The Best Regional Holiday Destinations In Australia
Australia is an incredible country with some of the most beautiful cities in the world. But outside the urban centres, there are also an astounding amount of regional holidays in Australia that will blow your mind. From lazy beach towns to wine regions, outback road trips to quaint historic villages – this big country has much to explore.
Whilst an Australian city break might seem like the obvious choice for a holiday, travellers will love journeying across the country’s smaller towns to really see the varied landscape of the enormous island and to meet some real Aussie locals along the way.
In this post, a group of travel bloggers share their favourite regional holidays in Australia that are just waiting for you to visit.
Regional Queensland Holiday Locations
Agnes Water
Agnes Water is a beautiful little town located north of Brisbane close to Bundaberg. It lies close to the beach and just a quick drive away from the famous town of Seventeen Seventy, which is supposedly where James Cook first landed in Australia. Agnes Water itself is a holiday town and usually becomes busy around Christmas time when tourists come here to enjoy this beautiful spot.
The town is usually quiet though with only a few pubs and restaurants. However, there is still plenty to see and do. Agnes Water is famously the location of the most affordable surf course in all of Australia. For just $17 you’ll get a full-day surf course and even a guarantee that you’ll be able to stand on the board by the end.
Agnes Water has one of the best beaches on the East Coast of Australia which is great for swimming and relaxing. With plenty of campsites as well as holiday apartments around you’ll be guaranteed to find a great place to stay for your regional holiday in Australia.
Contributed by Victoria from My Australia Trip
Port Douglas
The town of Port Douglas is smaller and less developed than nearby Cairns. It offers lower cost accomodation, a more laid back atmosphere, and easy access to three major destinations; the Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands, and of course the Great Barrier Reef.
You will get the most out of your time here by renting a car and taking road trips out from Port Douglas to explore these regions at your own pace.
The Daintree Rainforest offers a good variety of activities. We managed to fit a crocodile tour, horse riding on the beach, plus multiple hikes into a single day driving through the area.
To the west you can head into the mountains and spend a day following the Atherton Tablelands food trail. Here you can sample all the local produce at various venues that include coffee farms, cheese factories, a mango wine vineyard, and distilleries with some excellent single malts on offer.
But the real highlight of Port Douglas is directly to the east in the middle of the ocean. The snorkelling and diving on offer at the Great Barrier Reef is just stunning. After also snorkelling at the Whitsunday end of the reef a week earlier there was really no contest. Port Douglas was so much better!
If you feel like a lazier stay then check out the Sheraton Mirage hotel. It has massive lagoon style swimming pools, and is a self contained complex with all you need for a relaxing holiday. But if you are more activities based then you can stay at a smaller hotel for half the cost without losing much in quality.
For the sheer variety of the activities on offer Port Douglas is up there with the best regional destinations in Australia.
Contributed by James from teamajtravels.com
Stanthorpe
In the heart of Queensland’s Granite Belt wine country, Stanthorpe is one of the state’s most loved wine areas and Queensland’s coldest town. Snow is possible in winter, making this one of the most perfect regional holidays in Australia for a mid-year break.
Leave the usual wines of Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon behind and seek out wines you may not recognise. Here you’ll find names like Viogner, Fiano, Tempranillo, Roussanne and Petit Verdot. These are called ‘Strangebrids’ and only 1% of these varieties are grown in Australia.
It’s not all about Stanthorpe wine tours though. For the adventurous, walk the trails through Girraween National Park, known for its huge granite boulders or climb Bald Rock.
Enjoy a long lunch in an apple orchard, sip hot chocolate at the Christmas tree farm,admire the street art in the city streets, or do a cheese tasting.
There are many excellent places to eat. Try Essen for fine dining, Zest for fantastic pastries and the Little Larder for a tasty breakfast or brunch.
If you are travelling with a group stay at Kurrajong Barn. With five bedrooms, two fireplaces, outdoor decks to stargaze and plenty of room to sit around tasting some local wines, it’s a taste of luxury in the bush. If you are after something a little smaller, try the Straw House B&B.
Stanthorpe is located three hours from Brisbane. Having access to a vehicle is essential to make the most of Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt. Alternatively, many tours run from Brisbane.
Contributed by Kerri from Beer and Croissants
Yungaburra
Yungaburra is a regional town on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland. Situated only 70 kilometres south-west of Cairns, there are lots of things to see and do in Yungaburra and its surrounding areas. However, to best see the area, you will need your own car or form of transport.
Some of the best things to see and do include a visit to the Curtain Fig Tree, which is a 500 year old heritage listed tree, or stopping by The Lakes District where Lake Tinaroo, Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine are located.
History lovers will enjoy the Yungaburra Heritage Walk – a 3 kilometre self-guided walk with information about 29 sites of historical significance within the village. Other great walks include the Peterson Creek Walking Track, which is great for spotting for platypus and the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit where you’ll be able to spot Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls.
Due to its central location on the Atherton Tablelands, Yungaburra is the accommodation and restaurant hub of the region. Yungaburra offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets including boutique cottages and villas, cute B&B’s, and motels, and a historic pub.
The award-winning Eden House Retreat is set in the heart of historic Yungaburra village and offers a private spa and garden cottages.
Yungaburra is one of the most unique and unforgettable regional holidays in Australia.
Contributed by Peta and Jonas from Exit45 Travels
Regional Western Australia Holiday Locations
Albany
Albany is one of Western Australia’s best secrets – it makes the perfect base to explore the amazing South Coast! As a large regional centre, visitors often overlook Albany in preference for smaller and cuter towns around – but that is a mistake if you are looking for a central base.
Albany was the first European settlement in Western Australia and offers a treasure trove of historical places to visit, including the National ANZAC centre and the Brig Amity, a full size replica of the ship that brought the settlers to Albany.
Not far from the city, you can explore the wild and woolly Torndirrup National Park with the Gap, Natural Bridge and a wealth of breathtaking hiking trails. Also highly recommended is Little Beach and Two People’s Bay – which feature some of the most beautiful pristine beaches in Australia.
As Albany’s many attractions are spread out, then a car is almost essential to get the most out of your experience. Albany is also a great base to explore nearby Denmark, Walpole, and the Porongurup National Park
A great place to stay is the Albany Big 4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park because it has excellent amenities, and is also right on the white sands of this beautiful beach.
Contributed by Ariana of World of Travels with Kids
Broome
Broome, located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is a popular spot in winter thanks to its warm and sunny weather during the cooler months in Australia. Broome is known for its amazing beaches, stunning natural attractions and laidback, chilled out vibes making it an ideal regional holiday in Australia.
At the famous Cable Beach, spend the day relaxing under a beach umbrella or the more adventurous can hire a stand up paddle board at the beach kiosk. For a unique experience, watch the sunset from the back of a camel as you travel along the long stretch of beach – one of the most iconic activities to do on this regional holiday in Australia.
Make sure to visit the iconic Matso’s Brewery and try their renowned alcoholic ginger beer. Aarli Bar also does one of the best meals in town with its Asian fusion cuisine and delicious cocktails.
As Broome is spread out, hiring a car is recommended. Accommodation is available on the Cable Beach side of town, such as the Broome Cable Beach Resort or Kimberley Sands Resort. Another option is the Mangrove Hotel, located on the other side of town with views over the mangroves of Roebuck Bay.
Contributed by Tess of Tessomewhere
Geraldton
Geraldton is located about 450 km north of Perth in the Coral Coast region of Western Australia. There is an airport, however a road trip from Perth to Geraldton is recommended as having a car will allow you to see much more of the region.
Geraldton’s great weather and beautiful coastline is the main attraction. A visit to the beach and a swim in the salty Indian ocean is a must during your visit to the region. There are plenty of beaches to choose from. Town Beach is located on the edge of the CBD and looks over the industrial port area.
For a more pristine beach experience head 10km north to Drummond Cove. Or explore any of the many options in between. With so many to choose from, it is easy to find your own private beach with no one else around, which makes Geraldton one of the best regional holidays in Australia.
The Abrolhos Islands have recently opened to tourism and offer incredible diving and fishing experiences. They include 122 islands located 60 km off the coast. Boat charters are available for day trips or you can take a scenic flight.
The Ocean Centre Hotel offers the best accommodation as it is central to everything that Geraldton offers and has ocean views. If you are looking for a great meal, try Skeetas as it offers fresh local seafood options with incredible views.
Contributed by Rochelle from Love Family Life Travel
Margaret River
Margaret River is where the forest meets the sea on Western Australia’s southwestern coast. The small town of Margaret River itself hosts a handful of boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Venture further afield into the region and you’re bound to find a trip that combines relaxation with true adventure.
Enjoy a glass of wine at one of the tens of wineries throughout the region. On the coast, you’ll find white sand beaches prime for swimming, lounging, and surfing world class waves. From May to December, it’s possible to watch humpback, southern right, and blue whales migrate along the shoreline. All year long, you’ll see wallabies and kangaroos bouncing in between karri trees.
Tour companies like Surf N Dirt Adventure Tours combine the best of Margaret River’s features with trips that take travelers on a kayak, mountain biking, or surfing excursion followed by an afternoon of wine tasting at some of the region’s best cellar doors.
Vintages Accommodation is a quiet and quaint boutique hotel within walking distance to Margaret River’s town center. Because most of the main attractions are spread throughout the region, it’s best to rent a car if you want to go to the beach or explore the area’s hiking trails.
Contributed by Chantae from Chantae Was Here
Regional South Australia Holiday Locations
Barossa Valley
The Barossa Valley is one of the best regional holidays in Australia. Located just one hour from the Adelaide city centre it is a breeze to access. The best way to get there is by car, but you may also want to consider a local tour once there if you plan on doing a lot of wine tasting.
Known internationally as a top wine region, there are over 80 cellar doors in the Barossa Valley to keep any visitor busy wine tasting. No holiday here is complete without tasting at least the full-bodied Shiraz.
But that’s not all there is to the Barossa. It’s becoming a real foodie destination with some great local produce and amazing regional restaurants. There are also craft breweries and distilleries popping up too.
After eating, explore the German heritage of the area, hike through wine country or the pristine bush, or check out the art galleries and museums. If that’s not adventurous enough, perhaps try a segway tour or watch the sun rise from a hot air ballon.
Accommodation ranges from luxury boutique hotels such as The Louise, to the well known favourite Novotel Barossa Valley, and plenty of smaller B&Bs, motels or glamping. You could even camp in a tent at one of the caravan parks!
Contributed by Josie Kelsh of Exploring South Australia
Port Elliot
With its stunning seaside location and historic main street, Port Elliot, a little over one hour from Adelaide on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula is a fabulous spot for a getaway.
Settled in the 1850s as a shipping port, less than a decade later a more suitable location was found at nearby Victor Harbor. This saved the town from development and instead it grew to be a popular place for holidays by the sea.
Many of Port Elliot’s original stone buildings have survived and today house cafes and boutiques, perfect for browsing when the weather changes. Must-sees include the famous Port Elliot Bakery which has been selling its pastries since the 1860s, stay old school with a pie or pasty or grab one of the famous doughnuts.
Spend some time learning more about the history of town walking the Port Elliot Maritime Heritage Trail. And after a day at the beach save some energy for a sunset walk along the Harbormaster’s Trail from Horseshoe Bay across the headland past Freemans Lookout to Knights Beach and Boomers Beach.
There are dozens of holiday homes and a caravan park but we recommend you check out the historic Port Elliot YHA. Once a private hotel this is our favourite YHA in Australia. Their “suite” offers a self-contained apartment with a balcony overlooking Horseshoe Bay.
While a car is handy for exploring the neighbouring towns of Victor Harbor and Goolwa, you can reach the town via a straightforward train and bus combination from Adelaide.
Contributed by Paula from Truly Expat Travel
Regional New South Wales Holiday Locations
Berry
The beautiful town of Berry is located a mere two hour’s drive from Sydney and punches well above its weight for a regional holiday in Australia. This quaint and lovely town features a vibrant foodie culture, with plenty of sought after eating experiences available to try at the restaurants located in the village. At the casual dining/snacking end of the scale, it is hard to go past the iconic Berry Donut Van which serves up deliciously fluffy and fresh donuts on the street all day long.
Berry is also well known for it’s picturesque historic setting. A walk through the town helps visitors appreciate the gorgeous old buildings and the simple elegant gazebo at Apex Park is the perfect spot to have a picnic on a sunny day.
The surrounds of Berry also offer up plenty of natural beauty to uncover. The remarkable bush walk up to the Drawing Room Rocks lookout is an absolute must for the panoramic views that you’ll be treated to at the top. The township is also a mere 10 minute drive to the beautiful Shoalhaven beaches.
For a comfortable and enjoyable stay, a room with a hot tub never goes astray, which is why I’d recommend an overnight at The Berry Inn which is right on the main drag in town. A weekend in Berry is one of my favourite regional holidays in Australia.
Contributed by me, Emma Jane Explores
Byron Bay
One of the most loved regional holidays in Australia is the coastal town of Byron Bay. Nestled in the north of New South Wales (NSW) state, Byron Bay is the perfect city getaway where you can spend holidays with perfect weather, pristine ocean, and amazing food. Home to Cape Byron lighthouse, the town represents the most easterly point of Australia.
Byron Bay is a coastal town and has plenty of things that can be done associated with water. It has Australia’s finest dive site Julian Rocks where you can go scuba diving. It is also a place where you can learn surfing as it has the finest surf beaches. And during the whale migratory season, you can walk along the coast and spot some humpback whales migrating and if you are lucky, you may see the whales’ breach.
Even though Byron Bay is best spent outdoors, it also caters for many indoor activities. You can spend getting a nice and relaxed massage by the beach or do a yoga session from a trained professional. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants for all the tastebuds. I suggest having falafels at Orgasmic Falafel. Their falafels are fresh, crispy, and delicious.
As Byron Bay is an extremely popular destination and thrives on tourists, the town has accommodation that ranges from a budgeted to a luxurious stay. The main streets are Lawson and Jonson streets, and it is best to take an accommodation around those streets so you can walk around the town without needing a car.
I recommend staying at the Waves hotel as it is close to all the cafes and the restaurants. And if you are a budgeted traveler, then Cape Byron YHA is a cool place to stay at.
Byron Bay is definitely one of the best regional holidays in Australia.
Contributed by Raksha from Solo Passport
Hunter Valley
When thinking about regional holidays in Australia, sampling wine in the Hunter Valley may be one of the first thoughts to spring to mind. Located in NSW, the Hunter Valley’s climate is similar to some of Europe’s best wine regions, making it the perfect place to enjoy “la dolce vita” without leaving the country. But did you know there are many more things to do in the Hunter Valley than sampling some of the best drops Australia has to offer?
It’s definitely worth spending a few nights glamping in a TinyHouse and having your own car to make the most of your holiday here. Pair your wine tastings with delicious local specialties such as cheeses at Two Fat Blokes, chocolates at Tulloch Wines, or enjoy lounging on the lawns at Briar Ridge grazing on their famed antipasto platters.
For non-drinkers, explore the vineyards on horseback, have a laugh at grape stomping or hire an electric bike to enjoy the country scenery. If it’s a special occasion, take to the skies in a hot air balloon or helicopter ride to admire the region from above. Don’t miss the beautiful and popular themed Hunter Valley Gardens, a must-see during your time here!
There are plenty of places to stay in the Hunter Valley, but the Crowne Plaza in Lovedale is hard to beat for a centrally located hotel.
Contributed by Alyse of The Invisible Tourist
Narooma
Narooma is on the New South Wales south coast 4.5 hours from Sydney. You will want a car to see the surrounding beaches, rivers and lakes. The town straddles the Wagonga Inlet – a beautiful area perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing and snorkelling. Walking or cycling along the Mill Bay Boardwalk is a great way to explore the bay.
On the coast check out the seals at the breakwater, Australia Rock and the spectacular Glasshouse Rocks. Beach goers can relax at the protected water near Bar Beach South or take on the waves at the Narooma Surf Beach.
Take a cruise to nearby Montague Island and swim with seals or go onto the island to learn about its wildlife and history. Away from the water, the Box Cutting Rainforest Walk takes you into the forest and the Wagonga Scenic Drive takes you through the farms and forest of the Narooma hinterland.
For self-contained accommodation with views over the inlet try Pacific Pines Apartments, you can see seals and stingrays swim around the bay from your balcony. For a great meal, Quarterdeck in Quota Park, complete with Tiki Bar, has a great vibe and sits right over the water.
Contributed by Natalie from Curious Campers
Wagga Wagga
Wagga Wagga is in southeastern New South Wales, Australia, on the Murrumbidgee River. The city is known as the “City of Good Sports” because many of Australia’s sporting royalty come from Wagga Wagga.
There are plenty of fun things to do in this region, but you can’t visit the city without popping into the Museum of The Riverina (to find out who these sporting legends are). Other pieces of history include:
- The RAAF Wagga Heritage Centre.
- A cruise along the Murrumbidgee River.
- A walk around the Botanical gardens.
You can also take a little piece of Wagga Wagga home with you from one of the many fabulous art galleries (Paper Pear being my favourite); you won’t have trouble finding a piece of art that suits your taste.
Whether you eat at The Magpies Nest, a beautiful location with a delicious menu, or join one of the cooking classes at Food I am (highly recommended), you will walk away with an experience to remember. Nothing beats the fresh local produce in this region.
Don’t forget the beloved Chiko roll was first sold here, so pop into the local fish n chips to pick one up as you head to the Hamden Bar for cocktails.
Wagga Wagga is a unique and historic regional holiday in Australia.
Contributed by Paula from Truly Expat
The Warrumbungles
New South Wales
Located on the edge of the NSW Outback, 524 km from Sydney, the Warrumbungles Region is famous primarily for two things: spectacular night sky and the remarkable volcanic landscape of the Warrumbungle Mountains. To experience the first, all you need to do is look up at night. The combination of minimal light pollution, dry air, and altitude make the sky so clear here that the Warrumbungle National Park was designated Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. If you are a keen stargazer, make sure to book a night tour at one of the observatories.
The mountains will take a little bit more effort to explore. The best way to get up close and personal with the dramatic bluffs, domes, and dykes of the Warrumbungles is to take the iconic 12.5-km Breadknife and the Grand High Tops track. This walk is absolutely breathtaking, both because it is so visually arresting and physically demanding.
The first half of the track is an easy walk in the bush, but the second half is a steep ascent alongside the spectacular Breadknife – a trachyte dike that stands up to 90 meters high and only 2-4 meters wide. Once you reach the Grand High Tops lookout, your efforts are rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the most iconic rock structures of the park.
If you are looking for more things to do in the area, check out the Sawn Rock in Mount Kaputar National Park, and the incredible Sandstone Caves and Sculptures in the Scrub, both in the nearby Pilliga Forest which is the largest tract of continuous forest in NSW.
One of the coolest places to stay in the Warramubungles is the Skywatch Observatory where you get to stay in the dome of a telescope. What an unforgettable way to experience one of the best regional holidays in Australia.
Contributed by Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries
Regional Victoria Holiday Locations
Echuca
Echuca is absolutely the perfect place for a regional holiday in Australia. There are so many things to do in Echuca that will have you wanting to return time and again.
One of the most popular things to do in Echuca is to ride one of the paddle steamers. They were so important to the growth of many industries in the area and are now of the most iconic sights on the Murray River. As you glide down the Murray your captain will give you a commentary about the paddle steamers, how colonisation impacted the local Yorta Yorta tribe and the growth of the industries in the area.
After you have had your steamer ride you can take time to wander the Port of Echuca. This street was a set for the hit TV show back in the 1980s and looks just like it would have done when Echuca was an emerging hub for trade.
St Anne’s Cellar door is located on the strip and is a great place to sample some of the local wines. There is a small stall where you can have your picture taken in Old fashion clothes and at the end, there is the Port of Echuca Discovery Center.
Here there is a small museum explaining the ride of Echuca and the sister city on the other side of the Murray Moama. A guided tour of the Discovery Centre will have a guide take you through and explain all of the items that are on display as well. This is a brilliant learning experience as there is so much to discover. After you have finished your tour you can then wander freely to look again.
If you are looking for some places to eat in Echuca the Moama Bakery on the main street has some great grab and go options for everyone, the Curry Club is a wonderful traditional Indian restaurant and if you are looking for some plant-based delights The Sweet Meadow is magnificent. If you would like to cook at home you can get all of your supplies from Forever Fresh.
Quest Serviced Apartments is a great place to stay and all of the above is within walking distance from the accommodation. If you do have a car they have free parking on site. If you do have a car then you are able to add so much more to your Echuca holiday. You can visit the Kyabram Fauna Park and drive the brilliant silo art trail.
Contributed by Bec from Wyld Family Travel
The Grampians
The Grampians is one of the most popular regional holidays in Australia and is perfect for holidays from Melbourne. About 230km west of the Victorian capital, they are around a three to four hour drive, making them perfect for everything from a long-week to a full holiday.
Originally called Gariweld by the indigenous population, the Grampians have an ancient history that can still be seen today, with some of the best examples of rock art in Australia found here. Gulgorn Manja and Bunjil’s Shelter show off rock art as old as 22,000 years with the fantastic Brambuk Cultural Centre pulling all the stores together in one place.
The Grampians are a great place to visit if you love the outdoors, with hundreds of hiking trails for all abilities. You can also get to some beautiful lookouts by road – with Boroka Lookout, The Balconies and Reed Lookout the most famous and Mackenzie Falls also a must-visit place.
If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to stay, check out ‘A Heavenly Escape’ a big log cabin hidden away in the forest, complete with open fire and a chorus of parrots to wake you up of a morning.
Contributed by Ben from The Sabbatical Guide
Lakes Entrance
Lakes Entrance is a small coastal town located 4 hours from Melbourne in East Gippsland and is home to Ninety Mile Beach.
Lakes Entrance is best known for its inland Gippsland Lakes and its varying wildlife including dolphins, seals, pelicans and is a popular area for fishing enthusiasts. Lakes Entrance is surrounded by amazing fresh and local produce, fabulous wineries and bespoke cheese makers.
Just a short 20min drive is the gorgeous village hamlet of Metung. You’ll fall in love with the village as you drive in through Chinaman’s Creek with the bush surrounding and the little piers with various yachts and boats for hire. Hire a SUP and get out on the Gippsland Lakes, on a nice day the water is like glass.
Make sure you drop by the waterfront Metung Hotel, one of the most picturesque pubs in Victoria. The Metung Hot Springs are due to open end of 2021.
The top attraction in the area is Lakes Entrance Segway, the only segway experience in Australia that takes you along beach, not any beach but the beautiful Ninety Mile Beach. With Ninety miles of beach, I’m sure you won’t run out of things to do.
Lakes Entrance makes for the perfect regional holiday in Australia.
Contributed by Sally from Our 3 Kids v The World
Lorne
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Lorne is one of the most popular regional holidays in Australia. Just a 2-hour drive from Melbourne, this beautiful seaside town is the perfect way to explore the stunning coast of the Great Ocean Road.
From the stunning beach views, and great surf, to treetop walks, wildlife spotting and chasing waterfalls, there are so many great things to do in Lorne for any type of traveller.
If you are happy to spend your days at the beach swimming, surfing, or lapping up the sun, you could probably get away without having transport, as most things in the town are within walking distance. However, if you really want to explore the area, it’s best to hire a car as there is so much to do within a short drive and you really don’t want to miss it.
Lorne is filled with beautiful walks and waterfalls, and a trip to the stunning Erskin Falls is a must. For those more adventurous, you can find Australia’s most extreme zipline at Live Wire Park where you can spend the day whizzing through the treetops.
If you have time for a day trip, take a road trip further along the coast you can find the Cape Otway Lighthouse, and Port Campbell National park, home to the 12 Apostles, the famous limestone pillars.
There is plenty of accommodation, however Lorne is not a budget destination. The most popular hotels are the Cumberland and the Mantra. For those on a budget, best to hire an AirBnb.
Contributed by Chontelle from Mum’s Little Explorers
Walhalla
As you walk down the main street of Walhalla, you really feel like you have gone back in time. Its beautiful heritage buildings and narrow street are magnificent. Little shops from yesteryear hold Gippsland delights from handmade crafts to gourmet foods you can take home.
Walhalla was a town that shone in the Goldrush years. Nestled in a beautiful valley is was once a large bustling town full of gold miners looking for their fortune. Now the town is left with what they build and eventually left behind as the gold ran out and richer pastures became known.
There are only a few places to sit and have a bite to eat in this small rural town but as you sit close to the street you can watch all the other visitors to the town wander. If you prefer you can have a BBQ at the free BBQ facility in the park and listen to the small stream as you eat.
Walhalla is a perfect place to visit with family or even for couples on a day trip to Gippsland. After you have finished having a glorious meal or hot drink you can then take the time to wander and photograph the main street. You may decide to go on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway that takes you through the thick bush that surrounds Walhalla.
Another great activity is to go into the old mine on a tour and see what the miners were looking for and how they got the gold all those years ago. Your guide will tell you about the mine, the miners and their lives in Walhalla. A visit to the cricket ground is also fantastic. It is located at the top of a hill and was a place where many of the miners met. A sad place to visit in Walhalla is the cemetery. As Walhalla is in a valley the cemetery is on the side of a hill and has many sad stories of people who lived here engraved on the tombstones.
There are places to camp in Walhalla and there are so many lovely little B&Bs that will treat you to an amazing stay as you enjoy one of the best regional holidays in Australia.
Contributed by Mark from Travels in Gippsland
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