Victoria’s gold rush left plenty behind – an economic boom, population growth and a rich history that lives on today. But perhaps its most surprising legacy is the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve. Carved out by mining and reclaimed by nature, these pastel-hued formations are one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
A quick history of the Pink Cliffs
Back in the 1880s, gold miners descended on the rural Victorian town of Heathcote, following news of an untapped alluvial goldfield. To access its riches, hydraulic sluicing was carried out across the site, a mining technique that uses high-pressure jets of water to blast away large chunks of earth.
Extensive hydraulic sluicing resulted in a carved-out landscape. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Hydraulic sluicing has since been recognised as a method that wreaks serious environmental havoc. But it’s also the reason this land looks the way it does today – a 30-hectare vista of mini gorges and cliffs, dotted with native flora that has found life in its ravaged crevices. Now known as the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve, the site is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and identified as a Terrestrial and Inland Waters Protected Area by the state government.
Why is it called the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve?
As humans often do, we managed to find beauty in the midst of destruction. And while many tourists visit the reserve to learn about its gold-rush history, it’s become popular for another reason entirely.
The site has since become popular for its pink-hued cliffs. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Yes, plenty of gold was found here. But the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is also rich in smooth ironstone and a naturally occurring pink clay. The powder-like texture of the clay, combined with the distinctive volcanic appearance of the ironstone, creates a lunar-like landscape reminiscent of a sunrise in summer.
Similar to places like Uluṟu and Mungo National Park, the formations reflect the sun’s rays to create a constantly changing canvas of colour – shades of orange and pink that dance and dip across the site. The cliffs and gorges seem otherworldly, more like the blushing canyons of Mars than country Victoria.
A day-tripper’s guide to the Pink Cliffs
The Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is easy to experience within a day, making it the perfect pit stop on a classic Victorian road trip. For those coming from Melbourne, it’ll take you roughly 1.5 hours, while nearby Bendigo is only a 35-minute drive away.
Once you’ve arrived, take the easy 30-minute loop from the car park, which weaves through eucalypt forests and past educational information signs. There are multiple viewing platforms along the way that showcase the pink peaks and volcanic-like gorges from different perspectives, so don’t forget your camera!
Admire the geological wonder from multiple viewing platforms. (Image: Visit Victoria)
While the reserve is an absolute highlight, this picturesque pocket of Victoria has plenty more to offer visitors. Oenophiles should head to one of the region’s vineyards, like Silver Spoon Estate , for an afternoon tipple. If you’re more of a hophead, check out nearby Tooborac Brewery . For more natural beauty, hit the walking trails of Heathcote-Graytown National Park or make the 20-minute drive to Lake Eppalock for a refreshing dip. Craving more colour? Be sure to add Australia’s pink lakes to your bucket list too!
If you’re short on time, don’t sweat it – the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is worth the trip alone. Just remember to stick to all designated pathways and avoid touching anything beyond the fences. This fragile landscape has endured enough – let’s protect it for generations yet to come.
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.
The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.
If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.
Where to stay
The Westin Melbourne
View the city from above in your suite.
Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.
Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.
Where to eat and drink
1. Allegro
Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.
The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.
2. Lobby Lounge
Step into the Lobby Lounge.
Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .
The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.
For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.
3. Other places to dine
There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.
Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.
Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.
While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.
Things to do
1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces
Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.
A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.
If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.
3. Catch some live music
Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.
Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.
4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG
Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)
The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.
Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.
5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre
Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.
Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.
