Despite increasing cases of Covid in Sydney and Melbourne, in regional areas life has returned to normal. Last year we enjoyed a road trip to the Victorian Alps in the most sublime autumn weather, so this year we have decided to explore more of Victoria.This time to the north-west. We have broken the journey into two parts, spending our first night in the border town of Albury.
Wednesday
Unfortunately the weather forecast is for a wet few days but it was still a pleasant four hour drive, with the last signs of autumnal colours.
We managed to arrive in Jugiong for afternoon tea before our favourite cafe, the Long Track Pantry, closed.
We found a motel (60s style) in the centre of town in Albury. It’s clean, convenient and reasonably price but definitely devoid of any country charm or artistic merit. The main building, fronting Townsend Street, was a coach factory built in the 1880s.
Just five minutes up the road was a new restaurant, Yardbird, where we had an exceptional meal.
Mark had a slow cooked lamb shoulder and I had ricotta dumplings with spinach/pesto/truffle …and quince tart for dessert. So refreshing to find such quality, in produce and presentation.
Thursday
Delicious breakfast at The Proprietor a few doors up from our motel
We left Albury about 10 am heading west.
We passed through wineries, cattle and sheep properties along a long flat plain.
We lunch in Echuca a historic paddle steaming town on the Murray River.
This part of the country is a total surprise to us. Old settler cottages, magnificent 19th century architecture from the Gold Era, painted wheat silos as we enter the wheat belt.
Rochester, Bendigo, Maryborough - all spectacular towns
We finally arrive in Halls Gap to our Airbnb cabin at 6.30pm
Dinner at the Spirit of Punjab, just up the road. Head waiter was a talking robot!
Friday
Grampians Road, where are cabin is situated, contains most of the holiday offerings in this national park. Halls Gap sits below the magnificent mountain range.
Our first destination in the Grampians National Park was the Pinnacle Walk. 4km round trip.
A grade 3 walk with steep inclines and some rock clambering.
Spectacular geological structures
Very satisfying to reach the summit at 720m with impressive views over Halls Gap and the valley floor, with views to Lake Bellfield.
We then drove to Boroka Lookout. Lake Bellfield in the distance.
Just 20 minutes from Halls Gap we discovered Pomona Estate Winery and enjoyed an excellent tasting plate and their wines.
After lunch we returned to the National Park and did a short walk to Silverband Falls
Kangaroos and emus abound on playing fields and parks
Pub meal at Flame Brothers in the village for dinner
Saturday
Early rain and mist
All had cleared by the time we reached Mackenzie Falls.
Stunning landscape. View down the steep incline to the falls’ floor.
I walked down to the falls.Excellent stairway with railing, making the 400 step descent and ascent safer, even in these slippery conditions.
Reid Lookout and Balconies Walk (2km return on flat sandy path)
Views towards Lake Warnook.
Lunch and dinner at Barney’s just out of town.
Varied menu prepared by a Nepalese chef.
Sunday
Back on the plains and long straight roads eastwards.
Interesting historical architecture and some more silo art in Avoca.
Excellent accommodation in Beechworth. Modern apartments behind an historic hotel.
Pizza at a funky brewery for dinner
Beechworth in the Victorian Goldfields district was the perfect ending to our little jaunt.
Vibrant, beautifully presented with a fascinating past and lots to do even on a Sunday night.
Stunning sunset and a full moon, to boot!
A wonderful few days!
M&M
