Stawell

Stawell, the gateway to the Grampians, is a historic gold-mining town with a proud sporting heritage. The scent of eucalyptus and the distant hum of the Stawell Gift, Australia's richest footrace, infuse the air. This is a place where you can pan for gold in the morning, hike through ancient sandstone ranges by afternoon, and share a yarn with locals over a parma at the pub.

Highlights & What to See

• Stawell Gift Hall of Fame & Museum – Dive into the history of the iconic 120-metre sprint, which has been held annually since 1878. See trophies, photos, and memorabilia from legends like Betty Cuthbert.
• Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) – Just a short drive south, this park offers spectacular bushwalking, Aboriginal rock art sites, and lookouts like the Balconies and Mackenzie Falls.
• Stawell Gold Mine Tours – Descend into the historic underground workings (surface tours also available) to experience the town’s golden past firsthand.
• Big Hill Lookout – A quick climb rewards you with panoramic views over the town and the surrounding farmland, especially golden at sunset.
• Stawell Post Office & Town Hall – Admire the striking Victorian-era architecture that speaks to the wealth generated during the gold rush.
• Pleasant Creek – A peaceful spot for a picnic or a paddle, with walking trails along the creek lined with river red gums.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two days is ideal to combine the town’s heritage attractions with a day trip into the Grampians. If you’re passing through on the Western Highway, half a day is enough for the museum and a quick look at the main street. To truly soak in the landscape, consider spending three days and including a longer walk in the national park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Halls Gap – The main tourist hub of the Grampians, with accommodation, galleries, and access to the Pinnacle hike.
• Horsham – A regional centre with the Wimmera River and the Brambuk Cultural Centre.
• Great Western – A tiny town famous for its vineyards and the historic Great Western Hotel.
• Ararat – Another gold-rush town with a strong Chinese heritage and the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre.
• Grampians Peaks Trail – A multi-day hiking challenge for experienced bushwalkers, starting near Stawell.

Please check official sources for current details.