Great Southern Rail Trail

Stretching across the lush landscapes of southern Victoria, the Great Southern Rail Trail is a multi-use path that follows a historic railway corridor from Leongatha to Yarram and beyond. This 90-kilometer trail offers a serene journey through rolling green hills, dairy farms, and small country towns, perfect for cyclists, walkers, and horse riders. With its gentle gradients and well-maintained surface, it's an accessible adventure for families and casual riders seeking a taste of rural Australia.

Highlights & What to See

• Historic Rail Heritage: Explore restored stations and rail infrastructure at stops like Koonwarra, where you can see vintage carriages and learn about the line's history.
• Koonwarra Village: A must-stop for its artisan bakery, café culture, and the famous Koonwarra Farmers Market (Sundays) — grab a pie and coffee before pedaling on.
• Tarwin River Wetlands: Just off the trail near Meeniyan, this birdwatching haven is home to waterbirds and offers a peaceful picnic spot.
• Yarram: The trail's eastern terminus, a charming town with heritage buildings, the Yarram Heritage Walk, and excellent local produce at the Yarram Farmers Market.
• Scenic Farmland: The trail winds through working dairy farms, with views of the Strzelecki Ranges and glimpses of native wildlife like kangaroos and echidnas.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for a leisurely ride of the entire trail (around 5–6 hours cycling, plus stops). If you're short on time, focus on the most scenic section between Leongatha and Koonwarra (about 15 km), which takes 1–2 hours. Overnight trips are popular, with accommodation in Leongatha, Koonwarra, or Yarram — split the ride over two days for a relaxed pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wilsons Promontory National Park: A 45-minute drive from Yarram offers spectacular coastal hikes and pristine beaches — perfect for a nature-filled extension.
• South Gippsland Coast: Explore the beaches of Inverloch, Venus Bay, and Sandy Point, all within an hour's drive from the trail.
• Phillip Island: Famous for the Penguin Parade, this island is a 1.5-hour drive from Leongatha and makes a great day trip.
• Strzelecki Ranges: For hikers, the nearby Strzelecki State Forest offers trails through tall forests and fern gullies.
• Leongatha: The trail's starting point has excellent cafés, the Leongatha Heritage Walk, and the Coal Creek Heritage Village.

Please check official sources for current details.