Erica

Nestled in the heart of Gippsland, Erica is a tiny but mighty township that punches well above its weight as a gateway to some of Victoria's wildest and most beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by towering mountain ash forests, ferny gullies, and the headwaters of the Thomson River, this former timber town offers a genuine slice of Australian bush life. Think misty mornings, the earthy scent of eucalyptus, and a pace of life that slows you right down. For self-drive adventurers, Erica is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Baw Baw National Park and the iconic Walhalla Goldfields region — without the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Baw Baw National Park – Just a short drive north, this alpine park offers spectacular walks through snow gum woodlands and subalpine meadows. In winter, it's a cross-country skiing paradise; in summer, the wildflowers are dazzling.
• Walhalla – A beautifully preserved gold-rush town tucked in a narrow valley. Wander its historic streets, visit the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine, and soak up the eerie, romantic atmosphere of a place time almost forgot.
• Thomson River Valley – Explore the river's headwaters via scenic drives and short bushwalks. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wallabies among the towering mountain ash.
• Erica State Forest – Right on the town's doorstep, this forest offers 4WD tracks, mountain biking, and peaceful picnic spots beside creeks. It's a quiet escape into classic Australian bush.
• Local Heritage Walk – Take a self-guided stroll past Erica's historic timber mill sites and old railway remnants, telling the story of the town's boom-and-bust logging past.

Suggested Time to Spend

Erica itself can be explored in a couple of hours, but plan to spend at least one full day here to properly enjoy the surrounding national parks and historic towns. A weekend is ideal: arrive early Saturday, spend the morning exploring Walhalla, then head into Baw Baw for an afternoon walk. Overnight in Erica or nearby Rawson, and use Sunday for a deeper forest adventure or a leisurely drive along the Thomson River. If you're a keen hiker or mountain biker, three days would let you tackle longer trails and fully unwind.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Walhalla – The must-visit gold-rush town, just 20 minutes south by winding road. Combine with a ride on the historic Walhalla Goldfields Railway.
• Baw Baw Village – The alpine hub of Baw Baw National Park, with ski lifts in winter and walking trails year-round. About 30 minutes north.
• Rawson – A small town on the Thomson River, popular for fishing and canoeing. It's only 5 minutes from Erica and has a handy general store.
• Moondarra State Park – About 20 minutes west, this park centres on the Moondarra Reservoir and offers great birdwatching, boating, and lakeside walks.
• Moe – The nearest major town, 30 minutes south, with supermarkets, accommodation, and the Old Gippstown heritage village. Useful for supplies.

Please check official sources for current details.