Cool Country Victoria: Things To Do And Great Experiences In Halls Gap
Halls Gap is the gateway to the Grampians. As is typical in Victoria, many towns boast unique attractions, and Halls Gap is no exception.
This small town in Western Victoria serves more of a purpose than just being a base to rendezvous after exploring.
There’s something special in Halls Gap.
Where to Eat in Halls Gap
The Kookaburra Hotel
A community classic, this pub offers hearty meals with a great selection of local wines and beers. The outdoor dining area is a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking in the surrounding mountain views.
Livefast Cafe
A cafe run by an outfit of rock climbers who just love the Grampians. Livefast is a good food and coffee that serves as a great starting point for the day. Not just a cafe in a convenient location, it’s good food and good brew that keeps the local climbing and hiking culture strong.
Spirit of Punjab
A long-time local favourite, this is just classic Indian fare in the great outdoors of the Grampians.
It’s aligned with the other eateries in Halls Gap, in the way that’s made to be shared with touring groups of friends, who’ve spent the day earning themselves an appetite traversing the nearby territory.
Flame Brothers Restaurant & Bar
An American-style smokehouse located in the heart of Halls Gap. A big grill makes all that walking worth it.
Coolas Ice Creamery
After a day of exploring, stop by this wholesome Australian ice creamery for 33 flavours to choose from. It doesn’t get much more Aussie than a community ice creamery run by two Aussies named Terry and Claire.
Where to Drink in Halls Gap
Believe it or not, this is wine country. Plenty of good drinking to do while you’re here.
Halls Gap Hotel
A central place in town to grab a drink and relax, set on the foothills of Mount Willia. A big menu, with plenty of space for big groups. A great spot for a fire during the winter.
Fallen Giants Vineyard
Views of the vineyard and the Grampians beyond at Fallen Giants
The name "Fallen Giants" is derived from the Dreamtime stories of the Djab Wurrung and Jardiwadjali people, who created the Grampians (Geriward) spirit Bunjil, who often took the form of an eagle. Winemakers Rebecca & Aaron Drummond focus on sustainable farming and a wine experience that celebrates natural splendour and the land that they harvest from.
Enjoy tastings of “Victoria’s best Shiraz of 2021” and more with a jaw-dropping view of the mountain ranges in the distance.
Grampians Estate
Just a little over from Halls Gap, head to the settlement of Great Western for Grampians Estate. This is one of Victoria’s premium cellar doors, specialising in cool climate wines like their cool climate Shiraz and Sparkling Shiraz.
They’ve got a ‘5-star’ rating from James Halliday (top 8% in Australia) and 78 trophies for their wines since 2002.
Pomonal Estate
A vineyard, microbrewery and cider house tarted in 2017 by Adam and Pep Atchison,
Go easy, you’ve probably got a few big days out coming up.
Support some local innovators, helping to put The Grampians on the map for wine tourism.
Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co.
The Paper Scissors Rock beer garden
Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co. is an unreal spot for a beer.
With a view of the grande Grampians vistas in the backdrop and 8 taps of seasonal craft beer, it’s just something you’ve got to experience.
Things to Do and Great Experiences in Halls Gap
Hiking in Halls Gap
Halls Gap is renowned for its hiking trails, suitable for all levels. Some notable walks include:
The Pinnacle Walk:
A challenging 4.2 km return hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
The MacKenzie Falls:
A popular, easy-to-moderate walk leading to one of Victoria’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls.
The Boronia Peak Walk:
A 3.4 km return hike that offers panoramic views over Halls Gap and the surrounding Grampians
Swim at Natural Rock Pools at Venus Baths
Photo Credit: Visit Victoria
A 2.3 km walk from Halls Gap town centre via Stony Creek and the Botanic Gardens to reach the Venus Baths. Nature’s gift in the form of rock pools that you can swim in after a day of being on the move.
Grampians Grape Escape
Live events at the Grape Escape
Held annually during the first weekend of May, the Grampians Grape Escape is one of Australia's longest-running food and wine festivals.
It features offerings from over 100 local artisan producers, live music, and family entertainment.
Brambuk - National Park & Cultural Centre
Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre is an essential way to see The Grampians: from the perspective of its original custodians. It’s a hub for exploring native flora, fauna, and Aboriginal culture, with information about walking tracks in the Grampians, including Reeds Lookout, The Balconies, Boroka Lookout, MacKenzie Falls, and The Pinnacle.
The ‘Gariwerd Dreaming Theatre’ offers insights into the park's cultural heritage.
Halls Gap Zoo
Halls Gap Zoo is Victoria’s largest regional zoo, home to over 160 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles.
See creatures from all around the world including meerkats, giraffes, kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils, snakes, crocodiles, turtles, ducks, owls and monkeys.