugarloaf walks between The Cave and 2 Mile Circuit is a semi remote and steep walk suitable for experienced bushwalkers only. Please be aware that in wet conditions this section of track can become quite slippery. Aboriginal Traditional Owners Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria - including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, Aboriginal people maintain their connection to their ancestral lands and waters. Before you go: Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Middle Creek VIC

17 km away

Aradale Lunatic Asylum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Aradale Lunatic Asylum

Aradale Asylum was an Australian psychiatric hospital, located in Ararat, a rural city in Victoria. Aradale was opened in 1867 and served as an asylum for psychiatric and intellectually handicapped patients until 1993. At its peak it housed almost 1,000 patients. J Ward became an annexe of Aradale in 1887 to house the criminally insane in a more secure facility. Aradale was once known as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum. Aradale and its two sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth were commissioned to accommodate the growing number of 'lunatics' in the colony of Victoria. Construction began in 1860 and was opened for patients in 1865. It was closed as an asylum in 1998. At its height, Aradale had up to 900 patients yearly and is a large complex with up to 70 interesting historic abandoned buildings. Currently, tours are run externally while safety audits are carried out on the buildings. The stories are the same as the internal tour and provide an understanding of life in Aradale. Tours run each Sunday and Wednesday and are 90 to 120 minutes in duration. Group bookings can be arranged, limited to 25 people per group. Visit their website for tour timings and bookings.

Ararat VIC

19 km away

Ararat Railway Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ararat Railway Museum

Train buffs will delight in this fascinating collection of railway history memorabilia and a working model train. The museum's display is a reminder of the important role the railway played in shaping the region. The Museum contains two historically significant signal boxes. Ararat Railway Heritage Association are a not for profit organisation with all members being volunteers.They request an optional donation of a gold coin for each adult person to enter to contribute to the ongoing maintenance of the Museum.

Ararat VIC

21 km away

Langi Morgala Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Langi Morgala Museum

The Museum's Aboriginal name translates as "home of yesterday". The collection is housed in a bluestone and brick building built in 1874 and is the home of the Ararat and District Historical Society. Displays, including many photographs, dressed models, clothing and farm machinery, reflect the gold mining rush of 1856. The Mooney and Charles Best collections of Aboriginal artefacts are also featured. The large collection covers a wide variety of themes of local importance, and includes objects from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Ararat VIC

21 km away

TAMA Collection 1 — Image credit: Ararat Rural City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ararat Gallery TAMA

Established in 1968, Ararat Gallery TAMA (Textile Art Museum Australia) has a unique place amongst Australia's public galleries, through its longstanding commitment to supporting and promoting textile and fibre art – a curatorial and collection focus that began in the early 1970s. The gallery has continuously collected textile and fibre based art since the early 1970s. Today the collection is arguably the most significant of its kind in Australia. On the first Thursday of the month, they also host a Stitching Circle, a friendly monthly gathering for lovers of stitching. You can bring your embroidery, sewing, knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, any textiles project. All varieties of stitching and skill level welcome and there is no need to book.

Ararat VIC

21 km away

J Ward, Ararat's Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

J Ward, Ararat's Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum

Take a guided tour of J Ward, Ararat's Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum. Hear stories of murderers, ghosts and mistreatment of mental illness. J Ward is two and a half hours from Melbourne, close to the Grampians and open daily for tours by passionate Friends of J Ward volunteers. More than 10,000 people visit each year. Tours run at 10:00am, and 1.00pm Monday to Friday: 10.00am 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm on Saturday and Sundays and Victorian public and school holidays (except Christmas Day). J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. When the gold ran out in the mid 1880s the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as a temporary housing for the Criminally Insane. The County Gaol then became a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most depraved and most dangerous men in Victoria were housed in horrific conditions under the highest security.

Ararat VIC

21 km away

Gum San Building

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre

Gum San translates as Gold Mountain and the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre is literally sitting on the site of the Gold Mountain that started Ararat's gold rush. The Centre tells the story of the 19th century Chinese miners that braved a perilous sea journey followed by a long trek across southern Australia to the new goldfields of Bendigo and Ballarat. Life size scenarios in the centre depict their travels and experiences of the excitement of gold discoveries mixed with the hardship of life on the goldfields plus the prejudices and hatred from other nationalities that sometimes erupted in to riots. Visit their website for the opening hours during public holidays and school holidays.

Ararat VIC

22 km away

Chalambar Golf and Bowls Club

Entertainment Venues

Chalambar Golf and Bowls Club

Chalambar Golf and Bowls Club is just two kilometres from Ararat at the foot of One Tree Hill is a peaceful rural setting with an abundance of natural wildlife and magnificent views across the Pyrenees Ranges and Mount Langi Ghiran. Visitors are welcome to test their skills on this challenging Par 70 layout. The course has fully watered couch fairways with superb grass greens and presents in excellent condition all year. Very affordable green fees and motorised golf carts are available for hire. The turf bowls green presents in fantastic condition and is available for casual use all year. Chally’s Bar and Bistro has something for everyone in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Lunch and dinner menus with a wide variety of delicious dishes, daily specials, craft and domestic beers, a range of local wines plus coffee and biscuits. Chally’s offers a fantastic social atmosphere with a dining area for meals, lounge and high-bar areas for a more casual catch up. Dining or having a drink on the deck overlooking the course and bowls green is a great way to unwind after a game. A courtesy bus operates on Friday and Saturday nights.

Ararat VIC

23 km away

Camp Hill Beaufort

Natural Attractions

Camp Hill Lookout

If you're looking for a place to reconnect with nature and refresh your spirit, Camp Hill Lookout in Beaufort is calling your name. Perched high above the charming town, this hidden gem offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch over the town and surrounding farm round and mountain ranges. Whether you're chasing a sunrise, soaking in golden hour, or simply enjoying a quiet moment surrounded by natural beauty, Camp Hill reminds you just how incredible the world can be. It's more than just a lookout—it's a place to pause, breathe, and feel inspired. Don't miss the chance to experience it for yourself. The lookout consists of a large gravel parking area atop the hill which overlooks the town. There are plenty of bush roads which are great for bushwalking. Camp Hill Lookout can be accessed by car via Muntz Track and on foot via a walking track which heads up the hill through the Camp Hill Recreation Reserve (the sunrises and sunsets are worth the hike) Pick up some goodies from in town and create your own picnic to enjoy with a view.

Beaufort VIC

26 km away

Avoca Waterfalls

Natural Attractions

Avoca Waterfalls

Take a scenic stroll alongside a stony creek to the gorgeous Avoca Falls, a seasonal waterfall which is nestled in a valley within the Pyrenees State Forest. Accessed via an easy 500 metre walk from the nearby Waterfalls Campground, Avoca Falls is a great place to explore. This waterfall typically only flows after heavy rains, but is a beautiful spot to visit with or without water. From the base of the waterfall, you can clamber up either side to reach several more levels in the rocks above. Take care if climbing up, as the grass and rocks can be very slippery. The walking track is narrow and uneven in places, travelling upstream along Number Two Creek. This creek is seasonal, but the walk is scenic with or without water flowing. Follow the track right to the base of the Avoca Waterfall.

Percydale VIC

26 km away

Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Visitor Information Centre — Image credit: Pyrenees Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Beaufort Community Resource Centre and Visitor Information Centre

Beaufort is an easy going town of unhurried holidaying. Located along the Western Highway, just 35 minutes from Ballarat, this charming rural town is nestled close to the Mount Cole State Forest, Filled with cafes ad galleries, antiques and collectables, it's the perfect location to meander in search of a bargain or get out amongst nature. If you are looking for a weekend away surrounded by sweeping views, good company and fine wine, Beaufort is the location! The nearby Mount Cole State Forest is a place peppered with walking tracks for you to explore. Set up camp in the scenic campgrounds and spend the night under the stars surrounded by nature. Beaufort Lake is located in the centre of the township and provides the opportunity for many water activities from fishing and boating, to skiing and swimming. Around its shores and in the neighbouring reserve you’ll find a network of walking tracks and exercise equipment—a perfect way to stretch your legs and walk off the delights of the town’s cafés! Note: Beaufort Lake is seasonally dry. The friendly knowledgeable staff at the Beaufort Community Resource Centre will be able to assist with your holiday planning and provide you with reliable information on things to see and do. For more detailed information on accommodation and things to see and do, please visit the website.

Beaufort VIC

27 km away

Steph and Amy standing at the entrance of our store — Image credit: Bloomin Fresh

Shopping and Markets

Bloomin Fresh

Bloomin Fresh is a welcoming boutique, nursery and providore in Beaufort, nestled in Victoria's Pyrenees Ranges. Visitors discover a thoughtfully curated collection of locally sourced products and artisan goods. The shop stocks an eclectic range of locally made preserves, organic whole-foods, natural fibre clothing, homewares, craft supplies and carefully selected books. The nursery specialises in hardy plants chosen to thrive in the local climate—withstanding both mountain frosts and dry summers. Whether searching for unique gifts, quality homewares, plants for the garden or fresh local produce, Bloomin Fresh offers something special for both locals and visitors passing through Beaufort. The shop celebrates a mindful, sustainable approach to living, curated for those who value quality and intention in their everyday choices.

Beaufort VIC

27 km away

New cafe barriers

Amusement and Theme Parks

Cyril Callister Vegemite Museum: The man who invented Vegemite

The Cyril Callister Vegemite Museum celebrates the life, work and legacy of Dr Cyril Callister, the Australian scientist who invented Vegemite and the process of Kraft block cheese. The museum makes its home in a repurposed 1950s service station. See photos, posters, vintage ads and memorabilia that include a WWII Australian Army ration tin, Vegemite jars and collectibles from across 100 years and even a Vegemite-inspired dress created for the Miss Australia. Watch a video of the story about Dr Callister and his invention narrated by his grandson Jamie Callister. Visit science space Cyril's Lab, which is also open to small school groups to perform interactive science experiments. View Vegemite-inspired art painted by local artists and school students and use it as inspiration to paint your own Vegemite artwork. You can also see Vegemite through history, six repurposed 44-gallon drums that have been re-created into six Vegemite jar labels from the past 100 years. Try Vegemite-inspired tasty treats including chocolate Vegemite fudge, Chocolate Vegemite freckles, meat pies with Vegemite and shop for Vegemite merchandise. Schools, businesses, community groups, scouts and girl guides, seniors are encouraged to book ahead for history or painting. with Vegemite tours. Groups are by appointment. Please contact the operator via email or phone.

Beaufort VIC

27 km away

Koori Art Trail at the Beaufort Lake

Landmarks and Buildings

Koori Art Trail at the Beaufort Lake

Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the banks of Beaufort Lake. Discover the Koori Art Trail, which features 12 installations that depict the traditional flora and fauna of the area, and pays homage to the traditions, customs and stewardship of the local lands. The Koori Art Trail is an initiative of HM Prison Langi Kal Kal on behalf of the Department of Justice and Regulation and is supported by the Pyrenees Shire Council. The artwork, by indigenous prisoners, is provided to both community and visitors to celebrate the indigenous history of this country. The traditional owners of the region are the Wadawurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung and the Djab tribes. The walk starts at the Boat Ramp, which you can access via the Goldfields Recreation Reserve. You can enjoy a leisurely two kilometres walk around the lake, taking your time to view the artwork. There are lots of spots to sit if you need to take a breather or if you simply want to take in the views because they can be spectacular. This is a great walk if you enjoy bird watching. Please note the Lake can be seasonally dry. You can extend your walk into the neighbouring reserve where you will find a network of walking tracks and a series of exercise equipment. To extend your stay visit the Beaufort Caravan Park.

Beaufort VIC

27 km away

Avoca Moonambel cycle loop — Image credit: Pyrenees Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Avoca Moonambel Cycle Loop

The Avoca Moonambel cycle loop ride takes you from the Avoca township, to Moonambel and then return. It is filled with quiet country roads, stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife and farm animals along the way. Starting from either Avoca Chinese Garden or Moonambel Community Common, this gravel ride allows you to enjoy the Pyrenees scenery from a different perspective, allowing you to be more in nature and intimate with the backcountry of the Pyrenees region in central Victoria. The ride covers a distance of 46 kilometres, with an estimated 3.5 hours of total ride time. This loop is suitable for gravel bikes, hybrid, and mountain bikes. The trail is suitable for riders of all fitness. Gradients are mostly gentle. The trail surface varies along the trail and is made up of either compacted gravel or bitumen. There are plenty of opportunities to detour off the trail to visit 20 wonderful wineries and cellar doors that offer an impressive variety of award-winning wines – it is easy to eat and drink your way around the region. Many cellar doors are accompanied by decks and terraces overlooking vineyards so close that you feel like you are dining amid vines. Some Cellar Doors are only open weekends or by appointment. It is best to refer to the Visit Pyrenees Website or Visit Pyrenees App for opening hours.

Avoca VIC

33 km away

Barking Owl

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Avoca Silo Art

The Avoca silo artwork depicts the Australian Barking Owl, a bird native to the local Pyrenees Ranges. The Avoca silo displays the first glow-in-the-dark artwork in the Australian Silo Art Trail. The silo has two separate glow-in-the-dark features that can be experienced after dark. First, set behind the owl is a Glow in the dark starburst sky. The starburst sky and the owls eyes both glow in the dark when charged by the silos installed floodlights. Nightly projection with audio and visual from 8pm allow 45 minutes for this full experience. (This projection is located to the left face of the silo from the Owl mural). There is also an interactive glow wall set on the Pyrenees Ranges below the owl where you can draw your own artwork using nothing more than light from a torch or phone torch.

Avoca VIC

34 km away

Gallery 127

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery 127

As part of the Avoca Community Arts and Gardens Hub located at the newly transformed heritage listed Avoca Railway Station, Gallery 127 presents exhibitions of local and regional artists as well as solo exhibitions by single artists, including photographic and sculptural works. Local history displays, workshops and artist studio spaces are also available together with a permanently operated community plant nursery situated on the station's platform.

Avoca VIC

34 km away

Bunjil Shelter - Stawell

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bunjil Shelter - Stawell

Bunjil Shelter is located in the Black Range Scenic Reserve near Stawell and this is the only rockart painting of Bunjil known. It is widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural sites in south eastern Australia. Bunjil does no harm; I think he does well. These words were spoken by John Connolly, of the Jardwadjali people a little north of here, and recorded by A.W. Howitt. In 1884 Connolly added that Bunjil was a man, and was the father of all his people. Bunjil Shelter sits within the Gariwerd, a cultural landscape that supports people both physically and spiritually. Bunjil created our land, our people, the plants and animals, our religion and the laws by which we live. He is the leading figure in our spiritual life, essential in teaching young people the importance of laws and beliefs, Levi Lovett, local custodian, Parks Victoria.

Black Range VIC

40 km away

Old Pleasant Creek Courthouse — Image credit: Stawell Historical Society

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Stawell Historical Society and Museum

Museum and Research Centre housed in the old Pleasant Creek Courthouse. Showcasing the history of Stawell and District from the original discovery of gold in 1853 to the present day. For those keen on heritage, history, buildings and people this presents an ideal place to visit and view photographs, historic items, stories of the gold rush, industry, schools and business from the day with the benefit of assistance and interesting stories from their experienced and passionate volunteers. They are pleased to announce that if you are planning on bringing a Coach Tour to the area, they can provide a hosted tour highlighting the heritage and history of their town. Please call or email to discuss further.

Stawell VIC

42 km away

Flying Goolie Gallery — Image credit: Annie Younger

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Flying Goolie Gallery

Flying Goolie Gallery is located in Burrumbeet, 20 minutes from Ballarat, close to the shores of the natural and ecologically significant lake Burrumbeet. Flying Goolie prominently features the artworks of Annie Younger, a sculptor with a 35-year practice. Annie explores an ongoing subject in her work - the creation of characters and personalities with the use of recycled/reclaimed materials. Annie has exhibited throughout Australia, including commissions here and overseas. Flying Goolie is a place for the joyful engagement with art accompanied by food, drink and music. The gallery is set on over one acre of grounds with the inside areas reimagined from a former 122 year old hotel. Sculptures range from fitting in your hand and soaring to 5 metres high. Visitors to Flying Goolie can expect an uplifting experience and leave with a smile on their face. Flying Goolie an easy 20 minute drive from Ballarat, located on the Western highway with entry accessible from Station street.

Burrumbeet VIC

49 km away

Paddys Ranges State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Paddys Ranges State Park

Well-known for its wildflowers in springtime, Paddys Ranges State Park is home to 30 types of orchids and more than 140 native bird species like the rare Painted Honeyeaters and Swift Parrots. Located northwest of Melbourne, this beautiful bushland is a stronghold of Box-Ironbark and is an important conservation refuge for endangered plants and animals. Wander the park as it bursts into colour with spring wildflowers or discover relics and reminders of its gold mining past. The parks mining history dates back to the 1800s and since 1951 the Maryborough Field Naturalists Club began pushing for the protection of the park's unique Box-Ironbark Forest. In 1989, Paddys Ranges State Park was reserved. The now 1,954ha park is a haven for plants and animals with more than 230 species of wildflowers and a 140 species of birds have been recorded in the park. There are a number of walking trails, a free camping area at Karri Track and Settling Ponds Track Picnic Area has tables, a toilet and wood barbeques. Visitors must bring their own firewood. Before you go check Parks Victoria's website for local changes and park conditions. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors and stay up to date using the Vic Emergency website.

Adelaide Lead VIC

50 km away

Tunnel Track trailhead — Image credit: Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Pomonal Tunnel Walking Track

The Pomonal Tunnel Walking Track offers a rewarding blend of history, nature and gentle adventure on the eastern side of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. Beginning near the village of Pomonal, the trail follows a steady rise through open woodland, where native wildflowers and birdlife are common companions. The highlight is the hand‑cut rock tunnel, created in the late 1800s as part of an early water‑race system. Beyond the tunnel, the track opens to views across the valley toward the Mount William and Serra ranges, making it a favourite spot for photographers and walkers seeking a quieter alternative to Gariwerd's major lookouts. The return walk is rated as moderate to hard. There are a relatively steep uphill and downhill (return) gradients on this track and after rain, it can become very difficult.

Pomonal VIC

51 km away

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