Stawell

Time your visit to Stawell at Easter to see the running of the annual Stawell Gift, one of the world's richest footraces. The thriving city is the service centre for the Grampians and features fascinating cultural and heritage walking and driving tours, museums, wineries and golf. Gold was discovered nearby in 1853. Stawell continues to produce the precious commodity in Victoria's largest operating mine and there are a number of gold-themed attractions. View 1860s photographs, nineteenth century costumes, gold rush artefacts and historical documents at the Pleasant Creek Courthouse Museum and visit the Pioneer Memorial and lookout in the Big Hill area for views of the town and gold mining heritage. Stawell's also part of the renowned Great Western wine region. Visit cellar doors to meet the winemaker and enjoy tastings at vineyards as you make your way around. The surrounding landscape is so alluring you may want to board a scenic flight or a hot air balloon for views of the town and the magnificent Grampians. Tee off for a round of golf on magnificent local fairways. Visit Bunjil's Shelter and a huge rock overhang with rock art depicting Bunjil, an Aboriginal spirit figure, in the nearby Black Ranges. There's also a Stawell Gift Hall of Fame Museum, dedicated to the famous 120-metre dash. Stawell is approximately 2.5 hours from Melbourne via the Western Highway. Daily coach and rail services are available from Melbourne.