After work on Thursday, we set off on a three-hour drive northwest. The traffic leaving Melbourne was horrendous, but it gradually thinned as we ventured into the countryside. As night fell, we were surprised by how little light pollution there was, even on the highway.
We arrived in Halls Gap and checked into our cozy accommodation at the Grampians Chalet. Halls Gap is nestled in the heart of Grampians National Park—a nature reserve known for its sandstone mountains, wildflowers, and wildlife. Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest collection of significant Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia.
On Friday morning, Tom and I left our chalet around 9 am and walked 1.5 km into the village to begin our first hike. Along the way, we spotted heaps of kangaroos, two emus, and an echidna! The day warmed up quickly, and felt even warmer in the strong sun.
The iconic Pinnacle is one of the most popular destinations in the park with scenic panoramic views. There are a number of walking options to reach the Pinnacle; we chose the 10-km loop from Halls Gap, tracking clockwise for a steeper ascent and more gradual descent.
The first half of the loop leading to the Pinnacle was fantastic—quiet and filled with vibrant wildflowers.
Once we reached the Pinnacle, however, we quickly realized we weren't the only ones enjoying the long weekend.
The second half of the loop becomes quite narrow in parts, which created a constant flow of hikers from both directions. I would recommend this hike during off-peak times or starting early and tracking counterclockwise to avoid the families coming from the Wonderland carpark.
Back in Halls Gap, we found the village bustling with activity. We stopped for lunch at Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co.
Afterwards, we picked up our car from the chalet and drove 40 minutes to the northern Grampians. Much of this area was affected by a bushfire in February.
Hollow Mountain features a 2-km trek that gradually climbs through a wide open gully surrounded by rocky cliffs. The path steeply ascends over rocky ledges and past wind scoured caverns to a summit with views over Mt. Stapylton Amphitheatre and the Wimmera Plains. This track was significantly quieter than the crowded Pinnacle, but we did encounter a few rock climbers.
Back at the car, we headed south, stopping along the way to check out MacKenzie Falls—one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria. Cascading year-round, the falls plunge over massive cliffs into a deep pool, creating fine sprays of rainbow mist high above a stunning gorge.
A short but steep trail leads to the base of the falls, where the scenery was enhanced by the golden hour glow. This area, too, was swarming with people.
On Saturday morning, I peeked out the window to spot a kangaroo with her joey! The little one hopped around its mother before jumping into her pouch.
After the excitement, Tom and I drove 40 minutes south to hike Mt. Abrupt. It was another sunny but windy day, with just a handful of people on the trail. The steep 6-km track winds through bushland and up sandstone rocks, with sections that are part of the Grampians Peaks Trail—an impressive 160-km 13-day backpacking route that traverses the park.
The summit offers 360-degree views of the Serra Range to the north and Dunkeld to the south. It's a prime spot for birdwatching, especially wedge-tailed eagles, nankeen kestrels, and peregrine falcons.
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| Best hike of the trip! |
Afterwards, we detoured through the southern Grampians, passing endless yellow canola fields and wind farms. We would be keen to stay in this area on future trips.
We stopped for lunch at Pomonal Estate, a family-run winery, microbrewery, cider house, and restaurant. The vegan platter was phenomenal, and we quickly agreed we would make this a mandatory visit on future trips!
On the way back to Halls Gap, we stopped at the iconic Balconies. A short walk from the Reek Lookout car park provides panoramic views of Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges—an ideal spot at sunrise and sunset. The clouds were rolling in but everyone was watching the Grand Final by then, so we had the lookout to ourselves.
Tom cooked us a pasta dinner while we watched the end of the game, a blowout win for the Brisbane Lions.
On Sunday, we woke up to the soothing sound of rain on the roof. With no signs of clearing, we decided it was time to head home to the boys. Great weekend getaway!
