Benalla Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more with this comprehensive travel guide to Benalla in the High Country of Victoria, Australia.


Introduction to Benalla

Located in the heart of the High Country of Victoria, Benalla is a charming town that offers visitors a unique experience. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. With its welcoming locals, picturesque streets lined with historic buildings, and excellent cuisine, Benalla is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of regional Victoria.

List of Places to Visit in Benalla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Benalla is home to several museums and historical landmarks that provide visitors with a fascinating insight into the region’s past.

Benalla Museum

The Benalla Museum is located in the town center and is dedicated to preserving the history of the local area. This museum also has a range of exhibitions that explore the history of the region, from the traditional owners, the Bangerang people, to the arrival of European settlers and the growth of the town.

Ned Kelly Trail

For those interested in Australian history and notorious bushranger Ned Kelly, a trip along the Ned Kelly Trail is a must-do. The trail takes visitors on a journey through the landmarks and sites that were significant in Kelly’s life. Starting from Benalla, it includes stops at the Old Melbourne Gaol, the Kelly family homestead, and Glenrowan.

Natural Attractions of Benalla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Benalla’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and scenic spots to explore.

Winton Wetlands

Winton Wetlands is one of the largest wetlands restoration projects in the Southern Hemisphere, and it is located just outside Benalla. Here, visitors can hike or bike along the trails, take a wildlife tour, or go kayaking on the wetlands.

Lake Benalla

Lake Benalla, located in the center of town, is a stunning spot to relax and take in the scenery. With a walking trail around the lake, it is a popular place for cycling, jogging, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Benalla

The High Country of Victoria is known for its excellent hiking and biking trails, and Benalla is no exception.

Mount Samaria State Park

Mount Samaria State Park is located just east of Benalla, and offers visitors a range of trails for hiking and mountain biking. With stunning views over the surrounding countryside, this is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers.

Winton Wetlands

In addition to being a great place for bird watching, Winton Wetlands has several trails that are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

Best Things to Do in Benalla: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours to enjoy in Benalla.

Street Art Tour

Benalla is renowned for its impressive street art, with many murals and installations scattered throughout the town. Take a walking tour to see some of the best examples, including works by international street artists.

Wine Tasting

The Benalla region is known for its excellent wine, and there are several wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours. Check out Brown Brothers or Sam Miranda for a taste of the local drops.

Week-Long Itinerary for Benalla

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Benalla, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the region.

Day Activity
1 Visit Benalla Museum, wander the town center, check out the street art
2 Hike or bike Mount Samaria State Park
3 Visit the Winton Wetlands, take a wildlife tour or go kayaking
4 Take a day trip to nearby Milawa and visit some of the region’s wineries
5 Explore Ned Kelly’s history on the Ned Kelly Trail
6 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Benalla
7 Visit the local markets and buy some souvenirs to take home

Food and Drink Scene of Benalla

Benalla has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of delicious local cuisine and wines to try.

Must-Try Dishes

Duck Confit

A French classic, duck confit is a popular dish in many of the town’s fine dining restaurants.

Milawa Cheese

The Milawa Cheese Company produces some of Australia’s best cheeses, including soft and creamy bries, cheddars, and blue vein cheeses, and it’s located nearby Benalla. Be sure to indulge in a cheese platter at one of the local cafes or wineries.

Local Beverages

Brown Brothers Wines

Brown Brothers has been making wine in the region for over 130 years, and it’s one of Australia’s most renowned wineries.

Benalla Beer Brewing Company

The Benalla Beer Brewing Company produces a range of craft beers. It also has a bar and restaurant where visitors can taste the brews and enjoy some delicious food.

Where to Stay in Benalla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Benalla has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

Executive Hideaway

The Executive Hideaway is located in town and offers modern, self-contained apartments. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or business travelers.

Top of the Town Motel

The Top of the Town Motel is ideal for families, with spacious rooms that include kitchenettes and living areas.

What to Buy in Benalla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Benalla, be sure to pick up some of these local souvenirs and products to take home.

Handmade Pottery

Benalla is home to several local potters, who produce beautiful handmade ceramics and pottery.

Ned Kelly Memorabilia

With the town’s strong connection to Ned Kelly, there’s plenty of memorabilia in the local shops and markets, including postcards, badges, and stickers.

Local Culture and Customs of Benalla

The people of Benalla are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors to the region should expect a warm welcome. The town has a strong connection to its Indigenous history and is proud of its cultural traditions.

Best Time to Visit Benalla

The best time to visit Benalla is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty of the region is at its best. In summer, it can be hot and dry, while winter can be cold and frosty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Benalla

Do:

  • Take a street art tour to see some of the town’s impressive murals.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine - Brown Brothers is a must-visit winery.
  • Learn about the region’s Indigenous history.

Don’t:

  • Leave without visiting the Winton Wetlands.
  • Miss the opportunity to bike or hike in Mount Samaria State Park.
  • Forget to buy some local souvenirs to take home.

Safety and Health

Safety in Benalla

Benalla is a very safe town, with low levels of crime. As with any destination, visitors should take normal precautions with their belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Benalla

There are several medical clinics in Benalla, and visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance before arriving in the region.

Getting to Benalla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Benalla

Benalla is serviced by several airports, including Melbourne’s Tullamarine and Essendon airports. From there, visitors can catch a connecting flight to Benalla Airport or take a coach or train to the town center.

Bus Stations Near Benalla

V/Line operates coaches from Melbourne to Benalla daily, and the trip takes around two and a half hours.

Other Options

For those driving, Benalla is located on the Hume Highway, around two hours from Melbourne. There are several car rental companies in the town center for visitors who prefer to travel independently.

How to Get Around in Benalla

Benalla is a small town and can easily be navigated on foot or by bike. For those who prefer to drive, car rental is available in town.

Where to Go Next from Benalla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Benalla should consider, including:

Milawa

Located just 20 minutes from Benalla, Milawa is a charming town known for its excellent food and wine. It’s also home to several historic buildings and has a beautiful garden where visitors can relax and take in the scenery.

Bright

Bright is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and biking trails, skiing in winter, and a range of adventure activities like white water rafting.

Conclusion

Benalla is a delightful destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the best of the High Country of Victoria. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, excellent cuisine, and welcoming locals, it’s a town that’s sure to impress. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Benalla.