Ararat, a historical town in Victoria, is a fantastic destination for those seeking a mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s a quick overview to get you acquainted with this intriguing place.
Overview
Ararat, a historical town in Victoria, offers a blend of rich heritage and natural beauty.
- Origin of Name: Named by Horatio Wills, a pastoralist who likened the nearby hills to the biblical Mount Ararat.
- Known For: Ararat is known for its gold rush history, being the only town in Australia founded by Chinese miners. read more
- Tourist Friendly: Yes, Ararat offers a range of attractions from historical sites to natural parks, making it ideal for tourists. read more
- Where: Located in Victoria, about 200 km west of Melbourne. Nearby towns include Stawell, Halls Gap, and Great Western. read more
Accommodation
Things To Do
Ararat Gallery TAMA
Art lovers, rejoice! Ararat Gallery TAMA is a hidden gem that showcases contemporary textile and fibre art. The gallery, located in the historic town hall, hosts both local and international artists, making it a vibrant spot for cultural immersion. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The gallery’s dedication to textile art offers a unique experience you won’t find in many other places. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for something different to do, Ararat Gallery TAMA is definitely worth a visit.
- Main Attractions: Contemporary textile and fibre art, rotating exhibitions
- Location: Western Hwy, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Ararat Gallery TAMA
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AmvRdLVtVbUrHrbY9
One Tree Hill Lookout
For those of you who enjoy panoramic views and a bit of fresh air, One Tree Hill Lookout is the place to be. Just a short drive from Ararat, this lookout offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can see all the way to The Grampians, Mount Langi Ghiran, and the Black Range. It’s the perfect spot to get that Instagram-worthy shot and make your friends jealous.
Pack a picnic and take advantage of the picnic shelter while soaking in the natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just someone who loves a good view, One Tree Hill Lookout won’t disappoint. And if you’re into star gazing, it’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset and then stick around for the stars to come out.
- Main Attractions: 360-degree views, picnic shelter, photography spot
- Location: 52 One Tree Hill Rd, Ararat VIC 3377
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ChABkAgwPMn9nT6EA
Alexandra Gardens Park
Alexandra Gardens Park is the green heart of Ararat, offering a perfect escape for a leisurely afternoon. This park has everything you need for a relaxing day out – from a picturesque lake and fernery to a Japanese-themed island. Whether you want to stroll around the gardens, have a picnic, or just lounge by the lake, this park has got you covered.
The kids will love the playground and the ducks that call the lake home, while adults can enjoy a coffee from the on-site cafe. It’s a peaceful spot that’s great for recharging your batteries and enjoying some quality time in nature.
- Main Attractions: Botanical gardens, lake, Japanese-themed island, playground
- Location: Girdlestone St, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Alexandra Gardens Park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ut5kZdxgUyrh7sbM9
Montara Winery
Montara Winery is your go-to destination for a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting with a view. Established in 1970, this vineyard offers a delightful selection of wines that you can sample while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of red or white, Montara has something to please your palate.
Source: Montara Wines
Source: Montara Wines
Source: Montara Wines
Source: Montara Wines
Source: Montara Wines
Source: Montara Wines
The winery’s serene setting makes it the perfect spot to unwind. You can stroll through the vineyards, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax with a glass of your favorite vintage. It’s a fantastic place to spend a relaxing day with friends or family.
- Main Attractions: Wine tasting, vineyard tours, picnics
- Location: 76 Chalambar Road, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Montara Wines
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aQKMHAPyQDV5yKQBA
Chalambar Golf Club
If you’re a golf enthusiast, Chalambar Golf Club is the place to be. This picturesque rural club is set at the base of One Tree Hill and is rated as one of Victoria’s top 50 public access golf courses. With a challenging Par 70 layout, it’s perfect for both serious golfers and those just looking to enjoy a round in beautiful surroundings.
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
Source: Chalambar Golf Club
The club also offers two lawn bowling greens and a bar and bistro, making it a great spot to spend the day. After your game, relax with a cold drink and take in the views – it doesn’t get much better than this.
- Main Attractions: Golf course, lawn bowling greens, bar and bistro
- Location: Golf Links Road, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Chalambar Golf Club
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TZ8DGwgCfQRbSQFE6
Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre
Step back into the gold rush era at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, where you’ll get a taste of the history and culture of the Chinese miners who helped shape Ararat. Try your hand at gold panning or learn some Chinese calligraphy – it’s an interactive history lesson that’s actually fun. Plus, you can’t miss the traditional Chinese games that will make you feel like a kid again.
The centre is packed with artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the miners who traveled all the way from China to seek their fortunes. It’s an educational experience that’s also a whole lot of fun, making it a perfect outing for families and history buffs alike.
- Main Attractions: Gold panning, calligraphy, Chinese games, historical exhibits
- Location: 31 Lambert Street, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wx5V4KMvqFBi3fuW9
Langi Morgala Museum
Step into the past at the Langi Morgala Museum, where Ararat’s rich history is on full display. Housed in a historic 1874 building, the museum boasts an extensive collection of local artifacts, including items from the gold rush era and Aboriginal artifacts. It’s a treasure trove of information and nostalgia.
The museum also features large machinery and a refurbished blacksmith’s shop, offering a fascinating glimpse into the industrial history of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the local heritage, Langi Morgala Museum is a must-visit.
- Main Attractions: Historical artifacts, gold rush exhibits, blacksmith’s shop
- Location: 48 Queen Street, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Langi Morgala Museum
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DkZ9LVsM7ZzZ7nrp9
Aradale Ghost Tour
Ready for a night of thrills and chills? The Aradale Ghost Tour offers a spine-tingling journey through one of Australia’s largest abandoned lunatic asylums. This place is not for the faint-hearted. With tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena, it’s the perfect activity for those who love a good scare.
The tours are led by guides who are masters at storytelling, making the history of this eerie site come alive. You’ll explore the darkened halls and hear about the former patients who might still be lingering around. If you’re brave enough, this tour is an unforgettable experience.
- Main Attractions: Ghost tours, historical storytelling, haunted asylum
- Location: 13 Heath St, Ararat VIC 3377
- Website: Aradale Ghost Tours
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EnEZuCCYKdSVJDX7A
Nearby Towns
Stawell, VIC:
- Distance from Ararat: 32 km northwest
- Highlights: Known for the famous Stawell Gift, an annual footrace held over Easter, and its charming historic buildings. Stawell also offers great hiking opportunities in the nearby Grampians National Park.
- Notable Sites: Stawell Gold Mine, Stawell Gift Hall of Fame, and the Big Hill Lookout.
Halls Gap, VIC:
- Distance from Ararat: 49 km northwest
- Highlights: A gateway to the Grampians National Park, known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife. Halls Gap is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Notable Sites: Grampians National Park, Halls Gap Zoo, and Venus Baths.
Beaufort, VIC:
- Distance from Ararat: 39 km southeast
- Highlights: A charming rural town known for its historic buildings, local markets, and the nearby Mount Buangor State Park. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day trip.
- Notable Sites: Beaufort Lake, Beaufort Railway Station, and the Beeripmo Walk.
Great Western, VIC:
- Distance from Ararat: 18 km west
- Highlights: Renowned for its vineyards and wineries, Great Western is a must-visit for wine lovers. The town also has a rich gold mining history.
- Notable Sites: Seppelt Winery, Best’s Wines, and Great Western Memorial Park.
Ballarat, VIC:
- Distance from Ararat: 90 km east
- Highlights: A historic city known for its gold rush heritage, Ballarat offers a wealth of attractions including Sovereign Hill, beautiful gardens, and a thriving arts scene.
- Notable Sites: Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, and the Art Gallery of Ballarat.
History
- 1836: European exploration and settlement begin in the area with Major Thomas Mitchell’s expedition, which passes through the region.
- 1841: Horatio Wills, a pastoralist, establishes a station in the area and names the nearby hills “Mount Ararat” after the biblical Mount Ararat, believing they resemble the famous biblical site.
- 1857: The Canton Lead, a rich gold deposit, is discovered by Chinese miners in the area. This discovery leads to a rapid influx of miners and the establishment of the town.
- 1858: Ararat is officially gazetted as a town following the gold rush, which brings prosperity and rapid development to the region.
- 1861: The Ararat Municipal District is established, further cementing the town’s status and administrative importance.
- 1865: The construction of key infrastructure, including schools and churches, begins, reflecting the growing and stabilizing population.
- 1867: The railway reaches Ararat, significantly boosting its connectivity and economic potential by linking it to Melbourne and other major cities.
- 1886: J Ward, originally a goldfields prison, is converted into a lunatic asylum for the criminally insane, becoming a significant historical and architectural site.
- 1920s: The town continues to grow and diversify economically, with agriculture becoming a major industry alongside mining.
- 1970: Montara Winery is established, marking the beginning of the region’s development as a notable wine-producing area.
- 1993: The Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre opens, commemorating the contribution of Chinese miners to the founding and development of Ararat.
- 2000s: Ararat evolves into a hub for tourism, arts, and heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites attracting visitors.
Information Centre
Ararat has a dedicated Visitor Information Centre co-located with the Ararat Gallery TAMA. For assistance and local information, you can contact them at 1800 657 158. The centre offers maps, brochures, and advice on attractions, accommodations, and events in the region.
- Location: 82 Vincent Street, Ararat VIC 3377
- Phone: 1800 657 158
- Website: Ararat Visitor Information
Getting There
Ararat is accessible via various public transport options, making it convenient for travelers from Melbourne and surrounding areas. Here’s how you can get to Ararat, VIC:
By Train
- From Melbourne: You can catch a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Ararat. Trains run multiple times a day, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. This is a comfortable and scenic route that passes through Ballarat before reaching Ararat.
- From Ballarat: There is a direct V/Line train service from Ballarat to Ararat, running every few hours. The trip takes around 56 minutes and offers a quick and easy way to travel between these two regional centers.
By Bus
- From Melbourne: Alternatively, you can take a V/Line coach service from Melbourne, which connects to trains at Ballarat or directly to Ararat. This route provides flexibility if you prefer traveling by bus.
- From Ballarat: V/Line also operates a bus service from Ballarat to Ararat, which runs four times a day and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is a great option if you prefer bus travel over trains.
For detailed schedules and ticket prices, visit the Public Transport Victoria website or the V/Line website.
