Grampians

Discover the flavours of the Grampians with a tasting that brings together two of the region’s much-loved small producers, served within the rustic surrounds of a converted shearing shed.

Begin with a selection of handmade wines from Black & Ginger, a certified organic vineyard lovingly named after Hadyn and Lucy Black’s cherished hounds, Paddy and Hunter. As you taste the small-batch wines, hear the stories behind them, including Lily’s Block Shiraz, named in honour of Hadyn’s late mother, who worked among the vines but never had the chance to taste the wine they produced.

Then settle in at Barney’s Bar & Bistro in Pomonal, a former working shearing shed where original timber beams and corrugated iron meet a relaxed bistro and beer garden. With the dramatic backdrop of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, enjoy a selection of curated canapés alongside your tasting, celebrating the produce, people and character of this remarkable corner of western Victoria.

Recommended Fitness Level: Low – guests are required to climb coach stairs with walking and standing for short periods.

Step into the quieter side of the Grampians with a guided walk to the enchanting Venus Baths, where Stoney Creek winds through the sandstone landscape, cascading over smooth rock shelves and gathering in deep, clear pools.

Follow the 2.5-kilometre Venus Baths Loop Walk through the surrounding bushland, crossing Stoney Creek and taking in the changing scenery of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park along the way. Even in the warmer months, water remains in the deeper pools, creating a peaceful oasis among the rugged sandstone walls.

Your local guide brings the landscape to life, sharing stories and insights into Gariwerd’s natural environment, history and culture. As you walk, gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable place and the enduring connection between its people and Country.

Recommended Fitness Level: High – Guests are required to walk for approximately 60 minutes along bushwalking paths, uneven terrain and over large steps.

As the afternoon cools in the foothills of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, discover the wild side of the region at Halls Gap Zoo. Set across 52 acres of landscaped grounds, the zoo is home to more than 500 animals and 120 species, from tiny marmosets to towering giraffes.

Wander through the enclosures as the day begins to soften, meeting some of the zoo’s much-loved residents along the way. Keepers share stories about the animals in their care, introducing you to favourites including playful red pandas and larger primates. There’s also the chance to get closer to the dingoes during a special keeper-led experience.

Beyond the animal encounters, discover the important conservation work taking place at the zoo, including endangered species breeding programs and initiatives helping protect wildlife for generations to come. With knowledgeable keepers bringing each encounter to life, experience a different side of Gariwerd and the remarkable creatures in its care.

Recommended Fitness Level: Low to Moderate – Guests are required to walk approximately 1–2 km along a hard gravel path.