Uncover Buchan, a charming town in East Gippsland, Victoria, brimming with natural beauty and rich history. Famous for its stunning limestone caves and scenic surroundings, Buchan is a top spot for adventure seekers and history buffs alike.
Join us as we explore the best things to do in Buchan, from its captivating caves to its lush landscapes. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this hidden gem of Victoria.
Things To Do In Buchan, VIC
1. Buchan Caves – A Subterranean Wonderland
Explore the stunning Buchan Caves, a network of limestone caves filled with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. It’s definitely one of those surreal places that don’t feel like Victoria, Australia.
The Royal Cave and Fairy Cave, open to the public, showcase awe-inspiring chambers and beautiful calcite-rimmed pools. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the caves’ geological history and unique underground creatures.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
The surrounding Buchan Caves Reserve is perfect for picnics, bushwalks, and birdwatching. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas.
If you want to stay longer, the reserve has a campground and cabins, making it easy to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
- Best time of the year: The caves are open year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures for exploring the reserve.
- Address: Caves Rd, Buchan VIC 3885, Australia
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
- Distance from town: Located within Buchan
2. Wilsons Promontory National Park – A Coastal Paradise
Wilsons Promontory National Park, also known as “The Prom,” is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This coastal paradise boasts pristine beaches, rugged granite mountains, and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. The park offers a range of walking tracks, from short strolls to multi-day hikes, allowing visitors to explore its diverse landscapes and discover hidden gems.
One of the park’s highlights is the iconic hike to the summit of Mount Oberon, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and islands. The best time to visit Wilsons Promontory National Park is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the park is less crowded. Camping facilities are available within the park, providing the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in this stunning natural environment.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds
- Address: Wilsons Promontory National Park, VIC, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 300 km southwest of Buchan
3. Snowy River National Park – A Wilderness Adventure
Embrace the great outdoors at the Snowy River National Park, a vast expanse of rugged landscapes, dense forests, and pristine waterways. The park is home to the breathtaking Little River Gorge, Victoria’s deepest gorge, and the stunning Little River Falls. The park offers numerous walking tracks, ranging from short strolls to multi-day hikes, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this remote wilderness.
For the more adventurous, the Snowy River provides thrilling white-water rafting opportunities, while the serene waterways are perfect for canoeing and fishing. Camping facilities are available throughout the park, allowing visitors to truly connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the Australian bush.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds
- Address: Snowy River National Park, VIC, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 50 km west of Buchan
4. Raymond Island – A Wildlife Haven
Escape to Raymond Island, a tranquil oasis known for its abundant wildlife, particularly its thriving koala population. The island is accessible via a short ferry ride from the town of Paynesville and offers a range of walking tracks that allow visitors to spot koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
The best time to visit Raymond Island is year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures for exploring the island. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the adorable koalas as they lounge in the eucalyptus trees. Raymond Island is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or a peaceful weekend getaway.
- Best time of the year: Year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures for exploring the island
- Address: Raymond Island, VIC, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 200 km southeast of Buchan
5. Maru Koala and Animal Park – Get Up Close with Australian Wildlife
Experience the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic wildlife at Maru Koala and Animal Park. This family-friendly attraction offers interactive encounters with koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of native bird species. The park also features a range of farm animals, such as sheep, goats, and alpacas, providing a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Maru Koala and Animal Park is open year-round, making it a perfect destination for families visiting Buchan and the surrounding region. The park also includes a mini-golf course and a pirate-themed playground, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Address: 1650 Bass Hwy, Grantville VIC 3984, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 300 km southwest of Buchan
6. Wineries and Breweries – Savor the Flavors of Gippsland
Indulge in the flavors of Gippsland by visiting some of the region’s renowned wineries and breweries. Sample a variety of cool-climate wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, at the Gippsland Wine Company. For a unique twist, head to Gurneys’ Cidery and try their dry ciders and the distinctive Noir Cider, a blend of apples and Pinot Noir grapes.
These establishments offer a taste of the local terroir and provide a glimpse into the region’s thriving wine and cider industry. The best time to visit the wineries and breweries is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.
- Wyanga Park Winery: 246 Baades Rd, Lakes Entrance VIC 3909, Australia
- Gurneys’ Cidery: 343 Forge Creek Rd, Eagle Point VIC 3878, Australia
- Gippsland Wine Company: 97 McMillan St, Stratford VIC 3862, Australia
- Distance from town: Ranging from 100 km to 150 km southeast of Buchan
7. Buchan Gallery and Buchan Heritage Group – Delve into Local History
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Buchan by visiting the Buchan Gallery and Buchan Heritage Group. This local attraction showcases the fascinating stories of the town’s past, including its early settlers, the significance of the Buchan River, and the development of the community. The gallery also features a collection of artwork and crafts created by local artists, providing a glimpse into the region’s vibrant arts scene.
The Buchan Gallery and Buchan Heritage Group is open on weekends and public holidays, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely afternoon of exploration and learning. Located within the town of Buchan, this attraction is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into the area’s cultural heritage.
- Opening Hours: Open on weekends and public holidays from 10 am to 4 pm
- Address: 73 Main St, Buchan VIC 3885, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Buchan
8. Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine – Unearth a Golden Past
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of gold mining in the region at the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine. This historic site offers guided tours that delve into the mine’s past, providing insights into the lives of the miners who once toiled in its depths. Explore the mine’s underground workings and learn about the techniques and equipment used to extract gold from the earth.
The Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine is open on weekends and public holidays, with tours available at 1:30 pm and 3 pm. Located approximately 200 km west of Buchan, this attraction offers a unique and educational experience for visitors interested in the region’s gold mining heritage.
- Opening Hours: Tours available on weekends and public holidays at 1:30 pm and 3 pm
- Address: Walhalla VIC 3825, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 200 km west of Buchan
9. Stony Creek Trestle Bridge – Marvel at Engineering Ingenuity
Witness a testament to engineering ingenuity at the Stony Creek Trestle Bridge, a historic railway bridge that once formed a vital part of the region’s transportation network. Constructed in 1916, this impressive structure spans 247 meters and stands 20 meters above the ground, making it one of the largest timber trestle bridges in Victoria.
The Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is located approximately 100 km southeast of Buchan and is easily accessible by car. The site offers a picturesque setting for picnics and photography, allowing visitors to appreciate the bridge’s architectural beauty and the surrounding natural landscape.
- Address: Stony Creek Rd, Nowa Nowa VIC 3887, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 100 km southeast of Buchan
10. Balley Hooley (The Junction) – A Picturesque Picnic Spot
Nestled along the banks of the Buchan River, Balley Hooley (The Junction) is a charming picnic spot that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Surrounded by lush vegetation and the soothing sounds of the river, this idyllic location is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Balley Hooley (The Junction) is located within Buchan and is easily accessible by car or on foot. Pack a picnic, bring a book, and unwind in the tranquility of this picturesque riverside setting.
- Address: Balley Hooley Rd, Buchan VIC 3885, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Buchan
11. The Bluff Reserve – Take in Panoramic Views
For a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the town of Buchan and its surrounding landscapes, head to The Bluff Reserve. This elevated lookout offers panoramic views of the Buchan Valley, the Buchan River, and the distant mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for photography and quiet contemplation.
The Bluff Reserve is located within Buchan and is easily accessible by car or on foot. Take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and the serenity of this peaceful vantage point.
- Address: The Bluff Rd, Buchan VIC 3885, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Buchan
Towns Nearby Buchan, VIC
Here are some nearby towns/suburbs around Buchan, VIC, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Buchan, and reasons why they are worth visiting:
- Buchan South, VIC (7 km from Buchan): Known for its black marble outcrop, which was used in the construction of 16 huge pillars for Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance and 900 tonnes shipped to London for inclusion in Australia House.
- Murrindal, VIC (17 km from Buchan): A small town near Buchan, Murrindal is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding natural attractions, such as Basin Creek Falls and Murrindal Bridge.
- W Tree, VIC (40 km from Buchan): This small community is located near the Snowy River National Park and offers a peaceful escape into nature. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore the park and its stunning landscapes.
- Bete Bolong North, VIC (45 km from Buchan): Another small town near Buchan, Bete Bolong North is a great base for exploring the nearby Snowy River National Park and its many attractions, including the iconic Snowy River itself.
- Bruthen, VIC (50 km from Buchan): A charming town in East Gippsland, Bruthen is home to the Bullant Brewery, where you can sample a range of locally brewed beers. The town is also a gateway to the picturesque East Gippsland Rail Trail, perfect for cycling and walking.
- Orbost, VIC (60 km from Buchan): Located in the heart of Snowy River country, Orbost is surrounded by national parks, forests, and beaches. The town offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
- Bairnsdale, VIC (75 km from Buchan): A major regional center in East Gippsland, Bairnsdale offers a variety of attractions, including the Bairnsdale Historical Museum, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and the East Gippsland Art Gallery. It’s also a convenient base for exploring the surrounding region, including Buchan and its caves.
These towns and suburbs offer a variety of attractions and activities, making them excellent destinations for visitors looking to explore the beautiful East Gippsland region around Buchan, VIC Australia.
Getting To Buchan, VIC
To get to Buchan, VIC from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.
From Melbourne CBD:
- By public transport: Take a train from Melbourne Central or Flinders Street Station to Bairnsdale Station on the Bairnsdale Line. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. From Bairnsdale, you can take a V/Line coach service towards Orbost, which stops at Buchan. The coach journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By car: Drive east on the M1 (Eastern Freeway) and continue onto the M3 (Eastlink). Take the exit onto the M420 (South Gippsland Highway) and then turn onto the A440 (Princes Highway) towards Bairnsdale. From Bairnsdale, take the Great Alpine Road (B500) and then turn onto Buchan Road (C608). The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
From Bairnsdale:
- By public transport: Take the V/Line coach service towards Orbost, which stops at Buchan. The coach journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By car: Drive on the Great Alpine Road (B500) and then turn onto Buchan Road (C608). The drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic.
From Orbost:
- By public transport: Take the V/Line coach service towards Bairnsdale, which stops at Buchan. The coach journey takes approximately 1 hour.
- By car: Drive west on the Princes Highway (A1) and then turn onto Buchan-Orbost Road (C620). The drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic.
For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website (https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au) or app to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on train and bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.
