With the sun shining and the weather warming, summer is one of the best times to get out and about exploring. We’ve pooled our local insights to collate for you a quick guide to spending summertime in Greater Hamilton. Enjoy!
1. Lake Hamilton for the whole family
Hotspot for recreation activities, why not swim, ski, fish, boat, bike, walk, play or skate at Lake Hamilton! Take the walking path around the edge of the lake and discover a number of playgrounds and a skate park for the kids. The lake even has a dog park! So why not treat your furry friends to some off-leash induced smiles and wagging tails!
2. Hike Bainggug (Mt Piccaninny)
A walk through the Grampians (Gariwerd) is always enjoyable, but a climb up Bainggug (Mt Piccaninny) during summer will leave you with the clearest views out across the region. Head up during the morning to avoid the summer heat, or for the extra keen, watching the sunrise from the summit is always stunning. It’s an easy to medium 2.4km return trip, so take the kids along too!
3. Uncover the Art Trail
Enjoy the lovely weather wandering through Hamilton’s streetscape by following the art trail through the CBD. Enjoy a coffee or two at numerous cafes along the way or dabble in a spot of shopping. The most instagrammable places in town? Snap a pic of you and your friends walking down McGuigan Lane, outside the Hamilton Gallery mural, or in front of the Nucleus. (Call into the Hamilton Visitor Information Centre for a map).
4.Wander the Hamilton Botanic Gardens A lush oasis established in 1853. Meander along the sweeping lawns and curved paths, designed by the renowned William Guilfoyle, where unique trees and sensory gardens invite you to relax. Discover unique tree species and delightful birdlife as you explore this living piece of Victoria’s heritage. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment by the fountains, the gardens offer a perfect escape into nature’s beauty.
5. Outdoor pool family fun When the sun is really shining we’d also recommend having a dip in one of our 8 outdoor swimming pools which are free to attend this summer thanks to the Southern Grampians Shire Council. Grab your mates and head down to the local pool to cool down! (Tip: Please monitor the opening hours via their FB page)
6. Picnic at Dunkeld Arboretum
With walking tracks, giant red gums, lakes and even a mosaic labyrinth, take in the beauty, peace and imagery of nature at the Dunkeld Arboretum. Enjoy the views from the walking track or have a dip in the lakes to cool off, with the water perfect for swimming, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding.
7. A Day out at Rocklands Reservoir
As the second largest reservoir in Victoria, Rocklands Reservoir is the place to be on a warm summer’s day. Come for a picnic and cool down with a swim, canoe your way through the striking trees admiring the Western Grampians (Gariwerd) views or bring your boat along for some fishing or skiing. With 7 free, pet friendly campgrounds along the reservoir edge, it’s the perfect place to cool down this summer.
Pic: Supplied by Fishing Australia host, Rob Paxevanos during his trip to the Greater Hamilton region and seeing for himself why Rocklands is referred to as one of the best Redfin Fisheries!
8. Challenge your mates to a round of Golf
Enjoy evergreen grass and shady trees having a hit of golf at one of the many golf courses throughout Greater Hamilton. With two courses in Hamilton, and a unique course each in Coleraine, Balmoral, Mooralla and Dunkeld, there are plenty to choose from to challenge your mates for the annual showdown, or go golf-hopping!
9. Uncover the History of Settlers Walk
A gentle 2km stroll along the Wannon River, learn about the settlers of Cavendish while you enjoy the views across the river. Established as a memorial to honour the Soldier Settlers of the mid-20th century, the Settlers Walk tells the tales of the pioneers from the mid-50s on plaques that are affixed to volcanic rocks along the river. Bring a picnic to enjoy along the way, or refresh afterwards at the Bunyip Hotel or Bridge Café.
10. Relax at the Coleraine Arboretum
Seek shade amongst the trees at the Peter Francis Point Arboretum and admire its collection of more than 10,000 recorded plants! From young growth through to mature trees, The Points houses one of Australia’s most valuable native plant collections and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or peaceful picnic to help you combat the summer sun!
