Goldfields & Grampians

The Goldfields region in central Victoria covers many of the areas in which the discovery of gold sparked the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s and 1860s. The gold rush was one of Victoria's most famous and iconic periods in history. It drew prospectors from all corners of the world in search of wealth, resulting in a massive population boom and the phenomenal growth of cities and towns. The gold rush has left behind a rich and lasting legacy within towns of the region, particularly Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine and Maryborough. Beautiful architecture, grand public buildings, statues, fountains and exquisite gardens are all reminders of that rich era.

History is preserved and recreated at various attractions including Sovereign Hill in Ballarat and the Central Deborah Mine in Bendigo. State and national parks protect many relics from the gold rush days including old mines, tunnels, digging sites, abandoned machinery and building ruins. The Goldfields region has an impressive array of wineries, particularly around Bendigo, Heathcote and Avoca, and is also home to fruit-growing orchards.

Find some of Victoria's most stunning landscapes in the Grampians region, with the Grampians National Park offering ample opportunity for outdoor pursuits, complimented by fascinating history, buzzing regional centres, and sublime food and wine.

The rugged mountain ranges of the Grampians National Park mark the centre of this region and rise out of the plains of western Victoria. The impressive ranges are renowned for their unspoilt natural beauty and feature lookouts with stunning panoramic views, picturesque waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, colourful wildflower displays and abundant native wildlife.