The Grampians, VictoriaClick here for accommodation,
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The Grampians are well known as one of Victoria’s most scenic mountain regions. They are located in the central part of the state about 150 kilometres west from Ballarat. In 1984 an area covering 167000 hectares was declared a National Park and The Grampians National Park become Victoria’s third largest. In the early days the region was used for water supply to irrigate surrounding farming land and several impoundments were built to store the water. In 1900, gold was discovered at Mafeking and thousands of hopeful diggers congregated in the area. The find proved to be small and was quickly worked out however there are plenty of disused mine workings in the region and these should be treated with great care.
Scenically, the region is very special. Craggy rock outcrops top the mountain peaks and there are plenty of opportunities for abseiling and rock climbing in the park. There are also many planned walking tracks to take you through the most popular areas. Places like Mackenzie Falls are very popular as these are among the most spectacular in the state. Mt William is the highest peak in the Grampians and it can be reached via a steep track from the car park to the summit to admire the fantastic view. Mt Abrupt is also a popular walking destination. The Grampians National Park Visitors Center is located at Hall Gap and should be the first stopping point for tourists entering the park. There is plenty of information on offer here to ensure that you get the best from your visit. Audio visual displays, maps and brochures are readily available. Halls gap is a fully serviced town and provides camping facilities. Accommodation is available in hotels in Grampians, motels and bed n breakfasts in all of the surrounding town like Ararat, Horsham, Mildura, and Stawell.
There are many other attractions in the Grampians National Park. There are many aboriginal rock carvings to be seen in the park and the local indigenous people still keep a strong association with the region. Wildlife abounds here and Kangaroos, Emus and Koalas are common. The valleys are filled with redgum forests and the understory is carpeted with wild flowers. There are lots of great beauty spots where you can enjoy a picnic or a barbque and enjoy the tranquillity of this superb region. The Grampians National Park is a must see destination on any Victorian holiday itinerary.
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