The Grampians provides the perfect summer escape 

Stay cool this summer by skipping the beach and heading inland to the beautiful Grampians. The region offers many opportunities to stay cool in the summer with its refreshing lakes and shaded waterways, dazzling explorers with its spectacular beauty.

Lakes & Waterways: Surrounded by stunning scenery the warmer months are the perfect time to cool down and relax in the glistening waters of the Grampians. Take in the panoramic views of the breathtaking mountains and reflective waters at Lake Bellfield just 5km from the main shops in Halls Gap. Enjoy the refreshing water with a swim or from a canoe or kayak, or simply relish the lake’s beauty from the shore by having a picnic. For a more secluded water detox, Lake Wartook is a fin-tastic spot for fly and shore fishing. Witness the sunset reflected on the water by going for an evening stroll to Reed Lookout. Only 4km from Ararat, Green Hill Lake is the perfect spot for affordable getaways with free camping, trout galore for keen anglers, and walking and cycling tracks that run all the way into town. For boating trips, Lake Fyans is the go-to destination for fishing redfin and trout or for simply gliding across the water and enjoying the soothing sights and sounds of the bushland.

Waterfalls: MacKenzie Falls will make adventurers want to go chasing waterfalls with its roaring waters cascading over huge cliffs sending refreshing sprays of rainbow mist onto those standing close by. One of the largest waterfalls in Victoria, explorers can take in the spectacular sight from the lookout platform or for a challenge can climb the steep path to the base of the Falls. Silverband Falls is the perfect walk to enjoy with the littlies, with an easy stroll along a shaded forest of ferns to the base of the falls. The bubbling water pouring into the creek below is a tranquil sight for walkers with an abundance of wildlife to spot.

Family Fun Activities: Bond with both nature and your loved ones by discovering the many family-friendly activities the Grampians has to offer. Make memories with wildlife at the Halls Gap Zoo which homes more than 160 species, including native critters like kangaroos, crocodiles and more exotic animals like cheetahs, giraffes and monkeys. Kids can discover wildlife close-up with the zoo’s incredible animal encounters ranging from playing with dingoes, holding a snake or hand feeding meerkats. Up for a scenic adventure, Absolute Outdoors offers rock-climbing, guided walks, canoeing, Stand-Up Paddle-boarding, abseiling and mountain biking. Everything to fulfil an outdoorsy person’s dreams, these experiences are uniquely crafted for half, full and multi-day activities and will be a memory families will cherish. A hole in one for all day family fun, Grampians Adventure Golf’s tee-rific 18-hole bushland course, café-bar, and art gallery has it all! For a delicious treat after hitting it off on the green, the Adventure Café Bar boasts a lush garden shaded native plants, and flowering trees. Listen to the sweet sounds of bird chirping while relishing a glass of wine and a hearty meal. Escape the heat of the afternoon by appreciating the contemporary art made by talented local artists at the MOCO Gallery. With the art bound to inspire, visitors can create their own artwork by joining one of the many artist-led workshops and classes.

Walks: Soak in the sun rays while relishing the enchanting sights of the bushland on one of the Grampians’ many iconic walks. The perfect walk for travelling with young ones, Venus Baths are found along a short trail that will astound walkers with its colourful wildflowers and glimpses of wildlife. Cool off in the refreshing rockpools.. For a one of a kind commune with nature, the Grampians Peaks Trail is an incredible hiking experience that will give walkers a real taste of the diverse plant and animal life, rugged mountain peaks and magnificent panoramic views. Flexible for all skill levels and personal needs, the trail can be experienced in a variety of ways. From the full 13-day peaks trail, a challenge for experienced hikers, to anywhere from 3-day hikes to day walks, the trail is one of the must-do highlights of the Grampians.

From casting a line on a fishing adventure, having close encounters with wildlife, or taking in the remarkable landscape from the top of a mountain, the Grampians region is the perfect family getaway this summer.

For more information on the Grampians region: https://www.visitgrampians.com.au/