Stawell

Stawell Tourism

Stawell, a charming town in the heart of Victoria, Australia, is a popular tourist destination with an abundance of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or cultural experiences, there's something for everyone in and around Stawell. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you don't want to miss when you're in the area.

Natural Attractions:

Halls Gap Zoo: Located just a 20-minute drive from Stawell, the Halls Gap Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. The zoo features a variety of native and exotic species, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, lions, bears, and monkeys. Visitors can also enjoy animal encounters and guided tours.

Grampians National Park: The Grampians National Park is a picturesque natural wonderland that's just a short drive from Stawell. The park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rock formations. Notable landmarks include the Pinnacle lookout, the Balconies, Mackenzie Falls, and the Grand Canyon.

Stawell Gift:

If you're visiting Stawell in April, you won't want to miss the Stawell Gift, one of Australia's most significant athletic events. Held over the Easter weekend each year, the Stawell Gift is a prestigious footrace that attracts athletes from around the world. Visitors can enjoy races, markets, and live entertainment during the weekend.

Historical Attractions:

Stawell Gold Mine:

The Stawell Gold Mine is a historical site that provides an insight into the town's rich gold-mining history. The mine has been operational since 1981 and features an underground tour that takes visitors through the mining process from start to finish. There's also an onsite cafe, a gold-bearing rock garden, and a gift shop.

Stawell Railway Station:

The Stawell Railway Station is a heritage-listed building that dates back to 1873. The station is a testament to the importance of railways to the development of the town and provides historical context for the region. Visitors can see a collection of railway artifacts, including an old locomotive, and enjoy a cup of tea at the onsite cafe.

Cultural Attractions:

Stawell Performing Arts:

The Stawell Performing Arts Centre is a cultural hub that hosts a variety of performances, concerts, and events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy shows, theater productions, and more in a cozy and intimate setting. The center also features a gallery displaying local artwork.

Stawell Gift Hall of Fame:

The Stawell Gift Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to the history of the Stawell Gift footrace. The museum features a collection of memorabilia, including winners' sashes, trophies, and photographs. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of the event and even try on a traditional Stawell Gift sash.

Overall, Stawell is a hidden gem of Victoria, Australia, with plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you're looking for nature, history, or culture, there's something for everyone. Be sure to add Stawell to your list of must-visit destinations in Australia.

For more information on any of these attractions, contact the Stawell Visitor Centre at (03) 5358 2313 or visit them at 109-111 Main St, Stawell VIC 3380.