Just off the Hume Freeway, an easy hour and a half drive from Melbourne’s CBD, lies the historic country town of Seymour.

Boasting a strong military history generated from the nearby Puckapunyal Army Base, many of the key attractions reflect its importance to the town.

Surrounded by the flowing Goulburn River, the prosperous farmland yields some of Victoria’s finest wine grapes that visitors can experience at multiple cellar doors.

For fresh country air, wide open space, bushland walks and nourishing fare, Seymour is a classic regional escape.

Things to do in Seymour

Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk

A tribute to more than 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam War, this memorial is a stark reminder of those who bravely fought for their country. A wall of panels weaves along the reserve listing all the names of those who served. Nearby, you can see a tank and a mounted helicopter that were used in the war. Ceremonies are held here to commemorate days of significance in Australia’s war history throughout the year. There is plenty of parking available surrounding the walk and the visitor information centre is nearby.

Vietnam Veterans Walk: High St, at the junction of Emily St and Tallarook St, Seymour.

Wine by Sam

In the heart of town, winemaker Sam Plunkett has set up an inviting cellar door. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings from the delightful and knowledgeable staff. Sam’s passion and dedication to creating palate-pleasing wines while taking a few risks along the way is evident in the stories shared. Unique varieties are on offer, from crisp whites to warming reds. A light menu featuring regional produce is also available, complemented by coffee and locally baked cakes.

Wine by Sam: 69 Anzac Ave, Seymour.

Goulburn River Walk

Meandering along the banks of the river among the towering gum trees is an accessible walking path, starting from New Crossing Place Lions Park and winding its way to the historic Goulburn River Bridge. Built in 1893, visitors can see the bridge’s full expanse from the riverside viewing platform. However, crossing the bridge is prohibited due to safety concerns. Slow the pace and relax at the picnic spots and park benches dotted along the trail to enjoy the river and surrounding bushland.

Goulburn River Walk: Access the walk and Lions Park from Manners St, Seymour.

Places to eat and drink in Seymour

Fowles Wine

A quick 12-minute drive further north along the Hume Freeway is the revitalised Fowles Wine. Enter through the well-stocked food store and tasting room or make a beeline for the spectacular restaurant. The menu has small and large plates which all feature local produce complemented by wines made on site. Owner David Fowles proudly states that “local flavour” features not just on the menu but throughout the beautiful building. Upcycling and repurposing can be seen all around, from the rich, wooden tabletops to the wine shed’s fabulous light fittings made from salvaged fencing wire. Even the toilets boast upcycled wash basins.

Fowles Wine: Corner Hume Fwy and Lambing Gully Rd, Avenel.

The Brewer’s Table

Set in an historic shop on the town’s main street, this spacious cafe offers an all-day menu from breakfast through to dinner. The friendly staff welcome locals and visitors alike and chat warmly about the weather, local footy and, most importantly, the menu specials, which are home-made, seasonal dishes. Temptation is presented in the jam-packed cabinet of sweet treats featuring traditional country favourites. A wood heater hums away in the corner creating a cosy atmosphere and the coffee machine is in high demand. There is a cute little pebbled courtyard at the back of the cafe which is perfect on a sunny afternoon for a cake and a cuppa.

The Brewer’s Table: 42 Station Street, Seymour.

Araminta’s Tea Rooms

A country classic, Araminta’s Tea Rooms offer more than just the staple scones with jam and cream. All menu items are made on the premises, from the mouth-watering cakes and slices to the soup and quiche. The menu is simple but satisfying and service to the table is friendly. The venue is fully licensed and open for evening events on occasion.

Araminta’s Tea Rooms: 56A Tallarook St, Seymour.

Seymour accommodation: Places to stay in Seymour

The Big 4 Seymour Holiday Park is located right on the banks of the beautiful Goulburn River, offering a range of cabins and campsites perfect for families.

Otherwise, choose from a range of accommodation options on Airbnb.

Getting to Seymour

Seymour is located just off the Hume Freeway, approximately 116km from Melbourne’s CBD.

If travelling from northern Victoria, head towards Bendigo and pick up the McIvor Highway heading south east and join the Northern Highway continuing south. Turn off on the Seymour-Tooborac Rd which takes you directly into town.

Seymour is also accessible by V/Line train and coach service, approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes journey from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station. There are multiple departures daily. The coach and train service stop at the historic train station in the centre of Seymour.