Best Things To Do In Warrnambool | Australian Traveller

If steering your own mini motorboat around a lake, pedalling along a beach promenade or blissing out in geothermal hot springs sounds like heaven, then read on to learn about the top things to do in Warrnambool.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the more touristy stops along the way, this coastal city at the end of the Great Ocean Road is well worth checking out. No matter if you’re into nature, sports, arts, history, food and wine—or all of the above—you won’t run out of things to do in Warrnambool. Here are ten of the best to add to your trip list.

1. Slip into some hot springs

The westernmost stop on the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, Deep Blue Hot Springs is the ideal spot to wind down after a long drive along the Great Ocean Road.

an old lady dipping in Deep Blue Hot Springs, Warrnambool — Wind down after a long drive at Deep Blue Hot Springs. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Slip into a mineral bath and let the geothermal waters relieve your tired muscles, chill out in a sensory cave enhanced with trippy colour therapy lights and find bliss under the waterfall in the rainforest pool – this place warrants a repeat visit!

a couple in a sensory cave at Deep Blue Hot Springs, Warrnambool — Chill out in a sensory cave. (Image: Visit Victoria)

2. Pick up a paintbrush at the Warrnambool School of Art

Unleash your inner Frida Kahlo by booking in to attend a workshop at the Warrnambool School of Art. From contemporary watercolour painting to hard-edge acrylics and mosaics, there are classes and workshops covering a wide range of artistic styles here, all taught by passionate, experienced artists with plenty of insights to share.

3. Kick back in the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens

On a warm summer’s day, the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to beat the heat. Set up a picnic rug under one of the massive Moreton Bay Figs to enjoy a shady, alfresco lunch or sit by the peaceful pond to watch the ducks. Designed by renowned landscape architect William Guilfoyle (designer of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens) this lovely spot has been a fixture in Warrnambool since the 1800s and still delights people of all ages, centuries later.

an aerial view of the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens — Warrnambool Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to beat the heat.

4. Get on your bike

If you love getting out and about on two wheels, then you’ll be pleased to know that Warrnambool has some ripper cycling trails to explore. Hire a bike from Café Cycles Company, then ride your day away on some of the city’s trails. If you’ve got plenty of time and energy to burn, then complete a return journey on the scenic Warrnambool to Port Fairy Rail Trail (it will take you most of the day, so start early).

a little girl biking on the scenic Warrnambool — Explore the scenic trails on a bike from Café Cycles Company.

Prefer an easier, quicker ride? The 7.5km Foreshore Promenade stretching from Breakwater to Logans Beach has showstopping ocean views, which you’ll have to share with walkers, joggers and other cyclists on this popular route.

a woman soaking up the ocean breeze at Logan's Beach, Warrnambool — Stop by Logan’s Beach for a quick rest. (Image: Visit Victoria)

5. Hunt for antiques at Fletcher Jones Market

If you love nothing more than digging through crates of vinyl records and coveting Australian pottery from the 70s, be sure to visit Fletcher Jones Market when you’re in town. Home to thousands of vintage and retro items, this huge indoor antiques and collectables market covers 3,000 square metres of floor space so be prepared to spend some time fossicking through many stalls jam-packed with memorabilia from years gone by. The gardens here are impressive too.

6. Step back in time at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

If you have ever wanted to learn more about the history of the Shipwreck Coast, this is the place for you. A maritime museum and village which arguably holds Australia’s most significant shipwreck artefact collection, Flagstaff Hill is a sprawling outdoor monument to the hardy people who made a living here more than a century ago.

boats docked at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village — Learn more about the history of the Shipwreck Coast at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Visit the Blacksmith’s forge, climb the spiral staircase of the lighthouse, check out the 80-pound cannon and marvel at a super rare, highly valued Minton peacock statue salvaged from a shipwreck many years ago.

two people standing outside the the lighthouse at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village lighthouse — Climb the lighthouse’s spiral staircase. (Image: Tourism Australia)

7. Let loose on the Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground

Fun for all the family can be found at this large, council-run outdoor adventure park . The ideal spot to spend a fun day in the outdoors without breaking the bank, there are plenty of things for kids to get stuck into here including a huge slide, flying fox and a maze. You can even hire mini motorboats to take out on the lake. Plenty of picnic tables, shady areas and barbecues means you can bring your own lunch and snacks to enjoy throughout the day too.

8. Catch a show at the Lighthouse Theatre

If you’re looking for something to do at night, check out the Lighthouse Theatre’s program. Throughout the year you’ll find everything from plays to musicals, stand-up comedy performances, tribute acts and more at this heritage theatre that has been revamped in recent years but has lost none of its charm.

the Lighthouse Theatre in Warrnambool — Pop by the Lighthouse Theatre to catch a musical.

9. Get to know the local art scene

There’s much more to Warrnambool than beaches and maritime history; there’s a thriving arts scene too. If you love art, then be sure to hit the galleries while you’re visiting.

a couple standing outside Warrnambool Art Gallery — Step into Warrnambool Art Gallery to immerse in its thriving art scene. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Warrnambool Art Gallery (or ‘the WAG’) is open seven days a week and houses an impressive collection of paintings and works on paper by influential Australian artists like Cressida Campbell, Clarice Beckett and Joy Hester.

Meanwhile, the F Project is a volunteer-run arts organisation that runs exhibitions throughout the year and does great work fostering local creative talent to flourish. Staffed by volunteers, the gallery and shop are open to visitors Wednesday to Sunday.

a couple at the entrance of Warrnambool Art Gallery — Warrnambool Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of paintings. (Image: Visit Victoria)

10. Explore the Shipwreck Coast aboard a boat

Keen to get out on the water? Book a tour with Mako Ocean Adventures to explore the local marine parks along the coast. Many parts of the Shipwreck Coast are only visible by boat, so a trip with Mako Ocean Adventures will enable you to see some of the spectacular rock formations and caves you can’t see from land. Time your visit right and you might spot some dolphins or migrating humpback whales too!

11. Spend the morning at the markets

Held on the first and third Sunday of the month, the Fresh Market is a lovely spot to grab a morning coffee. Wandering around the stalls you’ll find everything from just-baked sourdough to locally-made jams and preserves for sale, as well as candles, flowers, paintings, seafood and more. Local markets like these really support regional artisans, producers and makers to stay in business, so why not grab some treats to gift to friends or enjoy once you’re home?

Discover the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

10 of the best things to do in Warrnambool