Walhalla

Travel just 2.5 hours from Melbourne and step back into another time. Discover a tiny township that was once one of Australia's richest towns and is now home to around 20 residents who enjoy a lovingly restored historic centre near alpine wilderness. Following the discovery of one of the largest gold reefs ever found in Australia in 1863, Walhalla experienced a typical gold rush boom. The profitable Long Tunnel Mine operated between 1865 and 1914. Today you can explore the mine and even pan for gold. Find out more about Walhalla's golden years with a ride on the restored Walhalla Goldfields Railway, the Walhalla Transport Co horse and carriage, or the exciting Copper Mine Adventure four-wheel drive tour. During most of the 20th century Walhalla was virtually frozen in time; electricity was only connected in 1998. After nearly becoming a ghost town, many of its buildings and services have been restored to offer historic attractions and a range of accommodation, tours, shops and eateries. Follow the historic town walk signs to discover the history of Walhalla. See the Corner Store and Museum, the Old Fire Station, the Mountaineer Brass Band Rotunda, the Mechanics Institute, the Bank Vault, the local Post and Telegraph Office, St Johns Church and the hillside cemetery with its vertical graves. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and go horse riding, climbing or hiking in nearby national parks. Drop a line in a clear mountain stream or explore the scenic trails along the Thomson River. Hit the slopes at nearby Mt St Gwinear or Mt Baw Baw for some cross-country or downhill skiing in serene surrounds. Walhalla is 182 kilometres east of Melbourne and is 45 kilometres north of Traralgon and Moe via a sealed road.