Explore the Moorabool Valley
Nestled in the heart of Victoria, the Moorabool Valley and surrounding region is a hidden gem offering a memorable escape. Just a short drive from Geelong, Ballarat and Melbourne, this picturesque area is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture. From rolling hills and tranquil farmlands to iconic wineries, charming towns, and lush reserves, it's a place to unwind, explore, and reconnect with the beauty of regional Victoria.
For nature lovers, the shire offers plenty of outdoor activities. Hike through Brisbane Ranges National Park to immerse yourself in bushland and discover waterfalls, rock formations, and panoramic views. Stroll the trails or cycle scenic countryside routes.
The Moorabool Valley wine region invites visitors to enjoy exceptional wines at boutique wineries. Whether you're a connoisseur or casual enthusiast, enjoy relaxed cellar door experiences with local food and beautiful views.
For history and culture lovers, the shire boasts a fascinating heritage. Wander through towns like Inverleigh, each with unique character and stories. Explore history, browse antique shops, or join festivals celebrating art, food, and more.
Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat, an active break, or a cultural journey, the Moorabool Valley and surrounds will exceed expectations and create lasting memories.
Golden Plains Shire is a region rich in heritage, shaped by ancient traditions, gold rush journeys, and generations of rural life.
The Traditional Owners of this land are the Wadawurrung and Eastern Maar peoples, who have maintained a deep and enduring connection to Country for tens of thousands of years. They lived in harmony with the environment, following seasonal rhythms, tending to waterways and grasslands, and passing down cultural knowledge that continues to shape the landscape today.
European settlement began in the 1830s, with sheep runs quickly established across the plains. The 1850s gold rush transformed the region into a vital transport corridor linking Ballarat to Geelong. In 1842, Swiss migrants planted the first grapevines in the fertile Moorabool Valley, laying the foundation for a thriving wine industry. Today, boutique vineyards and cellar doors dot the landscape, offering visitors a taste of the region's agricultural roots.
After the gold rush, the area returned to its farming focus, with wool, cropping and horticulture becoming the backbone of rural life. Its small towns and villages reflect this heritage, with a strong sense of community and connection to the land.
Formed in 1994, Golden Plains has grown steadily while preserving its rural charm – just a short drive from the city, but a world away in experience.
Explore the Moorabool Valley Map
(Attractions on map in green circles, food & drink on map in orange circles, accommodation on map in purple circles )
Explore the Moorabool Valley Attractions
51. Barwon River & Leigh River Junction Walk, Inverleigh
A scenic riverside walk to the meeting point of the Barwon and Leigh Rivers, with picnic areas, birdlife and peaceful views.
52. Brisbane Ranges National Park, Steiglitz-Durdidwarrah Road, Steiglitz
A rugged national park renowned for bushwalking, wildflowers, mountain biking, camping and abundant native wildlife.
53. Bunjil's Lookout, 1795 Steiglitz Road, Maude
A spectacular lookout overlooking the Moorabool Valley and Brisbane Ranges, featuring the impressive Bunjil eagle sculpture.
54. Dry Stone Walls, Cressy-Shelford Road, Barunah Park
See historic dry stone walls hand-built by early settlers and recognised as an important feature of the region's rural heritage.
55. Leigh River Gorge, Leigh River Crossing, Meredith-Mount Mercer Road, Meredith
Discover a picturesque river gorge with rugged rock formations, river scenery and opportunities for nature appreciation and photography.
56. Corindhap Avenue of Honour, Avenue of Honour, Corindhap
A historic memorial avenue planted to honour local servicemen who served during the First World War.
57. Cressy Water Tower Art Works, 19 New Station Street, Cressy
Admire colourful artworks painted on the town's historic water tower, celebrating Cressy's history and community.
58. Dogs Rocks Reserve, 95 Dog Rocks Road, Batesford
Visit a striking collection of large granite boulders set within a peaceful reserve beside the Moorabool River.
59. Historic Gold Keep, Victor Street, Bannockburn
Discover a local historic attraction associated with Bannockburn's gold-rush history and early development.
60. Inverleigh Historic Township, Inverleigh
Explore a charming country township with historic buildings, heritage streetscapes, riverside parks and local cafés.
61. Inverleigh Nature Conservation Reserve, Teesdale-Inverleigh Road, Inverleigh
Explore protected native grasslands and woodlands that provide habitat for birds, wildflowers and other wildlife.
62. Kuruc-a-ruc Bike Trail, Rokewood
A recreational cycling trail offering an enjoyable way to explore Rokewood and the surrounding rural landscape.
63. Lawsons Tree & Park, Cambridge Street, Inverleigh
Visit a significant historic tree set within a pleasant park near the centre of Inverleigh.
64. Lethbridge Airport, 3429 Midland Highway, Lethbridge
A regional aviation facility where visitors may see light aircraft, recreational flying and skydiving activities.
65. Lethbridge Historic Train Station, 168 Ackland Street, Lethbridge
See a surviving historic railway station that recalls the important role of rail transport in the district.
66. Lethbridge Railway Water Tank & Lake, Reservoir Road, Lethbridge
Visit a railway-era water tank beside a small lake and reserve that provide a reminder of Lethbridge's transport history.
67. Moreep Reserve, Slate Quarry Road, Meredith
A quiet natural reserve offering opportunities for picnicking, wildlife watching and enjoying the surrounding bushland.
68. Murgheboluc Hall, Church & Picnic Area, 2025 Hamilton Highway, Murgheboluc
A picturesque rural precinct featuring historic community buildings and a peaceful area suitable for a picnic stop.
69. Steiglitz Historical Park, Meredith-Steiglitz Road, Steiglitz
Explore the remains of a former gold-rush township, including historic buildings, mining sites and scenic walking tracks.
70. Whistlers Cottage Antiques, 75 High Street, Inverleigh
Browse a varied collection of antiques, vintage items and collectables displayed in a charming country cottage.
71. Wilson's Iron Bridge, 1741 Bannockburn-Shelford Road, Shelford
See a historic wrought-iron bridge spanning the Leigh River and forming an important part of the district's transport heritage.
72. Golden Plains Wind Farm, Rokewood
See rows of towering wind turbines spread across the open plains as part of one of Victoria's major renewable-energy projects.
Explore the Moorabool Valley Food & Drink Locations
14. Golden Plains Farmers Market, 11 Milton Street, Bannockburn
Held on the first Saturday of each month (except January and December), this popular farmers market showcases fresh local produce, gourmet foods, artisan products and handmade goods from across the region.
15. Fergusson Plarre, 12/4 High Street, Bannockburn
A well-known bakery and café serving freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries, pies, sandwiches and barista-made coffee.
16. Inverleigh Bakehouse, 5 High Street, Inverleigh
A popular country bakery offering fresh bread, pies, pastries, cakes, slices and quality coffee.
17. Inverleigh General Store, 12 High Street, Inverleigh
A friendly local general store providing takeaway food, coffee, groceries and everyday essentials.
18. Inverleigh Hotel, 1 High Street, Inverleigh
A classic country hotel serving modern Australian meals, local wines and beers in a relaxed family-friendly setting.
19. Le Due Sorelle Café, 2/38 High Street, Bannockburn
A welcoming café offering breakfast, lunch, coffee, cakes and light meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
20. Meredith Café & Corner Store, 17 Wallace Street, Meredith
A casual café and general store serving coffee, takeaway meals, snacks and essential groceries.
21. Meredith Dairy Farm Store, 30 Staughton Street, Meredith
Visit the retail outlet of the famous Meredith Dairy to purchase its renowned sheep and goat cheeses along with other local produce.
22. Meredith Hotel, 51 Staughton Street, Meredith
A traditional country pub offering hearty meals, cold drinks and friendly hospitality.
23. Moorabool Valley Chocolate, 320 Ballarat Road, Batesford
Indulge in handcrafted chocolates, confectionery and sweet treats made using premium ingredients.
24. Railway Hotel Bannockburn, 2 High Street, Bannockburn
A popular hotel featuring modern Australian dining, a family-friendly atmosphere and indoor and outdoor dining areas.
25. Rokewood Hotel, 75 Ferrars Street, Rokewood
A welcoming country hotel serving classic pub meals and refreshments in a relaxed setting.
26. Rokewood Takeaway, 57 Ferrars Street, Rokewood
A local takeaway shop offering burgers, fish and chips, hot food and quick meals.
27. Royal Hotel, 20 Wallace Street, Meredith
One of Meredith's historic hotels, offering traditional pub meals, drinks and country hospitality.
28. Rustic Ram Café, 55 Wallace Street, Meredith
A stylish café serving specialty coffee, all-day breakfast, lunches and delicious homemade treats.
29. Sonny, 15 High Street, Inverleigh
A contemporary café known for quality coffee, seasonal dishes and a relaxed country atmosphere.
30. Banno Bites, 71 Holder Road, Bannockburn
A casual takeaway serving a variety of quick meals, snacks and drinks.
31. Bannockburn Bakehouse, 1/9 Burns Street, Bannockburn
A local bakery offering fresh bread, pies, pastries, cakes and coffee.
32. Bannockburn Chinese, 7 High Street, Bannockburn
Serving a wide selection of traditional Chinese dishes for dine-in and takeaway.
33. Bannockburn Takeaway, 21 High Street, Bannockburn
A popular takeaway offering fish and chips, burgers, souvlakis and other favourites.
34. Blend'd Smoothies, 12 High Street, Bannockburn
Refreshing smoothies, juices and healthy snack options made from fresh ingredients.
35. Ceaser Kebabs and Burgers, 1735 Midland Highway, Bannockburn
A casual takeaway specialising in kebabs, burgers, hot snacks and family meals.
36. Country Chicken & Chips, 4/6 High Street, Bannockburn
Serving roast chicken, fish and chips, burgers and a range of takeaway favourites.
37. Early Bird Baristas Drive Through Coffee, 41 Geelong Road, Bannockburn
Grab barista-made coffee, cold drinks and light snacks without leaving your car.
38. JJ's Pizza, 21 High Street, Bannockburn
A local favourite offering freshly made pizzas and takeaway meals.
39. Main Street Pizza and Pasta, 3/38 High Street, Bannockburn
Enjoy a wide selection of pizzas, pasta dishes and Italian-inspired takeaway meals.
40. Ray's Fish and Chips, 1/7 High Street, Bannockburn
Serving traditional fish and chips, burgers, seafood and quick takeaway meals.
41. Runaway Multicultural Cuisine, 3/14 High Street, Bannockburn
Offering a diverse menu inspired by flavours from around the world, with dine-in and takeaway options.
42. Wood Oven Pizza, 19 High Street, Bannockburn
Serving freshly prepared wood-fired pizzas with a range of classic and gourmet toppings.
Explore the Moorabool Valley Accommodation
1. Art Rocks Retreat & Accommodation, 199 Teesdale-Inverleigh Road, Inverleigh
A peaceful country retreat offering comfortable accommodation surrounded by gardens, native wildlife and scenic rural views.
2. At Dog Rocks, 41 Tolloora Way, Batesford
A stylish self-contained retreat near the iconic Dog Rocks Reserve, providing a relaxing base to explore the Golden Plains region.
3. Barbie Mays, 82 Napier Street, Inverleigh
A charming boutique cottage offering comfortable accommodation within easy walking distance of Inverleigh's cafés, hotels and rivers.
4. Barunah Plains, 4484 Hamilton Highway, Hesse
Stay at one of Australia's finest historic pastoral homesteads, offering luxurious accommodation, beautiful gardens and an authentic country estate experience.
5. Cedar Cottage, 1741 Bannockburn-Shelford Road, Shelford
A cosy country cottage providing a peaceful rural escape close to the Leigh River and local attractions.
6. Goldie's Bungalow, 6 High Street, Inverleigh
A self-contained bungalow offering modern comforts in the heart of Inverleigh, just a short walk from local cafés and hotels.
7. Harry Scott's Vineyard & Farm Stay, 310 Russells Bridge Road, Russells Bridge
Enjoy a relaxing farm stay surrounded by vineyards, rolling countryside and native wildlife, with opportunities to sample local wines.
8. Hidden Valley House, 183 De Motts Road, Anakie
A spacious country retreat nestled in a secluded valley, ideal for relaxing weekends and exploring nearby nature attractions.
9. La Bella Vita, 8 Fleurs Lane, Batesford
Boutique accommodation offering stylish interiors, peaceful surroundings and convenient access to Geelong and the Golden Plains.
10. Loft at Shelford, 21 Ormond Street, Shelford
A contemporary loft-style retreat providing comfortable accommodation in the quiet township of Shelford.
11. Kuruc-a-ruc Homestead, 33 Kuruc-a-ruc Road, Rokewood
Experience country hospitality at this historic homestead surrounded by open farmland and native bushland.
12. Moranghurk Shearer's Quarters, 3320 Midland Highway, Lethbridge
Stay in beautifully restored shearers' quarters on a working farm, combining rural heritage with modern comforts.
13. Red Door Country Cottage, 45 Clyde Hill Road, Bannockburn
A welcoming self-contained country cottage offering a peaceful base for exploring Bannockburn and the surrounding Golden Plains region.
Events in the Region
GOLDEN PLAINS ARTS TRAIL (Shire Wide)
The Golden Plains Arts Trail is a self-guided celebration of creativity across Victoria's Golden Plains Shire. Showcasing over 50 artists across 21 diverse venues, the trail offers a unique opportunity to experience painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography and more—set against a backdrop of rolling hills, charming townships and inspiring open studios.
GOLDEN PLAINS FARMERS MARKET (Bannockburn)
Running on the first Saturday of every month (except January and December), the Golden Plains Farmers Markets showcase the best fresh produce from the region, including farm-fresh eggs, organic vegetables, artisan cheeses, and locally made wines. These markets are the perfect way to support local producers and taste the flavours of Golden Plains.
CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKET (Bannockburn)
Each December, the Twilight Market is a magical evening event that brings together local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment under the stars. With delicious food, handmade crafts, and a lively atmosphere, it's the perfect way to enjoy a summer night while supporting local businesses and creatives!
BEYOND THE VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL (Hesse)
Bringing in the New Year with an unforgettable celebration, Beyond the Valley is a multi-day music and arts festival held in Golden Plains Shire. Featuring world-class artists, immersive experiences, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, this event is a must for music lovers looking for an epic way to ring in the new year.
DACHSHUND DERBY (Inverleigh)
Dog lovers won't want to miss the Inverleigh Dachshund Derby, where these adorable long-bodied pups take to the track in a light-hearted competition. This fun community event includes races, pet-friendly market stalls, and activities for all dog lovers, making it a highlight of the year.
INVERLEIGH GOOD FRIDAY FESTIVAL (Inverleigh)
The Inverleigh and District Good Friday Appeal Family Fun Day is a cherished community event in Victoria's Golden Plains Shire. Held at Victoria Park, it offers a vibrant mix of carnival rides, live entertainment, market stalls, classic car displays, and family-friendly activities. The event raises funds for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
BUNJIL GATHERING (Maude)
The Bunjil Gathering at Maude is a celebration of community, bringing people together to connect, reflect, and strengthen local ties. This inclusive event features storytelling, music, art, and activities that foster a sense of belonging and unity among residents and visitors alike. It's a special occasion dedicated to the spirit of community and shared experiences.
GOLDEN PLAINS MUSIC FESTIVAL (Meredith)
Held in March, the Golden Plains Music Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the region. This boutique festival, set in the stunning natural amphitheatre of the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre, brings together music lovers from all over for a weekend of live performances, great food, and a laid-back atmosphere. With a reputation for high-quality artists and a community vibe, it's a must-attend for festivalgoers.
MEREDITH MUSIC FESTIVAL (Meredith)
A sister event to the Golden Plains Music Festival, Meredith Music Festival takes place in December at the same venue. This highly regarded event features an eclectic mix of live performances, from indie and rock to electronic and folk, creating an unforgettable experience for music fans in a natural, relaxed setting.
SHELFORD DUCK RACE (Shelford)
A quirky and much-loved community event, the Shelford Duck Race sees hundreds of rubber ducks released into the Leigh River for a fun-filled race. Held annually, this event is a fantastic family day out with market stalls, entertainment, and plenty of excitement as participants cheer their ducks to the finish line.
