I regret to hear that my three days stay at Hall's Gap did not meet my comfort expectations. Incompetent & arrogant is the only way I could describe the staff. Front desk guys were worst & indifferent. They never returned my calls; definitely a lack of professionalism. Misleading Information was the key factor. On the website it specifies "warm salt water" but instead we ended up with a freezing cold swimming pool, mind you this was on day two of our stay. On the first day the pool was completely locked up! My experience at the lodge was not positive therefore I won't be recommending this place.

Great location. Units had everything needed. Kitchenette, TV, basic crockery. Barely any hot water very intermittent, no cold tap required. Main bed extremely hard. Very worn towels. Staff friendly. Couldn't keep room warm as need fob in the slot, so when going for dinner heater was off. Car park close but when raining there were massive puddles around so made it difficult to get into car. Very convenient if need to be close to main street. Cafes close by.

Avoid this motel. It is dirty and run down. Our room was dirty on arrival, so we used the dirty pool while we waited for our room to be cleaned. When we entered the newly cleaned room, it smelt of body odour, the bathroom smelt of urine, the pillowcases had not been changed, the bedcovers/ doonas had not been washed for a long time, the heater for the second room was broken, and under the bed was filthy. The toilet at the pool was disgusting. The reception is mainly closed, as the person in charge is away working in the nearby cafe. The whole place needs a lot of money spent on it and maybe employ a few more people. The manager is totally out of his depth and not coping.

I stayed here with my 2 brothers and my mum, firstly when i was in the pool it was super murky and filled with particles,and smelled like cigarettes, also it gave one of my brotehrs a terrible rash on his foot , it also gave me a super dry throat and made my cough worse. Secondly the receptionist was awfull and rude when my mum was paying he crossed his fingers like it wasn’t going to work?! And he took 20-25 minutes to come and wasnt good with his phone or what he was using cause he didnt awnser,and i want to say the room was disappointing the heater was noisy and hardly worked and the table was broken the top wood was able to lift up,and the shower when i turned the knob not even alot for cold it went freezing and when. I turned hot A little bit and it was boiling and moldy where u put the soap, and i was scared to see my brothers electric blanket on his bed looked like it was gonna catch fire ,and the sheets was so dirty lucky i brang my own blankets

Be careful. I surfed the internet for accomodation in Halls Gap but, because it was cup weekend, options were limited. I came back to Pinnacle Holiday Lodge advertised through Agoda. First look I noticed the FREE CANCELLATION, this was important because were were towing a van to Horsham for our son to borrow and it was hard to confirm arrangements when you are dealing with your kids... things are subject to change ! Two days after booking my son confirmed Ellis's crossing, which is closer to Dimboola, I have a cousin in Dimboola so I cancelled the booking on line. Next morning I received confirmation of cancellation which said No Refund applied to the booking. I paided $285 on my VISA, I cancelled 48 hrs after booking and 3 days before the booking date. A % booking fee would be reasonable but to keep the $285 not so much. I rang Pinnacle who said I needed to ring Agoda. Agoda would refund but Pinnacle needed to approve the refund. Agoda said they were ringing and emailing Pinnacle to approve, Pinnacle said they were not receiving calls or emails from Agoda. Pinnacle were saying they would do every thing they could to help but failed to call or email Agoda on the addresses I sent through. After 2 days of calls back and forth Pinnacle said they were very busy ...to busy to make a call or send off an email.... not so willing to help after all! Finally it was sorted on Saturday, 3 days after cancellation. It seems that when I came back to Pinnacle Holiday Lodge on Agoda's page I clicked on a cheaper price and the condition on that cheaper price was no refund. As the FREE CANCELLATION was obvious in my initial search, the No Refund was in fine print and not clear. I'm sure I'm not the first to get caught and I wont be the last. So be careful. Pinnacle said to call them direct in future, after this example of their customer service .... I dont think so!

Location is great however that is only positive with this dirty, shabby, uncared for accommodation. Need to wash dishes used, which is fine, if there was a plug, dishcloth and tea towels provided. Bathrooms mouldy in the 4 rooms i booked, towels thin, fraying and past use by date. Toaster rusted with dirt and fluff onbread when it popped up 😬😬flickering lights, toilet didn’t flush and would have checked out but had paid in full and given attitude of owner didn’t think i would get refund. Pictures on website are so outdated i cant even imagine it ever looked like this. So disappointing and I feel so ripped off as there were many other nice places in area. No love or care given to this place - avoid

We stayed here for two nights. The kitchenette is fairly lacking in amenities (only electric frypan, no pots, chopping board, or kitchen knife. There was a bread knife but nowhere to slice your bread apart from the sink). Kitchen sponge was old as hell and quite gross. Yes, that’s what we started with when we checked in. Hairdryer in the room doesn’t work. All of the sinks need to have their taps closed super tightly or they’ll drip through the night. The pillows are pretty thin and uncomfortable too. Had to fold it to get to sleep. I can accept an old bedroom for the price range but there are many things in the room lacking in maintenance. Pretty sure you can get a better price in the area. Only good thing is the location and price for a larger room.

Dropped by here in the late afternoon. Not sure whether it wasn't opened or already closed for the day. Anyway it was worth coming and exploring the outside of the Centre.

We were lucky to have weather that was lovely, although it was a bit cool and fresh, the sun was shining. A nice fresh winter's day. The kangaroos lazying in the sun, few Emu, and a kookaburra. Its a place I will return to for more adventures, during the summertime.

All the information you need. The cafe is nice as well.There a couple of nice,easy walks

information center open, but cultural center/museum closed due to water damage(?). cafe was also closed. information center sells a number of nice and interesting souvenirs and local products. worth checking out, but probably only indeed the cultural center is open. walking through to a large grass patch after the cultural center found us a number of emus and a few kangaroos!

Cultural centre is closed. Info centre Cafe hasn't opened for years. Small giftshop. That's about it. Wetland walk is terrible and land is screaming out for Management. Wood, leaves and branches everywhere. Really disappointing as it used to be the highlight of the Grampians.

A must see/do experience whilst visiting the Grampians. The film is very entertaining with the history of the area, from many perspectives. The cafe & gift shop are a delight. Try the Lemon Myrtle Scones with a coffee.... unreal, delicious. A memorable experience.

I remember when this was being built and although it still looks good, some of the displays are getting tired, although the information is still good. Located just outside of Halls Gap you can walk or ride along well made paths. Inside is a small cafe where you can dine on fresh food and refreshments. Outside are some excellent interpretation boards that give a history of the area and the life prior to white settlement. The retail shop is extensive with lots of interesting items. There is plenty of parking under the shaded gums. The place is wheelchair friendly and in fact you can motor on your wheelchair from town to the centre. Very kid friendly with lots for the little ones to do. I would say you could spend at s minimum and hour here. There are tours available as well. Enjoy.

Totally surprised. Unsure if we wanted to visit with my son's family. Took the risk - it was amazing. Much, much bigger than you would think. Amazing animals and habitats. Our grandchildren were captivated. A fantastic attraction - under rated and unknown?

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely Incredible Experience at Halls Gap Zoo From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by how beautiful and welcoming this zoo is. A special shoutout to the lovely young lady at the front desk her warm smile and wonderful help set the tone for the day. The girl working in the food van was absolutely incredible friendly, efficient, and so lovely to chat with. And to the amazing keepers who guided us through the most unforgettable Rhino experience wow! Their knowledge, passion, and care for these magnificent animals made it truly magical. Getting up close and learning about the rhinos was something we’ll never forget. Halls Gap Zoo is a credit to everyone who works there. It’s not just a zoo, it’s an experience full of heart, beauty, and incredible people. Highly recommend to everyone! 🦏✨monique and Nathan

A real surprise. Was not expecting a zoo this incredible in this location. Great layout, and plenty of free range animals to get close to. The deer were hilarious and friendly. Get a few feed bags for the walk through the zoo. Also has a great playground inside.

A great little zoo with a relaxed vibe and plenty to see. Grabbed a food bag each at the entrance and had a blast feeding the friendly deer; it definitely added to the experience. The meerkats were hilarious, constantly popping up and checking us out like tine security guards. Paths are easy to follow which helped when a deer ate my map! We saw a good mix of native and exotic animals and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. Halls Gap Zoo is definitely worth a visit if you're in the Grampians area.

Fantastic Zoo! We spent a solid 2–3 hours exploring the winding paths, each lined with enclosures featuring a great mix of wildlife—local favourites and international species, from tiny marsupials, monkeys🐒 or reptiles to towering Giraffe's 🦒 The entry fee might feel a bit high at first, but once you see the scale and care involved (rhinos and giraffes aren’t exactly cheap), it’s easy to understand why. Friendly deer and peacocks roam freely and are happy to be hand-fed with feed bags available for purchase. It’s a well-kept, thoughtfully laid-out zoo that makes for a great half-day outing. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

I didn’t plan on visiting the zoo whilst visiting the Grampians/Halls Gap, however I couldn’t help myself after reading the reviews. It is absolutely amazing there! The animals appear to be well looked after and loved, they all have more than suitable enclosures and then you’ve got the free roaming animals which makes it feel so different to most zoos. I would definitely make another trip here just to go to this zoo, hopefully next time I plan ahead and can try out the animal experiences. Not as many animals as mainstream zoos, however the circuit walk, being able to hand feed and get up close & personal with the roaming animals, and the fact that the animals in enclosures there seem genuinely happy makes up for that factor. Be mindful of the deer ambushing you for the feed though! 😂

Friendly and informative staff, large range of animals (rhinos and giraffes were the kids favourites). Clean and good layout to follow around. Enjoyable morning with the family.

Fascinating tour and gives a great historical context on how we used to deal with incarceration and mental health. Whilst there are some differing views on how we deal with these things now, there were clearly some people that were at different ends of the offending spectrum. Special mention to our guide Alan who was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and clearly has a passion for telling the story of this place.

Fantastic tour, our guide Rick was very knowledgeable of the history and told some great stories. Highly recommend the tour.

Great experience. Guides are very well versed in their local history and stories. Don't rush it though. You will need probably 2-3 hours to d tour to Aradale which nearby but a different location.

My sister, friend and I went on this tour while we were in the Grampians. We actually did this as a spur of the moment decision, as we were booked into a ghost tour at the Aradale asylum that night. We decided to do the J Ward tour as we saw that this tour offered a lot of things that are not offered at the asylum. Obviously, they are two completely different places, but I would really highly recommend the J Ward as a place where you get an amazing historical understanding of the treatment of people with mental illnesses up until unfortunately the 1990s. We were very lucky to have Graham as our tour guide - he was amazing! He had great stories, a brilliant understanding of the history and you can tell that he is passionate about the prison. We were lucky also to be part of a very small group, a total of seven people including us. This tour is highly recommended, completely run by volunteers but really well preserved. This place has a fascinating history, and was a really great two hours spent. You can also book time to do research if you are interested, but this is only available on certain days, however if you’re a history buff, it certainly would be a great place to find out a bit more about the dark history of this hospital.

J Ward in Ararat is a really interesting place. Yes, well recommended for a visit. Take the tour - it is definitely worth it. The outside façade and internal walls of original blue stone is stunning. The whole premises is very well restored and maintained as a historic site and museum. A lot of effort is taken to preserve the originality. We have visited before (many years back) and will add it to the list for future trips. It has a history interwoven with Aradale mental asylum, on the other side of Ararat. You could add that as a tour to your itinerary as well. The Staff are all volunteers, and were really great - Thank you. A visit is well recommended!

This ghost tour was the best!!!! We got to use paranormal equipment which was so much fun and I also captured an orb when we were in the kitchen area! The guide was also very interesting and informative, this tour is a must if you are in Ararat! 👻

We planned out trip to Ararat especially so we could do the J Ward tour - Pat was a wonderful tour guide - we really enjoyed the small group, and having the time to walk through the spaces. The tour was very informative and interesting. Well worth the visit.

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.

“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! 🙌🥂🎉

I’m almost hesitant to leave a glowing review for this site because it is just so serene and beautiful, that I almost don’t want to see it get overcrowded with people! There were a couple of handfuls of people there when I went and it was simply perfection! Emus wandering freely around you, koalas in every other tree, cultural sites. I was honoured to have my very own tour guide, Gunditjmara Elder Uncle Paul. I am so grateful to you for sharing your time and knowledge with me. Follow @mel_from_melbourne on Instagram for more footage and recommendations.

This place is a must! The drive in is very beautiful and there are plenty of parking in different areas. Free access and different hikers to do! Koalas were on trees by the parking lot! I also had emu crossing the road! Highly recommended!

Spotted around 7 koalas and a kangaroo family. And the emus are already at the park entrance. Beautiful place where you can enjoy watching the wildlife in their natural habitat. Besides the lively animals you will find peace and serenity

Beautiful place, with lovely relatively easy walks around the volcanos and lakes. If you are planning a picnic or BBQ then be careful of the emus, they steal food, while the koalas are distracting you! Think its a well organised double act!

Wanna spot many cute koalas, this is the place! A lot of them are setting at the trees over the parking would recommend to come around 8:30am if you want to see other animals. After 11am parking is quite busy but 2 emus will come to the picnic area cause they know its lunch time. They are a bit naughty but they dont bite, don't be afraid just don't feed them!

A beautiful and peaceful place with lots of wildlife. We saw quite a few koalas, rabbits, emus,etc. it’s a pity that I did not have the time to hike. Will love to be back.

It was a very nice and easy walk. My family and I did the Journey to the Last Volcano walk, and the view from the top was amazing. The toilet facilities were clean, and we even saw an emu on the way home!

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.

Stopped in Warnambool in late March recently in the drive up to Halls Gap after the Great Ocean Road drive. This is a nice park for a short break.

This guy s one of the best playgrounds! So many different activities and things to do! It’s suitable for a huge age range. Great facilities, bbqs, toilets etc. You can easily spend hours here!

We loved this playground both day and night play was fun. The slide is very fast. Love the sundial, maze and flying fox. It is a beautifully designed and great playground for all ages and a number of hills for rolling down. Well maintained covered areas, benches and tables and BBQs for a good picnic. Toilets were clean. Nice walks by the lake. I definitely recommend this area if you are visiting Warrnambool.

A very beautiful park that was discovered when we were finding a nearby toilet at Warrnambool.

This is really a fun place for everyone in Warnambool. There are loads of exciting fun activities/apparatus to keep the children busy, while the adults can indulge in a barbecue or picnic. There are bbq areas, seating areas, washroom facilities and plenty of free parking available here. The lake enhances the beauty of this park, which is also inhabited by different species of ducks and birds. It's certainly worth spending some time here.

I would give this 5 stars but they've taken away the best thing here - the ADULT FLYING FOX!!! It is blocked off, I'm really hoping that it is just being fixed and not gone forever. The playground is actually an amazing play space for younger kids. Had many fabulous memories here but the kids are older now.

Good for kids !! Restaurant just walking 5 mins from this playground

Flagstaff Maritime Village in Warrnambool is an absolute hidden gem, especially for those who are into ships and maritime history. The entry ticket lasts for 7 days, which makes it incredibly worth it if you’re staying in the area. Though it’s not a large village, it has a magical way of making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Your visit starts with a museum showcasing the tragic shipwrecks along the coast, filled with fascinating artefacts and stories that really pull you in. I spent half a day wandering through the site, and every corner felt like a picture-perfect moment with something new to learn. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a scenic, educational stop, this place is a must-visit in Warrnambool.

In Warrnambool, the Flagstaff Hill Marine Village is well recommended as a visit if you are local or touring. Our Entry Tickets for Seniors were $15 each - well worth it. Highly recommend to take one of the regular Tours with a local well-informed Guide. This will take you through the inside museum. The story of the Loch-Ard ship is the most interesting! About 40 minutes inside. You are then free to walk the outside Village. This Village id beautifully set out representing the past. Shops, workshops, Bank, School, Printer, etc., free to enter and walk through each. This is very informative, and well set out, built from goods and materials from the time. Allow about 45 mins outside. Total, need about 2 hours there. Yes, well recommended.

It was very much worthwhile to visit and give you a view into the past. Great exhibition matched only by the very friendly and supportive staff. The old buildings and displays are wonderful. Take your time to travel back in time, when things were not as easy as today. We had a wonderful time, thank you.

This is a place that transports you back to the past. Give yourself the time and attention to understand their lives and their stories of their times. It was a learning and eye-opening experience and journey and marvelled how real and true the preserved artifacts are. I would like to take this opportunity to convey my thanks for the team's hardwork, commitment and dedication in preserving and taking great care of them. I have a better understanding of Australia and it's history. Highly recommend to anyone to have a insight into their history.

Delightful place to visit. Provided senior concession entry fee. Spent a good couple of hours there walking through the village. Great ocean views as well. Had an average Devonshire tea which was a little bit expensive, but not overly so.

Very well presented historical village highlighting the early Settlers (whalers, fisherman). It's position increases the visitors ability to imagine life in this era. Very good presentations about the shipwreck prone coastline and early whaling craft. You can spend a good part of the day exploring this village. Staff are friendly and very helpful. Only stayed 1 day but was offered a stamp on the ticket which permitted entry again for 3 days (this was during a school holiday period). Reasonably priced. Cafe on site.

What a beautiful place to visit, every angle looks like a vintage painting! Thanks for the lovely staffs who gave the girls activities to complete, they loved to find things from hidden places.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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 ✨

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

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.

Husband and I loved our visit on Wednesday! We were there for roughly 5 hours and there was plenty to see and do that we didn't have much down time or waiting around. Wasn't too busy which was a bonus, so we got to quietly enjoy a lot of the experiences and shops minus the 2-3 school excursions running around, but we didn't cross paths often. The staff did a wonderful job at making the experience feel immersive and authentic, and we loved that there were things to enjoy as adults. Definitely recommend buying the mine tour or the photo time slot in advance!

A fantastic day or 2 out for the whole family. Step back in time and explore Australia's gold rush history. Cute shops, delicious food from a bakery to a Cafe. We live how the staff are not only in costumes but character too. The displays, tours are really well done.

While visiting Vic/Ballarat area thought I'd pop into here for something to do. Allocated a few hours. Ended up staying all day. It was incredible. Best way to describe it was a living museum. The staff there (mostly volunteer) were all in character and dressed up and so amazingly friendly. Themed so well and had a fantastic time. Highly recommended this place and I'll certainly go back. Did a mine tour as well and found that fascinating.

Visiting Sovereign Hill felt like stepping straight into the 1850s. The whole place brings the gold rush era to life with incredible detail, from the mining demonstrations to the dusty streets and costumed characters. We tried our hand at gold panning and, to our surprise, actually found gold! It was such a fun, hands‑on moment that made the day unforgettable. A brilliant experience for anyone wanting history with a bit of adventure.

We attended Aura at Sovereign hill and it was a fantastic experience. The 3 elements of the show were great, breaking up the story telling and the way it was showcased was a great way to see and hear the story. There was a school attending the same night we did (roughly 60ish students) but the team did a great job of moving everyone around through the 3 different experiences. Really worth the visit.

Solid gold. Sovereign Hill is a family friendly romp through early gold mining in Victoria, historical town with a unique blend of hand tools and functioning Industrial Revolution technologies make this a prize in Victoria. From the shops to the Poppet head frame a variety of interesting artifacts and a knowledgeable period attired staff that are eager to explain the town. This will take 4-6 hours to get a good self-guided tour. The gardens on the hill are a pleasant diversion from the rustic backdrop, don’t miss it!!

Even as adults we had a lovely day there, even with a sprinkle of rain. Still have the same memories of the place from 20+ years ago, which speaks to their upholding of the heritage component of the place. Underground tour was great, candy shop was delicious. Red Coats March is a must attend.

Mixed reaction here. Pools and spa were great, but there wasn't really enough space for the volume of people. One pool for basic entry, pay extra for the other 3 pools and sauna. Per earlier the pools are beautiful: fresh, different temps, one with beds to lie in the water, very clean facilities. But the pools themselves fit about 10 ppl in before you're feeling crowded, which took away from the relaxation side of things. Recommended trying it to see if it works for you.

Disappointing experience. I have been wanting to come here for years and it was such a let down. The communal space is too small for the volume of people they allow in at a given time. It's advertised as a relaxation haven, but instead it had more of a local pool feel. There were too many children splashing around and jumping in. We visited off peak too. I'm a mother myself and am positive towards allowing children in, but perhaps have an adults only section that doesn't cost double the price. The staff assume you have been before and were vague and disinterested. There were no cups at the hydrating station and no lifeguards/staff to be seen to ask if they could refill them. The only positives are the tranquil setting, nestled deep in Hepburn and the bathrooms are clean and well stocked with essentials. Save your money and go to Peninsula Hot Springs instead. Same price and way better value for money.

Very disappointed with this experience! Do not recommend it at all! Very overpriced for what they got to offer! Water temperature was just like the local swimming pool. Only 1 slightly larger and 1 small pool to choose from. No outdoor spa, no cold plunge pool. Paid $60 for the same experience that could have been much less to go to a public swimming pool, not relaxing, not hot at all. Only 1 change room for male and female together! It was ridiculously awkward and weird! The conditioner bottle was totally empty, it shows that no one maintain or clean the area for days. I'm just glad that I only wasted $60 without choosing any other package as they can't even uphold the most basic general experience.

Unfortunately disappointed in my experience here. You are paying a pretty large fee for use of what is in effect 1 heated pool and 1 hot tub that due to the large volume of people they allow access to at one time doesn’t allow for a calming or relaxing experience. Whilst I respect the decision to allow children access I do feel it would be appropriate to have an adult only of child friendly zone. In comparison to other bath house experience I’ve had for a similar price point I’ve found this one lack luster.

Well worth the trip to relax and enjoy this beautiful setting. Very friendly and welcoming staff added to the overall experience in the mineral spa. We didn’t stay in the hotel but had a pleasant experience in the spa. Thank you for having us

My sister and I had the most relaxing weekend away at Hepburn. We both started with a treatment at the spa, where we were treated to the best facial we've ever had. I have sensitive skin, so facials can be hit and miss, but none of the products irritated my skin, which was great. We then had a 90min bathing session, followed by a wander through the spa apothecary. Here, Michael was absolutely amazing, and helped us concoct our own bath scrub and bath soak. I can't rate this experience highly enough! The rest of our weekend was equally as relaxing, with a stay in one of the escape villas and dinner at a local restaurant. If you're in need of rejuvenation, Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa will not disappoint!

We had the most amazing weekend at the bathhouse. The room was beautiful! Staff were friendly and welcoming. The bathhouse pools and spas were glorious. I can not fault any part of our experience. We didn’t want to leave.

One day is not enough to see it all. Wow . I totally love it. There's a café where you can take a break and a bite. The staff are wonderful, happy and friendly. A big shout out to Kathy who was The Cherry On Top. Thank you so very much. Totally appreciated .. You. Your kindness meant so much in a world full of grumpy service. 🎉🎖🎉🏆

If you’re heading to Daylesford and think you’ll just “pop in” to the Mill Market—think again. I had to physically usher my mum and sister out after hours of wandering, because we could’ve happily spent the whole day there. This place is a treasure trove. Yes, the vintage wares are incredible—retro furniture, vinyl records, quirky knick-knacks—but it’s not just a nostalgia fest. There’s modern giftware, a garden section with charming outdoor pieces, and even a cozy little café for when your legs give out from browsing. There are toilets on site. One moment I was admiring vintage crystal ware, the next I was face-to-face with a shelf of ventriloquist dolls that were equal parts fascinating and creepy. (Seriously, they looked like they had stories to tell—and not all of them wholesome.) Whether you’re a collector, a curious wanderer, or just someone who loves a good rummage, the Mill Market is a must. Just be warned: time disappears in there.

The Amazing Mill Markets in Daylesford is a treasure trove of vintage and antique goodies, spread over 6 acres with 300+ car spaces. Discover unique items, retro fashion, collectibles and more at this massive indoor market, open daily from 10am-6pm, with an onsite cafe to refuel"

This second-hand market is absolutely incredible — probably the largest in all of Victoria, even bigger than the one in Geelong! 🏺 Every section is so well organized, and you can easily spend an entire day wandering around discovering treasures. From antique furniture and vintage clothes to rare collectibles, there’s just so much to explore. The atmosphere is relaxed yet full of life, with friendly stall owners and lots of hidden gems waiting to be found. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love browsing unique finds, this place is an absolute must-visit when you come to Daylesford. Trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed — or disappointed!

Full of many treasurers . Lots of books, furniture, bric a brac , anything you can imagine. Great outdoor garden nursery full of plants and other surprises.

We visited these aptly named markets 7 years ago in 2018 and we had to revisit again. Being from Perth, WA - we don’t have anything that remotely resembles these incredible markets. So much variety and such quirkiness. We only had 2 hours here but easily spend a couple of days going through everything. We were concerned Our 2 young teenage boys wouldn’t last half an hour but even they found interest and lasted 1.5 hours before they got bored and wanted out. Thankfully the cafe onsite managed to placate them for a tad longer (although the sausage roll did take 20 minutes…) but their nougat made up for it and was amazing! Love the Eiffel Tower and gorilla out front! Will try to squeeze in another visit before we head home.

I have never been anyplace quite like this. I could spend all day and still have not explored all their is to see.

Beautiful spot for a walk around the lake. It took us about an hour with three kids in tow (one in pram). It's reasonably pram friendly, however, be mindful of extremely steep hills! There's a couple of them. The playground is fully fenced, which is a massive bonus!

Stunning lake. Great walking tracks. Well kept areas. But the little coffee place is terrible. The wait was ridiculous and I wouldn't think you could muck up making a peppermint tea.

Beautiful spot fot a day trip. So serene... so beautiful. The walk around the lake is full of tranquility. A must-go-to spot... be it summer, winter, spring or autumn... as each season this place has it own different beauty.

Within walking distance of town, Lake Daylesford is a man-made lake that was built in the 1930’s. On arrival, early in the morning, a mist was rising from the water. The picturesque lake offers a ‘peace mile’ walking track which is almost 3 k’s long. There is also plenty to do here, swimming, fishing and birdwatching. There is a playground, paddleboats (but I don’t think they have seen much action for a while) BBQ’s and table and chairs. Food, coffee and comfort facilities onsite too. Well worth a visit if you are in town

Nice, calm, and peaceful scenery 😌 Guards your food. The ducks in the lake can be naughty! 👀 I visited on a Monday summer night with friends around 4.30ish. There were only us on the deck. It was perfect day to chill. Lovely place.

One of the most popular and photogenic place in Daylesford. This place is stunning 😍 in Autumn 🍂 with the beautiful colours. Perfect place to spend a day and relax.

Such a beautiful place.. Visited in April so go to see beautiful fall colours.. driving from Melbourne to Daylesford is so scenic and beautiful. This place is very calm, peaceful and scenic. A good walk..not difficult at all.. nice place to spend time with family.. Public toilets are available. Coffee and basic snack places are available too.

Loch Ard Gorge is located just a bit further along the road from the 12 Apostles and is definitely worth a stop. The views from the lookouts are breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs and powerful waves crashing against massive rock formations. Even on a cloudy day, the scenery is stunning and full of raw natural beauty. The walk to the viewpoints is short and easy, and there’s convenient parking available nearby, making it a great stop along the Great Ocean Road.

Came early in the morning and there was no one around, enjoyed some peace & quiet with the whole view to myself. Probably would've been a decent spot for sunrise with the sun coming up a bit to the left of the view.

Great visit to the gorge, the weather was stunning, light wind and great temps. I know Google says it's closed but that only the beach access, the entire park is open. That being said there was to see even without the beach access. Make sure to stop if your traveling the great ocean road.

Really beautiful place a must see for a great ocean rd trip, plenty of parking and different walk tracks out just to note the stair case to go down the the beach is closed due to a rock fall and they need to get tech to come out and safely fix or replace the existing steps and the beach is absolutely gorgeous so I was bit disappointed to not get down there but overall it's just so stunning and the beach access is open further along at Sherbrooke River ** caution the water is extremely dangerous there so swimming is just a no go but the beach there once you cross the river is stunning the cliffs the sand there's no where that can compare the cliff side and the drama of the ocean ...treacherously stunning

Less crowded than the 12 Apostles Visitors Centre and offers more of an opportunity to have a light hike. There are two separate car parks but you can easily walk between each one.

Nice spot to visit. Currently unable to walk down the stairs to the beach. But the views from the top are awesome.

Loch Ard Gorge, nestled within Port Campbell National Park along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, is a must-visit destination renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, rich maritime history, and accessible walking trails.  ⸻ 🌊 Natural Beauty & Geological Marvels The gorge features towering yellow limestone cliffs enclosing a secluded sandy beach, offering a striking contrast against the turquoise waters of the Southern Ocean. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from several lookouts, including the main viewpoint and the lesser-known Tom and Eva Lookout, which provides insights into the area’s ongoing erosion processes .   Nearby geological formations such as The Razorback and the remnants of the Island Archway—now two separate pillars named Tom and Eva after the shipwreck survivors—add to the site’s allure .  ⸻ ⚓ Historical Significance Loch Ard Gorge is named after the clipper ship Loch Ard, which tragically wrecked nearby in 1878. Of the 54 passengers and crew, only two teenagers survived: Thomas Pearce and Eva Carmichael. Their harrowing tale of survival is commemorated through interpretive signage and the nearby cemetery where some victims are buried .   ⸻ 🚶‍♂️ Walking Trails & Accessibility The area boasts several easy-to-navigate walking trails:  • Geology Walk: An under-1km trail leading to The Razorback lookout. • Shipwreck Walk: A 1.4km path passing the cemetery and Mutton Bird Island Lookout. • Living on the Edge Walk: A 3.2km trail offering expansive coastal views .  These trails are well-maintained and suitable for visitors of all ages. However, please note that as of June 2025, beach access is temporarily closed due to safety concerns following a rockfall .  ⸻ 🐦 Wildlife Encounters Nature enthusiasts can witness the daily return of short-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) to Mutton Bird Island at dusk during spring and summer months. The area is also home to various bird species, including the uncommon rufous bristlebird .   ⸻ 📍 Visitor Information • Location: Approximately 3.5km northwest of The Twelve Apostles, accessible via the Great Ocean Road. • Facilities: Free parking is available. Restroom availability may vary. • Accessibility: While some trails are wheelchair-friendly, certain areas may have limited access. Assistance dogs are welcome .    ⸻ 📝 Final Thoughts Loch Ard Gorge offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth, making it a standout attraction along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re captivated by geological formations, intrigued by maritime history, or simply seeking serene coastal views, this site delivers an unforgettable experience.

The best place in Australia with the rocks on water and here's some of my photos the sunset clouds chills and moves and I'm not sure is there tickets or not and then there's like a footpath and it says watch out for snakes in there kept walking for 8 or 7 minutes and then I arrived in the twelve rock apostles so lucky and near the rocks there's like a beach to make sandcastles and swimming but when are you swimming watch out for the rock or it will bump your head. Nice rocks for the best trip but one more thing, Directions from Melbourne to twelve apostles is a very VERY LONG TRIP 3 HOURS AND 23 MINUTES and when I get back at Melbourne I didn't drive the car my husband did so I slept in the car. Nice rocks but long trip.

The Twelve Apostles is the main highlight along the Great Ocean Road and a must-see stop for any visitor. It can get very busy, but there is a large parking area and a well-organised visitor centre with toilets and facilities. During my visit, the weather was cloudy, and although the view was still impressive, I believe it would be even more breathtaking on a sunny day or during sunrise or sunset when the limestone stacks glow in golden hues. There is a bit of walking required from the car park to the viewing platform, but it is well-paved and manageable, even my elderly companion handled it comfortably.

The twelve apostles are no longer twelve, so it wasn't really special and I'm quite happy with another scenery spot sighting around Great Ocean Road because it was the same rocks, beach and cliffs. It is still a must visit to check your traveling bucket list. Because it's a famous landmark, this spot is more hectic than other photography spots around. But there are buses and helicopter service available. There are restrooms and refill water taps. Two trekking paths to choose from, and spots for taking pictures.

Twelve Apostles is one of the best tourist spots to experience in Australia. Utmost safety and security is ensured, and the tourists are well taken care of. Even the nearby roads are well maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for all. Entire coastline is as clean as it gets, with neither human activity nor any kind of disturbance to the nature. On a clear weather day, the tourists are lucky enough to witness a unique bluish green tinge of the ocean and a cool breeze getting along with it. I would definitely recommend this place to all. Really worth it!

Fantastic even though it was bust (as to be expected) easy parking and navigation. Great little kiosk with hot and cold foods. Amenities in the same building. Insufficient seating with none indoors. Staff were great. Path was easy and accessible.

It’s nice, but unfortunately not wow. For such a long drive to get to, it didn’t knock my socks off. Hold on to your hats, it get very windy there. I much preferred the blue mountain lookout in NSW to be honest.

We recently visited the breathtaking Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road — a truly magnificent natural wonder. These towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are a reminder of nature’s power and beauty. The drive itself was a real treat, winding along stunning coastal cliffs and charming seaside towns. On the way back, we took the inland route via the M1, which offered equally beautiful landscapes and made for a much quicker return. An unforgettable experience all around.

Exceptional!! The only way to see the coastline. Little tip, get there early before the tour buses arrive!! Wonderful staff , very smooth ride and amazing views. Never gets old no matter how many times you’ve visited this region

To understand the sheer expanse of The coastline the one hour flight is well worth it. The team and pilots were fantastic and very professional. Very informative commentary during flight, we will be back and will be bringing the family .. thanks again guys for fitting us in at short notice.

Wonderful flight over the Great Ocean Road. I sat at the front and, although a windy day, the pilot was so skilled, you wouldn’t have known it! I jumped to the chance with our tour guide to do this and DID MOT REGRET

My mom had the lifetime experience in a helicopter ride n the man name Henry made it possible in a best wonderful way. Absolutely amazing experience & excellent customer service. Must try it I would recommend 101%.

Amazing experience today! The staff were friendly, the pilot was fantastic and the ride was incredible! This is an experience I would highly recommend.

Great experience. Perfect way to see the apostles. Very professional and pleasant staff. Thanks Ollie for the awesome helicopter ride and informative flight.

Awesome experience and value for $$. Great tours from the air are different and could prepare us where we might spend more time. Since we came during whale season, we managed to see better from the top view. Recommended

This is undoubtedly a place steeped in mystique, definitely worth a visit. It reveals a story that took place in 1900, when a group of children from a boarding school were visiting this mountain. Four girls decided to explore the rock on their own. One of them got scared and returned to the other children. Three girls continued on their way, soon joined by their maths teacher. Eventually, they went missing. One girl was found shortly after, but she couldn't explain what had happened. After the investigation begins, a series of tragic incidents and suicides occur! It’s chilling! Visiting the mountain can be challenging for people with disabilities. However, they can still feel the full power of this place, the power of this rock, from below! Before the climb to the rock, there is a museum dedicated to this story. This place truly evokes a certain sense of fear, especially if you learn about the history before starting the ascent.

Perfect spot for a relaxing full-day escape! Loved spending the whole day here — the flat-rate parking makes it super convenient, no need to worry about time. There are plenty of picnic areas with great shade and clean facilities. The walking and hiking trails are beautiful and peaceful, surrounded by nature and fresh air. Perfect place to unwind, have lunch with friends, or just enjoy a quiet solo day outdoors. Highly recommend bringing a picnic mat and snacks!

Hanging Rock is a striking geological formation located near Woodend, about an hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne, Victoria. Known for its mysterious rock formations and panoramic views, this ancient volcanic outcrop is a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and wildlife spotting. Made famous by the novel and film Picnic at Hanging Rock, the site holds cultural and historical significance and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local legend. A must-visit for nature lovers and day-trippers from Melbourne.

Magical! We were lucky to do it when it was a low traffic day. I got no other tourists in my photos. We didn't get held up by slow walkers it was a beautiful 20° day clear sky sun out. Magical. I suggest taking a small picnic lunch up and having it at the top. Beautiful! Oh and make sure you at least go on the stairs track. That's where the magic is!

Great place for a short family hike. Takes 20 min to reach the top. Good facilities for a picnic with BBQ. Cost 15$ for car access.

An absolute gorgeous place to go for a weekend hike, complete with a fantastic cafe for a bite afterwards. Worth avoiding hot days though, climbing the may be challenging for some people.

Nice place to visit with family if you would like to have a short walk with nice landscape view. However, car entry ticket price is $15 which seems to be bit overprice compared to what park has to offer. Its one time go place though...

We arrived at this place at first it felt like stepping into a different world. It was beautiful, peaceful, serene, and even seen wildlife, and then sadly, not too long into going in, other humans came in talking and laughing so very loudly, screaming kids running around. And the beauty just kinda went away. There were signs up saying to keep noise levels down, but most humans have no respect for anyone or anything anymore. It was also school holiday time, so that probably didn't help, but when that's the only time you can go, it makes it hard. It was still beautiful, despite the extreme loudness of adults and children 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ We got up to the walk way part and I'm scared of heights, but I pushed myself to do it all, as it was beautiful. But the number of adults and children repeatedly making it bounce was not pleasent. I don't mind people doing it once as a bit of fun, but repeatedly, grow up. Despite other humans peeing me off and somewhat ruining this experience, I did enjoy myself, and I will try to go back during non school holiday time, when hopefully it won't be as busy. A wonderful experience. Try to go when it's not so busy and try to be mindful of noise levels and other people. If people were quiet, I reckon we would have gotten to see more wildlife.

We had a great time at Otway Fly Treetop adventures. It wasn't the greatest weather but that kept the crowds away and really left the whole park to us. It's a little bit of a walk from the car park but the disabled parking is much closer. Once you start your adventure it's a nice down hill trek, climbing up to the tree tops isn't terrible. It's a nice walk through the tree tops and super safe. Once you get to the end of the tree tops walk way you start your trek back up hill and it gets to be a climb. If it gets too much you can call the desk and they will send a buggy to get you. Overall we really enjoyed our time doing the walk. If you're super adventurous you can do their zip line adventure as well.

We have been here multiple times before and we were excited to return but a little disappointed. As a family of 5 with young kids, we can confidently advise that the experience was negatively impacted by the addition of cheap fairies, gnomes and dragons which seems to be purchased from the local $2 shop. Without this sideshow, we would have given Otway Fly another star. As owners or visitors please focus on the breathtaking rainforest and the impressive canopy walk. The attraction speaks for itself with the added cheap plastic mythical creatures. Staff were lovely and facilities/visitor centre well maintained and clean. Hidden gem of South Eastern Australia, minus the unicorns.

Put on your walking shoes. It is lovely to walk among the treetops and the canopy. Its approx 1km to the tower. To start, there is a 20 min down-hill walk (and 30+ mins back. Lol) to the start of the treetop walk. Then the walk. Then scores of steps down. Then a 1 km uphill walk back. There is a cafe at the Visitors Centre. Also meet here for the 'fly'. Lockers, loos, and playground here too. And a gift shop... 🎁

We went on the Tree Top and Rain Forest walks. Just stunning! So unique to see the rain forest from above. The walk was a bit challenging (especially on the return) but quite achievable for most people. The drive to the venue was worth the journey. Great value for money. Recommend this as an activity. We didn’t do the aerial run. But it looks exciting. Would recommend to book in advance if you want to do this as it was booked out.

Very cool place, beautifully looked after you can tell the groundskeepers love their work. The flying fox was so much fun and the people are so kind and professional! I was a bit scared but felt at ease quickly. The cafe staff and reception staff are also very lovely 100% recommend this place! Thank you so much! As I was typing this an employee checked on me to make sure I was alright (I’m by myself sitting on the swing) everyone here is so so sweet!

We did the Zipline package, and recommend that you give yourself at least 5 hours to see everything - it is a lot of walking. Well worth it, but more walking than we expected. To reduce the amount of walking, you should do an early zipline, as you end near the bottom and you can do the tree top walk on the way up. No need to walk it 2X. Staff were very knowledgeable and fun. I felt safe, the equipment was well maintained and the staff ensured we were properly fitted, etc. I would do it again!