What are family things to do in Coleraine?

Families can visit Rosehaven Farms, enjoy a picnic at Zumsteins Picnic Area, and explore wildlife reserves to see kangaroos and koalas.

Coleraine, Grampians

In the west of Victoria Coleraine is a scenic town with a rich history, natural beauty and the Grampians National Park right on its doorstep. Famous for its wool industry and surrounded by mountains Coleraine offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences and family friendly activities. From lookouts with panoramic views to adventure through scenic valleys Coleraine is the perfect base to explore the Grampians and beyond.

History

Coleraine’s history goes back to the mid-1800s when settlers first established this beautiful town in Victoria’s farming district. The town soon became famous for its wool, and the local economy was based on sheep farming. Over time, Coleraine became the centre of wool growers and became an important part of Victoria’s agricultural history. Today, the town still has the country feel but with modern conveniences and a deeper connection to its history through local landmarks and the preservation of its cultural heritage.

The Wool Industry

Coleraine is known as the “Heart of the Wool Industry” in this part of Victoria. The town’s sheep farms produce some of the best wool in the country, and its history is celebrated at the Coleraine Sheep Show each year. Take a wool tour of local farms and learn about the town’s agricultural traditions. The industry has been a steady part of Coleraine’s economy and continues to attract those interested in the farming lifestyle. Visit one of the many sheep farms or an event and see the town’s wool connection for yourself.

Nearby Natural Wonders

Just a short drive from Coleraine, you’ll find the Grampians National Park, a place of stunning views, rugged mountains and walking tracks. Popular spots include the Boroka Lookout, with 360-degree views of the Victoria Valley and the famous MacKenzie Falls. For Aboriginal history and culture, there are numerous rock art sites, including those near the Grampians Peaks Trail. Other highlights include Silverband Falls and the beautiful views from Mount William. Lake Wartook and Lake Bellfield are perfect for those looking for peaceful landscapes for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.

Family Fun

Coleraine is a family-friendly destination with lots of activities for all ages. The town’s parks and popular picnic areas, like Zumsteins Picnic Area, are perfect for a day out. Families can also visit farms like Rosehaven Farms, where kids can get up close to farm animals. The Grampians are nearby, with adventure activities like rock hopping at Hollow Mountain and hiking trails that lead to spectacular views like Reed Lookout. The town centre has shops and sweet treats for kids, so it’s a great stop for families.

Events and Festivals

Coleraine buzzes with events including the Coleraine Agricultural Show where we celebrate our woolly heritage. This brings the community together with sheep shearing competitions, livestock and local produce. The Coleraine Rodeo is another must-see where you can watch rodeo sports, live music and food stalls. These are country life in all its glory so come to Coleraine during festival season.

Wildlife and Nature

Nature lovers will enjoy the native animals and scenery around Coleraine. The surrounding bush has kangaroos, koalas and many bird species. If you want to go further, Black Range State Park has valleys and rock pools to discover, and the Grampians are great for wildlife spotting. Birdwatchers will also love the many native species in the area, so it’s a great spot for a peaceful nature escape.

Hiking Trails around

Hiking enthusiasts will love the many trails around Coleraine, which include sign-posted tracks for beginners and experienced hikers. The Grampians Peaks Trail is one of the most famous. It takes you on a steady climb through jagged mountain ranges and offers gorgeous views from the nearby peaks. For a shorter walk, the 2.3km Lake Bellfield Dam Walk has picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. For the more adventurous, there are more challenging trails like the Boronia Peak Trail, which takes you to great views of the Grampians.

Accommodation and Food

Coleraine has a range of accommodations from farm stays to the popular Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians. For a more indulgent experience, the nearby Royal Mail Hotel has an excellent restaurant with local ingredients, award-winning wines and a menu that showcases the region’s produce. You can also do a winery tour or treat yourself to sweet stuff from local cafes. Whether you’re in a B&B or a country house, you’ll find Coleraine has accommodation for all travellers.

Day Trips

Coleraine is the perfect base for day trips to some of Victoria’s most beautiful natural attractions. The Grampians National Park is just a short drive away, where you can rock climb, walk to Bryans Creek and Stony Creek and enjoy the views from the top of Mount William. You can also visit nearby boutique wineries, a Grampians day tour and Grampians Olive Co. for tastings and underground cellar tours. If you’re into history head to the Coleraine Shire Council or the underground cellars in the area to find out more about the town’s story.