The Grampians

Rising out of the farmland of western Victoria is The Grampians – a majestic land of mountain and forest. There are several National Parks in the region, including Grampians National Park. The area is home to a wide variety of native plants and animals and a rich and continuing Aboriginal history.

Some of the Aboriginal sites to visit are the famous Bunjil’s Shelter (the traditional creator of the land, depicted with his two dingoes), the Ngamadjidj Shelter depicting his spirit dancing with white figures on the walls, and Gulgurn Manja which is covered with small, red ochre handprints. You can also visit the Grampians’ cultural center or take a guided tour from Halls Gap for a deeper understanding of Victoria’s Aboriginal communities.

In addition to the history of the region, there are awe-inspiring landscapes formed millions of years ago. Hike the rugged cliffs and see the waterfalls of Grampians National Park. Or you could fish or canoe on Lake Bellfield and Lake Wartook and get up close to native animals such as koalas, kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles. Other possibilities include a visit to Mt Arapiles-Tooan State Park with its dramatic rock formations or Little Desert National Park with its display of wildflowers from August to October.

The Grampians is also a wine region of Victoria producing shiraz and riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meuniere, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon.