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Under-bridge walk Snowy Rail Bridge

Landmarks and Buildings

Snowy Rail Bridge

Victoria's longest timber trestle rail bridge at nearly one kilometre long, the Snowy Rail Bridge stretches across the fertile Snowy River floodplain with views to the mountains. With Stage one of restoration complete in 2024, visitors can now walk or cycle out onto each end of the rail bridge, take a walk under and around the massive historic timbers at its western end, enjoy a picnic with a view and beautiful local indigenous artwork and read about the history of the bridge at the many interpretive information sign points. A striking brilliant red colonnade, modelled on the VFTY timber rail trucks forms the spectacular entry at the eastern end of the bridge, which is clearly visible from the nearby Princes Highway. A tunnel of rainforest canopy provides the entrance to the western end of the bridge, and under-bridge walk, making a beautiful one kilometre return walk from the carpark. It is an incredible spot to watch and listen to birds, picnic at the Snowy Floodplain Lookout or sit and contemplate the bridge from below on the recycled bridge timber seats.

Newmerella VIC

1.4 km away

Orbost Exhibition Centre — Image credit: Orbost Exhibition Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Orbost Arts Centre

The Orbost Arts Centre delivers an ongoing arts program that nurtures regional creativity and presents wood design, visual arts and performing arts to Orbost, surrounding communities and visitors to the Far East Gippsland area. Their permanent collection is made up of pieces acquired from the Australian Wood Design Exhibition shows over the past 20 years. The permanent wood design collection is always on display. Since 2020 the Australian Wood Design Exhibition runs bi-annually. They are located on the banks of the famous Snowy River, adjacent the Orbost Visitor Centre (the historic Slab Hut), and Orbost's popular Forest Park. The Orbost Arts Centre is a regional centre for both visual and performing arts, an events venue and their shop supports the creative practice and retail outlet for over 30 regional artists and craftspeople. They are a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation. The Orbost Arts Centre receives no ongoing funding for any of their activities. Their capacity to open the doors, hold exhibitions, create arts programs, attract arts and culture opportunities to the area, and support the local creative community is made possible by their committed volunteers.

Orbost VIC

3.6 km away

Travel Saunas — Image credit: Travel Saunas

Spas and Retreats

Travel Saunas

Travel Saunas' one-hour sauna and cold plunge sessions are designed to help you relax, recover, and recharge. During the session, you will alternate between the warmth of the sauna and the refreshing cold plunge at your own pace, allowing your body time to heat up, cool down, and reset. The heat of the sauna encourages relaxation, improves circulation, and helps ease muscle tension, while the cold plunge provides an invigorating boost that can leave you feeling refreshed and energised. The combination of hot and cold creates a calming yet revitalising experience for both body and mind. The sauna is currently located at Marlo Hideaway, and sessions are open to the public whether or not you are staying at the accommodation. In the future, they plan to travel to a range of beautiful waterside locations around Marlo, including spots such as Cape Conran and along the Snowy River, creating unique wellness experiences immersed in nature. Whether you are looking to support recovery, unwind after a busy week, or simply take time for yourself, our sauna and cold plunge sessions offer a peaceful space to slow down and reconnect. Suitable for individuals, friends, or groups wanting to enjoy the experience together.

Marlo VIC

11 km away

Cape Conran Coastal Park

National Parks and Reserves

Cape Conran Coastal Park

Cape Conran Coastal Park near Marlo in East Gippsland has heathlands, wild ocean beaches and banksia woodlands brimming with nectar-feeding birds. A great park for water activities - enjoy swimming, diving, boating, fishing or rock pooling. Experience the park by foot on the self-guided Cape Conran Nature Trail or the magnificent Dock Inlet and Pearl Point day walks. Aboriginal Traditional Owners Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria - including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, the Bidawal, Gunaikurnai and Nindi-Ngudjam Ngarigu Monero identify the Cape Conran Coastal Park as their Traditional Country. 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.

Cape Conran VIC

28 km away

Cape Conran Nature Trail

Natural Attractions

Cape Conran Nature Trail

The Cape Conran Nature Trail explores white sandy beaches, rock pools, boardwalks, banksia woodlands and lookouts. Turn off to follow the boardwalk around East Cape to Cowrie Bay where interpretive signs explain the Aboriginal significance of the coast. Climb the steps from the beach to take the trail through coastal heathland back to Sailors Grave (East Cape car park) or continue to West Cape and Salmon Rocks Beach. The distance is 3.2 kilometres one way and 6.4 kilometres return. The duration of this trail is 1.5 to two hours return. The grade is level 2-3 with some rocky sections. The trail begins at East Cape Beach by Sailors Grave car park and ends at Salmon Rocks. Level 2 does not require experience. The track is hardened gravel or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and some steps. Walks up to 10 kilometres. Level 3 requires bushwalking and a good level of fitness. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited. Walks may be more than 20 kilometres.

Cape Conran VIC

28 km away

Snowy River National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Snowy River National Park

Parts of Snowy River National Park remain closed due to bushfire damage. For the latest information, go to www.parks.vic.gov.au. The Snowy River is renowned for canoeing and rafting, and the Snowy River National Park is ideal for those who appreciate magnificent forests, rugged gorges and wild landscapes. McKillops Bridge is one of the few places with conventional vehicle access to the Snowy River. The Deddick River meets the Snowy just upstream of the bridge and wide sandy beaches with shallow rock pools between the rapids make this a great swimming spot. 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.

Buchan VIC

32 km away

Patellis Crossing, Tostaree

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Under the Surface

Under the Surface is a curated public art project comprising of local and internationally renowned artists' works, located along the existing East Gippsland Rail Trail and extending through a selection of villages and townships of GunaiKurnai Country. The project invited local artists Alice Pepper and Patricia Pittman, to be joined by visiting artists MEGGS, Ling and Minna Leunig - led by the story of the GunaiKurnai community. Sites include: Nicholson Bridge. Patricia Pittman, Partelli's Crossing, Tostaree. Minna Leunig, Orbost Butter Factory LING , Nowa Nowa underpass. Alice Pepper X MEGGS Each of the artists’ practice focuses on flora, fauna and natural environment and the works subsequently draw attention to the natural environment, assisting in visual storytelling and aiming to connect and grow human relationships with the land through art. Through a cultural awareness program with GLaWAC and community, the visiting artists developed learnings on artistic practices, storytelling, introduction to the local environment and preservation. In turn, visiting artists shared their skills with locals, encouraging confidence in presenting works at a larger scale, with connection to story. The Social Crew conducted onsite research, engaged key community members and groups, and collaborated with GLaWAC and the East Gippsland Rail Trail Committee to curate the project in order to better inform the travelling artists of their subject matter and the land on which they stand.

Nowa Nowa VIC

34 km away

Stony Creek Trestle Bridge — Image credit: DEECA

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Stony Creek Trestle Bridge

The scenic Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is just off the Princes Highway between Nowa Nowa and Lakes Entrance, four hours drive east of Melbourne. At 276 metres long and 20 metres high, it is one of the largest standing bridges of its kind in Victoria. This iconic and heritage-listed bridge was built in 1916 when the railway line from Melbourne to Bairnsdale was extended to Orbost. Constructed using red ironbark and grey box timber, the bridge is a fine example of early engineering skills. It remained in regular service for over 60 years until it was damaged by bushfire in 1980, with the last train crossing in 1988. Today, the Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is a popular stop along the East Gippsland Rail Trail, which stretches for almost 100km between Bairnsdale and Orbost. The bridge can be viewed from an elevated viewing platform or from the carpark at the base of the bridge where you will also find picnic tables and toilet facilities. Visitors looking to extend their stay can enjoy a picnic or camp overnight at nearby Cosstick's Weir, hit the trails at Nowa Nowa mountain bike park, or grab refreshments or accommodation at the nearby towns of Nowa Nowa, Bruthen or Lakes Entrance.

Nowa Nowa VIC

34 km away

Pelican at Bemm River

National Parks and Reserves

Bemm River Scenic Reserve

Bemm River Scenic Reserve protects a pocket of warm temperate rainforest, the drier eucalypt forest and other significant plant communities. The paved Rainforest Walk at the junction of the Bemm and McKenzie rivers enables visitors to experience a rainforest river valley, its secrets of survival and the creatures it harbours. Bemm River Scenic Reserve, or the McKenzie River Rainforest Walk as it is affectionately referred to by locals, offers visitors a stunning rainforest experience. The walk meanders through a spectacular pocket of Warm Temperate Rainforest. The Rainforest Walk is approximately one-kilometre-long and consists of sealed pathways, boardwalks and swing bridges. The walk takes about 45 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace. Information boards along the walk guide visitors through the reserve and highlight the unique and wonderful flora and fauna found within it. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Bellbird Creek VIC

35 km away

Buchan Caves Reserve on Krauatungalung Country — Image credit: #visitgippsland

National Parks and Reserves

Buchan Caves Reserve

Buchan Caves Reserve on Krauatungalung Country, is highly significant to Gunaikurnai Traditional Owners due to its remarkable Aboriginal cultural heritage. Buchan Caves Reserve is one of the jointly managed parks within Gippsland. The Joint Management agreement recognises the fact that the Gunaikurnai people hold Aboriginal Title and maintain a strong connection to Country. Discover Victoria’s largest cave system, a landscape perfect for a picnic and a place to camp under the stars. Book a guided tour of Buchan Caves - a honeycomb of spectacular limestone formations carved by an underground river almost 400 million years ago. Choose from Fairy Cave, Royal Cave, or both and marvel at the magnificent stalactite and stalagmite forms, pillars and rim pools, as well as vast open caverns and an ancient flowing stream. A guided tour is the only way to see this remarkable cave system. Tickets must be purchased 24 hours in advance. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updates and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information. Visit Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au.

Buchan VIC

36 km away

The artist Pax, Caroline Packer — Image credit: Caroline Packer

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Pax Art Studio Gallery

Pax Art Studio Gallery is a welcoming creative space in the heart of Lakes Entrance, East Gippsland, dedicated to the art and practice of local artist Caroline Packer (Pax). Surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, the gallery invites visitors to experience nature-inspired art that reflects the landscapes, stories, and spirit of East Gippsland. At the core of Pax Art Studio Gallery is a belief in the restorative power of art and nature. The gallery is designed to be a peaceful, inclusive environment where visitors can slow down, reflect and reconnect. Alongside curated exhibitions of Caroline's work, the gallery offers a vibrant program of community workshops and classes for all ages and abilities. Explore your creativity through hands-on sessions in a variety of mediums-including oil painting, watercolours, chalk pastels and art therapy. You will be guided by Caroline's professional experience and passion for art. One-on-one sessions can also be arranged during your visit to the region, offering a tailored experience. Visitors also have the opportunity to purchase original artworks, photography, prints, handmade jewellery, and art cards directly from the artist, making it easy to take home a unique piece of East Gippsland's creative spirit. For details about exhibitions, workshops, art therapy services, available artworks follow along on social media or contact Caroline directly through the website to arrange your visit.

Lakes Entrance VIC

39 km away

Koho Sauna — Image credit: Koho Sauna

Spas and Retreats

Koho Sauna

Located on the tranquil Gippsland Lakes, Koho Sauna offers an immersive, nature-enriched, wellbeing experience. Situated in the heart of Lakes Entrance, the space is tailored to their focus on contrast therapy, allowing guests to alternate between hot and cold immersion and discover the many benefits this practice provides. Facilities include a modern, spacious wood-fired sauna, complete with a cold shower and lake access for the more adventurous.

Lakes Entrance VIC

43 km away

Equine Fusion Experiences — Image credit: Tama Green

Spas and Retreats

Equine Fusion at Kanukadale Care Farm

Equine Fusion invites you to step away from the bustle and rediscover peace in their tranquil forest setting. Designed especially for travellers seeking a unique, grounding connection, their therapeutic horse experiences focus on mindful interactions rather than riding. You can groom, walk alongside or simply share quiet space with their gentle horses, allowing their calm energy to help you destress, unwind and fully immerse yourself in the natural rhythm of nature. Whether you are looking to recharge during your holiday or try something truly memorable, these experiences offer a deeply relaxing and soulful escape. No previous horse experience is necessary-just an open heart and a desire to connect. Come out to the heart of East Gippsland's forests and breathe fresh air, and let their beautiful equine companions guide you toward a profound sense of well-being and calm.

Goongerah VIC

47 km away

Nyerimilang Heritage Park

National Parks and Reserves

Nyerimilang Heritage Park

Nyerimilang Homestead is set among semi-formal gardens on a cliff top above the beautiful Gippsland Lakes. Perfect picnic spots are surrounded by garden and scenic walks meander along bush and farm tracks, past Kurrajong trees, wetland areas and through the East Gippsland Indigenous Plant Garden. 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.

Nungurner VIC

48 km away

Metung Country Club is a nine hole public course located 500 metres from Metung Hot Springs. — Image credit: Metung Hot Springs

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Metung Country Club

Metung Country Club is a nine hole public course located 500 metres from Metung Hot Springs. The course is open and new members can join for a great-value offer with many benefits. Metung Country Club is a resort-style, Ted Parslow designed golf course. One of the best nine hole public access golf courses in Australia, located in beautiful Metung, on the Gippsland Lakes. A challenging nine hole with alternate tees on your second round, the course boasts more than 6000 metres in length for a par 72. Bunker protected large greens, generous fairways and two signature par threes ensure an enjoyable day’s golf. The Clubhouse is a newly renovated restaurant operating from Metung Country Club just 500 metres down the path from Metung Hot Springs. The Clubhouse menu showcases the best of Gippsland produce, wines and beers.

Metung VIC

54 km away

Errinundra National Park. Credit: Matt Zanini

National Parks and Reserves

Errinundra National Park

Errinundra National Park offers tranquil walks and scenic drives. It preserves the largest remaining stand of cool temperate rainforest in Victoria as well as ancient tall, wet eucalypt forests. The majority of the park is accessible only in the drier months. In winter, rain and snow generally make the unsealed roads impassable. Things to do - Take a self-guided walk through the heart of the rainforest at Errinundra Saddle - Enjoy a scenic drive which closely follows the route taken by the explorer Walter Baldwin Spencer. - Enjoy superb views from Mount Morris, Ellery View and Ocean View Lookout. - Admire ancient forests of plum pine and the granite tors of Goonmirk Rocks. - Explore a range of walking tracks for a closer view of the forest giants. 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.

Club Terrace VIC

55 km away

Metung Hot Springs

Spas and Retreats

Metung Hot Springs

The award-winning Metung Hot Springs has bathing and wellness experiences for you to explore throughout its breathtaking site overlooking the magnificent Gippsland Lakes. Whether you are looking to connect with nature, someone special or yourself Metung Hot Springs has something for everyone including luxurious glamping tents for longer stays. The newly opened Lagoon Precinct with its floating sauna is a must see, so start planning your tranquil hot springs escape. Featuring geothermal hot spring pools of varying depths, bathing barrels with picturesque cliff top views of Lake King, massaging thermal showers, reflexology walk and nature walks around the grounds, relaxation viewing lounges of site and surrounds, pampering day spa, premium safari glamping tents with king bed and private bathing facilities, guest amenities, reception, gift shop and coffee hut. While there is something for everyone at Metung Hot Springs, the must-indulge feature of the site is the Hilltop escarpment. A tranquil communal bathing experience, offers spectacular views of the Gippsland Lakes and features include a stargazing pool, bathing barrels and baths. The Springs is located in glorious East Gippsland, known for its majestic lakes and beaches, native flora and fauna. Metung Country Club, the resort-style, golf course is just 500 metres away from the springs. Meet up after bathing for a hit of golf and a delicious grazing lunch and drinks from the bar.

Metung VIC

55 km away

Lind National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Lind National Park

One of Victoria's oldest national parks, Lind National Park protects a range of forest communities, including significant areas of warm temperate rainforest. There are limited recreational facilities in the park, so the best way to experience it is by traversing the Euchre Valley Nature Drive. The park has a gold mining history centred around the creeks. Nearby Club Terrace is named for the Ace of Clubs mine and the terraces of mining spoils that were left behind after the mining operations had ceased. The park was named after Sir Albert Lind, the Minister for Lands who was responsible for the reservation of five of Victoria's National Parks. 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.

Tonghi Creek VIC

58 km away

Koala on the Trail

Natural Attractions

Raymond Island Koala Trail

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Raymond Island Koala Trail is the perfect place to visit and spot wild koalas in their natural habitat. Raymond Island is in the Gippsland Lakes opposite the village of Paynesville. Follow the signs to the car park in Paynesville, then take a short walk to the Raymond Island ferry which is free for foot passengers. On arrival, visitors will see directions and tips to enjoy this nature-based experience. The Koala Trail is an easy two-kilometre walk and there are three extra loops to explore further. They request you park in Paynesville as car spots are limited on the ferry and Raymond Island residents need to use the ferry for daily access. If you choose to travel in your car, you will need to park immediately after you disembark to catch the beginning of the Koala Trail. Travelling as a pedestrian on the ferry is a fun adventure and free. So, they recommend you do the short easy walk to enjoy Raymond Island's natural environment and wildlife.

Raymond Island VIC

65 km away

Alfred National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Alfred National Park

This culturally and spiritually significant place for the area's first nations inhabitants, the Bidawal People, includes a rare temperate rainforest eco system. The 3,050 hectare park has many rare species of flora and fauna including the violet nightshade, jointed mistletoe, prickly tree fern and slender tree fern. 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.

Cann River VIC

67 km away

Cycling the East Gippsland Rail Trail near Bruthen, Gippsland, Victoria, Australia

Natural Attractions

East Gippsland Rail Trail

Location: Bairnsdale to Orbost Distance: 96 kilometres one way Track: Generally smooth dirt or gravel track Grade: Level One- Suitable for beginners and children. Level Two - Suitable for most ages and fitness levels Start: Howitt Park, McEacharn Street, Bairnsdale Finish: Burn Road, Newmerella. The trail ends at Newmerella, with an off road shared pathway continuing to Orbost. Experience the diversity of East Gippsland as this trail weaves past undulating farmland, tall forests, rivers and flood plains. Cross historic timber railway bridges and enjoy views of the Gippsland Lakes before arriving at the Snowy River. Bairnsdale to Nicholson (Eight kilometres) Nicholson to Bruthen (20 kilometres) Bruthen to Nowa Nowa (30 kilometres) Nowa Nowa to Orbost (38 kilometres)

East Bairnsdale VIC

70 km away

Howitt Park Market

Shopping and Markets

Howitt Park Market

This buzzing community market, run by the Rotary Club of Bairnsdale Sunrise, has up to 150 stalls with a huge variety of goods on offer. The food court is centred around a pleasant, green space to enjoy a leisurely coffee, snack or lunch. Specialised stalls offer fresh, local produce, plants and garden products, jewellery, soaps and candles, clothing, handcrafts, jewellery, books and much more. Many stallholders attend each month, but the market also has casual stallholders, giving a different experience each month. Look for this vibrant market at Howitt Park, beside the Princes Highway heading east from Bairnsdale. All proceeds from running the market are donated to Rotary work and local and international charities.

Bairnsdale VIC

70 km away

East Gippsland Art Gallery — Image credit: East Gippsland Art Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

East Gippsland Art Gallery

Established in 1993, East Gippsland Art Gallery is the centre for visual arts in East Gippsland, celebrating the unique artistic spirit of the Gippsland region through a vibrant and dynamic program of art and cultural experiences for the whole family. East Gippsland Art Gallery are open to bold ideas, different ways of seeing, and championing the visual arts and artists in the region. They are passionate about engaging and inspiring the next generation of art lovers in their community. Every month the gallery offers exhibition openings, artist talks, events and art workshops. Experience the ever-changing environment and amazing opportunities and experiences the gallery offers. A dynamic range of diverse exhibitions will engage and inspire community and visitors alike. The Gallery Shop stocks a diverse range of works by local artists and the friendly staff is able to provide visitors with information about other arts venues, artists and art and cultural activities in the region. For more information about exhibitions, workshops or events visit East Gippsland Art Gallery’s website, Facebook or Instagram pages.

Bairnsdale VIC

71 km away

handmade ceramics, silver jewellery and packaging — Image credit: Foundry

Shopping and Markets

Foundry

Foundry is an artist collective hiding down an urban laneway in Bairnsdale who stock an incredible range of handmade, locally created goods. Everything they stock is made right there on Gunaikurnai land. From hand-formed recycled sterling silver jewellery to unique illustrations, paintings, prints and cards. They also have natural-fibre vintage clothing sourced locally, bespoke homewares and sustainable goods encouraging an eco-friendly life. They seriously have something for everyone.

Bairnsdale VIC

71 km away

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