Lake Eildon

Lake Eildon is a vast man-made reservoir in Victoria’s High Country, created by damming the Goulburn River. Its deep blue waters, forested shores, and hundreds of kilometres of shoreline make it a paradise for water sports, fishing, and camping. The lake is encircled by the Lake Eildon National Park, offering bushwalking and wildlife spotting. It’s a classic Aussie getaway where you can swim, kayak, water-ski, or simply relax by the water with a picnic.

Highlights & What to See

• Water sports hub: The lake is famous for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet-skiing – head to the main boat ramps at Bonnie Doon or Eildon township.
• Fishing paradise: Cast a line for Murray cod, trout, and redfin; the Goulburn River below the dam is also excellent.
• Lake Eildon National Park: Explore walking trails through box-ironbark forests, with lookouts over the lake and chances to see kangaroos and wallabies.
• Houseboat hire: Rent a houseboat for a floating holiday – a quintessential Australian experience on the water.
• Eildon township: A small service town with cafes, a general store, and the historic Eildon Weir wall.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a minimum of two to three days to fully enjoy Lake Eildon. A day trip from Melbourne (about 2 hours drive) is possible if you just want to have a swim and lunch, but you’ll want longer to explore the national park, go fishing, or take out a boat. A weekend allows for a relaxed pace – spend one day on the water and another hiking or visiting nearby towns.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mansfield: A charming High Country town with great cafes and the gateway to Mount Buller ski resort.
• Mount Buller: Victoria’s most accessible snow resort, with skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer.
• Yea: A historic gold-rush town with antique shops and the Yea Wetlands.
• Alexandra: A quiet town with a lovely main street and the Rubicon Valley scenic drive.
• Lake Nillahcootie: A smaller, quieter lake to the east, perfect for a more serene water experience.

Please check official sources for current details.