Wildflowers: The Grampians comes alive in spring with wildflowers. Almost a third of Victoria’s flower diversity, with over a 1000 flowering plant species can be found in Gariwerd (Grampians National Park). The Halls Gap Botanical Gardens, just a short walk from the car park, offers a convenient way to explore many of these plants in one location. For a more immersive experience, you can hike among them on any of the amazing trails of the Grampians.

Waterfalls: Spring is a fabulous time to experience waterfalls of the Grampians. The easiest waterfall to view is Silverband Falls only 500m from the Carpark. MacKenzie Falls is one of the most photographed locations in the Grampians. Pack a picnic and enjoy one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls as it cascades over the granite rocks into the pool below. The hike includes lots of steps which are good on the way down but a little more challenging on the way back up. Looking for more? Continue your walk through the bush towards Fish Falls which are often a little quieter and just as special.

Aussie Rules History: Moyston (enroute to Grampians National Park from Melbourne), is known as the birthplace of AFL. Visit the monument of Thomas Wills which commemorates the birthplace of Australian Rules Football.

The Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld: Home to the award winning Wickens and Parker St Project restaurants and the largest private collection of Bordeaux and Burgundy in the Southern Hemisphere. The bar area has a lovely fireplace that is always roaring – a great spot to enjoy a glass of our SubRosa Nebbiolo or Shiraz! They have tours of their cellar and kitchen garden daily.

Hike Mount Abrupt, Dunkeld – Want to work for your meal at the Royal Mail? Hike Mount Abrupt. The 6.5km hike is not too tricky and the views are spectacular. You meander to the top which makes it feel a little less intense. The reward at the top is a stunning view of the Grampians.

Grampians Wine Cellar, Halls Gap – Our friend Simon Freeman is a true gem of the Grampians. After an illustrious career in some of the most prestigious restaurants across Europe and Australia, Simon relocated to Western and established Grampians Wine Cellar in 2020. This charming spot offers an exceptional selection of local wines, including SubRosa, as well as exquisite bottles from around the globe. Whether you choose to take a bottle home or savour a glass on the deck with stunning views of the Grampians, the experience is sure to be memorable.

The Bunyip Hotel, Cavendish – A little off the beaten track, but well worth the visit. A great team has turned this local pub into a gastro-destination. We love the Sunday Chef’s table menu. It’s also a wonderful place to take the kids who can play in the large outdoor garden while you relax over a glass of wine! A country pub to remember.

Hike the Grampians Peaks Trail, Halls Gap – Choose your own adventure! You can hike one day or 13 days! The recently completed spectacular Grampians Peaks Trail (164km) is a challenging 13-day/12-night hiking experience. Maybe start with one or two days and come back for more!

Pomonal Estate, at the foothills of the Grampians, has a new chef and a fresh menu! Dean Sibthorp of Block and Cleaver s now leading the kitchen, focusing on local produce to create delicious meals at the family-run winery, microbrewery, and cider house. (Adam Louder crafts their wines.)

Mount Langi Ghiran, Bayindeen – Located at the base of Mount Langi Ghiran (home of the black cockatoo) this exceptional winery is only two hours from Melbourne. Adam grew up around the corner and has spent more than half of his career walking the vines and making wine at Mount Langi Ghiran. He has been Chief Winemaker since 2018. Drink in the views of Mount Cole and Mount Langi Ghiran from the modern cellar door, or my favourite, enjoy a meal and wine tasting at the café before playing bocce by the historic chestnut trees and award-winning vines.