Stawell

Stawell, a historic gold-rush town at the foot of the Grampians, offers a quintessential Victorian country experience. Its wide, tree-lined streets are dotted with grand 19th-century buildings, and the nearby national park delivers world-class hiking and wildlife. This is a place where you can soak up gold-rush history in the morning and be on a rugged mountain trail by afternoon.

Highlights & What to See

• Grampians National Park (Gariwerd): The park’s dramatic sandstone ranges, Aboriginal rock-art sites, and lookouts like The Balconies and Boroka Lookout are must-sees. Hike to the summit of Mount Stapylton for panoramic views.
• Stawell Gold Mine & Historical Walk: Join a tour of the still-operating gold mine or follow the self-guided heritage walk past the Town Hall, courthouse, and miners’ cottages that recall the 1850s boom.
• Stawell Gift: Australia’s richest footrace, held annually on Easter Saturday, draws crowds for a carnival atmosphere and world-class sprinting.
• Bunjil’s Shelter & Aboriginal Rock Art: In the Grampians, see one of Victoria’s most significant Aboriginal art sites, with ochre paintings of Bunjil the creator spirit.
• MacKenzie Falls: A spectacular year-round waterfall in the Grampians, easily accessible via a short walk from the carpark.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to explore both Stawell and the Grampians. Spend the first day on the heritage walk and a gold-mine tour, then dedicate the second day to a major Grampians hike or scenic drive. If you have a third day, add a longer walk like the Pinnacle or a visit to the rock-art sites. The town is a convenient base for Grampians adventures, with accommodation ranging from historic pubs to motels.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Halls Gap: The main gateway to the Grampians, 30 minutes south, with walking trails, wildlife parks, and dining.
• Great Western: A wine region famous for its robust reds, especially Shiraz, with cellar doors like Seppelt and Best’s.
• Ararat: Another gold-rush town with a significant Chinese heritage, home to the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre.
• The Grampians Peaks Trail: A multi-day hiking experience for serious trekkers, linking Stawell and Halls Gap.

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