Situated at the base of the Grampians National Park, Stawell is a lovely town with a great history and a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage and adventure. Known as the entrance to the Grampians, this pretty town has more to offer than just its gold mining past, with views of rugged mountains, arts and dining. Stawell is the tourist hub for those who want to walk the Grampians Peaks Trail, see ancient art and take in the scenery.
A Golden History: Stawell’s Past
Stawell’s history is all about the gold rush. Founded in 1853 as Pleasant Creek, the town became a major mining centre attracting miners and adventurers from everywhere. The Stawell Gold Mines, one of the largest and oldest in Victoria, is still operating today and the annual Stawell Gift held at Central Park is a tribute to this golden past, with athletes from around the world competing. You can tour the mine and see the ongoing gold mining in the area, often included as a highlight on a Grampians day tour.
How Stawell Got Its Name
Originally called Pleasant Creek, the town was renamed after Sir William Stawell, Victoria’s first Attorney General. The area boomed with gold and the name change was to reflect its new importance. As the town grew it became a hub of local culture, industry and tourism with its proximity to the Grampians National Park.
Things to See and Do
There’s plenty to do in Stawell and the surrounding area. For history lovers, the silo art trail will give you a glimpse into local stories and art; for outdoor enthusiasts, there’s a network of walking tracks through the Grampians National Park. For a different view, take to the skies with Grampians Helicopters and see the jagged mountain ranges of Mount William and Boroka Lookout. For those who prefer the ground, there’s rock climbing on Hollow Mountain and Mount Sturgeon.
Ancient Art and Aboriginal Heritage
The Grampians has some of Australia’s oldest and most important Aboriginal rock art sites. The art, created by the Djab Wurrung and other local groups, gives insight into the region’s Aboriginal history. Sites like Heatherlie Quarry and MacKenzie Falls show the significance of the Grampians to the traditional owners. Visiting these areas allows you to connect with the cultural and spiritual landscape.
Joy and Scenic Helicopter Flights
For a more thrilling way to see the stunning Grampians, take a scenic flight with Grampians Helicopters. Get panoramic views of the rugged mountain ranges, Lake Wartook, Victoria Valley and Mount William. See the Grampians Peaks Trail, where hikers walk the many trails in the park.
These scenic flights also take in Reed Lookout and the famous MacKenzie Falls so you can see the region from a different perspective.
Big Hill Lookout: 360 Degree Views of Stawell
Big Hill Lookout is a must-see in Stawell. It offers 360-degree views of the town and the Grampians National Park, perfect for sunrise or sunset. Whether you’re visiting in the morning or evening, the lookout is the ideal spot to take in the views of the town and the town centre.
Wine and Dine in Stawell
Stawell has a great food scene with something for everyone. Seppelt Wines, just outside of town, offers visitors the chance to explore its underground cellars and taste award-winning wines. The winery is home to a 30,000-bottle cellar, so it is a must-see for wine enthusiasts.
Other wineries in the area are Barangaroo Wines and Pomonal Estate both with great wines and vineyard views. Rosehaven Farms offers farm-fresh produce, a farm stay experience with animals, and a farm-gate shop.
For a more formal dining experience, the Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld is renowned for its many award-winning dishes and is only a short drive from Stawell.
Outdoor Adventures in the Grampians
Stawell is the ideal place to base yourself on exploring adventures in the Grampians National Park. Whether you’re into hiking, climbing, or just taking in the valley views, the region has something for everyone.
The Grampians Peaks Trail is one of the park’s most famous hikes with varying levels of difficulty for all abilities. For experienced hikers Hollow Mountain is a scramble with amazing formations. For a more relaxed adventure the Lake Bellfield Dam Walk is perfect for families and nature lovers with beautiful views of the calm waters of Lake Bellfield.
Water lovers will enjoy Lake Fyans, which is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. There are also many picnic areas, such as Zumsteins Picnic Area, that allow you to sit back and relax in the bush.
For a more active adventure, you can rock hop and swim in the natural rock pools throughout the region, especially around Silverband Falls and MacKenzie Falls.
Stawell Accommodation
Farm stay at Rosehaven Farms with animals and a farm-gate shop or luxury stay at Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians or boutique stay at Pomonal Estate and enjoy the country atmosphere.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Stawell and Grampians National Park?
Spring or Autumn is the best time to visit Stawell and Grampians when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are blooming and the views are spectacular and there are many outdoor activities to do.
Can I see Aboriginal rock art in Grampians?
Yes, Grampians National Park has many Aboriginal rock art sites where you can learn about the Djab Wurrung and the region’s Aboriginal history. Many of these sites are along marked trails.
What outdoor activities are in Stawell?
Stawell has many outdoor activities, rock climbing and hiking the Grampians Peaks Trail, scenic helicopter flights over Lake Wartook and Mount William, rock scrambling and natural rock pools to explore.
Are there wine tours in Stawell?
Yes, Grampians Wine Tours offer guided tours to local wineries such as Seppelt Wines and Barangaroo Wines, with award winning wines and 30,000 bottle cellar.
What accommodation in Stawell?
Stawell has farm stay at Rosehaven Farms, boutique stay at Pomonal Estate and family friendly at Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians.
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