Things To Do
in Stawell

Stawell is a charming town located in the Grampians region of Victoria, Australia, known for its rich gold mining history and friendly community. Nestled between the Grampians National Park and the Wimmera, it serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. The town features beautiful parks, historical architecture, and a range of cultural attractions.

Stawell is also famous for its annual Stawell Gift, a prestigious footrace that attracts athletes from across Australia and beyond.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Stawell's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Stawell Historical Society Museum to learn about the town's gold mining past and local heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Stawell Botanic Gardens, followed by a leisurely stroll to admire the beautiful flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at the local favorite, the Central Hotel, known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a hike at Grampians National Park, exploring the breathtaking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.

afternoon
:

After hiking, explore the local art scene by visiting some galleries or craft shops, and grab a light lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Stawell Racecourse for an evening of horse racing, or enjoy a quiet dinner at the Royal Hotel.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20 - $40
Coffee$3 - $5
🍕Pizza$15 - $25
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50 - $100
🏨Hotel (per night)$100 - $150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Proximity to stunning natural attractions.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal accessibility.

Places to Visit in Stawell

Visit one of these nice places.

Grampians National Park

Known for its stunning landscapes, the park offers breathtaking views from various lookout points, perfect for nature photography.

Stawell Botanic Gardens

These historic gardens provide colorful flowers and serene pathways, making it an ideal spot for capturing tranquil scenes.

Goldfields Railway

The historic railway offers picturesque settings and vintage trains, providing unique photo opportunities for history buffs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Stawell

Stawell offers a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects its agricultural roots and cultural diversity. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals and fresh produce sourced from the surrounding regions, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Stawell Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef Pie

A classic Australian dish, the beef pie is a must-try in Stawell, often filled with tender beef and rich gravy, encased in flaky pastry.

Must-Try!

Lamingtons

These iconic Australian treats consist of sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coated with desiccated coconut, perfect for a sweet snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Stawell Farmers' Market

Held monthly, this market showcases local produce, artisanal products, and homemade goods, offering a great chance to sample fresh flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Stawell experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, with average temperatures between 25°C to 35°C. Winters are cool, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 14°C, often with frost in the mornings. Spring and autumn are mild, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Australians value politeness and friendliness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Respect for Nature

When visiting natural sites, it's important to respect the environment by not littering and following park guidelines.

Casual Attire

Australians tend to dress casually, so feel free to wear comfortable clothing while exploring the town.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stawell is generally a safe town, but standard precautions are advised. Always secure personal belongings and be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services.

Tipping in Stawell

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are common. Cash is also accepted, but it's becoming less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (September to November) brings blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer (December to February) can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C; enjoy swimming and hiking early in the morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Autumn (March to May) showcases vibrant fall colors across the landscape, perfect for scenic drives and hikes.

Winter

Winter (June to August) can be cold, with occasional frost; it's a quieter time to explore Stawell, ideal for cozy indoor activities and warm meals.

Nightlife Guide

Stawell at Night

Stawell offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around its local pubs and bars. The Central Hotel and Royal Hotel often host live music and events, creating a lively atmosphere on weekends. While the nightlife is not as bustling as larger cities, it provides a great opportunity to mingle with locals and enjoy a laid-back evening.

Hiking in Stawell

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pinnacle Walk

A popular hiking trail in Grampians National Park, leading to stunning views from the Pinnacle lookout, suitable for various skill levels.

Boroka Lookout

An easy walk that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for families and beginners.

Airports

How to reach Stawell by plane.

Stawell Airport

A small regional airport located approximately 5 km from the town center, offering limited domestic flights and serving primarily general aviation.

Getting Around

Walkability

Stawell is quite walkable, with key attractions and amenities located within a short distance from each other in the town center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it easy for pedestrians to navigate. For those looking to explore more natural areas, bike paths and hiking trails offer additional options.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Stawell has a growing population of young families attracted by the town's affordable living and community-oriented lifestyle.

Retirees

The town is also home to many retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football

A beloved sport in Stawell, with local clubs competing in various leagues throughout the season.

Cricket

Cricket is widely played during the summer months, with local teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Stawell is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local bus services that connect Stawell to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may be limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Stawell.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Stawell offer vegetarian and vegan options, with local produce making it easy to find satisfying meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy local cuisine without worry.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Stawell is accessible with a local hospital providing emergency and general health services. There are also several medical clinics and pharmacies in the area. For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger nearby cities like Ballarat.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide