The Grampians, with its amazing views, is a nature lover’s and culture junkie’s paradise. From the views at Boroka Lookout to the walking trails at Lake Bellfield, the parks and gardens of the Grampians are a sensory overload. You can get lost in the rugged mountains, green valleys and cultural sites that acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land, the Djab Wurrung people.
Grampians Gardens
Grampians gardens are more than just places to see flowers and plants; they are the raw beauty, cultural values and history of the region. Each garden, from civic parks to big natural reserves, showcases the region’s botany. Whether you’re visiting the Grampians National Park or wandering through Alexandra Gardens in the middle of town, every garden reflects the views, history and cultural significance of the area. You’ll also find interesting rock formations, natural rock pools and deeper rock pools throughout the landscape.
When to visit
The Grampian’s parks and gardens can be visited all year round, but some seasons are better than others. Spring is a colourful explosion as wildflowers bloom across the region, and the landscape is a technicolour dream. It’s the perfect time to walk the signposted tracks like the Grampians Peaks Trail or the 2.3km Lake Bellfield Dam Walk, which takes you through some of the best parts of the region.
Autumn brings a different kind of beauty as the deciduous trees turn gold, red and orange. The Grampians mountains, especially in Victoria Valley and Fyans Valley, are beautiful with the changing leaves. Summer is for the adventure seekers with longer days to walk the tracks, swim in the natural rock pools or have a picnic at Zumsteins Picnic Area. Winter is a quiet time in the region. Some roads may be closed due to weather, but it’s a great time for peaceful walks, warm log fires and the communal fire pits in some of the parks.
Seasonal Delights
Each season brings something new to the Grampians parks and gardens. Visitors can experience an ever changing landscape that reflects the natural rhythms of the regions diverse environments.
Spring Wildflowers
Spring is a special time in the Grampians with wildflowers everywhere and the landscape a technicolour dream. Walk the tracks, like those in the Fyans Creek area, to see all the flowers. The Grampians National Park is renowned for its spring wildflowers with over 1,000 species, many of which are found only in this region.
Autumn
In autumn the trees in the Grampians parks and gardens go gold, red and orange. Autumn colour is best in Victoria Valley and along the Boroka Peak Trail.
Garden Festivals and Events
The Grampians region has garden festivals and events to celebrate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. Some events combine art and nature, while others focus on flora and fauna. You can explore the parks and gardens and have hands-on adventures and outdoor activities like rock hopping and rock scrambling. Many of these events also include the local wine culture, with award-winning wines from boutique wineries like Barangaroo Wines available to taste at garden events.
Top Parks
National Park
Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia is a natural icon and the hub of the region. 167,000 hectares in size this national park is one of Victoria’s top natural attractions, known for its dramatic landscapes, mountain ranges and deep cultural history. The park’s ruggedness attracts nature lovers, adventurers and culture vultures, with mountains, wildlife and Aboriginal sites, making it a must-see highlight on any Grampians day tour.
A Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts: The Grampians has heaps of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a keen hiker, rock climber or just someone who loves to take in the views, there’s something for everyone. Hollow Mountain with its hard rock climbing routes is a mecca for thrill seekers, many walking trails like the Pinnacle Walk have great views and you can hike to the top of Mount William, the highest peak in the Grampians where you can take in 360 degree views of the landscape.
Halls Gap Botanic Gardens
In the middle of the Grampians the Halls Gap Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to soak up the beauty of Australian native plants. The gardens are a quiet retreat with walking tracks well marked and perfect for a casual walk or just to chill. The surrounding mountains are a beautiful backdrop to the gardens.
Family Friendly: Halls Gap Botanic Gardens is a family favourite, with open space for kids to run around while parents relax. With picnic areas and shaded spots it’s the perfect spot for a family day out. The gardens have a variety of native plants showing off the diversity of the Grampians and is a great spot for nature lovers and plant nerds.
Base of Adventures: Halls Gap is the perfect place to base yourself to explore Grampians National Park with easy access to many of the parks most popular walks and lookouts. After a day of adventure the Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to chill and take in the views.
Dunkeld Arboretum
The Dunkeld Arboretum is a hidden gem at the southern end of the Grampians with a wide range of trees and views of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt. The arboretum is massive and a magical place to wander with walking tracks that take you through many different tree species, native and exotic.
Scenic and Peaceful: The arboretum is a botanical treasure but also a peaceful spot. The serenity of the area is perfect for picnics, photography and casual strolls. The Grampians mountains are a dramatic backdrop to the area. Whether you’re into botany, photography or just looking for a quiet spot to chill the Dunkeld Arboretum is the perfect escape.
Historical Significance: Dunkeld itself is a lovely town with a rich history and the arboretum adds to its cultural and natural charm. Visitors can walk the peaceful trails and soak up the heritage of the area where nature and history meet.
Cato Park
In Stawell Cato Park is the towns favourite outdoor space. This well maintained civic garden is a peaceful spot for locals and visitors. The central feature of the park is the lake which reflects the surrounding gardens and is so peaceful.
Perfect for Picnics and Relaxation: Cato Park is a popular spot for picnics, with shaded areas and grassed lawns where you can sit with family and friends. The park is so peaceful, and the gardens are well looked after so it’s a great place to get away from it all. Whether you want to read a book or take a walk, Cato Park is a peaceful spot in the middle of Stawell.
Alexandra Gardens
Alexandra Gardens in Ararat is a park that has both natural and designed landscapes. A favourite with locals and visitors the gardens have walking tracks, picnic areas and a lake. Community Hub: Throughout the year, Alexandra Gardens hosts various community events and festivals that celebrate Ararat’s history. The gardens are the perfect place for these events, where the community can come together in a space that reflects the town’s past and its connection to the land. Nature Lover’s Paradise: The walking tracks through the gardens allow you to wander through the different plantings and enjoy the serenity of the park. The gardens are at their best in spring when the flowers are in bloom and add to the already beautiful scenery.
Hamilton Botanic Gardens
The Hamilton Botanic Gardens is a heritage treasure, designed by famous landscape architect William Guilfoyle in the 19th century. These gardens are a feast for the eyes and part of Hamilton’s history. The gardens have many plant species, including native Australian and international exotics.
A Masterpiece: Guilfoyle’s design has winding paths, open lawns and planned plantings to balance nature and art. The Hamilton Botanic Gardens are a must for gardeners and the history of landscape architecture enthusiasts.
Peaceful and Beautiful: The gardens are a peaceful haven, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a quiet spot to sit and think. With greenery, flower beds and peace, the Hamilton Botanic Gardens is a sensory experience that connects you to the land.
Horsham Botanic Gardens
Along the Wimmera River the Horsham Botanic Gardens are famous for their seasonal colours and plant variety. Beautiful in spring when everything is in bloom, but something special in every season. In autumn the gardens are ablaze with red, orange and yellow as the leaves change and it’s magic.
A Riverside Getaway: The garden’s location along the river is the cherry on top, a peaceful spot to sit and take it all in. The big trees, colourful flowerbeds and well maintained walking tracks make Horsham Botanic Gardens a local and tourist favourite.
FAQ
When should you visit the Grampians’ parks and gardens?
Spring and autumn. Spring has wildflowers, autumn has great leaf colour, and cooler weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Are the Grampians’ parks and gardens suitable for all visitors?
Yes, many parks and gardens have well formed, sign posted tracks for all abilities. Alexandra Gardens and Hamilton Botanic Gardens are great for a stroll and some parks have facilities for assistance dogs and people with mobility issues.
Can I do a wine tasting in the Grampians’ gardens?
Yes! The Grampians is home to many boutique wineries, such as Barangaroo Wines where you can taste award winning wines while taking in the garden views.
What wildlife will I see in the Grampians’ parks and gardens?
Kangaroos, exotic animals and many birds, especially in Grampians National Park and Black Range State Park.
Are there any seasonal road closures I should be aware of in the Grampians?
Yes, always check the Road Report for seasonal road closures, especially in winter when some areas may be closed due to weather.
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