Some claimed the same or better than the famous of Twelve Apostles, but just as impressive in our view, the Bay of Islands is a collection of pale limestone stacks buffeted by the heavy waves of the Southern Ocean. The Bay of Islands is about 25 minutes past the Twelve Apostles, near Peterborough. Let’s known and more peaceful to enjoy the view as less tourist known. They're particularly beautiful at sunset, and there’s a short boardwalk along the coastline where you can take in the best views. With similar scenery to the Apostles yet half the crowds, this is definitely one of the more underrated places to visit along the Great Ocean Road.

Such an amazing lookout with amazing views of the rock formations along the Great Ocean Road. On a nice day you would be able to have some great views of the expanse.

Another great easy lookout to see along the great ocean road. Easy access and not a far walk from the car park.

Beautiful view ❤️

Bay of Islands offers great aerial views around sunset. Such clean, crisp air and breathtaking views.

Awesome place to spend some quiet time. Highlight of the GOR

Beautiful scenery. Worth a visit

Beautiful landmark, very glad I got to see it, took cute photos. The only reason it is not five stars is the time my partner and I went unfortunately there was a huge line up of other people taking photos so I didn't get time to appreciate the place. It was very much take your photos and leave, very rushed. Would love to go again when no-one else is there so I can fully appreciate the place and the view

What an incredible spot! The Grotto absolutely blew me away! The views were out of this world — totally breathtaking. I loved hearing the waves crash below; it created such a peaceful, relaxing vibe. Everything about this place just made me feel calm and happy. It’s one of those places you’ll remember forever. So glad I went — 100% worth the visit!

One of the most visited and probably most unique viewpoints along the Great Ocean Road. It is about a 5 to 10 minute walk from the car park, and to reach the main attraction you need to go down a flight of stairs. This part may not be suitable for elderly visitors, and luckily our elderly companion waited in the car because the walk already looked a bit far from the car park. The Grotto itself is beautiful, a natural sinkhole where you can see the ocean framed through the rock opening. The still pool inside creates a mirror effect when the light is right, which makes the spot very photogenic. It was quite crowded during our visit with many people queueing for photos. Worth a stop if you are exploring the Great Ocean Road.

Nice! We came here 2 days as the 1st it was raining hard and getting dark as it was late. The next morning with fine weather what a difference to what we saw. It was rather appalling to see how Chinese tourist climb over the rocks to take pictures which was not unexpected. Otherwise a great place to visit and its not crowded both times.

This place is the best! The view is amazing and the waves are beautiful. I recommend going when the weather is sunny but rainy weather view is still really pretty

Nice natural feature... but there were lots of tourists there when we visited, so we had to queue. 😒

Beautiful place to see on your drive. Lovely spot for the pictures.

Every stop is rewarded with a breathtaking view, making the walk entirely worthwhile. The sea is a mesmerizing canvas of color—from deep blue to turquoise to vibrant green—all blended with white foam as powerful waves relentlessly smash against the limestone cliffs. This constant, forceful erosion means you are witnessing an ever-transforming landscape.

Port Campbell is a must stop and see if you are driving the great ocean road. We stopped to see the blow hole. It was off season and not overly crowded which was great. It was a short walk from the car to the viewing area. The viewing area has been updated and rearranged for better viewing. While it's not a traditional blow hole by my standards it would have been quite impressive to see the water blow up if the ocean was more rough. It's still an amazing site to see.

Port Campbell is a charming coastal village that perfectly complements a trip along the Great Ocean Road. After visiting the Twelve Apostles, I stopped here and immediately loved its calm, welcoming vibe. Nestled between dramatic cliffs and the Southern Ocean, this small town offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, local hospitality, and seaside relaxation. The Port Campbell Foreshore is lovely — a peaceful bay surrounded by cliffs, where you can take a gentle walk along the beach or simply sit and enjoy the ocean breeze. The jetty area is great for watching the waves roll in or catching the vibrant colors of sunset reflecting off the water. I also found a few nice cafés and bakeries nearby, serving great coffee, local seafood, and homemade treats — a perfect stop for lunch or an afternoon break. What I really appreciated about Port Campbell is its proximity to major attractions. It’s just minutes away from Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, London Arch, and the Twelve Apostles, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. The town itself feels peaceful and not overly crowded, even though it’s a major tourist area. Visitor Tips: • Stay overnight if possible — watching the stars and waking up to the sound of waves is a special experience. • Visit Loch Ard Gorge at sunrise or sunset — it’s quieter and the lighting is spectacular. • Try local eateries like the Port Campbell Hotel or Forage on the Foreshore for fresh local food. • Carry a light jacket — even in summer, coastal winds can be cool. • Parking is easy, and most attractions are within a 10–15 minute drive. Port Campbell truly feels like the heart of the Great Ocean Road — peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Whether you’re just stopping for a few hours or staying overnight, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge, and connect with the beauty of Victoria’s coastline.

Beautiful, breathtaking and just unforgettable! So close to nature. What an experience. Cliff over looking the ocean. Few kilometres from both port campbell and twelve apostles. Generally not so crowded. Pick a brighter day to visit. You can spend hours looking at the crashing waves. Around 400 mts of walk to the razorback from the parking lot.

On our way back from an abandoned attempt because of the weather, to walk the GOW we stopped by the 12 apostles info centre and walked the trail. It was quite spectacular and worth a look the facilities look impressive but don't open until 10am. Toilets were very handy.

visited with an organised bus tour - the views are beyond words, wind sweeping, such a glorious display of nature's force... loved it - we'll be back for sure!

From the majestic Twelve Apostles to the historic Loch Ard Gorge, explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich maritime history of Port Campbell National Park.

The Gibson steps is a great stop along the great ocean road. It's a small preview to the 12 apostles. Stunning views and a great beach, unfortunately when we stopped the steps were closed so you could only catch a glimpse from the look out. Non the less it's a must see.

Definitely worth checking out, beautiful scenic views and sturdy balcony for viewing. There is access to beach from this lookout but best to check if the beach access is open/closed on the day you arrive to avoid disappointment. You can still use the viewpoint balconies to have a look though. There is a small parking space and the turn for this comes up very quickly.

Couldn't go past this as had heard about Gibson steps some time ago. Pretty good. Made our way down the steps to the beach... Bloody beautiful. Spectacular. Great stroll along the beach, checking out the sandstone cliff. Seems the stairs may have been hand carved by local indigenous people hundreds of years ago, then cleaned up and used by Gibson to access the beach more recently. Whatever it is, definitely worth the trek. Not suitable for wheelchairs, and if you do have physical short comings, pick a coolish dry day and take your time.

There is not much parking available here, for only about 20 cars. We came in low season and early, and the weather was bad, so we could easily park. Even though the weather was bad, it was 100% worth it. Be careful going down as there is a chance on falling rocks. The views down there are absolutely incredible. Very windy though!

"A Must-Visit Scenic Spot at Gibson Steps" My wife and I visited Gibson Steps in December, and it was an unforgettable experience. This spot is perfect for photography, coastal walks, and admiring the stunning cliffs and ocean views, making it a must-visit on the Great Ocean Road. What to Expect: Breathtaking Views: The towering cliffs and endless ocean provide a dramatic and photogenic landscape. Beach Access via Steps: To reach the Gibson Beach, you’ll need to walk down a series of steep steps, which add to the adventure. Great for Photography: The golden sand, rocky cliffs, and powerful waves make this a fantastic place for a photo shoot. We captured some amazing moments here. Important Safety Notes: 🚫 Not for swimming or wave enjoyment – The waves are extremely strong and unpredictable, making it unsafe to enter the water. ✅ Best for scenic walks & sightseeing – Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore, take in the fresh ocean breeze, and admire the beauty of nature. Final Thoughts: Gibson Steps is a must-visit if you’re traveling the Great Ocean Road. It offers a raw, untouched coastal beauty that is best enjoyed by walking along the beach and soaking in the views. If you love nature and photography, this place is a must-see! 🌊📸

Beautiful view. Need to have stamina to go down the beach and climb the stairs. A bit crowded at the staircase.

Such a historic place, and a very popular place, so lots of tourists, but all good, as it is great to see so many people checking out our great history. I have to say it is a good set of steps, hahaha on the way back up towards the top my old legs were complaining bitterly, but all good, the outstanding views were well worth it. The coastline is just stunning.

Beautiful gardens, could have so many uses

Nice park for a picnic lunch

Nice park

Tour guide was great and relatable. Very knowledgeable about the history or the asylum and has been a guide for 6 years. The tour was maybe a little long- the last hour could have been compacted into being a 5 hour tour. Not particularly scary in my opinion. Many gadgets to detect paranormal activity were supplied. The tour guide made the night more enjoyable that’s for sure.

I went on the 8pm Friday night tour of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum with my sister and a friend while we were in the Grampians. This was a two hour tour, and I would say there was probably about 20 people on the tour with us, with a maximum of 30 people allowed. I have to say that I think 30 people would be too much for this tour, so I was glad that we weren’t at capacity. If this tour was kept at say 15 people, people could ask more questions and it would actually be a little bit more creepier. We knew that there could be up to 30 people so it’s not a criticism of what is advertised, just an observation. Michelle was our guide, and she was very dramatic and theatrical, and set the scene quite well. Michelle was very knowledgeable about the asylum and there was a lot of interesting information that she told us as we went through the different buildings. She’s very well prepared and extremely engaging. This is not a huge point, but given the horrible things done to some of the people in their asylum, perhaps a little bit more sensitivity around some of the stories would have been good, particularly around suicide. Michelle did acknowledge the use of language around mental illness that is not appropriate these days. However, I would have liked to have found out some more stories about some of more individual patients to give a little bit more context to some of the stories As this is pitched as a ghost tour, be prepared for some theatrics with the storytelling. I did, however, get a very eerie feeling when I walked into the asylum, this was a place with some really horrific things happened. In many ways, this is actually very sad tour when you think about the terrible things that people are capable of doing to others. Be prepared for quite a few stairs, and a small walk down a gentle hill to the morgue. The tour is often in the dark, to add to the atmosphere. Some of the people on the tool asked to carry lamps, with one lady asked to be the last person to make sure everyone stayed together. I did find myself using my camera phone in some places, especially when going down and up stairs. There are obviously sensor lights and lighting around the place as well, but it’s dimly lit to add to the atmosphere. Being very old and in disrepair, there is a strong musty smell, and I will admit that I did find many elements of the tour creepy, and did hear some noises that I think were unexplained. My sister also captured a photo that perhaps has an unexplained figure in it. I think I also took a photo with an unexplained element (window in the dance hall). There is definitely a very creepy feel to the place, and the energy does reflect the dark history of the place. If you’re going on the ghost tour, you need to park in a small car park, so I would recommend getting there a little bit more than 15 minutes earlier than recommended. I would not recommend the tour for anyone who is mobility restricted due to the stairs, and there are no chances to sit down during the tour for those people who might need this. Directions to the car park could probably be a little bit clearer on the website, and there could be better lighting in the car park as well. The asylum itself is very musty, so be prepared for that as well. I would recommend this as a fun night out, and some genuine creepiness as an added bonus. I would also really be interested in the day tour with a bit more focus on the history and to see the building from a different perspective during the day.

Aradale has been on my bucket list for many years, Saturday night I finally got to experience this. After the long trip up from SA we entered our 6 hour tour and boy it was worth it. Our tour guide Jasmine was unbelievable in so many ways, her passion, love and dedication was incredible. I learnt so much and experienced something so new. I absolutely loved every moment of our tour

Went on the weekend and did the 4 hour tour. Alice was our guide and she was amazing! Can't fault her delivery or her knowledge. She really made the tour. The tour itself was incredible, access to so many amazing parts and rooms. Highlight was being locked in the chillers in the morgue! Would definitly do the tour again and looking to do the 6 hour investigation next time! Thank you so much for an amazing night

Aradale has a long, dark history, a by product of the time it was built and how mental health was managed. The building has a heaviness and sadness about it. Tour is very informative and well organised. We are going again to book the paranormal tour. Highly recommend the experience

Our group was to large, unfortunately. The atmosphere was great overall. Personally, I'd rather come during the day to take in more of what the history has to offer and actually see the building.

I had the absolute best experience on the 6hr ghost investigation at Aradale. The setting itself is already chilling and full of atmosphere, but what made the night truly unforgettable was our incredible guide, Jasmine. Jasmine struck the perfect balance between knowledgeable historian and paranormal investigator. The investigation itself was fascinating. We had moments of genuine chills, strange unexplained activity, and plenty of chances to explore. If you’re curious about the paranormal or just want an unforgettable night out, I can’t recommend this tour enough. Aradale is already incredible, but with Jasmine leading the way, it’s truly next level.

We visited Seppelt Great Western for our anniversary, and it was one of the best experiences we’ve had! The underground cellar tour led by Ricky was the highlight of our day. He was knowledgeable, funny, and made the whole tour feel special and personal. His way of explaining things was simple and engaging — we were never bored for a second! The place itself is stunning, and learning about its rich history made it even more memorable. Thank you, Ricky, for making our anniversary so unique and unforgettable. Highly recommended to anyone visiting the area!

Decided to visit at the last minute during a recent trip to the Grampians. Am glad I did. Had a fantastic tour with a very enlightened tour guide who for the life of me I can’t remember his name, he wouldn’t be impressed. 😂 The underground vaults are incredible like something out of Harry Potter - think chamber of secrets. Oh, and the wine of pretty good to. Highly recommended!

Seppelt Estate and Cellar Door are huge. The wine tasting area has local goods and fare for sale. The Seppelt and Pyrenees area wines are pleasant. (but not our taste, we prefer the boutique estate wines). There are Cellar Tours, but we did not take this. Yes, definitely worth a visit!

We booked the cellar tour at the last minute and it turned out to be an absolute highlight. The history of this place is fascinating, and Taryn brought it to life with her warmth and storytelling, she made every moment feel special. Walking through the cool, dimly lit cellar was incredible, like stepping back in time. The tour wraps up with a wine tasting included in the ticket, and you can treat yourself to extra tastings afterwards if you wish. Tom was also fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable, and spot-on with his wine suggestions for us to take home. A wonderful experience from start to finish.

We had a fantastic tour of the underground cellars with Ricky. So much history and terrific stories. Our wine tasting and lunch package was divine.

Wow, there’s so much history that has been beautifully preserved! Very interesting — Mark was exceptional at telling stories and keeping them engaging. We loved it, and the wine tasted amazing afterward! Thank you ☺️

Had a tour with Ricky the other day and it was a great experience. I’ve been to Seppelt many times, and even did a tour with him last year as well - very knowledgeable, engaged, and a place filled with history. Had a great time exploring the underground drives, followed by a delicious sparkling tasting. Lots of great wines here - not just the sparklings but the reds as well (personally not a white drinker). So great to see that the community has advocated for such an important historic place to be remembered and enjoyed. Book in for a tour and say hi to Ricky - an experience definitely worth having.

A beautifully maintained and peaceful spot! Ballarat Botanical Gardens is nicely arranged and was already showing signs of vibrant life as it gets ready for the spring bloom. The avenue of former Prime Ministers' statues adds a historical touch. Plenty of black swans and coots from the nearby lake add to the charm. Great for a relaxed, scenic walk. 🌿🦢🌼

We spent the whole day here and had so much fun. Such a beautiful spot. And the kids enjoyed it too. We made a competition about how many statues we could find. Large wooden playground as well and plenty of parking. Good amount of toilet blocks spread out around the area.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Absolutely stunning! The Ballarat Botanical Gardens are a true gem. Strolling along Lake Wendouree with the gardens on one side and the water on the other is pure serenity. The Prime Ministers Avenue is a unique and fascinating walk through Australian political history—each bronze bust is beautifully crafted and adds a thoughtful touch to the experience. The highlight for me was the Conservatory. It's a vibrant burst of colour and fragrance, with seasonal floral displays that are always changing and always spectacular. Whether you're a local or just visiting Ballarat, this place is a must-see. Peaceful, educational, and beautifully maintained—5 stars without hesitation!

A very nicely set out Botanical Gardens. Well maintained. There is a lake nearby as well as a tourist tram. The Avenue of the Former Prime Ministers Statues along the main path in the gardens was interesting to see. It is a peaceful place to have a walk through or to sit and rest. Well worth a look to see.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens is a beautiful, peaceful escape by Lake Wendouree. The gardens blend history, art, and nature perfectly, featuring grand trees, colourful flowerbeds, and the famous Prime Ministers Avenue. The glasshouse and fernery are must-sees, while the lakeside paths are ideal for walks and picnics. It’s well-maintained, family-friendly, and offers seasonal beauty year-round. A true gem showcasing Ballarat’s charm and heritage relaxing, educational, and inspiring all at once.

Ballarat Begonia Festival – A Celebration of Colour and Creativity I recently visited the Tuberous Begonia Collection at the Ballarat Begonia Festival, and it was an absolutely beautiful experience. The vibrant colours, intricate floral displays, and careful presentation showcased not only the elegance of the begonias but also the dedication and artistry behind their cultivation. The atmosphere was welcoming and inspiring, bringing together nature lovers, artists, and families in a shared appreciation of beauty and community spirit. It’s an event that perfectly captures the creativity and warmth of Ballarat. Moments like this remind me that inspiration often blooms where passion and care meet, whether in gardens, workplaces, or communities.

Most stunning and enchanting place to visit! No bookings required. Walk ins and generous parking available. Easy to walk around. Best time to go during Autumn with trees shining with colorful leaves. Well maintained gardens; clean toilets with disability access ♿ Perfect place to visit if you looking for a relaxing day out. Wide range of stunning flowers continue to impress you as you walk around. All botanicals are labelled for easy reference. Beautiful statues including Australia’s prime ministers. Greenhouse is amazing with beautifully arranged plants in a variety of mixed colours. They sell plants near the information centre. Well located and not too far from the city centre. Very friendly staff. Do take a minute to thank them for the stellar job they are doing ✨

Always a lovely spot, 6km running/walking/bike track around the lake, getting lights put in which will be great for safety at dusk and early mornings. Lots of bird life, great for kayaking, SUP or windsurfing and fishing. Lots of playgrounds and toilets around every side of the lake.

Really nice spot. We don't have lakes where we live and so found this to be really nice, the style of buildings in this area set a really lovely scene when looking out across the lake and bird life was abundant. We stopped to see at a few different points around the lake, the adventure playground, and some of the boat houses were great. This is also a great spot to go for a jog or just stroll along the walking tracks.

A beautiful spot for a walk, lots a great views to be had of the local bird life and historic buildings. There is a walking track right around the lake, which you can also ride a bike along to. Lots of places to stop and take in the views and capture some great moments. There are several playground around the lake with the main one on the west side near the Botanical Gardens. There are also old tram rides and paddle boat rides at certain time of the year. Small boats and fishing are also allowed on the lake. A great place to visit for the day.

A really beautiful walk around Lake Wendouree. Plenty of wildlife, viewpoints and a few points of interest around the lake. The walk itself is not far at all and the pathways are quite clear and suitable for pushchairs / wheelchairs. Dogs are allowed around the lake (on-leash) and there's a few cafes / restaurants for a coffee and snacks.

Amazing lake which is spread over a vast expanse. It has got walking/ running trail along its edge which provides good opportunity for people run, walk, cycle at their leisure. The lake itself is pretty clean and has got lots of birds and ducks etc. Some people had fishing rods with them as well, not sure if there are any fishes on offer though. Overall a good place to visit if you are in the area.

There's a wonderful walking track that circles this lake (from memory, around 7km) and as if the views across the lake aren't enough, there are some simply lovely botanic gardens, the Robert Clark Conservatory and a few other surprises. I love this track. And if you have the right day for it, the lake is gorgeous at dusk.

The place where you can get connected with the nature sounds and enjoy with your love ones. I really like this lake. The wildlife and surrounding is fantastic. And yeah, Don't Forget the Dawn and Sunset its amazing.

Wonderful dog friendly winery with an incredible menu of bespoke wine. Taste after taste, every bottle better than the last. Our hosts Annie and Lily were generous with their time, with helping us navigate the area as tourists, and fed us a delicious platter of antipasto. Top notch winery experience: we can’t wait to come back.

Such an amazing place! Annie was a great host. Very knowledgeable, accommodating and easy to deal with. An afternoon of relaxing music A must see place to visit for an afternoon of great wine & entertainment! highly recommend

We have loved Taltarni wines for many years now which we get here in WA, and were excited to be stopping in on our road trip through Victoria. It was one of the stops we had been looking forward to for a long time. The CD was absolutely amazing and all that we hoped it would be, we had very high hopes. Unfortunately Anne who looked after us left us highly disappointed, she clearly didn’t know much about the wines, we asked a few simple questions but her responses were rude, and she acted like we were interrupting her day. Having waited so long to go there, we left with only 2 bottles as we just wanted to get out of there. We still love the wines, at least they didn’t leave a bitter taste in our mouths.

Dropped in there with friends for a cheese and meat platter and wine . Was very disappointed with the lack of knowledge from the woman serving- Anne - she was outright rude and was obviously lacking in her knowledge. She spoke very rudely to another staff member who looked embarrassed. The cheese platter wasn’t as good as the one we had last year. There was an amazingly knowledgeable woman last year who was friendly and helpful. We bought a lot of wine last year . But she was gone and had been replaced by this Anne who was just plain rude and had no idea about the wine. We left unhappy. We were going to book a large group for November but have decided to go elsewhere instead.

Annie ensured we had the most amazing experience tasting the wines available at Taltarnie. She also provided platters that were a delight, patient, knowledgeable a credit to the winery.

Came in for Easter weekend. The lady behind the bar was useless. Her customer skill were clearly lacking. And it was obvious she knew nothing about the wine she was pouring. Also the coffee was undrinkable. Taltarni use to be our favourite place to visit….we won’t be back

Beautiful native setting for the tasting room. Lovely use of timber throughout. Very helpful new customer service girl, friendly but not pushy! Wide choice of wine to taste!

I went there today. The best thing about this gallery is location which is close to station and shopping areas. Some of the collections were amazing and visiting it is completely free of charge. Just one show these days is a paid one. There were works from a ballarat based artist which were superb. The gallery also had a gift shop to purchase souvenirs as well as a cafe for relaxing. The washrooms were very clean. The staff was really nice. Overall it was a good experience.

We liked this gallery as it was quiet and well-maintained. It wasn’t a big place, they offered about five different exhibitions, from classic paintings to modern art. They also had a small shop and a cafe on the ground floor, which was nice and cozy.

A well maintained art gallery with beautiful paintings. The guided tour was also very interesting and informative. There were some nice books in the store downstairs as well.

The gallery resides in a beautiful building that dates back to the town's gold rush boom years. Free entry to see a great collection of Australian and European art with some dating back to 1800 or earlier. There were also temporary exhibitions and modern art installations. Apparently only 2% of their art is able to be displayed there at any one time so it may be worth a follow up visit later on.

I went to the Art Gallery of Ballarat today on a Friday. It was not busy. Entry was free which is great. Only a few minutes walk from Ballarat railway station. The Gallery is very interesting with a lot of interesting arts. It's very clean and nice like a 5-star hotel. I loved and enjoyed all the arts that they displayed, really appreciate all the staff for taking care of the place so well and highly appreciate all the artists that provided their artwork there.

Beautiful art gallery with interesting and thoughtful art. Place was packed last Sunday despite the rain, the Vintage Car Show, part of Ballarat's Heritage Festival. It was free entry on that day. We had a walk through downstairs but couldn't handle the crowd so didn't make it upstairs. Will be back.

The building is absolutely lovely! It's so nice to see that it was purpose built, and continues to house many creative works of art. Highly recommend a visit if you are in Ballarat.

“Expect the unexpected “ was the wording on the menu for the tasting platter . Totally delicious . Thankyou Linda for your food passion and wine knowledge . We will return .Ally .

We had a very enjoyable tasting experience and lunch at Blue Pyrenees. We tasted all the wines available and found plenty that we liked. We particularly enjoyed the Sauvignon Blanc and the Shiraz Marsanne. The staff were all very friendly and provided excellent service, particularly the lady who guided us through the tasting and organised our platter lunch. The platter was a good size with an interesting mix of very tasty food.

Absolutely fantastic experience with beautiful wines and incredible platter, Linda was lovely to talk with and described the wines great. Will definitely be back.

My wife and I had the best time at Blue Cafe just last Monday. Without a doubt Linda makes the most flavoursome hot and cold platter we have ever eaten and — we have eaten a great many on our travels. We love the variety, texture and diverse tastes on the platter washed down with a bottle of sparkling rose — a beautiful lunch outside in the sun with our dog Maisie.In fact this is our fifth platter here and it is by far our favourite winery destination. Linda is a star who remembers us and always makes us feel very welcome Great job Blue Pyrenees Ian and Jill

We visit at least once a year for the wonderful platters and wine. They cater to all our dietaries (gluten free, pescatarian) with ease and their kids menu is small but really well done.

Amazing food. Fabulous wines. Friendly staff. Edward & Linda are friendly and fun! Don’t leave without ordering the delicious House Platter (…it gets better every time… always something different to tantalise the tastebuds!) that pairs perfectly with any of the wines available. One of the best cellar doors in the state!

Amazing experience!!! Séan met us as we strode up to the cellar door and gave us an impromptu tour of the corking process for bubbles "methode tradionelle"...... absolutely intriguing! The freezing process following time on lees, the cork size pre insertion...... to see it in action was incredible!! Then upstairs for an amazing platter & wine tasting with Linda! That platter was next level......catering for our dietary requirements and also substantial!!! Linda's wine knowledge was exceptional! We will definitely be back.....and.......Linda, we hope you celebrated your birthday in style following dry July! 🙌🥂🎉

Next market day 17th September 2023 //Excellent market. Good array of stalls from veggies, food, pies, community BBQ with sausages, hamburgers so reasonably priced, to the most delicious tomato sauce, preserves, jams and bric a brac to raise money for the community. You'll find this store outside the local post office and down another street. Then there's the best flaxseed oil from Stony Creek organics, the olives are delicious at very fair prices for certified organic, excellent honey and the best healing balms from a stall in the 'yard sale area'. It's a bit hidden but we'll worth looking. There was only one veggie store the day I went so I was a bit disappointed. I was also hoping to find a butcher there or supplier of local grassfed or organic meats. Loved the eggs from navigator region and the yummy pea shoots they sell. There's heaps to explore Museum is also open to have a look. The architecture is beautiful and the town is quaint. There are amenities of toilets, drinking fountain, playground and BBQs and seating area available. Lovely day out and after stop off at Clunes historic town to purchase handmade woolen socks and products. Will definitely be back again. Thank you♥️ Please give a thumbs up if you got value from my review 👍

Wow, what a fantastic market! And SOOO much bigger than I expected. Plus, the layout means you get a lovely meander through Talbot. Bring cash, the mobile reception for tap and go isn't fantastic.

A fun hour or so of strolling over a couple of streets around the small town, of local or handmade produce.. mostly food but a few other bits and pieces.. pleasant atmosphere.. worth a visit..

A wonderful rural farmers market. Has nearly everything you need for the weeks meals. Plenty of options for brekkie & coffee whilst you browse. Busy even though it was a drizzly morn. Stall holders friendly.

What a beautiful village 14 k's out of Maryborough Vic. Gardens maintained by Volunteers. A nice place for an overnight stop in a B&B. You'd have to drive to Maryborough for dinner.

A fantastic market. Great fresh produce, vegetables, fruit, beautiful crummed mushrooms, bread, honey etc. Great variety of market stalls. A lot of different fresh cooked food to buy for lunch or a snacks. If your looking for a nice weekend away this would make a perfect stop on the Sunday. Or if your in the area do yourself a favor & drop in. On every 3rd Sunday of each month. Check out their wed sight for updates or changes. The photos are a very very small offering of what is truly there. Sorry didn't get more.

I drove to Talbot 'cause l'd heard it was a great Market . I thought it might be foreshortened 'cause of Covid BUT no ... a wonderfully eccentric mix of stalls . What added to the Buzz was the friendliness . I chatted with a great mix of humans ... My Dog loved it too ❤ l took home Sausage , Honey + Books .

Grand old building. History laid on.

After receiving state funding from Heritage Victoria the magnificent Maryborough Station underwent a 4‐year three-stage restoration of the façade, the slate roof and clock tower and glazed lantern covering the main carriageway platform completed in 2012. It is a tribute to the Victorian Railways, Architectural Works Department completed in 1890 as an outstanding example to the school of Victorian railway architecture developing a regional rather than national or international modern style. It is one of the finest examples in the country of Queen-Anne architecture which displays many hallmarks of the Anglo‐Dutch style which is enlivened at the roofline with gables and an asymmetrically placed clock tower. During the 1970’s much of the original facade ornamentation, the orbs, pedestals and ball-caps and rendered octagonal chimney crowns were sadly removed. These were carefully re-cast and reinstated as part of the restoration programme. The exterior was re-rendered using Adelaide ‘Brightonlite’ yellow-ocher oxide cement render. The residents of Maryborough were delighted with the result and applauded its face-lift and remarked “this is how it was meant to be” and how they could remember the way the station looked originally. An outstanding feature of Maryborough Station is its long platform covered by a continuous glazed lantern at the apex. This is said to be the longest single platform outside the Melbourne region and measures 1010 meters including the rail motor sidings. Today, Maryborough Station operates an art gallery emporium, a fully licensed restaurant in the grand dining hall (thanks Lloyd) and VLine post and freight services for passenger and goods trains. Maryborough Station is an exceptional country Victorian attraction and well worth the visit. Thank you and all the best, Chris Wilmar

Staff very rude argued over Coke Zero and Diet Coke insisting no difference in taste Meal average Only good thing is the cheese cake Service poor

On our way home to Mount Gambier today we stopped in to Marlborough station hoping for coffee and early feed....OMG we were not disappointed... The best cooked breakfast I have ever experienced....every mouthful delicious and well presented...chai late..prefect... What lovely friendly staff.....amazing atmosphere....do your self a favour if travelling and looking for a good feed...worth the stop....

Friendly service. Great coffee.

5 stars for the food and the fishing experience. Would have gone higher! This was hands down the best meal we had while in Victoria. Superbly crafted and showcased the best local had to offer from the food to drinks etc. The fishing kept the teenagers enthused and saw many younger ones super excited! Everyone here was welcoming and proud of what they had. And so they should be. Terrific venue, location, food and service

We had a great day at Tuki. We ate in the restaurant, the food and service were excellent. The staff explained each dish and the food and drink were exceptional. Great local produce, beer and wine! After lunch we went fishing and caught a few trout. The team cleaned and processed the fish for us and we took them home to eat. The property is beautiful with great views. It was a great day and highly recommend!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A Truly Special Experience at Tuki Trout Farm From the moment we arrived at Tuki Trout Farm, we were welcomed like family. The personal service was second to none—every member of the team, from the friendly owners and talented chef to the hardworking farm hands, went out of their way to make our stay unforgettable. Even the owners’ adorable grandson and their charming dogs added a warm, homely touch that made the experience even more special. The cottage was cosy and well-appointed, with breathtaking views that made for the perfect escape from the everyday. The surrounding landscape is simply stunning—rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and fresh country air. We were especially impressed by the quality of the food. The on-site restaurant showcases exceptional locally sourced ingredients, with a particular highlight being the farm’s own trout and lamb. Every meal was a celebration of fresh, honest flavours and true paddock-to-plate dining. Whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or just a taste of authentic country hospitality, Tuki delivers on all fronts. Can’t wait to return!

What a fantastic experience! We had an amazing day at the trout farm — it’s such a relaxing, beautiful setting and a great way to unwind. The $80 package for a two-course meal and fishing was excellent value but just watch out for the 15% Sunday surcharge. The food was absolutely delicious — fresh, beautifully cooked. The added fun of catching your own fish made it even more memorable. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the whole place had a peaceful, friendly vibe. Highly recommend for a weekend escape or something a little different. We’ll definitely be back!

Absolutely wonderful stay at Tuki. The food was amazing and a credit to chef Julian who served us at the table. Wonderful hosts Robert and Jan made us and our furry kids feel so welcome. We will definitely be back!

Fantastic paddock to plate experience. You won't get a more personalised dining experience - we talked to the Chef and the owner of the farm, so we got the inside word about the fantastic local produce used in the dishes on the menu.

I wish I could rate 10 stars!! This hidden gem was hands down one of the most special farm stay and paddock-to-plate experiences I've ever had. From the moment we arrived at Tuki, everything felt thoughtfully curated and deeply personal. The highlight was the 7 courses degustation dinner—every dish a celebration of local produce, beautifully prepared and presented. Chef Julien even came out personally to check in on us, which made the evening feel truly special. When they found out we’d just gotten engaged, we were surprised with a complimentary champagne—such a kind and thoughtful gesture. The stay itself was just as memorable: a cozy fireplace, a spa bath, views across the farm from bedroom and lounge area, locally roasted coffee, and fresh milk from the cows on site. Huge thanks to Chef Julien for the incredible meals and to Robert and Jan for creating such a welcoming, warm environment. We left feeling rested, full, and already planning our return trip!

A very colorful place, caused a lot of emotions, but I will say that I was impressed. Incredible amount of sculptures and art objects. The pictures were quite depressing, which created an atmosphere of isolation. In general, the museum is very interesting and large with patios. I think this is one of the most impressive places in the city. The only thing was that there was not enough information about the place and history, I would like that they would give out a brochure or there was a website with history.

Sensational, surreal, sexy, spooky and surprising, the Bromley Collection Museum at the Old Castlemaine Gaol is a must visit for all art aficionados. Kudos to David and Yuge for creating this whimsical wonderland. I had an amazing experience and can’t wait to return for more!

Love what Bromley has done to the place. Having visited the gaol on school camps in the 2000’s, was sad to see the site closed for such a long time. But now - wow, easily one of the most unique art galleries in the world.

A must see!!! From the outside the gaol looks to be an interesting place to check out. Once you go inside… it is amazing!!!! The art works collected inside from numerous well known artists is incredible. The art is displayed within the old gaol, which for me, lightened the atmosphere. The art provided a layer of inspiration, over the history of the gaol and it was interesting to learn about different artists on display. Well done for preserving the space and allowing the history to come through, definitely lightening the mood of the dire conditions of the historic gaol.

Impressive collection and sympathetic use of the Old Castlemaine Gaol. According to Google David Bromley (famous artist) purchased the building in 2018. He and his wife have transformed it into a great visitor attraction which I recommend visiting.

An ABSOLUTE MUST SEE if visiting Castlemaine - or a sufficient reason on its own to visit the town. David Bromley's collection is AMAZING. It is even more stunning in this truly unique space. Just GO!

Good place nice views...an amazing to be on a sunny day...staff is very friendly, it's built in a prison castle so can go for prison tour as well. I would like to see more food options there

Was a beautiful day for a walk with our dogs around the park. Some enjoyable little chats with others along the way. We really enjoyed soaking in the beautiful trees.

Visited the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens on the last day of Autumn and it was a magi al experience. There were a lot of colours still to see and the kids loved the play area. A must visit place and a lovely 1.5hr drive from Melbourne city.

Great garden to visit and take a rest in the town, anytime, any seasons.

Good track for a pram in wet weather, undercover area, playground and toilets close by. (DAS coffeehouse is very close, and very good) Plus some friendly ducks that like to follow you around.

Beautiful place. Went for a drive so my learner driver could get some experience and it was the perfect drive for it. Got to the gardens and it was a beautiful day beautiful scenery and a beautiful walk with the family and the dog. Was able to get some lunch first and sit at one of the many tables to eat.

A beautiful botanic Gardens for this lovely country town. Great playground for the kids. Bridges over a little creek, lots of flowers and beautiful big trees. Large areas under shade with also big open areas. Nice location too, though next to the train line... Kids love it, but it is slightly loud (think you'd get used to it though) - and fur next to The Mill precinct. Would definitely spend more time at the gardens next time we visit!

A beautiful gardens really. Great for walking around, Saturday fun runs, and mediations. I love most, that the gardens were built by the prisoners of the jail. Making beautiful spaces for contributions with Us All.

It was a great experience visiting the Central Deborah Gold Mine in Bendigo. It operated from 1939 to 1954 to a depth of 422 metres. It yielded 929 Kg of gold from its mining operations. The best part was going 61m underground with a hard hat ON to see how the gold mine workers worked in those days and how gold was mined from there. The tour guides were quite knowledgeable and kept everyone engaged throughout the tour. The Surface tour is a great way to know more about the gold mine and how things operated back in the days. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Bendigo.

We did the underground mine tour, with Graham, it was great!! He gave us lots of really good info but it was still fun. It was so surprisingly wheelchair accessible! They really had thought of everything we felt really comfortable with everything. All the staff were actually really friendly and helpful, and a good shop!

Going underground at the Central Deborah Gold Mine was an unforgettable experience. The tour guides were fantastic, explaining the history and stories of the miners. It’s both fun and eye-opening — a must-do if you want to really dive into Bendigo’s gold rush past.

Absolutely worth a visit to this fab centre, our tour guide (nathan) was superb and we he learnt so much about what life as a miner really was like. Sadly we didn’t come away with any gold nuggets but we did come away with a lot of the educational type and they’re priceless !! We booked the first tour - 10am, then took the ‘talking tram’ into town for lunch. Thoroughly recommend you doing that too if you have time

Everyone except for me thought this was going to be boring, they were all wrong. The underground mine tour was awesome and very informative. Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. He made everyone comfortable and answered all questions thrown at him. A must-see/do if in Bendigo.

Great place to visit. Very informative, outlining how Bendigo was formed. Can highly recommend a tour of the mine and could not rate our tour guide Ollie any higher. A very knowledgeable man who knows his stuff. Well done Ollie….

A 60 metre deep gold mine. Our guide explained everything in details. There are some big gold nuggets in display. Recommended to Book early before going

The architectural beauty of the cathedral is beyond beautiful. indeed one of the best landmark of Bendigo. The solemnity, peace and tranquility you will feel when you enter the church will warm your heart.

A beautiful church to visit.The Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the most significant religious and architectural landmarks in Australia. Its history reflects the prosperity of Bendigo during the gold-rush era, as well as the dedication of the Catholic community over nearly a century. Rich in history. A must visit place.

Experienced peace and tranquility here. One of the most beautiful churches in the regional area. Had the opportunity to connect with God further. Truly a stunning and must visit place in Bendigo!

The Cathedral is truly a magnificent sight! Its grandeur and serene atmosphere create a deeply spiritual experience. The architectural details are breathtaking, inviting reflection and reverence at every turn.

The architecture was absolutely stunning. Truly impressive craftsmanship and a peaceful atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit! ✝️⛪️

a beautiful space. magnificent cathedral. helpful and knowledgeable volunteers, who have amazing stories of the cathedral's history.

I was lucky enough to be here for a wedding. After travelling in England this is just as beautiful 😍

Our primary reason for visiting the Gallery was to experience the Frida Kahlo exhibition and it didn't disappoint 😍 we spend 2hrs wandering with our eyes fixed on every single exhibit. An absolutely wonderful Gallery with so very much on offer to see, regardless of whether you are interested or not. Just do it!!!

Judy is a lovely tour guide! She taught me about the history of the painting and artist, and stories about what the painting is about. She showed me a lot of details I wouldn't have picked up and I'll be paying more attention to art from now on.

I've heard such wonderful things about the Bendigo Art Gallery and have been meaning to visit for ages. The exhibitions always sound so interesting and well-curated, drawing in people from all walks of life. I particularly love seeing how they celebrate local artists and showcase diverse perspectives.

Visited a few years ago when it was the Elvis Exhibition. What a wonderful Gallery and immaculately presented. Despite being a busy afternoon session, everyone was friendly, gave each other room to take photos and admire the King of Rock n Roll. A true asset to Bendigo.

I love this place, I could just sit and enjoy every brushstroke. There are so many massive paintings, and each one is absolutely beautiful.

Bendigo Art Gallery is reason enough to make the trip up the Calder. Housed in a graceful heritage building seamlessly blended with a sleek contemporary extension, it feels both historic and fresh. High-ceilinged rooms flood with natural light, while clever architecture guides you from grand 19th-century spaces to crisp, modern galleries without a hitch. Curation is top-class for a regional institution. The permanent Australian collection gives real depth. How about thinking of Heidelberg School landscapes in one room and bold contemporary works in the next, yet the blockbuster touring shows are what really shine. Whether it’s fashion icons, photography retrospectives or pop-culture tributes, the gallery consistently punches above its weight, drawing crowds that rival big-city institutions. Labels are informative without lecturing, and there’s always a thoughtfully placed bench or two so you can linger over a favourite piece. Practical touches round out the experience: friendly staff happy to chat about works, an airy café with excellent coffee and local bites, and a well-stocked shop that goes beyond generic souvenirs. The whole visit feels welcoming rather than stuffy, making it easy to lose a couple of hours in art-driven bliss. Five stars from me! Bendigo Art Gallery sets the gold standard for regional culture in Victoria.

Stunning gallery - Frida Kahlo was incredible (excepts labels & interpretation almost impossible to read unfortunately) & permanent collection really well arranged! Very helpful concierge & shop staff

This place is amazing. It shows the Chinese involvement with Bendigo since the Gold rush years. The collection of Chinese artefacts is vast and very interesting to look at. The whole site is very good and the restaurant was a great place for lunch.

Incredible collection of Chinese artefacts. We spent ages wandering around looking at everything. It's just a shame that there isn't more space to display the collection as it's quite overcrowded. We believe that there are hopes for an extension to the building which will open the displays up a bit more. With a little cafe onsite and situated next to a small Chinese Garden it is really a worthwhile place to visit. Thank you to the staff who were very helpful and friendly. We had a lovely visit.

A nice place to visit, full of local history. Kids found it boring as they do, but we didn't care. We enjoyed it. Beautiful gardens with a nice Chinese restaurant next door.

Didn't go into the museum, but thoroughly enjoyed the surrounding gardens and temple, where I offered some incense and did some prayers. A fantastic area with delightful and pretty gardens. Well maintained and spiritual.

We arrived rather late so museum already closed, however we are so lucky to witness the practice of Dragon Show for Moon Festival on Friday 26 September 2025. They are so great to see group of young talents practice & perform. The 5 stars are for them ☺️.

Amazing place to visit and read about their culture. Had a display of the Chinese Bells and was very interactive and informative.. also blew me away with a fully hand carved Jade ceremony chariot.. a must see.

Loved this cultural experience and the history of the Chinese people who settled in Bendigo and surrounds who contributed a richness to the area. Very historical and educational, well worth the visit. Some great interactive displays, the ringing and history of the bells was great.

The Talking Tram ride was such a cool way to explore Bendigo. You get to sit in a beautifully restored tram while learning the history of the city. It’s relaxed, fun, and gives you a whole new appreciation for Bendigo. Great for all ages!

What a different dog friendly experience to go on a hop on hop off tram through Bendigo and learn about its history. Lots of easy free parking nearby and we even got to tour the Central Deborah Gold Mine while waiting for our tram with our dog joining us. Highly recommended

This quaint little hidden gem of a cafe is perfect for your after work coffee or visitors to the town who want something off the beaten path. Plenty of seating, great customer service and delicious well priced food. Gorgeous decorated interior of the vintage tram and in a perfect location, right next to the vintage tram history tour for Bendigo's hot spots.

The tram service provides historic information along the way and stops at significant landmarks. A $20 ticket is valid for the entire day, making it totally worth it if you’re exploring Bendigo city.

Really good and value the money! 18$ you can enjoy the city. The driving will tell you the place that you stop, also the story of the tram. You can visit centre city, tram cafe and 2/3 places more. You can start from centre city or Goldmine or tram cafe. Wherever you park.

Wonderful way to see Bendigo, go early and get yourself a ticket, then just hop on and off through out the day seeing the sights.

I was so pleased to be able to take my dog with me for this tram ride, made it an easier day for me. There are 5 places you can hop off and on to the next one. Just get the time table. There’s good info given as the tram travels along but a little too noisy from the old tram to hear sometimes. The driver had time to give us a bit of a personal history lesson which was interesting and so nice of him. Well worth doing, you can also visit the tram depot museum.

Wonderful experience had by my family and I, my little boy always enjoys himself while at EMR, staff are very nice and helpful and always have a smile on their face. I recommend everyone visit here with their family. 10/10

Lovely staff, made it more enjoyable. Great family activity especially if you have kids. Definitely recommend it.

Wonderful 8 min train ride. My One and a half year old LOVED it, and so did the adults.

Tiny train in Elmore!! So fun! Perfect small activity if in the area :) friendly staff and lovely view!

A must to check out these school holidays or when you are passing through Elmore!! A nostalgic and fun experience with my two and three year old for only $5 you can’t go wrong!! Thanks for having us. I would love to help with their mini set ups throughout the train ride, soooo much potential!!

We absolutely enjoyed the ride today. All staff members were very professional and kind. The price is very reasonable and the ride is the prefect distance and time for kids Highly recommend

Excellent. Great for families. Nothing better and fun than a miniature train ride.

Staff are very welcoming, and Neil's enthusiasm and knowledge is great, as well as entertaining. Apart from the mind boggling array of beer related stuff, there are lots of other gems from years gone by. Make sure you also explore the displays outside, including the shipping containers out behind the car park. Number 1 rated attraction in Echuca for a reason.... well worth a visit.

A really worthwhile place to visit. The owner will greet you at the door and gives a great presentation. He is one character and a half and has the best Aussie personality and a great knowledge of the recent Australian past. You will learn things from him you never knew. Was glad we made the effort to visit.

What a delight! We popped into the Great Aussie Beer Museum while in Echuca and were absolutely charmed. The place is so much more than beer though as you’ll find walls of vintage beer cans, brewery relics, retro signs, old petrol pumps, restored automobiles, farm machinery, soda dispensers, and more.  A huge shout out to Neil an absolute legend, the owner whose passion and knowledge of Australian history, culture, and memorabilia really bring the collection to life. He took time to explain many of the items, cracked a few jokes, and made the experience personal and memorable.  The atmosphere is delightfully nostalgic and rustic it’s like stepping back in time. There’s a sense that every object has a story. The restored cars and machinery especially add a touch of old-school charm.  If you’re in Echuca, do not skip this museum. It’s a passion project that’s well worth your time and admission.

Neil was so friendly, greeted us in the car park and explained the best way to view everything. What a place. Everyone should visit at least once. Need a minimum of 1 hour. Would be great to hold a function there.

Alan and Bryan were great tour guides and gave us a lot of information. They were super knowledgeable and friendly. We saw so many great Australian pieces and were blown away by how big the collection actually is. The stories behind some of the items were also very interesting. We visited on the 11/10/2025 and will definitely be back

This is a great place to visit if you want to experience things from days gone by. Awesome people. Awesome collection of old things. Make sure you stay for the presentation.

Had an awesome time at The Great Shed so much to look at from the past . Make sure you have a good hour to 2 hrs to look at everything. Neil’s talk about some of his collection was fun and informative. Jacks Shed is the best , beautiful cars . Thank you Neil, from Paul & princess Cate lol 16/11/25

As lovers of cars and all things old and nostalgic, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit here. It was a little muggy inside (hot day outside) but it was only a minor inconvenience. Great collection of Holdens and Holden memorabilia. Dog friendly too.

Loved our visit to the National Holden Motor Museum. As a mechanic it was great to see all the different models of Holdens from the past decades. There are also some prototype models as well as models used in the product development process. Super interesting place to visit even if you're not a car fanatic. Definitely recommend it if you're in the area or just passing through. There's also a great giftshop which has something for any car nut. Not just Holden fans.

If you’re a car fan or even interested in history the Holden Museum is a must when you’re in Echuca! There’s so much to see and you can get really close to some great and rare examples of Australian motor engineering. Ticket prices are very reasonable and you won’t be disappointed!

A great museum with a range of classic and modern Holden’s that are swapped out every couple of months. With an affordable $10 entry to the museum itself, it grants access for either a 10 minute walk-in-walk-out or more than hour of in-depth reading into the history and information of Holden. The staff are super friendly and approachable and appreciate a good conversation. Overall the National Holden Motor Museum is a must visit for car enthusiasts keen on looking into the discontinued Holden name or rather, just to kill a bit of time while visiting Echuca.

Really great place to visit even if you're not a Holden fanatic (like me). The 50 cars on display are in prime condition and laid out very well. Lots of memorabilia on display as well. The 2 guys that were on duty were friendly and didn't mind a chat. A very informative visit. 👍

Great place for adults to visit to remember their youth & appreciate the vast range of cars that were produced under the Holden banner. The entrance fee was reasonable & the owners were very good about allowing visitors to wander around at their own pace, to get close to the cars & willing to provide information when asked. Well worth a visit, even if you're not particularly interested in cars 'per se'. The evolution of design, the beauty of the vehicles & the historical aspects of the display are inestimable.

Wasn't bad, I'm not a big Holden fan, some others would love it more. That said it was interesting to see the history of Holden from before my time all in one spot. Entry price was fair and plenty of parking available.

Great district to visit. Step back in time. See and experience the old world in modern comfort. Steam Trains, Horse & carriage, Paddle Steamers - all ready to experience. Can get very busy. Bookings recommended on Peak Days

Port of Echuca feels like being transported back in time. The restored wharf, the smell of the river gums, and the creak of timber all give it a charming old-town vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. The highlight is watching and riding the historic paddle steamers still operating on the Murray, hearing the chug of their engines and the whistle echoing off the water is pure nostalgia. Around the wharf you’ll also spot an old steam engine on display and plenty of rustic, heritage-style buildings that complete the old-school river-port atmosphere. Great place for a stroll, photography, or a ride on one of the paddleboats. A must-see if you’re in Echuca!

A great historical area focussed on the Murray River riverboats and related industries. Some of these industries are still practised here for tourists. Some good eating places and enough to fill in your day and go on a paddle boat cruise.

the Port of Echuca delivers a memorable day out that celebrates Australia’s inland waterways. The Port of Echuca, located at 74 Murray Esplanade, is a captivating riverside gem that encapsulates the rich maritime and cultural heritage of Victoria’s Murray River region. Visited on a September sunny afternoon, this historic precinct left me enchanted with its blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and free access, making it an unmissable stop for travelers and locals alike. Often dubbed the "Paddle Steamer Capital of Australia," this vibrant hub offers a step back in time while delivering a modern-day experience that’s both educational and relaxing. The port’s free entry is a delightful surprise, allowing unrestricted exploration of its sprawling 5-hectare site along the Murray River. The star attraction is the restored wharf, a bustling hub in the 19th century when Echuca was a vital trade link between Melbourne and inland Australia. Walking the wooden planks, I marveled at the historic paddle steamers docked along the riverbank, including the iconic PS Alexander Arbuthnot and PS Emmylou, which offer paid cruises but are a sight to behold even from shore. The wharf’s interpretive signs vividly recount tales of paddle steamers hauling wool, timber, and supplies, with over 200 vessels once operating from this port. The adjacent Star Hotel, dating back to 1860, and the working blacksmith forge add authentic touches, while the Discovery Centre provides interactive exhibits on the river’s ecology and Indigenous history—perfect for families or history buffs. The setting itself is a draw, with the Murray River’s glassy waters reflecting the red gums and willow trees lining the banks. I spent time on the grassy esplanade, enjoying a spontaneous picnic with views of the historic bridge and passing houseboats, a nod to the region’s thriving tourism. The port’s layout encourages leisurely wandering, with pathways leading to the Echuca Wharf Brewery for a craft beer or the Port of Echuca Coffee Lounge for a caffeine fix. The free daily events, like the 1 PM cannon firing (weather permitting), add a lively touch, though I missed it by minutes—next time, I’ll time my visit better. Accessibility is excellent, with flat paths suitable for wheelchairs and prams, and ample parking nearby. The only minor quibble is the lack of shaded seating during peak summer heat, but the riverside breeze mitigates this. For a deeper dive, paid options like the 1-hour paddle steamer cruise ($35 adults) or the 1860s Historic Precinct entry ($15) are worth considering, but the free experience alone—spanning the wharf, gardens, and river views—offers immense value. Whether you’re drawn by the paddle steamer heritage, the chance to spot pelicans, or simply a peaceful riverside escape, the Port of Echuca delivers a memorable day out that celebrates Australia’s inland waterways.

Really pretty little place with lots to see. We did the port after dark tour too which was really interesting. I really enjoyed our Echuca stay.

Wonderful place to visit to learn about the history of Echuca-Moama area. Also gives a good idea about how steam engines revolutionized the way people worked and their day to day activities.

Great short trip down the river and back. Very pet friendly. Great people operating boat. Does have a little coffee/alcohol bar.