Discover the Pyrenees Ranges: Wine, Wildlife & Goldfields History 

Feature Credit—visitpyrenees.com.au

Discover a unique blend of history, culture, wine, and natural beauty in the Central Victorian Goldfields with the Pyrenees Ranges. This rugged mountain region offers spectacular views, lush vineyards, abundant wildlife, and glimpses into Australia’s rich goldmining past—just waiting to be explored. 

Nature & Walking Trails 

Located approximately 200 km from Melbourne, just outside the charming town of Avoca, the Pyrenees Ranges are perfect for nature lovers and bushwalkers. The ranges feature scenic trails through rugged peaks rising to 750 metres and are home to more than 200 plant species and 100 bird species. 

Not-to-be-missed walking and picnic spots include: 

• Waterfalls Picnic Area – a peaceful and spacious picnic area only a short walk from Avoca Falls 

• Governor Rock Lookout – for sweeping views across the region 

• Pyrenees Endurance Walk – a challenging but rewarding 18km (one-way) trail for experienced hikers 

• Valley Walk – an easier, 1km return loop in the ranges 

Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and colourful native birds as you explore. 

Wine & Local Produce 

The Pyrenees is also one of Australia’s most diverse and underrated wine-growing regions, with a mix of micro-climates perfect for bold reds and elegant sparkling wines. With over 25 cellar doors, you can sample your way through the region’s famous Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and increasingly celebrated Chardonnay. 

In addition to wine tasting, many vineyards offer: 

• Local produce platters 

• Wine and food pairing events 

• Winemaker-led tours and experiences 

Be sure to stop at favourites like Blue Pyrenees Estate, Taltarni Vineyards, or DogRock Winery, among others. 

Explore Avoca 

The nearby town of Avoca is the perfect base for your adventure. This charming village features: 

• Historic buildings dating back to the gold rush 

• Riverside markets with artisan goods and produce 

• Boutique art galleries and community exhibitions 

• Country bakeries and cosy pubs 

• Local festivals and wine weekends throughout the year 

You can stay locally at the Avoca Caravan Park, or base yourself in Ballarat, just over an hour’s drive away, where you’ll find additional caravan parks and attractions like Sovereign Hill, a living museum of gold rush life. For places to stay in the Goldfields region, check out the Victoria Caravan Parks website.

Need another reason to visit? The region is also part of the Grampians and Pyrenees Ranges Touring Route, connecting travellers to cultural heritage sites, national parks, and regional food and wine producers across Central Victoria. 

What are you waiting for? 

Hit the road and uncover the hidden beauty of Victoria’s Pyrenees Ranges—where wine, wilderness, and history come together. 

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