Delve into Stawell's rich and varied history and sample renowned local wines on your tour of the Grampians. Located just 20-minutes out of Halls Gap in the Grampians National Park, the town is the service centre for the Grampians and features fascinating cultural tours, museums, wineries and golf.
Time your visit to Stawell at Easter to see the running of the annual Stawell Gift, one of the world's richest footraces. The Stawell Gift has been run on Easter Monday since 1878, attracting bigger names and bigger crowds each time. Learn more about the history of the famous 120-metre dash at the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame Museum.
Stawell hit the big time with the discovery of gold in 1853, and it continues to produce gold in Victoria's largest operating mine. Explore the Stawell Cultural Heritage Trail to see the town's gold rush architecture and local attractions, such as the Pleasant Creek Courthouse Museum and the historic railway station.
Stawell is tucked into the renowned Great Western wine region. Visit cellar doors to meet the winemakers and enjoy tastings at historic vineyards. For something a bit different, view the changing landscapes of the Grampians from above on a scenic flight or hot air balloon.
Discover the Stawell Ironbarks Forest by bike or on foot. Located in the Deep Lead Nature Conservation Reserve, the forest is best seen in spring, when wild blooms are in season. Take in the natural surrounds and try to spot some of the endangered species that have made this forest one of the most important conservation sites in Victoria.
Take the time to uncover the fascinating Aboriginal history in Stawell. Make your way out to the nearby Black Ranges to Bunjil's Shelter - a huge rock overhang with rock art depicting Bunjil, an important Aboriginal spirit figure. Stawell is approximately 230 kilometres from Melbourne, or two hours and 40 minutes by car along the Western Highway.
