Ararat

Day Trips

Arrive in the historical town of Ararat and check in to your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the town's main street to soak in the local ambiance and spot the impressive heritage architecture. Grab a coffee at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.

Visit the Ararat Gallery TAMA, where you can explore contemporary and historical artworks, including pieces by renowned artists. Afterward, head to the nearby Ararat Rural City to learn about the unique local history at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre. Relax in the picturesque Alexandra Gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of Ararat's charming restaurants, where you can sample local cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely night walk around the town to appreciate the evening peace. Wind down at your accommodation with a local wine or craft beer while reflecting on your first day.

Set out early for a day trip to the stunning Grampians National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife. Begin with a scenic hike along the Grampians Peaks Trail, where you'll witness breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Stop for a morning snack at one of the picturesque lookout points.

Continue your adventure by exploring the park's many waterfalls, such as MacKenzie Falls, and enjoy a picnic lunch by the scenic water. Then, visit the Brambuk Cultural Centre to learn about the Indigenous culture and the significance of the land. Take some time to relax and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Return to Ararat and treat yourself to a warm meal at a local eatery. Reflect on your day’s adventures over dinner or write a journal entry about the stunning views you experienced. Spend the evening relaxing back at your accommodation, perhaps planning the next day's excitement.

Spend your morning at the Ararat Gaol, a historical site that operated as a prison from 1859 to 1991. Take a guided tour to learn about the intriguing stories of former inmates and the jail's eerie past. Explore the various sections of the gaol and take in the unique architecture.

After your tour, head to the nearby Ararat Gold Fields to investigate the town's rich mining history. Engage in gold panning for a chance to strike it rich and immerse yourself in this fascinating part of Australian culture. Visit a local museum to dip deeper into the stories that shaped Ararat.

Dine at a local pub where you can enjoy hearty Australian fare in a laid-back atmosphere. After your meal, join a ghost tour that takes you through the haunted histories of Ararat, including the gaol and other landmarks. Conclude your evening with a drink at a nearby bar, reflecting on both the history and the supernatural tales of the town.

Visit the Ararat Farmers Market, where you can buy fresh produce, artisan goods, and handmade crafts. Enjoy mingling with local vendors and sampling delicious treats to start your day. The market is not only a great place for shopping but also for engaging with the friendly local community.

After the market, head to Langi Ghiran State Park for some outdoor activities like hiking or bird watching. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the serene setting, surrounded by nature. Take some time to relax and recharge in the tranquil environment.

Return to Ararat and visit a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor seasonal dishes made from ingredients sourced from the markets. After dinner, engage in a community event or a local performance if available, enjoying the vibrant arts scene. Wind down your day with a nightcap at a bar to reflect on the local flavors and connections you've made.

Begin your day with a drive to the nearby Pyrenees Wine Region, famous for its wine production. Visit a local winery for a morning tour to learn about wine-making processes and enjoy some tastings. Take in the serene vineyard views while sipping on exquisite local wines.

After the winery, enjoy lunch at a vineyard restaurant, where you can pair dishes with your favorite wines from the region. Following lunch, explore nearby cellars and perhaps purchase a few bottles to take back with you. Experience the local landscape on a leisurely walk, capturing the beauty of the wine country.

Return to Ararat and treat yourself to an elegant dinner that features local wines and gourmet cuisine. Engage with fellow diners and the staff to share stories and recommendations for local experiences. End the evening with a scenic walk under the stars, reflecting on the day's pleasures.

Set off for a day trip to Ballarat, a city rich in gold rush history, just a short drive from Ararat. Start your day by visiting Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates the gold rush era in the 1850s. Stage shows and costumed characters will transport you back in time as you explore the historic site.

Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés in Sovereign Hill before spending the afternoon continuing your exploration of Ballarat. Visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park to see native Australian animals up close and even get the chance to feed kangaroos. Alternatively, check out the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for some peace and natural beauty.

Return to Ararat and participate in a community event or local live music if available for a fun end to your day. Share your experiences with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Finish up with a warm drink at a café while reminiscing about your adventures.

Spend the morning at the Ararat Bird Sanctuary for bird watching and connecting with nature. Bring binoculars and a book to fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the sights of various bird species. This tranquil setting is perfect for meditation or simply unwinding.

Afterwards, indulge in a spa day at a local wellness center, where you can enjoy massages or rejuvenating treatments. Relax in a heated pool or sauna and take advantage of the facilities to recharge. Enjoy a light lunch at the spa café to fuel your relaxation.

End your day with a peaceful sunset at One Tree Hill, an iconic lookout point offering stunning views over Ararat. Pack a picnic dinner to enjoy while watching the sky change colors. Return to your accommodation feeling refreshed and at peace with the nature surrounding you.

Start your morning with a visit to the Ararat Railway Station, an impressive heritage-listed site. Learn about its history and significance to the development of the town while enjoying the intricate architecture. Take some time to wander the old tracks and appreciate the expanded views.

Explore local galleries and studios, meeting artists and appreciating their works. Visit the Ararat Regional Art Gallery and take a wander through its rotating exhibits, which showcase both local and national artists. Grab lunch at a nearby café, with a focus on art-inspired dishes.

Consider attending a local theater production or live music event if available to end your day immersed in the arts. Engage with locals at the event, making connections over shared interests. Wind down in your accommodation, perhaps sketching as you reflect on the world's creativity around you.

Take a leisurely morning for some last-minute shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in Ararat's boutiques. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at a café, soaking in the local vibe one last time. Reflect on your experiences in this beautiful town as you prepare for your departure.

Spend your final hours visiting places you may have missed, such as the Ararat Historical Society's Museum or spot something intriguing on Main Street. Enjoy a light lunch while reminiscing about the highlights of your trip. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to cherish your memories.

As you prepare to leave Ararat, consider dining at a favorite spot one last time for a fond farewell meal. Engage in conversations with the friendly locals you’ve met along the way. Depart with full hearts and minds, promising to return to this captivating town.