Top Ten Things to Do for Families in the Grampians

There are so many places for families in The Grampians to enjoy, relax and discover.

Here there is a rare chance you might only get once in a lifetime of seeing stunningly unique attractions that can only be spotted in the region.

These attractions are so many, that both budget and luxury travel experts would find it hard giving you a detailed list of things to do as a family. Whether you are alone, a single parent travel, a couple, or a family, you would find it a little challenging to get around without a list of all that is to see and do (like the Venus Baths shown in both photos above). This is due to the fact that they might not be able to tell which places are safe for families, or which places are probably too boring, or yet even unsafe.

To help out, here are some of the things you can do as a family when you visit the Grampians:

1. The Pinnacle

All you need for The Pinnacle hike are decent shoes, comfortable clothes, water and the will to climb to the top since it is a rocky affair. It is something that can be done together with your teen children if you have any. There are certain routes that are known to be harder than others that are less suitable for families in The Grampians. Thus the need to know which route to use before you start. We appreciated the stairs, signs, and handrails in certain sections of our climb. They made it less strenuous and more comfortable with a teenager as part of this viewing.

The view from the top of the Halls Gap area is amazing as it overlooks some of the most adorable attractions in the region.

2. Halls Gap Estate – Fallen Giants Vineyard

Halls Gap Estate is a glorious vineyard and here you can learn everything you need to know that is related to wine and its making.

Enjoy your own wine tasting experience and develop the taste buds of a pro. There is a safe playground and run around the area for children – just in case your child gets bored or wishes to play with other kids. There are also toys and books for them inside should it be a wintery day.

We enjoyed a grazing platter and I enjoyed a lovely glass of cool wine (Plate N Natter).  It was a beautiful day, so we enjoyed one of the outdoor seating areas gazing out across the colored autumn grapevine leaves as I wore my Adrift Poncho and Basics clothing which is perfect for traveling. It is a picturesque location and an easy bike ride from Halls Gap should you wish not to take the car.

Later, we went to the base of the vineyard for a killer view of the mountains and to take some photographs.

It was nice to know that this vineyard was given a star rating of 5 by James Halliday. That is probably one of the reasons you should consider it over the rest.

This is definitely a place we would recommend for families in The Grampians.

3. Mackenzie Falls

You will find Mackenzie Falls waterfall at the Grampians National Park. It is believed to be the largest in Victoria, flowing all year long. It is mind-blowing to try understanding the nature of nature and how such a large amount of water can flow down this fall without ever running dry. It offers a great spot for meditation and relaxation. This fall can easily be accessed by finding your way to the base through the steep trails that can easily be traced from the car.

Another way to access it is through the elevated point overlooking it. Those on a wheelchair can use this second point since it is made easily accessible to the physically challenged.  This is a walk where parents should NOT carry a baby in a forward sling or pouch.  It is easy to slip and fall and you would injure your little one.  Hold children’s hands tightly. Obey the signs as people have been swept away; slipped, or drowned.  This is NOT a swimming pond and it is forbidden.  There is an area that you can cross only if the water level is low but wear sure grip shoes and be careful on the lower rocks.

4. Boroka Lookout

Boroka Lookout is a beautiful view from where you can see and probably take a priceless picture of the sun rising in the morning. The gentle light it shines on land makes everything look fresh. We love seeing such natural phenomenon since they help us see and appreciate the beauty of nature.

This lookout is also great in the evening when there is not so much brightness and you seek to gain an inspiration from everything that can be seen from a distance.

It is an easy drive to the car park and this area is also great for families in The Grampians as you really can even view some of it without getting the littlies out of the car.

5. Ngamadjidj Aboriginal Art Shelter

This is the place where art lives on. From here, you will be able to see the creativity of an Aboriginal artist whose idea was seemingly to come up with unique designs that were beyond human imagination. There are artistic figures, some squatting, standing and others dancing. Some believe that this is a depiction of the spirit world that once lived here. It is a beauty to behold though and a place you can take families in The Grampians.

6. Halls Gap Zoo

the newly revamped zoo is now the home for many lovely animals and is right next to Halls Gap Estate Winery. On arrival, we were able to see numerous species of animals – both exotic and natïve. This is also home to so many endangered species most of which were exciting to watch.

Based on our experience, we believe this is the place every animal lover looks for when they visit the Grampians.  It is also a great place for international visitors to see our native wildlife.

families in The Grampians also enjoy ….

7. Halls Gap Hotel Dinner

Parents with children will definitely love Halls Gap Hotel diner – a bistro in an idyllic setting.  It is perfect for families in The Grampians just because of its lovely indoor playground. Here, it gives you time to catch up with old friends and make new ones as well. The lovely view from the veranda is very relaxing. There are times when kangaroos get close to the hotel, making it feel like being in a national park while in the comfort of your home. We enjoyed our time here not just because of the food but also because of its serenity.

8. J Ward Museum

J. Ward Museum acted as a prison in the mid and late 18^th Century. It was then turned into a psychiatric center for all those who were found to be criminally insane. It would later be closed after years of serving that purpose. Today, J. Ward Museum leads people into the life and struggles of inmates who were detained and cared for in it. If interested, then you might want to take a guided tour to learn more about it and its importance on the history of the Grampians.  You will find it at the entrance to the Grampians near Ararat so this needs to be a place to visit on your way in or out of the National Park. This might not be suitable for younger children but older teenagers might find it an extremely interesting place to visit.

9. Hamilton Gallery

Hamilton Gallery is an exhibition center used by many artists to showcase their creativity. You will be able to find all sorts of art pieces that range from furniture to metalwork and ceramics. It is believed to be one of the best art galleries in Australia. We love art and there is so much to be seen and learned, especially by Explorason, who happens to be a big fan of art.

10. Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park

Caravans (for Aussies), or RV’s (as they are also called in the USA), are used by people who desire flexible accommodation that does not glue them to one specific place but that allows them to freely move around. If you are a nomad, someone on a short or long vacation, you may just want to set up your caravan here at this perfect park.  Caravaning is ideal for families in the Grampians and we will tell you a few reasons why too.

We loved our experience ‘camping’ with a luxury new van at Caravan Park. It gave us an opportunity to meet and interact with others. It is a secure place to spend the night since there are many other campers around who offer a sense of security to each other.  With a fire pit to roast marshmallows, and a wood fire heated pool this is a perfect stop all year round.  What I loved the most is that we enjoyed quality time together outdoors but right within the park.

You can also go rent cabins, or glamping at this caravan park too, so check out GlamXperience‘s luxury tents.

We Love Your Comments

• Have you ever gone camping before?
• What are the dos and don’ts you have for us when visiting for families in the Grampians?
• Have you any tips and places you’d like to add to this list? Please tell us in the comments below. We love to hear your thoughts.

Family Time Away in a Caravan

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We Leave You With These Wise Words …

Still not convinced?

Here is an article from our archives when we last visited The Grampians …

Halls Gap The Grampians An Australian Piece of Paradise