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Nimons Bridge — Image credit: Golden Plains Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Nimons Bridge

Nimons Bridge was Victoria's fourth-largest timber trestle bridge when built and is the third-tallest surviving example. It is also the second-largest composite bridge combining traditional timber piers with RSJ spans and a timber deck. The bridge is the most visually spectacular timber-trestle bridge in Western Victoria and among the most spectacular timber-trestle rail bridges surviving anywhere in Victoria. It is part of the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail.

Newtown VIC

25 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

28 km away

Cycling the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Natural Attractions

Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail

The 53 kilometre Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail runs along the former railway to Skipton, from western Ballarat, Haddon, Smythesdale and Pittong to Skipton. Upgraded in 2008, this trail goes through native grasslands, historical gold mining sites and over an impressive trestle bridge near Newtown is open for trail users. History boards with trail information are sited at various points along the trail.

Smythesdale VIC

28 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

29 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

29 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

29 km away

Enjoy picnic facilities right beside the lake — Image credit: DEECA

Natural Attractions

Lake Burrumbeet

Lake Burrumbeet is a large freshwater lake, 2 hours drive west of Melbourne, near Ballarat. It is part of the unique lake system of the western volcanic plains. The area is rich in cultural heritage and is popular for picnicking, camping, boating, fishing and walking. Enjoy waterfront views from the two picnic shelters on the shoreline, which include tables and chairs. From here, take a stroll along the foreshore and enjoy the views across the lake as you wander through the River Red Gums. Camping options include smaller sites surrounded by nature close to the entrance. As you move further along the shoreline you'll find open, grassy areas that are ideal for larger groups or those with large vehicles or caravans. All sites are unpowered. The lake is home to a number of River Red Gums and is a potential breeding site for Brolga and other wetland species such as the Freckled Duck. Lake Burrumbeet is part of the traditional lands of the Burrumbeet Balug clan of the Wadawurrung people. The lake's sandy embankments, large sheltering trees, freshwater creek and rich plant and animal resources provided an excellent camp for the Wadawurrung people, who were known to inhabit this area.

Carngham VIC

29 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

31 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

34 km away

Enfield State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Enfield State Park

Now a haven for wildlife, Enfield State parks was once dominated by tents and diggers from around the world during Victoria's gold rush. Visit the park in spring and be rewarded by colourful and unusual wildflowers. Picnic facilities are available at the Surface Point picnic area and at Enfield picnic area. Remote Long Gully, which can be reached by vehicle or on foot from Surface Point, also has a picnic ground. You should bring your own firewood, as it is not always available locally. The park features many walking tracks of various lengths and terrain. Horses can be ridden on formed vehicle tracks open for public use but must not be taken on walking tracks. An increasingly popular activity, many opportunities exist for bike riders to experience the park. Bicycles are not permitted on walking tracks, but tracks are available for use. 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.

Enfield VIC

35 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

35 km away

Gallery shelves

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ross Creek Gallery

Ross Creek Gallery is nestled in the serene bushland just a short 10-minute drive from Ballarat, Wadawurrung Country. The contemporary gallery is seamlessly integrated next to Ruby Pilven's mudbrick studio, creating a peaceful and inspiring environment. With its abundant natural light streaming through three expansive windows, along with 15 spotlights, a versatile hanging system spanning three walls with 20 hanging wires, and 10 pristine white plinths, the gallery offers an ideal setting for artistic expression. The gallery hosts recent ceramic and 2D artworks by Ruby Pilven and Janine Ronaldson as well as rotating exhibitions by local artists. The gallery is also open by appointment.

Smythes Creek VIC

35 km away

Wide range of desert art — Image credit: raintree art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Raintree Art

Raintree Art is an Aboriginal Art Gallery just outside Ballarat. They sell ethically sourced giftware and original paintings. Known internationally for their video of Aboriginal Artist Louise Numina Napananka painting her bush medicine leaves which worldwide has received over 100 million views. Raintree Art is a member of the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia. They purchase directly from many of their artists and also purchase from Aboriginal Art Centres and fair trade organisations. You can rest assured that all of Raintree Art's paintings and giftware features real art by real artists who receive royalties for their work. Their paintings range in size from small, through to extra-large, which is large enough to create a feature wall in your home or office. Raintree Art also have a large range of ethically sourced giftware for sale, including apparel, bags, wallets, books, cards and gift wrapping, cushion covers, decorations, drink coolers, kitchen items, Christmas items, house numbers and much more. If their opening hours don't suit you, please get in touch and Raintree Art can arrange another time.

Cambrian Hill VIC

41 km away

Main Court — Image credit: Xtreme Bounce

Amusement and Theme Parks

Xtreme Bounce

Get ready to have fun with your family and friends at the regions only trampoline center, Xtreme Bounce Trampoline Park. There is a Slam Dunk, Battle Beam, Performance Wall, Dodgeball, Wipeout, Air Bags and a huge arena of high performance trampolines. You can even grab a coffee, refuel with a snack or cool refreshment from the cafe.

Delacombe VIC

41 km away

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

The Arch of Victory was built to commemorate the Allied victory in World War I and to provide a sense of comfort and meaning to a community emerging from four years of grief and anxiety. The foundation stone was laid by General Sir William Birdwood on February 7th, 1920.  Thirteen local tradesmen undertook the four-month construction and utilised 70,000 bricks donated by the Selkirk company. Standing 17.5 metres high and 19.7 metres wide, the Arch is crowned with the emblem of the AIF - the Rising Sun. Opened by HRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, on June 2nd, 1920.  His connection to Ballarat endured, and on the Arch's 50th anniversary, now as the Duke of Windsor, the Duke of Windsor responded to an invitation from the President of the Arch of Victory / Avenue of Honour Committee, Keith Price. The Garden of the Grieving Mother provides a place for contemplation and reflection. Inspired by the experiences of those who remained at home during wartime, it honours the grief and anxiety and resilience of mothers, fathers, families and friends waiting for news of loved ones serving overseas. While rooted in the World War I experience the garden pays tribute to the mothers and families of all Australian servicemen and women. At its centre stands a life-sized bronze statue by acclaimed Australian artist Peter Corlett OAM.

Alfredton VIC

42 km away

Jess Wootten and Krystina Menegazzo — Image credit: The Design Files

Shopping and Markets

Wootten

Wootten was founded in Adelaide's iconic Jam Factory arts collective in the mid 1970s surrounded by Australia’s leading craft practitioners. The generational tradition of handcrafting boots and leather goods continues from their repurposed World War 2 munitions workshop in the historic city of Ballarat. Ballarat has a long and proud history of bootmaking. James Oliver established Oliver and Steven’s Boot Factory in 1887. Their boots were engineered to withstand harsh conditions and became popular among miners and farmers. Cycle forward and the now iconic large retailer River’s began as Paddle Bros, making high quality shoes for routine Ballarat shoppers throughout the 20th century. Generations of Ballarat locals have since been employed in the industry. Wootten carries on this tradition. Operating out of the Gun Cotton Warehouse district, the small team of highly skilled and expert leather craftspeople produce handmade boots, shoes, belts, leather aprons and bags by the batch. Visit the Wootten workshop and showroom for a view into a working boot factory, and let the makers assist you with selecting a pair of boots to be worn for generations. In a nod to the site’s former history as a General Store, Wootten have curated a selection high quality crafts and wares. The range focuses on local makers with expertise in apparel, woven textiles, ceramics and decorative arts.

Delacombe VIC

43 km away

The inground trampolines next to a covered picnic table and benches

Parks and Gardens

Inclusive Play-Space

The concept for an Inclusive Play-Space in Ballarat came from the community in 2012 and was driven through the City of Ballarat’s Disability Advisory Committee. The aim of the project was to create an environment where all children and adults, regardless of ability could play. An inclusive playground enables children, parents, grandparents, and carers of all abilities and ages to socialise and play side-by-side on the same equipment, in the same environment. It is not a dedicated playground for people with disabilities but a play space designed for the use and benefit of all community members, ensuring full integration of children and families and improved community connections. In 2016 the Inclusive Play-Space was opened. It is an environment of accessible play, and facilities (including an Adult Changing Place) and the amenities have been created with the additional benefit and reassurance of being enclosed in a fenced space, yet a design outcome that provides the freedom and feeling of not feeling fenced. The Inclusive Play-Space has become a great hub of socializing, playing, and is an example of what can be achieved in a community. The play-space was an LGPRO Award winner in 2017.

Newington VIC

43 km away

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre, or BALC, is here for you. Located in the heart of Ballarat, the centre provides a welcoming environment for members and visitors of all ages and stages with plenty of options to keep you moving. The centre's aquatic facilities include a heated 50 metres pool, heated 25 metres pool, heated rehabilitation and multipurpose pool, spa, steam room, and Learn to Swim pool with frog slide. Their Health Club is equipped with the latest machines and weight training equipment, and their fully qualified trainers are always on hand to guide you through your fitness journey Over 80 weekly group fitness classes are held in our modern studios, including their cycle studio with 30 of the latest Technogym bikes to give you the best indoor cycling experience in town. Creche services, café and retail shop are also available onsite. The team can't wait to welcome you.

Lake Gardens VIC

43 km away

Ballarat Tram No 26 — Image credit: No

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Travel back in time through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree. By riding one of the 100 year old trams which provided Ballarat's public transport until 1971. The recently opened Display Hall, is where you can learn the story of the Ballarat trams and its people is told through photographs, historic films and tramway memorabilia. Representatives of the Ballarat tramcar fleet are on display alongside a wonderfully restored former Geelong tram. On loan is a restored tram which until 1959 the Victorian Railways ran from St Kilda Station to Brighton. Included in the display is Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887. Under restoration is one of the first electric trams to be operated in 1905 by the original Electric Supply Company of Victoria fleet. The running fleet includes nine tramcars which initially ran in Melbourne and arrived in Ballarat between 1930 and 1951, and four acquired directly from Melbourne by the Museum. Run by volunteers, the Museum is open every Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday. We are open on most Victorian public holidays. During Victoria school holidays we open on Thursdays. Guided tours and group visits can be arranged. Souvenir items may be purchased from the shop.

Lake Wendouree VIC

43 km away

Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

With a few words from the poem, For the Fallen, by the English poet and writer Laurence Binyon, you are welcomed to the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial. This unique memorial was opened on 6 February, 2004, to recognise and remember those Australians who became Prisoners of War during the wars of the twentieth century. The Memorial symbolises that all Australian prisoners embarked to serve away from their homeland and acknowledges the hardship, deprivation, brutality, starvation and disease endured by prisoners of war during their capture and the scars many continued to endure upon their repatriation to Australia. In these magnificent botanical gardens, the Memorial is a place of quiet reflection and a place to remember loved ones and to mourn those 8,600 prisoners of war that died in captivity and remain buried on foreign shores.

Lake Wendouree VIC

43 km away

Airmen recording message by Morse Code

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Aviation Museum

Ballarat Aviation Museum is located within the grounds of the Ballarat Aerodrome. The museum is dedicated to the history of aviation. It has a great collection of aircraft, engines, aviation radios, cameras and aviation memorabilia. The Ballarat Aerodrome was a Royal Australian Air Force base during World War Two for the No.1 Wireless and Air Gunners school, and post war the School of Radio. Learn about the stories of nine Ballarat men who completed their training between 1940 and 1945. The training in Morse Code was one of the skills required by these men. You will have the opportunity to test your skills relaying a message in Morse Code.

Mitchell Park VIC

43 km away

The Robert Clark Conservatory — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Landmarks and Buildings

The Robert Clark Conservatory

Take a wander inside amongst the seasonal floral displays at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The Robert Clark Conservatory opened in 1995 and was built as part of the two million dollar bequest of Bob Clark in honour of his grandfather Robert Clark co-founder of The Ballarat Courier newspaper. The third conservatory on the site, this is the first to allow visitors to stroll amongst the year-round floral displays, including the Begonia collection on show each year from the second weekend in March (for approximately four weeks). The other displays featured: May - Chrysanthemums, Winter - Cyclamen, Cineraria and Primula, Spring - Schizanthus, Summer - Fuchsias, Hydrangeas and Pelargoniums.

Lake Wendouree VIC

43 km away

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens — Image credit: Crafts Council Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage is a heritage wooden cottage nestled within the Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the shores of Lake Wendouree. Associated with the life and times of poet Adam Lindsay Gordon, the cottage is one of Ballarat's most charming historic attractions. Today it operates as a welcoming retail and exhibition space celebrating Australian handmade craft and local art. Visitors can discover an ever-changing collection of ceramics, textiles, woodwork, glass, jewellery and fine art created by skilled makers from Ballarat and surrounding regions. The focus is on quality craftsmanship, sustainability and thoughtfully designed handmade gifts. Operated by Crafts Council Ballarat, the cottage is supported by knowledgeable volunteers who are also practising makers. They share insights into both the cottage's history and the creative processes behind the work on display. The intimate setting offers a relaxed and personal shopping experience within a significant heritage building. Seasonal displays and curated exhibitions ensure there is always something new to see. Whether exploring the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, visiting Lake Wendouree or seeking unique handmade gifts in Ballarat, the Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage offers a memorable cultural experience that connects history, creativity and community.

Lake Wendouree VIC

43 km away

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Located on the western shore of Lake Wendouree, approximately four kilometres from Ballarat's city centre, the Gardens are a popular and invaluable heritage and recreational location for residents and visitors. Established in 1858 it is one of Victoria's oldest Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to an extensive array of flowering plants, exotic trees, floral bedding displays and an extensive collection of Italian marble statues throughout. Experience the stunning Robert Clark Conservatory and walk in amongst the changing seasonal displays of the celebrated collections of hydrangeas, fuchsias, and chrysanthemums throughout the year, and their world renown tuberous Begonia Collection mid-March to mid-April. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens welcomes thousands of visitors each year to City of Ballarat's much-loved Summer Sundays picnic and live music events during January. It also attracts more than 60,000 for the three-day annual Ballarat Begonia Festival over the Labour Day weekend in March. Robert Clark Conservatory is open 9.00am to 6.00pm daily, excluding Christmas Day. The Statue Pavilion is open from 9.00am to 4.30pm daily, excluding Christmas Day.

Lake Wendouree VIC

43 km away

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