Explore Ararat
Looking for a historic day trip? Ararat offers a charming blend of heritage, art, and great places to eat and drink.
AQA Gallery: Curated by Janette Lucas, who illustrated our SubRosa wine label, this gallery showcases contemporary Australian art—including current works by globally acclaimed Geoff Todd. Open by appointment.
TAMA (Town Hall Gallery): We love to explore the regularly changing contemporary art exhibitions.
Foragers Café: A cosy spot next door to TAMA for coffee and a bite to eat.
J Ward Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum: Take a guided tour through this former gaol and asylum for the criminally insane. It’s a chilling and fascinating look into Ararat’s dark past.
Oak & Hound Wine Bar: Ararat’s newest wine bar, where you can enjoy SubRosa by the glass.
Mess & Barracks: A stylish all-day eatery in the heart of Ararat. Enjoy artisan coffee (open early), leisurely lunches and wood-fired pizza. The seasonal menu focuses on local produce—and SubRosa is served by the glass.

Hike with a View (and a Reward): The Pinnacle Lookout via Wonderland Loop
For a memorable Grampians experience that pairs perfectly with a post-hike glass of wine, we recommend the Pinnacle Lookout via the Wonderland Loop. Starting just outside Halls Gap, this scenic trail takes you through the iconic Grand Canyon, past fascinating rock formations, and finishes with stunning panoramic views from The Pinnacle.
Distance: 4.2 km return
Grade: Moderate
Time: 2 hours return (allow longer for photo stops + soaking up the views)
Best for: Adventurous wine lovers who want to earn their Shiraz

The hike is popular but never fails to impress, especially in autumn with crisp air and changing leaves. Afterward, head back to Grampians WIne Cellar for a well-deserved glass of SubRosa wine.

Grampians Wine Cellar
We are very lucky to have world-class sommelier Simon Freeman in Halls Gap with his Grampians Wine Cellar. Pick-up a bottle of SubRosa to enjoy in your accommodation, or drop-in for a glass of vino and a chat. Simon has an excellent selection of premium local drops and wine from further away to enjoy along with other complementary beverages.

Autumn in the Vineyards: The best time to visit
Vineyards glow in shades of gold and red in Autumn.
Mount Langi Ghiran – Nancy enjoys the local Lamb Souvlaki with a glass of Grenache made by Adam in his “other” role as Chief Winemaker. The Langi property offers a beautiful tasting experience in a modern cellar door with spectacular views and delicious wines.
Best’s Great Western– Best’s is one of Australia’s oldest and continuously family-owned and operated wineries. We love the self-paced tour of the historic stables and kids treasure hunt.

Family-friendly fun at Halls Gap Hotel
We love to bike the trails through Halls Gap and finish at the Halls Gap Hotel for lunch. It’s a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal while the kids explore the indoor and outdoor play areas. The stunning views of the Grampians and its abundant wildlife make for an unforgettable experience. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and emus—how many can you spot?

Autumn Events in the Grampians
One of the best reasons to visit in Autumn is the array of exciting events happening across the region. Here are some of our favourites:
Pyrenees Unearthed: April, Avoca
Pomonal Market: fortnightly, Pomonal Village Hall
Halls Gap Market: Easter Weekend, Halls Gap Recreation Reserve
Grampians Grape Escape: 1st weekend of May, Halls Gap Recreation Reserve
Run The Gap: last weekend of May, Halls Gap

Grampians Peaks Trail now open
Explore 160 km of hiking trails across the Grampians’ (Gariwerd) iconic peaks. Walk through ancient 440-million-year-old mountains, spot native wildlife, and camp under the stars at purpose-built campsites along the way. You can walk its entirety (13 days) or break it down into sections.
Hike at your own pace, or for a tailored experience, Grampians Peaks Walking Company offers guided walks too!