Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

95 places

Explore local places

Ros McArthur Art Studio and Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ros McArthur Art Studio

Ros McArthur Art Studio is located in the large garden of "Woollahra" sheep farm in the Victoria Valley, an area known for its production of ultra-fine merino wool. The property is circled by the Grampians mountain ranges and National Park that are a never-ending source of beauty and inspiration. The garden, a mixture of native and exotic plantings, supplies the material for still life paintings. Visitors are invited to wander and enjoy the garden. It has been designed to incorporate and blend with the natural surroundings and picturesque farming land. Many travellers tour the Great Ocean Road and then head north to the majesty of the mountains, a round trip from Melbourne. The studio is conveniently located to the north of Dunkeld and to the south of Halls Gap. There are prominent road signs from both directions. For Ros, painting is a passion and form of expression in which to escape and explore visually and mentally. Ros' aim is to create images that please and challenge the senses. Oil paintings are available on canvas, stretched canvas and board, both framed and unframed. There is also a limited range of prints of popular works. Ros is happy to discuss commissions.

Mirranatwa VIC

9.2 km away

Billimina Rock Art Site - Wartook Valley

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Billimina Rock Art Site - Wartook Valley

Billimina shelter is an impressive rock overhang where Jardwadjali camped from time to time and left many red paintings. Archaeologists who excavated this site in 1976 found stone tools and the remains of plant and animal foods. These materials demonstrated that groups camped here from late winter to early summer and caught kangaroos and small mammals such as bandicoots, possums and bettongs. They also collected emu eggs and freshwater mussels. The most interesting aspect of the paintings at Billimina is the many bars arranged in horizontal rows. We believe these marks were used to count events in retelling stories or to record the number of days spent at a place. While they are sometimes difficult to see, there are also emus, kangaroo and emu tracks, and 55 human stick figures painted here. Some of the human figures found in the middle panel are illustrated above, see if you can find them.

Glenisla VIC

13 km away

Manja Shelter - Hamilton

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Manja Shelter - Hamilton

Manja (pronounced Manya), has some of the best examples of hand stencils in Victoria. A total of 90 stencils have been recorded in these two shelters. They believe hand stencils were used to record a visit to a site, and to renew the ties a person had to a particular place. At this site there are also animal tracks and many human stick figures. Manja is located in an impressive sandstone outcrop. Have a walk around and try to imagine what it would have been like to live here before Europeans arrived.

Glenisla VIC

13 km away

Rocklands Reservoir

Natural Attractions

Rocklands Reservoir

Rocklands Reservoir is the second largest reservoir in Victoria, known for its various tourist activities and attractions and wonderful views of the Grampians (National Park Gariwerd). Constructed during the 1950s, the Reservoir is a major attraction just 15 minutes from Balmoral with visitors coming to enjoy fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking and picnicking among other things. The Reservoir is ideal for fishing with hundreds of native fish species as well as being great for skiing with boat ramps and power boating allowed. Covering over 6700 hectares of land, it has plenty of spots for visitors to use for recreation and camping. There are seven pet-friendly, free campgrounds along the Reservoir's edge, plus the Rocklands Retreat and the Rocklands Tourist Caravan Park, offering pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites. Glendinning is the largest of the free camps just 45 minutes from Hamilton or 15 minutes from Balmoral and is suitable for both camping and caravanning. While the main wall area of the Reservoir and Glendinning Campground is easily accessible for 2WD, other campsites may require 4WD vehicles. With so much to do at Rocklands, there is something to please everyone. For fishing enthusiasts, Redfin, Brown Trout and Yabbies are the most predominant species and can be found in the deepest part of the lake at the wall area near Balmoral.

Rocklands VIC

25 km away

Lake Bellfield

Natural Attractions

Lake Bellfield

Lake Bellfield is located five kilometres from the main shops in Halls Gap. It is known to be a popular tourist spot with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and reflective waters. The lake is used for recreational activities such as swimming, boating, fishing and picnicking. The lake serves as the local water supply, therefore only electric motors are permitted.

Halls Gap VIC

27 km away

Perfect family activity — Image credit: Grampians adventures

Amusement and Theme Parks

Halls Gap Adventure Golf

Welcome to Halls Gap Adventure Golf, a fun and challenging world class 18 hole course set in spectacular bushland in the heart of Gariwerd (The Grampians). The course is like a mini version of the mountains where it is located, with water falls, tunnels and spectacular views in every direction. Whether your game is a serious, high stakes, winner-takes-all contest or just a friendly hit between friends, it's an experience you won't want to miss on your next visit to Halls Gap. There's mini golf, and then there's adventure golf. You will not see any windmills here, but the obstacles will keep you on your toes - look out for the infamous Nerve Test. You are sure to spot some of the local wildlife as the space is share with the local emus, kangaroos and deer. You will also hear the cockatoos and kookaburras before you see them. Above all, and no matter what brings you here, the most important thing is to enjoy yourself. So take in the surroundings, stop for meal, a drink, relax and switch off from the world for a while and have fun.

Halls Gap VIC

27 km away

Paint your Pet — Image credit: Moco Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

MOCO Gallery and Boutique

Welcome to MOCO Gallery and boutique in the heart of Gariwerd, Grampians National Park. This is a unique contemporary gallery in an inspiring bushland setting with a full calendar of events including artist led workshops, regular exhibitions and artist talks, residencies and more. MOCO has a full programme of artist led workshops and classes ranging from short morning or evening sessions to multi day courses. Classes range from adults evening classes and multi day courses to classes tailored to school groups and everything in between. There will be special creative workshops during the GLOW Festival in Halls Gap. These include Paint Your Pet , Drawing, Landscape Painting, and Perfume Making. Please check the MOCO Gallery events website for dates and to book in for your favourite workshop. While you're here check out their special winter exhibition: Kellie Russell - Local Life, on display until July 20.

Halls Gap VIC

27 km away

Dunkeld and Grampians Golf Course — Image credit: Visit Grampians

Parks and Gardens

Dunkeld and Grampians Golf Course

Sculpted straight from its natural bush setting, the Grampians Golf Club is nestled at the base of the mighty and majestic Mount Abrupt. The 18-hole golf course provides spectacular sweeping views of the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd). Open all year round, you will love sharing the course with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and an abundance of birdlife.

Dunkeld VIC

28 km away

Lake Wartook

Natural Attractions

Lake Wartook

Just half an hour from Halls Gap, Lake Wartook is suitable for canoeing adventures as well as fly, boat and shore fishing. A peaceful and rather secluded lake that is great for fishing, kayaking and picnicking. For stunning views over the lake head to Reeds lookout, best at sunset when the sky turns pink.

Zumsteins VIC

28 km away

Grampians Peaks Trail — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Grampians Peaks Trail

Located in the iconic Grampians National Park, part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape is the spectacular Grampians Peaks Trail. This challenging hiking experience crosses a variety of terrain, stay at unique hike-in campgrounds along the trail, climb dramatic mountain peaks with panoramic views and hike along rugged rocky ridgelines. The trail caters for a variety of hiking styles, from self-guided walkers and groups to school groups and fully-facilitated hikes with a Licensed Tour Operator. The two night itinerary in the northern peaks experience provides hikers with the option of staying in eco-friendly hiker huts in Gar and Werdug. To experience the huts, you must book using a Licensed Tour Operators. If you're experienced, bold and committed you can complete the whole 13-day/12-night hike, for an unforgettable adventure and be rewarded with some of the best hiking trails and panoramic views in Australia. Minimise your environmental impact when completing the Grampians Peaks Trail. Take out what you take in – leave no rubbish, stay on the trail, leaves pets, drones and loud music at home. Campfires are not permitted. Conditions can change quickly in natural settings, make sure you plan and prepare to get the most out of your experience and check Parks Victoria's website regularly for change of conditions. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Halls Gap VIC

28 km away

Brambuk Cultural Centre — Image credit: Parks Victoria

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre

Make Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap your first stop before exploring Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. Visit the National Park Information Centre where you can source the latest park information including walking, camping and touring. Parks staff can help you discover world famous hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, spectacular mountain views and ancient Aboriginal rock art shelters. A unique range of local Indigenous products, Australian made souvenirs and park maps are available in the gift shop. A series of self-guided and wheelchair friendly walks through the Brambuk wetlands and native gardens links the park information centre to the Cultural Centre and provides a glimpse of the native wildlife of Gariwerd. Since opening in 1990, Brambuk has provided an opportunity for visitors to connect and learn about what Gariwerd means to the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung people. The award-winning Cultural Centre building is currently closed for upgrades, and these works are expected to be ongoing between 2022 and 2026. Keep an eye on the Parks Victoria Junior Ranger website for the latest list of holiday activities and programs. Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre is two kilometress south of Halls Gap and is open seven days a week (except Christmas Day). Visit the Parks Victoria website to check park conditions. Remember to stay bushfire ready using Emergency Victoria's website while in nature.

Halls Gap VIC

28 km away

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

This park is part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape and is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art shelters in southern Australia. Explore the natural beauty, from its world-famous walking trails. Discover majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflowers and mountain panoramas. Enjoy the variety of walks in the north, Wonderland range near Halls Gap and in the south near Dunkeld. Views from the Pinnacle, Mt Abrupt, Mt Stapylton are spectacular, but these hikes should only be attempted by the fit. If you're an experienced walker, you will also enjoy the challenge of the park's overnight walks by hiking the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail. There are more relaxing pursuits to enjoy in the Grampians, too. Drive to a lookout for magnificent views from Boroka and Reed Lookouts, go fishing or kayaking at Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield and Moora Moora Reservoir or enjoy a picnic at a beautiful location. Visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap, where staff will help you explore this magnificent park, including where to hike, drive, camp or discover Aboriginal rock art shelters. Note: Mackenzie falls is closed to visitors and vehicles due to planned construction. For park closures and changes of conditions, visit Parks Victoria's website.

Halls Gap VIC

28 km away

Mount Abrupt

National Parks and Reserves

Mud-Dadjug (Mount Abrupt) Walk

Mud-Dadjug (Mount Abrupt) is a steep track that winds its way through Gariwerd (Grampians) bushland and up sandstone rocks to the summit. Once at the summit, take in the wonderful views of the Serra Range to the north and over Dunkeld in the south. Keep an eye open for wedge-tailed eagles, nankeen kestrels and peregrine falcons. For the best walking experience explore Mount Abrupt in Spring to early Summer. The Mud-Dadjug (Mount Abrupt) parking area is on the east side of the Grampians Road, approximately four kilometres from the Victoria Valley Road intersection. Sections of this walk are incorporated into The Grampians Peaks Trail.

Dunkeld VIC

28 km away

‘Morning gold - laughing kookaburra’ - Pastel on Supertooth paper, Image size 30 X 45 cm — Image credit: Steve Morvell Wildlife Art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Steve Morvell Art for Conservation

Steve Morvell Art for Conservation gallery and studio is located at Halls Gap in the picturesque Grampians National Park. Steve Morvell is an internationally acclaimed environmental artist, dedicated to raising human awareness of the beauty and fragility of wildlife and the habitats. A deep need to understand animals on their own terms takes Steve to many wild places such as Western China, Africa, Nepal and outback Australia researching his art. His powerful, evocative work is exhibited worldwide, winning many major art awards and hangs in private, public and corporate collections globally. He works tirelessly for conservation of the natural world. Steve, a former park ranger, spends long hours observing animals in their natural habitat. He only paints animals he has met in person since his life's passion is learning ever more about real nature. Steve's artworks capture delightfully intimate encounters with often shy and elusive species. His recognition of the spirit of the bush and its creatures leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. In the field of wildlife art he has a reputation for giving the viewer a real sense of being there.

Halls Gap VIC

29 km away

Walker Swamp Restoration Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Walker Swamp Restoration Reserve

The Walker Swamp Restoration Reserve is situated in the southern Grampians region adjacent to the Grampians National Park, a short drive from the picturesque town of Dunkeld in the floodplain of the Wannon River. The Reserve comprises a total of approximately 1500 acres, including the main 'Walker Swamp' restored wetlands, a magnificent 200 acre area of threatened remnant Manna Gum mixed woodland protection area and restoration area and a large-scale woodland revegetation site. This site has a fantastic diversity of habitat types and supports a range of threatened species.

Bornes Hill VIC

29 km away

Mount Abrupt from Grampians Golf Club — Image credit: Grampians Golf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Grampians Golf Club

Grampians Golf Club has been sculpted out of a natural bush setting nestled at the base of the majestic Mount Abrupt in the Southern Grampians. A short drive from the township of Dunkeld this spectacular 18 hole golf course provides stunning views of the Grampians at every turn. A round of golf at Grampians Golf Course will be shared with kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and an abundance of birdlife including the resident gang gangs cockatoos and, wildflowers when in season. Grampians golf course is open year-round via an honesty system with winter and particularly spring seeing the course at its prime. Groups can be catered for with clubs, buggies, and bar facilities available through prior arrangements. The course has generous fairways that provide plenty of room off the tee, but thick bush and abundant grass trees await those who miss. Several doglegs and well-positioned trees make careful course management the key to playing this deceptively tricky course. Grampians Golf Course is well maintained throughout the year with recent upgrades to the irrigation system and an increasing cover of couch grass are seeing the Grampians becoming a year-round proposition.

Dunkeld VIC

30 km away

Black Range State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Black Range State Park

Black Range State Park protects rugged and spectacular bushland in an area where much of the natural vegetation has been cleared for farming. The park is an excellent spot for bushwalking. A long walk commences at the Black Range Picnic Area and leads to the top of the Black Range providing great views. Rocklands Reservoir, which joins the south-east side of the park is a good place to camp and enjoy days on the water boating and fishing. 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. Further information is available from Aboriginal Affairs Victoria AAV and Native Title Services Victoria. 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.

Cherrypool VIC

30 km away

The Piccaninny

National Parks and Reserves

Bainggug (The Piccaninny)

A popular leisurely walk suitable for most hikers, the summit of the Bainggug (The Piccaninny) provides excellent views of Mud-dadjug (Mt Abrupt) and the nearby town of Dunkeld with its impressive and unique landscape. The track begins at the Picaninny carpark along Victoria Valley Road or Grampians Tourist Road. The easy-to-follow path leads through picturesque, lush woodlands, with a gradual incline leading to the summit. Keep your eyes peeled for the many interesting animal and plant species that call this area home and the stunning wildflower displays during Spring.

Dunkeld VIC

30 km away

Halls Gap Zoo

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Halls Gap Zoo

Halls Gap Zoo is Victoria's largest regional zoo exhibiting over 120 native and exotic mammals, reptiles and birds from cheetah, giraffe, meerkats, monkeys, red pandas and bison to kangaroos, Tassie devils, wombats, crocodiles, snakes and dingoes. Halls Gap Zoo is home to a number of endangered species captive breeding programs. Overall management of these programs is by a species coordinator through the Zoo Aquarium Association (ZAA) which is an association that links over 90 zoos and aquariums across the Australasian region, including Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Visitors have the opportunity to have close encounters with a number of species while at Halls Gap Zoo. Special animal food can be purchased to hand feed kangaroos, wallabies and deer or as an optional extra experience meerkats climbing onto your lap, feed the giraffe or rhino, go in with the dingoes or perhaps holding a reptile would appeal. The two and a half kilometre pathway around the zoo is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch while the children amuse themselves in the playground. Halls Gap Zoo have food, drinks and souvenirs available. For further information please contact them or view their website.

Halls Gap VIC

31 km away

Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon) Walk

National Parks and Reserves

Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon) Walk

Wurgarri (Mount Sturgeon) is positioned at the southernmost point of the Gariwerd (Grampians) National Park and is one of two outstanding peaks towering over the town of Dunkeld. This walk, suitable for fit and energetic walkers, involves water crossings, slippery track surfaces and rock hopping. Follow the path up through open woodland. Several steep sections lead through rocky terrain and stunted vegetation towards the top. Be warned - there is a false peak on the walk but keep going to reach the summit and you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and volcanic plains, and Dunkeld township. Return via the same route or continue on and follow the trail that loops back to the carpark across the front of the mountain.

Dunkeld VIC

31 km away

National Centre for Environmental Art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Wama Foundation

Wama is Australia's first dedicated space for environmental art, set amongst 16 hectares on the foothills of the Gariwerd/Grampians National Park. Experience world-class art in the National Centre for Environmental Arts, or get lost in the Endemic Botanic Garden and Jallukar Grasslands. There are no public transport options to the site, meaning that the best way to reach them is by car. It is approximately a six-minute drive from Halls Gap, 90 minutes from Ballarat, or three hours from Melbourne.

Halls Gap VIC

31 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

32 km away

Settlers Walk, Cavendish — Image credit: Danielle Thomas Photography - One Day Collective

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Settlers Walk Cavendish

Established as a memorial to Cavendish's Solider Settlers, the mid 50s pioneers, 'Settlers Walk' brings our past back to life via brief stories on plaques affixed to volcanic rocks situated along the river. Entrance to the walk is through the garden beside the Police Station. A plaque can be seen as you enter through the hand gate. Follow via the boardwalk for about 1300 metres along the riverbank to the eastern boundary of the town. Hongsip's Bridge is a reminder of Chinese connection when thousands passed through Cavendish on their way to the Goldfields. Meander along the river's edge taking a moment to view an ancient and picturesque waterhole used by Police troopers surrounded by century-old trees and views of vast river flats and the Grampians. This section of the walk can also be accessed by car via Cameron Street, one block east of the Police Station, with car parking and a picnic area available. Peaceful and picturesque vistas, birdlife and beautiful ancient red gums greet you along this section ending with views of the vast river flats and the Grampians forming the backdrop. Settlers Walk provides picnic table areas, several boardwalks, two footbridges, and plaques along the river noting historic places of interest. The walk is two kilometres in total so allow yourself 45 minutes at an easy walking pace.

Cavendish VIC

32 km away

Dunkeld Arboretum — Image credit: SGSC

Natural Attractions

Dunkeld Arboretum

The Dunkeld Arboretum showcases a living collection of the world's trees. Set in a dramatic and beautiful recreation precinct at the base of the Gariwerd (Grampians) National Park, the Arboretum provides visitors with a truly unique experience. The Arboretum is home to a labyrinth and Old Sawmill, as well as a walking track and picnic facilities. Experience the beauty and history of this magnificent 18-hectare Arboretum. Facilities include: Picnic facilities, Walking track.

Dunkeld VIC

33 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.