Need a nature break? How to spend 2 days in the Grampians, Victoria

Sometimes we all need a break – an escape from the everyday, away from the routine of home – and what better place to do this than immersed in nature?

Just three hours from Melbourne awaits rugged sandstone ranges, cascading waterfalls and sweeping views. It’s the Grampians National Park, one of Victoria’s most spectacular natural treasures. Known as Gariwerd to the traditional owners, this ancient landscape is rich in Aboriginal rock art sites, native wildlife, and wildflower displays that sprinkle the earth each spring with a smattering of colour.

The Grampians attracts all levels of hikers and outdoor adventurers, and invites those looking to connect with nature some peaceful, mindful moments.

The best way to visit the Grampians National Park is by car. So, book yourself a cosy cottage, pack the car with plenty of tasty treats, throw in your hiking shoes and backpack and hit the road.

Here’s our guide to making the most of a couple of days enjoying a nature break in the Grampians.

Day 1

Boroka Lookout

Rise and shine to the local soundtrack of native birdsong, with cheeky cockatoos, magpies, wrens and finches announcing the day. Take your morning cuppa out onto the deck, soak up the sun, and enjoy the company of your new feathered friends.

Ease into your nature break with a drive on Mt Victory Rd through the heart of the Grampians to stop at iconic short hikes and lookouts. Drive carefully on the winding road and keep an eye out for wildlife as you climb through the mountains.

Make your first stop Boroka Lookout, with sweeping views towards Lake Bellfield and out to open farmland to the east. Continue on Mount Victory Rd to Reed Lookout and the Balconies – a spot that offers a two-for-one lookout. You can park and view the western side of the ranges and the Victoria Valley. Follow the 2km return trail for an easy walk to the Balconies. You’ll see unique rock formations jut out over the valley at 760m elevation.

Mackenzie Falls

The next stop is worth the steep walk down to Mackenzie Falls and along the river bearing the same name. This is one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls, and in the winter months there’s a significant amount of water rushing over the rockface. The walk is steep with lots of steps and potential slippery rocks at the bottom from the waterfall spray, so proceed with mild caution.

While chasing waterfalls, head to Beehive Falls along Roses Gap Rd. Wander along an easy path, which is only 2.8km return, to the beautiful cascading waterfall and rest on the large boulders that are scattered at the base of the falls while taking in the view.

Venus Baths

Return to Halls Gap along the Mount Zero Rd (unsealed) for a bite to eat before taking the easy 2.3km return walk to Venus Baths, where deep rockpools can be found along the river. On a warm day it’s nice to dip your toes (or more) in and enjoy the cool water.

Before returning back to the cottage, visit the eastern grey kangaroos on the town sports oval where they graze and laze all day long. Remember to keep your distance – while cute, they are wild animals and must be respected.

Enjoy dinner in Halls Gap at Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co, a local brew pub with a menu featuring great burgers and an excellent selection of craft beers.

Sleep deeply in the shadow of the peaks of the Grampians, where the only sounds are those of nature, the breeze in the trees and the calls of the nocturnal wildlife.

Day 2

Hike to The Pinnacle

Enjoy some DIY breakfast in the cottage kitchen before checking out. It’s important to make sure breakfast is a hearty serve as you’ll need the energy for today’s activity – a return hike to The Pinnacle. This is one of the highlights of the Grampians, with views over the Halls Gap township and numerous peaks. Pack yourself a picnic lunch and some snacks to enjoy on the trail, and take plenty of water.

There are many ways to access this hike – a good option is to drive to the Wonderland car park and join the hike trail. This hike is about a two-hour round trip depending on your fitness level. It’s quite steep and rocky in some places so be sure to wear sturdy footwear and mind your step as the rocks can be slippery when wet.

The trail meanders through beautiful bushland and past a trickling waterfall. Climb through Silent St, a rocky corridor with a ladder at each end, and finally to the lookout of The Pinnacle, with spectacular views over the town of Halls Gap, the escarpment, Lake Bellfield and the eastern ranges. There is plenty of space here to sit, rest and enjoy a picnic.

On the return walk to the car park, you can take the staircase through the Grand Canyon, which has been carved out over thousands of years by the water that runs through the rock formations.

Return back to the Halls Gap town centre and grab yourself an ice-cream before hitting the road – you’ve certainly earnt it. Make the journey back home having spent two full days immersed in nature, breathing fresh crisp air, moving your body and taking in spectacular scenery.

Where to stay in the Grampians

Stay at the Blue Wren Mews, a cosy cottage centrally located in Halls Gap. This two-bedroom cottage can accommodate up to five guests in its spacious open-plan design.

The full-size kitchen allows guests to prepare hearty breakfasts, generous grazing platters or home-cooked dinners.  The backyard has a view to the rocky mountain range and a large fire pit which is perfect for toasting marshmallows as the sunsets.

The porch is the perfect place for a morning cuppa as you enjoy the sounds of the outdoors. The cottage tips its hat to its namesake with little touches here and there – the bedside lamps in the master bedroom are adorned with a blue wren, as well as the window decals and stained glass. There are extra touches like games, books and entertainment, free Wi-Fi and visitor information as well.

Disclaimer: The writer was a guest of Blue Wren Mews.