Imagine beginning a dinner party conversation with, “Back when I found myself in The Jaws of Death…” You’ll certainly get everyone’s attention. If the mere thought leaves you quaking however, fear not! The Grampians’ remarkable cliffs overlooking the picturesque Lake Wartook and Victoria Valley are easily accessible and nowhere near as scary as they look. In fact, just a short walk can lead you to a view you’ll never forget, as well as the opportunity to snap photos that will impress your friends, without risking your life. (Note: These cliffs have been renamed “The Balconies”, which doesn’t sound nearly as dangerous, but don’t worry – we won’t tell your mates.)
The 400 million-year-old series of four distinct mountain ranges are home to 900 plant species and numerous animals and birds. Spectacular falls, one third of Victoria’s lakes, and waterholes and creeks are scattered across the park. Although declared a national park as recently as 1984, visitors have been flocking to the Grampians for centuries and Aboriginals have lived in the region for many thousands of years.
Bushfires
Like anywhere else in Australia, bushfires are an issue, and the Grampians were hit badly by the fires of January, 2006. The good news; there is now a fascinating glimpse of the contrasts caused by the fire, including the wonder of regeneration. Additionally, the north and south areas of the park missed the brunt of the fire, and remain open as normal. Some of the affected areas remain closed, however, so before embarking on any bushwalks, be sure to check the regular updates offered by Parks Victoria.
Historic sites
In addition to the natural wonders, look out for rock art from ancient inhabitants of the area. Close to 60% of Victoria’s Aboriginal rock art is in the Grampians National Park. Learn more about the history and culture of local Aborigines through the Brambuk Aboriginal Culture Centre. Through this site, you will have the opportunity to arrange guided tours, cultural activities for kids, and learn about performances and exhibitions.
Things to do
The Grampians offer endless options for people who enjoy outdoor activities. Mountain biking, rafting, abseiling, rock-climbing and hang-gliding are just a few of the many exciting adventures you can have in the region. Information about booking these activities can be found by clicking on the desired activity in the Parks Victoria’s website.
The Grampians are a bush walker’s paradise. There are so many tracks ranging in difficulty and length; each offering unforgettable scenery. For example, the Pinnacles are well worth the challenging 5km trek for an incredible view from up high above the valley. Walkers who are less fit can be treated to amazing sights on shorter, easier walks, for example the Venus Baths, - beautiful rock pools close to Halls Gap. The Balconies (Jaws of Death) are only ten minutes from the Reed Lookout car park.
Many of the best views are also accessible by wheelchair, including MacKenzie Falls and Boroka Lookout. If your wheelchair is best suited to flat, surfaced paths, you can rent an “off-road” wheelchair from the Brambuk Aboriginal and Cultural Centre.
When to go
The Grampians can be enjoyed any time of the year due to its mild climate, however spring offers the brightest flowers and most spectacular waterfalls.
How to get there
Grampians National Park is a three-hour drive from Melbourne, which is accessible by every major airline as well as many regional carriers. If you are flying into Melbourne, you can rent a car and drive the distance, or you can catch a V-line train or a bus from Spencer Street Station in Melbourne’s central business district. Major highways lead to the Grampians region from Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. The Grampians are spread across a large region, so be sure to have wheels during your stay – whether a car or planned tour, to take you around the many sites.
Accommodation
Enjoy sleeping in a self-contained log cabin by a lake, or in a cottage surrounded by kangaroos. TakeABreak offers a variety of accommodation in all 10 areas of the Grampians region, with everything from quaint bed and breakfasts to private retreats. Click here for TakeABreak’s Grampians accommodation options.
Ideal length of visit
The Grampians have a lot to offer, so your ideal length of stay will depend on your stamina. You could easily spend several weeks in the region without getting bored, as there are so many places to explore and plenty of activities. With so many relaxing accommodation options available, you may want to simply sink into the beauty and disappear from reality. The Grampians are also excellent for romantic weekends, family holidays and extended adventures.
Further information
Check out www.visitgrampians.com.au as well as the official Parks Victoria website. Once you’re in The Grampians, be sure to visit the Brambuk Aboriginal Culture Centre for information about cultural tours.
About the Author
Kylie-Jane Degeling is a freelance writer who has lived in Adelaide, Yulara (Uluru), Alice Springs and Canberra, as well as five different countries throughout the world. After backpacking around Australia, she worked as a tour guide in Central Australia, before training for her Commercial Pilot License and working as a flight instructor, scenic flight and charter pilot. She later worked as a travelling IT trainer for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, which involved spending time in each of their 16 District Offices around the country on a frequent rotating basis.
Having experienced Australia as a backpacker, tour guide, pilot and business traveller, Kylie now enjoys family holidays with her husband Alex, and children Jezzy and Jordan. She says, “I have been lucky to see Australia from a variety of perspectives, and as a travel writer can use this experience to inspire others to find holidays they would enjoy.”
Kylie currently works as a travel writer in addition to being a government writer and columnist for two parenting magazines.
Kylie Jane Degeling wrote this article
