Your guide to the culinary delights of Shepparton and surrounds

With a world of flavours and a burgeoning arts and entertainment scene, Shepparton has transformed into a lively cultural hub since its humble beginnings.

Steadily developing its reputation over the years as Australia’s ‘food bowl’ – due largely to its fresh produce and thriving agriculture – Shepparton is an essential destination for anyone seeking history, culture and character.

A leisurely stroll down Shepparton’s central streets highlights the diverse melting pot at the heart of this vibrant community. Waves of migration, starting in the post-war years, have brought new residents from across the globe who, in turn, opened Shepp up to a whole new world of cuisines; from Indian and Italian to Albanian and Vietnamese. A trip here is the quickest way to tour the globe with your taste buds.

Staying a few nights in Shepparton allows exploration of nearby villages and towns for that authentic regional Australian experience.

Treat yourself to quality coffee at Elsewhere Cafe.

Where to stay in Shepparton &

Accommodation choices in Shepparton are diverse. For comfort and a central vantage point, Quest Shepparton is a reliable choice located within walking distance of Victoria Park Lake. It’s an enticing option for early risers who like to start their day in the fresh air.

Wander around Victoria Park Lake.

For history buffs with a fondness for all things quirky, a classic lodging like Shepparton Bell Tower Motor Inn seamlessly fits the bill. The entire motor inn – both internally and externally – is designed to resemble a smaller-scale castle of sorts, albeit with modern amenities and a pool that might seem out of place in a historically accurate castle.

On the hunt for a touch of chicness? The Carrington boasts lake views from spacious rooms and is within walking distance of the must-see SAM (Shepparton Art Museum).

Stay within walking distance of the Shepparton Art Museum.

Where to eat in Shepparton & Goulburn Valley

While Melbourne is arguably the coffee capital of Australia, Shepparton is giving the neighbouring city a run for its money with a thriving cafe scene of its own. Follow the scent of locally roasted coffee to Lemon Tree Cafe and Shingo’s Coffee Lounge; prime spots for refuelling.

Follow the scent of coffee and brunch to Lemon Tree Cafe.

Weekend stays are perfect for evening dining in a laid-back atmosphere when the city’s social scene comes alive. Discover the perfect blend of refreshing drinks and rhythmic live tunes, ensuring memorable nights for those in pursuit of a good time.

No visit is complete without a road trip to wine country. The lush vines of Longleat Estate can be found on the banks of Goulburn River, a mere 30-minute drive south of the city. Be inspired by the passion of winemaker Guido Vazzoler while savouring a glass of the vineyard’s Italian-style wines, with Sangiovese and Vermentino produced right there on the estate.

Enjoy the views at Rye at Tallis.

There are serene views aplenty on the terrace of Rye at Tallis, in nearby Dookie, where local wines can be sampled and charcuterie boards devoured against the backdrop of the great dividing range and patchwork farmland.

Eat your way along the Seasoned: a Goulburn Valley tasting trail showcasing the best local growers, makers, bakers and more. Pull back the curtain on the productive heart of the Goulburn Valley, savour the season’s most delicious fresh produce and take an in-depth look into the history of the land. As far as immersive experiences go, the Seasoned trail might just take the cake.

What to do in Shepparton & Goulburn Valley

Between live music, a slew of festivals and year-round museums, the likelihood of stumbling upon some form of entertainment is sky-high.

For outdoorsy folk, there are plenty of picnic-ready parks and cycling paths to explore, with the option to follow the Mulana nin iyoga walking trail on Mount Major for stunning panoramic views from the top.

Get arty at Shepparton Art Museum. (Image: Cam Matheson)

Relatively fresh on the scene, SAM (Shepparton Art Museum)

opened at its lakeside location in 2021, hosting a rotation of exhibitions from renowned artists worldwide. Hours can be spent inspecting every artwork and activation, so make a pitstop for world-inspired cuisine at the onsite cafe, Elsewhere at SAM.

Brimming with cars, trucks, buses and bicycles, MOVE (Museum of Vehicle Evolution) is a delightful surprise, even for those not particularly invested in the world of cars. Unlike any other museum you’ll find in Australia, MOVE also showcases the 200-year history of Australian fashion in the Furphy Museum and throughout other significant collections, plus the history of telephones and radios.

Visit the Museum of Vehicle Evolution, even if you’re not a rev head.

Local events year-round in Shepparton & Goulburn Valley

It’s always festival season in Shepparton. Held annually in March, the Shepparton Albanian Harvest Festival is the biggest celebration of Albanian culture outside the country itself, with handmade sweet and savoury delicacies for feasting and produce straight from the farm. Shepparton’s Albanian community welcomes visitors with open arms for a day of merriment, traditional dancing and succulent BBQ-grilled corn.

Find fresh produce and delicious meals at Shepparton Albanian Harvest Festival.

Every year in April, Victoria Park Lake is lit up over two days for Converge on the Goulburn. Featuring First Nations and multicultural art, food and music, this festival is a celebration of the vibrant diversity within the region.

In the same month, the Shepparton Festival showcases visual art performances, immersive experiences and workshops over two weeks, holding the gold medal for Victoria’s longest-running regional arts festival.

Eat, drink and listen to music at Converge on the Goulburn.

Plan your next getaway at sheppandgv.com.au.