The best things to do in Walhalla, Victoria
Given a population of less than 20 full-time residents, you would be forgiven for thinking that there isn’t much to do in Walhalla. However, this tiny town has a massive heart and trust me, there are plenty of things to do in Walhalla. So much so, that visiting is a popular day trip or overnight trip from Melbourne.
But why is Walhalla so special?
Well, at one point in time Walhalla was one of the most happening places in Victoria thanks to a gold rush. It was home to reportedly the largest single reef of gold in the whole of Victoria and as a result, people came from all over to strike it rich, resulting in a thriving town of around 5,000 inhabitants.
Like most gold boom towns, it didn’t last forever and by 1914, the last of the biggest mine ceased operation. People moved on and the population diminished.
I know, I know…this still doesn’t explain why it’s so special. Well, the special part comes from how lovingly the whole town has been restored and maintained. Today, the historic town of Walhalla provides visitors with a living snapshot of the Victorian gold era. Also, geographically speaking, it’s really picturesque.
Before we talk about all the great things to do in Walhalla, I better tell you how to get there!
How to get to Walhalla
Find Walhalla a little over a two-hour drive east of Melbourne. Those leaving the city can head east on the M1 until they reach the town of Moe. From there you will jump on the Moe-Walhalla Road until you pass the small but charming town of Erica. After leaving Erica, you will make a right turn onto Knotts Siding Road and follow the signs through to Walhalla.
Google Maps will show you the way but there is decent road signage once you get close.
The best things to do in Walhalla
Ride the Walhalla Goldfields Railway
The Walhalla Goldfields Railway is a fun family-friendly train ride along the Walhalla Goldfields Railway. Departing from the historic Walhalla Train Station the train travels through a beautiful landscape over no less than six large trestle bridges.
Upon arriving at Thomson Station 20-minutes later, the train then turns around and returns to Walhalla. The whole trip takes around an hour and if you let them know in advance, you can even bring your furry friend.
Stroll the streets on the Walhalla Historic Walk
Follow the self-guided Walhalla Historic Walking Tour from one end of town to the other. With over 30 interpretation signs and a heap of fascinating historic buildings (don’t miss the Olde Lolly Shop or Post Office), take your time and make a morning of it.
The Walhalla Cricket Ground is a sight to see as back in the day, flat land was hard to find so they basically sliced the top off a nearby mountain to create the sports ground. It’s around a 1km walk up a zig-zagging track.
Grab your free walking map here or pick one up from the Visitor Information Centre.
Explore the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine
The Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine yielded nearly 14 tonnes of gold, making it one of the most successful mines in Victoria. A 50-minute guided tour will see you head around 260 metres underground into a large machinery chamber. You’ll learn the mining methods used and visit the famous Cohens Line of Reef.
Check out the Walhalla Cemetery
A cemetery doesn’t sound very interesting, right? Well, this one is! Perched on the steep hillside, a 500-metre switchback track will lead you to a picturesque cemetery with dry stone wall terraced grave rows.
Even though the walk takes around 10-minutes one way (it’s uphill), you should allow around an hour to read the inscriptions. Some tell stories of hardship and others tell of curses.
Many people say the cemetery is haunted and if this is right up your alley, you might like to check out the night-time Walhalla Ghost Tours.
Pan for gold at Stringers Creek
So, is there still gold in Walhalla today? Well, there’s only one way to find out. Bring your gold pan (or buy one at the Walhalla Corner Store/Museum) and try your luck. Hey, even if you don’t find anything, Stringers Creek where you’ll be seeking your fortune is a top spot for a picnic lunch.
Don’t forget to get a Victorian fossicking permit before you leave if you plan to try your hand at panning for gold in Walhalla. A 10-year miner’s right for Victoria cost only $25.55 for individuals and trust me, this is one of those hobbies that sticks with you for life.
Do the Poverty Point Bridge walk
At 8.8km return, you’ll definitely get your daily steps in on this scenic circuit walk. Starting from the Thomson River Bridge around 4km from Walhalla, follow the river upstream on one side and return on the other.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the remains of the old tramways and of course, the highlight is Poverty Point Bridge itself. This restored tramway bridge was built in the 1900s and makes for a great photo.
This walk actually takes in the first section of the much larger, Australian Alpine Walking Track.
More things to do around the Walhalla region
Mushroom Rocks
Explore the massive granite boulders that are the Mushroom Rocks around 40 minutes from Walhalla. Surrounded by thick forest, this collection of boulders are like a fairy wonderland, particularly when the tops are covered in moss.
Although it’s only a 3km hike from the carpark, it’s not a particularly easy walk but when you finally lay eyes on the massive granite tors, you’ll be stoked you decided to come.
Mount St Gwinear
Around 50 minutes from Walhalla you can find Mount St Gwinear in the Baw Baw National Park. There is no commercial development here and it’s free to enter, with two toboggan runs, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing being the main activities in winter.
The green season sees epic hiking and mountain biking.
Lake Thomson
Find Lake Thomson around 30 minutes from Walhalla and you will find yourself looking at the source of half of Melbourne’s drinking water. At 165 metres high, it is reportedly the largest earth and rockfill dam in the southern hemisphere.
It’s a nice spot for a short visit or picnic lunch with some great views from the dam wall. Although, it can get cold here and we all know how unpredictable Victoria’s weather is so make sure to pack warm clothes.
Mount Baw Baw
Find Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort around an hour from Walhalla for skiing and snow activities in the winter, and cycling and bushwalking in the green season. Hike the Mount Baw Baw Summit Walk on a clear day for views all the way across West Gippsland to the Bass Strait.
Where to eat in Walhalla
The Wally Pub
The Wally Pub is located in the Main Street of Walhalla and is a top spot for traditional Aussie pub meals like steaks, burgers and parma’s. It’s a cosy spot for lunch in the colder months and dishes up decent sized meals. Gluton free and vegetarian options are available here.
Goods Shed
Find the Goods Shed cafe at the Walhalla Goldfields Railway Station on the edge of town. It’s a great choice for sandwiches, wraps and a warm drink before heading on the scenic train ride to Thomson and back. There is plenty of room here and a nice fireplace up the back which you will appreciate in the winter months.
Walhalla Star Hotel
The restaurant at the Walhalla Star Hotel is open to both hotel guests and those not staying at the hotel. However, those staying elsewhere will need to make a reservation first as priority is given to guests.
The a la carte menu changes daily but there is generally three to four choices per course. The restaurant is only open for dinner so you will need to find lunch elsewhere.
Walhalla accommodation
Looking for more awesome family holiday inspiration?
Browse our Victoria page for more information on visiting Victoria with kids, or head on back to the home page for inspiration on destinations worldwide.
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Resources for booking a getaway to Victoria with kids
Flights and getting around
- Get a great deal on flights to Melbourne on Trip.com.
- Compare car hire across major brands with Discover Cars.
Accommodation
- You can’t go past the Langham Hotel in Melbourne City. It’s upmarket, in a great location with great restaurants, and has an old-school sophistication that’s hard to beat.
- In West Gippsland, Erica Caravan Park is a top holiday spot with both cabins and camping.
- East Gippsland travellers should head to the Dargo River Inn in the high country for cabins and camping. The Big4 Waters Edge is great for families at Lakes Entrance.
- In South Gippsland, Yanakie Caravan Park (it has cabins as well) has the best views over the ocean at sunset and is located just 5 minutes from the entrance to Wilsons Promontory.
Activities and tours
- Legoland Discovery Centre – Get your tickets here.
- Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium – Get your tickets here.
- Arthurs Seat Eagle Gondola Ride – Get your tickets here.
- Puffing Billy Steam Train – Get your tickets here.
