A Guide To The Best Phillip Island Walks

Explore shipwrecks, come face-to-face with Highland cattle, and drink in panoramic views on these six Phillip Island walks.

Surrounded by a blustery, rugged coastline, and encompassing a patchwork of verdant, rolling farmland, where cattle and sheep graze, Phillip Island is a rambler’s delight. Whether you’re after a short scenic walk with the kids, or a lengthier hike with friends, these six walks should stand you in good stead.

Don’t miss: Top things to do on Phillip Island

Churchill Island Walks

Connected to Phillip Island via a bridge, this small, little-known island is home to a working farm that’s among the oldest in Victoria, and a restored homestead and cottages that date back to the 1860s, all of which are open to the public and popular with families. The most famous local residents here are arguably the farm’s shaggy Highland cattle.

The isle is home to three different walks: the Churchill Island loop, which takes around two hours to complete; the easier North Point loop, which takes just one hour to complete; and the Wadjil’garook Wetland, which is really more of a brief stroll, but includes insights into Aboriginal culture, and offers an opportunity to see wetland birds.

Toast to a walk well done with a flat white at the island’s cafe, which has a rather tempting yet wholesome breakfast and brunch menu too, brimful of locally sourced produce. Bear in mind that the farm grounds are managed by not-for-profit Phillip Island Nature Parks , and ticketed (adults are priced from $13.50, and children aged between four and 15-years-old are priced from $6.75), but entrance to the walks alone is free.

walkers on Churchill Island — Walk among the history of Churchill Island.

Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach

A meandering clifftop track that affords walkers beautiful coastal views, this walk from Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach takes around two hours return, though you may want to factor in more time to savour the views from the lookout points, snap a photo or two for Instagram, and spot creatures of the deep… Between May and October migratory killer whales, southern right whales and humpback whales are known to cruise through these very waters, as they head from Antarctica towards Queensland’s warmer climes for calving.

Along the five-kilometre walk you’ll marvel at the black basalt columns of Pyramid Rock, trace the green and gold of the coastline’s scrubland and swathes of tussock grass, and finally, you’ll wind up at the sweeping, secluded Berrys Beach.

Views of Phillip Island's Pyramid rock — Pyramid rock affords walkers beautiful coastal views.

Swan Lake Walk

A short and mostly flat, kid-, pram- and wheelchair-friendly walk that skirts freshwater Swan Lake in the island’s west, this short trail is partly comprised of boardwalks and takes in two bird hides near the lake’s edge. Walkers will wander through bushland, past tea trees, banksia and native grasses, and may spot black swans, swamp harriers, cormorants, purple swamp hens and more on their journey. It’s a 1.3-kilometre walk that takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.

Journey through freshwater Swan Lake in the island’s west.

Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve Walks

This birdlife-rich 28-hectare site provides a habitat for six species of threatened birds, and also overlooks a World Heritage-listed Ramsar wetland. Stroll among endangered grasslands and vegetation, while soaking up the bay views that stretch to Churchill Island, Rhyll and beyond. In among the natural bushland setting you’ll also find two scenically situated picnic shelters, perfect for enjoying a lazy lunch al fresco – just don’t forget to pack provisions.

There are 1.5 kilometres of walking tracks to explore, so you can pace your walk accordingly, whether you’re in the mood for a brief outing or an extended ramble in the fresh air.

Boardwalk beauty at Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve Walk.

Don’t miss: A guide to Phillip Island’s best beaches

Cape Woolamai Walks

Venture up to the heady heights of Cape Woolamai, the highest point on Phillip Island, and gorge on panoramic views. Part of the Cape Woolamai State Faunal Reserve, which plays host to short-tailed shearwater (aka muttonbird) rookeries, you can choose your own adventure from the three walking tracks, all of which start from the reserve’s carpark. The Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk (follow the black markers) takes around 3.5 hours return; The Old Granite Quarry Walk (follow the blue markers) is six kilometres long and takes a total of three hours to complete; and the shorter Pinnacles Walk (follow the green markers) takes around two hours return. On both the Cape Woolamai Beacon Walk, and the Pinnacles Walk you’ll gaze down upon a cluster of spindly sea stacks that rise up out of the frothy surf, a local landmark known as The Pinnacles.

Cape Woolamai in Phillip Island — Venture up to the heady heights of Cape Woolamai.

Kitty Miller Bay Walk

Combine a spot of rockpooling and shell collecting with a visit to the rusted remains of an old shipwreck on this one-hour-long walk. First you’ll amble down a wooden stairway that leads to the shores of snug little Kitty Miller Bay, then follow the curve of the beach to your left, before finally landing at the site of the SS Speke, which ran aground on Phillip Island back in 1906. Ensure your visit coincides with the low tide, otherwise access will be limited.

SS Speke shipwreck — SS Speke ran aground on Phillip Island back in 1906.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

A guide to Phillip Island’s best walks