Mansfield, Victoria – A Great Place for all Seasons and Reasons

Whatever the season, whatever the reason, a stay in Mansfield - in Victoria’s north-east - is the perfect way to relax and revive. The Mansfield area is renowned for its spectacular national parks, state forests, mountains, lakes and rivers, and historic links. Its sense of history and adventure is still evident in the homes and buildings that have graced the landscape for several generations. New industries with a stronger tourism focus have given visitors and residents alike many more reasons to the stay in the area.

The bushfires of summer 2006-07 posed major challenges to the Mansfield area, and affected parts of the hills and mountains near the town, though the town itself was well away from the fire front. The fires are over and the area’s welcome mat is out well and truly.

The rivers, lakes and mountains await lovers of the great outdoors; the shops, galleries, restaurants and wineries welcome lovers of the great indoors. Go driving, hiking, camping, biking, horse riding all year round, and snow skiing in winter.

Wonder at the sweeping views from Mt Buller and Mt Stirling, Blue Range, or closer to Mansfield, The Paps. Meander through the towering timber forests in the Tolmie hills where Ned Kelly used to roam, or take the well-worn, scenic road from Jamieson to Woods Point where gold miners and timber cutters once eked out a living in rugged conditions. Perhaps you prefer to explore the waters of the Goulburn, Delatite and Howqua rivers, or Lakes Eildon and Nillahcootie where you can snooze on the bank, paddle, swim, fish, sail, watch the bird life, or in some places, water ski.

If your preference is for life at a quiet stroll, acquaint yourself with the range of shops, galleries and dining establishments, or taste without haste at the several wineries throughout the area. Discover historic surprises with self-guided walking tours of the townships of Mansfield, Jamieson and Woods Point. 

The surrounding localities of  Merrijig, Mirimbah, Mt Stirling and Mt Buller to the east ; Macs Cove, Goughs Bay, Jamieson, Kevington, and Woods Point to the south; Maindample, Bonnie Doon and Merton to the west; Barjarg, Nillahcootie and Swanpool to the north; and Barwite and Tolmie to the north east, all have their own special features and are well worth a visit, depending on your length of stay.

The area boasts a zoo, berry farm, brewery, historic sites and buildings, as well as a selection of art galleries, cellar door wineries, dining establishments, historic hotels and interesting shops. These are either right in Mansfield or just a few minutes drive away.

A visit to the The Station precinct - site of the now-defunct Mansfield railway station, at the eastern entrance to Mansfield, is a must as a source of information and for its thought-provoking displays. The area houses the Visitor Information and Interpretive Centre, the headquarters of the Mansfield Historical Society, and is the start of the Mullum Wetlands Walk.

Accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets make the Mansfield area the ideal place any time of year for singles, couples, families or groups - anybody in search of a good time or a quiet rest. Wherever you stay – from camping to five-star pampering – the atmosphere is welcoming and friendly.

There is always something going on in Mansfield. Throughout the year there are regular bush-markets and a selection of festivals and cultural occasions. Major sporting events such as the Great Victoria Bike Ride and High Country Cycle Challenge are a feature too.  See www.mansfieldonline.com.au for details of what’s on throughout the year in the Mansfield area.

Mansfield offers something special to visitors whatever the season, and it is easy to see why so many return to the area time after time.