Weekend getaways: the Grampians

Listen closely, can you hear that? It’s the sound when crowds and cars give way to bird songs, trickling waterfalls, the wind through trees and the crunching sound your boots make on the mountain trails of the Grampians National Park. Hiking is serious business here, but there’s such a range of hiking options that almost everyone will find something to their liking. 

Head off early on the ultra-popular Pinnacle Walk early in the morning and take the hour-long walk up to a lookout, where you’ll watch green peaks emerge through the mist. Ancient volcanic rocks flank your path, and longer trails offer a challenge to more experienced climbers. 

Photography enthusiasts will want to bring a camera to Mt Abrupt, a picturesque slice of rock rising 827 metres over the sprawling Serra Range to the north and Dunkeld to the south. It’s a steep climb to the summit, and keep your eyes out for kangaroos, lizards, peregrine falcons and other creatures on the ascent. 

Found smack bang in the middle of the craggy and mostly dry national park, Mackenzie Falls is a gorgeous surprise. You’ll hear the falls before you actually see them as you descend down the steep yet well-marked path. Eventually, you'll set eyes on the cascade, which thunders over a vertical slab of rock into a deep pool of fresh water. Follow the path on the left of the falls towards neighbouring Fish Falls if you want a less crowded waterfall view. 

Probably the best view in all of the Grampians (if you’re not that keen on hiking for several hours) is that from Reeds Lookout. From the car park, you can take in breathtaking views over the entire Grampians mountain range. Come at sunset for a real showstopper.

These mountain areas are central to the creation stories of many of the region’s Indigenous communities, who have been living here for thousands of years. Head to Brambuk: the National Park and Cultural Centre and learn more about the region and see Aboriginal art and artefacts from over the years. There’s even the option to join a tour to visit ancient rock art sites across the region traditionally known as Gariwerd.

If you're not much of a hiker, don't stress – there are ample views to be had without having to strap on a pair of hiking boots. As you're making your way to the region, stop off at Ararat and drive up to One Tree Hill Lookout for unparalleled 360-degree views. If there's a footy fan among you, drive from Ararat through Carols Cutting to Moyston, the birthplace of AFL. And once you're in the region, take the scenic drive along Grampians Road (C216) and stop off at one of these lookouts.  

If you're hitting up the most popular natural attractions that the Grampians region has to offer, then chances are you'll be spending at least some time in the quaint town of Halls Gap. Looking for a pre-hike fueling feed? Livefast Café has you covered with quality coffee, as well as a delicious and nutritious menu of brekky and lunch options. It's conveniently located in the town's centre near many trailheads and some long-standing local businesses like the beloved Coolas Ice Creamery. 

If you're hungry after a big day of exploring, Raccolto is a relaxed, cosy spot with tasty gourmet pizzas. For a frothy reward after a huge hike, Rock Paper Scissors Brewery has a selection of refreshing craft beers on tap that pair nicely with the pub-style menu. 

But you haven’t properly visited the Grampians without eating at the Royal Mail Hotel. This fine-dining institution split into two venues in late 2017: there’s fine diner Wickens and the more casual Parker Street Project. Seasonal produce comes from the restaurant’s organic kitchen and garden, and lamb and beef come from the property’s own farm.

When you think about Victorian wine regions, the first places to come to mind are likely the Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley. They're fabulous for their proximity to the city, but we're telling you, wines from the Grampians region are worth the trip all on their own. 

As you make your way to Ararat, stop off at Mount Langi Ghiran's cellar door. This isolated winery is nestled against the towering granite cliffs of a long-extinct volcano, and it produces some of the highest-ranked shiraz in Australia. It's often considered one of our state's most beautiful wineries, and for good reason: the light-filled cellar door offers unobstructed views of the mountains.

If you're taking the picturesque Grampians Road, head east after driving through Halls Gap and make your way to the small town of Great Western. It's home to Grampians Estate, a boutique winery that's collected numerous accolades – particularly for its sparkling reds. Partake in a $10 guided wine tasting, and be sure to taste the Rutherford sparkling shiraz. It's an effervescent and dark ruby style that produces a rich purple mousse and has a sweet berry and chocolate profile.

If you don’t have time to winery hop in between trying to see the many attractions the Grampians has to offer, Grampians Wine Cellar in Halls Gap is the next best thing. Here, you can sample some of the finest drops from the local region, with a huge array of bottles stocked from the surrounding wineries. Choose from a rotating offering of wines by the glass, buy a bottle to enjoy on the deck outside or take one home for later.  

Do you have an equal passion for the great outdoors and a good vino? Then it’s definitely worth aligning a trip to the Grampians with the Grape Escape Festival. This annual event is a huge gathering of all the wineries from across the region, where you can try-before-you-buy top-notch wines. Plus, it’s a super fun way to spend a weekend, with food trucks, workshops, family friendly activities and live music all set against a beautiful backdrop. 

When it comes to affordable accommodation, Halls Gap Lakeside is a campground with a wide variety of options, including a range of modern cabins to suit every group size and cosy glamping tents, complete with outdoor baths and beautiful views. 

For a special occasion, splurge on a secluded stay at Dulc – a collection of modern wood cabins with luxe interiors, making for a truly peaceful getaway. It’s the ideal choice for a romantic stay, with a spacious outdoor spa bath and fireplace providing the perfect ambience. 

Or for the ultimate Grampians retreat, book a stay at the historic (and luxurious) Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld, situated at the foot of the majestic Mount Sturgeon. Staying here is more of an all-round experience than just somewhere to rest your head – be sure to explore the  excellent dining offerings coming out of the largest kitchen garden in the country, which you can see for yourself with a guided tour.