Less than an hour’s easy drive east of Melbourne is the splendour of West Gippsland. This region, situated in the majesty of the Baw Baw Plateau, comprises breath taking scenery, a feast for the senses through our gourmet country area, a journey through our gold heritage at Walhalla historic township and the adventure and energy of the mountain rivers region. To get to West Gippsland from Melbourne, head east, enter via the M1 into Pakenham, Garfield, Drouin, Warragul and Yarragon or take the scenic drive through the Yarra Valley, via Gembrook into Pakenham or via Powelltown and into Noojee. From Sydney, enter as the last stop on your Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive experience.
Head to
Mt Baw Baw for year-round family fun. Nestled on the southern tip of the Great Dividing Range, Mt Baw Baw offers a unique snow holiday experience for the whole family, with a choice of down hill and cross country skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snow tubing and snow play. In the green season, the mountain’s alpine flowers create a perfect backdrop for bush-walking, mountain bike riding, special events or simply relaxing. Enjoy fine food and wine year round at Village Central Restaurant and Bar, offering stunning views. Why not stay awhile, in the wide selection of accommodation lodges and apartments. Mt Baw Baw is the closest downhill ski resort to Melbourne (just 2 ½ hours drive).
The
Walhalla and Mountain Rivers Trail takes you to the mountain towns of Erica, Rawson and Walhalla. Walhalla was a bustling gold mining town in the late 1800s with over 3,000 people, 10 hotels, 7 churches, schools and shops. Today the township has a population fewer than 20. Experience history by taking a tour of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine or riding the
Walhalla Goldfields Railway. Mt St Gwinear offers great cross country skiing, tobogganing and in the green season, walking trails. Ski cross-country from
Mt. St Gwinear to Baw-Baw Village and back, try a horse ride or a weekend white-water rafting on the Thomson River. Go camping, four–wheel-driving, paintballing, gold panning, trout fishing or simply sit by the river with a picnic and soak up the idyllic beauty of these mountain streams. Try out the
South Face Road (unsealed), conveniently connecting Mt Baw Baw south-east to Rawson, Erica, Walhalla, Moe and the Latrobe Valley.
In West Gippsland you will tour through the picturesque region known as
Gippsland Gourmet Country. Set amidst rolling green hills and lush valleys, this area highlights the food, wine, arts and cultural treasures of West Gippsland. You can purchase the freshest variety of local produce, including cheeses, fruits, vegetables, fish and free range meats. The area is also home to many artisans, craft and antique businesses and accommodation that will delight you with the warmth of good country hospitality. Noojee is surrounded by bush and boasts a restored Trestle Bridge, great walks such as the Loch Valley Tramway and the Ada Tree and spectacular natural attractions like Toorongo Falls.
The
Baw Baw Country Wine Trail links the many quality wineries in this area that offer a boutique cellar door experience. The area is also home to many talented
artists whose work can be viewed and purchased in a range of galleries and studios. Neerim South, Drouin and the commercial hub of Warragul all offer a great range of shopping, accommodation and restaurants.
At Yarragon Village, enjoy boutique shopping with the best arts, fashion, jewellery, books, antiques, gifts and other speciality stores. Known initially as Waterloo, the town of Yarragon was officially granted its title in 1883. The town, which was once renowned for its booming timber industry and swampland, grew into a very successful pioneering town. Yarragon today is a ‘bustling’ town, with hours of entertainment to be had. Dine at Yarragon’s attractive cafes either alfresco or indoors. Fresh produce, local cheeses and freshly baked bread make a visit to Yarragon irresistible.
What ever you choose to do, we are sure you will be inspired by Gippsland.
Call 1800 234 793 for more information, or drop into one of our visitor centres.