Ararat (Victoria) Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Ararat in Victoria, Australia. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat is a charming town situated in the heart of the Wimmera region of Victoria, Australia. Founded in the mid-19th century during the Gold Rush, Ararat has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as a stunning natural landscape. Visitors to Ararat can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking, as well as exploring museums and historic sites. With its friendly locals, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere, Ararat is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Ararat (Victoria)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Langi Morgala Museum – This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Ararat and the surrounding region. Visitors can see exhibits on the town’s gold-mining past, as well as artifacts from local Aboriginal communities.
  • J Ward Museum Complex – Originally built as a treatment center for the criminally insane, J Ward now serves as a museum and historic site. Visitors can see the original cells, hear stories of the inmates, and learn about the history of mental health care in Victoria.
  • Ararat Railway Heritage Museum – This museum is housed in a restored railway station and showcases the history of the railway in Victoria. Visitors can see historic trains and other railway artifacts, as well as learn about the important role of the railway in the development of the state.

Natural Attractions of Ararat (Victoria): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Langi Ghiran – This stunning mountain range offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the local vineyards and taste the delicious wines produced in the area.
  • Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre – This center celebrates the contribution of the Chinese community to the history and culture of Ararat. Visitors can see exhibits on Chinese immigration, herbal medicine, and other aspects of Chinese culture.
  • Grampians National Park – Located just a short distance from Ararat, this national park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rugged mountain ranges, beautiful waterfalls and lakes, and diverse wildlife, the Grampians offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ararat (Victoria)

  • Ararat Hills Regional Park – This park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails which wind through the scenic landscape of the region. Visitors can see kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Mount Buangor State Park – This park offers several challenging hiking trails that lead to stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also see rare plant and animal species, including the powerful owl and the brush-tailed phascogale.

Best Things to Do in Ararat (Victoria): Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tours – Ararat is home to several world-renowned wineries, including Mount Langi Ghiran and Best’s Wines. Visitors can take guided tours of the vineyards and taste the delicious wines produced in the area.
  • Food Tours – Ararat has a vibrant food scene, with many restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Foodies can take guided tours of the town’s best eateries, sampling local foods and meeting the passionate chefs and restaurateurs who create them.
  • Hot Air Balloon Tours – What better way to see the stunning beauty of Ararat than from the sky? Visitors can take hot air balloon tours that offer panoramic views of the town, the surrounding mountains, and the beautiful countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ararat (Victoria)

Day Activity
1 Visit Langi Morgala Museum and take a guided tour of the town.
2 Explore the Grampians National Park and see the stunning Mackenzie Falls.
3 Take a wine-tasting tour of the region and visit Mount Langi Ghiran and Best’s Wines.
4 Take a hot air balloon tour of the town and surrounding countryside.
5 Explore J Ward Museum Complex and learn about the history of mental health care in Victoria.
6 Hike the challenging trails of Mount Buangor State Park and see rare plant and animal species.
7 Relax and enjoy the local food scene, visiting some of Ararat’s best restaurants and sampling delicious local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Ararat (Victoria)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef Brisket – Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is a true culinary delight.
  • Lamingtons – These small cakes are covered in chocolate and coconut, and make the perfect sweet treat.
  • Meat Pies – A classic Australian dish, these savory pies are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Local Beverages

  • Wine – Ararat is home to several world-renowned wineries, including Mount Langi Ghiran and Best’s Wines. Visitors can taste the delicious wines produced in the area, including Shiraz, Riesling, and Pinot Noir.
  • Craft Beer – Ararat has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing delicious and unique beers.

Where to Stay in Ararat (Victoria): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Grange Burn Motel – This cozy motel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, as well as a pool and barbecue facilities.
  • Ararat Motor Inn – This stylish and modern motel offers spacious rooms and high-quality amenities, including a pool, spa, and restaurant.
  • Two Up Lodge – This intimate and welcoming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, as well as a communal kitchen and outdoor barbecue area.

What to Buy in Ararat (Victoria): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine – Ararat is home to several world-renowned wineries, including Mount Langi Ghiran and Best’s Wines. Visitors can bring home a bottle of their favorite vintage, or even a case to share with friends and family.
  • Handmade Crafts – Ararat has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans creating unique and beautiful works of art. Visitors can bring home a piece of Ararat’s creative spirit by purchasing a handmade craft or artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the town’s Gold Rush past, as well as its Aboriginal and Chinese communities. Visitors to Ararat should take time to learn about the town’s history and culture, as well as respecting the customs and traditions of the local people.

Best Time to Visit Ararat (Victoria)

The best time to visit Ararat is during the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot and dry, while winter can be cold and wet, so visitors should pack accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ararat (Victoria)

Do:

  • Do take time to explore the Grampians National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in the state.
  • Do try the local cuisine, which is influenced by the town’s multicultural heritage.
  • Do take time to learn about the history and culture of the town, including its Gold Rush past and its Aboriginal and Chinese communities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment, which is a precious asset of the town and region.
  • Don’t be disrespectful or insensitive to the customs and traditions of the local people.
  • Don’t forget to take sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong in this part of the country.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat is a safe and welcoming town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors should take basic precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings at night.

Health in Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat has a modern and well-equipped hospital, as well as several local clinics and medical centers. Visitors should take care to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun, especially during the hot summer months.

Getting to Ararat (Victoria): Transportation Options and Logistics

Ararat is located in the Wimmera region of Victoria, approximately 200 km northwest of Melbourne. Visitors can reach Ararat by car, bus, or train.

Airports Near Ararat (Victoria)

The nearest airport to Ararat is Melbourne Airport, which is approximately 200 km away. From there, visitors can hire a car or take a bus or train to Ararat.

Bus Stations Near Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat has a local bus station, with services connecting to other towns and cities in the region. Visitors can also take long-distance buses from Melbourne or other major cities in Victoria.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Ararat by train, with regular services connecting the town to Melbourne and other major cities in Victoria.

How to Get Around in Ararat (Victoria)

Ararat is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also hire a bike or car to explore the local area, or take a local bus to travel further afield.

Where to Go Next from Ararat (Victoria): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ballarat – This historic town is home to several important historical sites, including the Sovereign Hill Museum and the Eureka Stockade.
  • Daylesford – This picturesque town is known for its natural hot springs, as well as its thriving arts and crafts scene.
  • Port Fairy – This charming coastal town has a rich maritime heritage, as well as a vibrant arts and culture scene.

Conclusion

Ararat (Victoria) offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s Gold Rush past, hiking the rugged mountain ranges, or tasting the delicious local cuisine, Ararat has something for everyone. With its warm and welcoming locals and relaxed atmosphere, Ararat is the perfect destination for a relaxing and refreshing getaway.

Ararat's main shopping street Ararat's main shopping street