Top spots
Take a journey through the diverse landscapes of the West Gippsland region and experience the tranquillity of an authentic slice of rural life. Visit small towns with big-hearted communities and stock up on cheeses and gourmet goodies from some of Australia's most prized dairy farms. Pop into farm gates and village markets, explore mountain ranges perfect for biking, hiking, skiing and snowboarding, and discover an up-and-coming food and wine scene championed by local culinary heroes.
1. Hogget Kitchen
Hogget Kitchen's menu is a roll call of Gippsland's best produce. So pull up a pew on the deck and take a culinary tour of the region without leaving your table.
2. Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort
Carve up the slopes on skis, toboggans and snowboards in the wintertime and then double back in the summertime to tackle the trails anew on a mountain bike.
3. Noojee Trestle Bridge
Tread the boards of Victoria's tallest surviving wooden trestle bridge, revel in views of the valley, and then land in one of the nearby reserves for the perfect picnic lunch.
4. Vivere Retreat
Pull up stumps in Neerim South and discover this cosy bolthole set on 18 acres of pristine countryside. Did we mention the free brekky with homemade granola, local bacon and farm fresh eggs?
5. Grand Ridge Rail Trail
Immerse yourself in the vast Gippsland wilderness and spot birdlife perched in the trees on the 13-kilometre Grand Ridge Rail Trail, which links the towns of Mirboo North and Boolarra.
6. Cannibal Creek Vineyard
Relax with wine and cheese by the fire, or a glass of sparkling on the deck. Visit the cellar door to sample award-winning, single estate wines or enjoy lovingly prepared French-inspired fare in the restaurant.
7. Warragul Farmers Market
Fill your basket with the best Gippsland produce and handmade goodies at Civic Park on the third Saturday of the month. Pick up bread, cheese, olive oil, fresh fruit and vegetables, and much, much more.
8. 4WD Gippsland High Country
Charge up for an adventure in Gippsland's spectacular high country, boasting waterfalls and wildflowers, wildlife and stargazing. Tread your own path or join a guide for some local know-how.
9. The Ridge House
Restore your senses at a luxurious country home set on 50 acres and with magical views towards Mt Baw Baw. Spend your time soaking up the country atmosphere, or use it as the perfect base for exploring the region's hiking trails, farmer's markets and wineries.
10. Baw Baw Cellar Door
Sample local wine, gin and beer from passionate producers within the West Gippsland region. Build your own platter from the selection of gourmet produce and enjoy live music during the warmer months and fire pit warmth in the colder months.
11. Walhalla Historic Region
Cruise through the historic township of Walhalla, a rich gold producer for 50 years and a remote and picturesque mountain village. Discover the remnants of a community that defied a forbidding environment in its quest for gold, or set out on foot from the town, which is the start of the 650km Australian Alps Walking Track to the ACT.
12. The Shot House
Follow the aroma of freshly roasted coffee at Yarragon's only coffee bar, where you can sip speciality coffees made with organic beans from local Australian growers, and from around the world.
13. West Gippsland Hinterland Drive
Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure to the hinterland. Cruise through tiny towns and ancient forests, fuelling up on the region's best gourmet breads, meats, olives and cheeses.
