Just over an hour out of Melbourne, Warragul is the jewel in the crown of the West Gippsland region. A rural town known for its dairy farms and wide open spaces, Warragul is a popular destination for those seeking a taste of relaxed, country life. With cycling trails and parks aplenty, plus the local landmarks of the Noojee Trestle Bridge and Toorongo Falls, it’s the perfect place to connect with nature. Visiting on the third Saturday of the month? Sample the best of local produce, freshly made pastries and organic teas at the Warragul Farmers’ Market. With so much to explore in and around the area, the best way to visit Warragul is in a Hertz rental car.
A Charming Rural Locality with Plenty to Offer
In town, there’s something for everyone from foodies to nature lovers. For sporting enthusiasts, golfers are invited to tee off at the esteemed Warragul Country Club. As a host of the Gippsland Super 6 Tournament, the Club is renowned in the region for its expansive greens and friendly, social atmosphere. With public bookings on offer, the Club is open to all interested in a 9 or 18-hole game, and there’s a pro shop on site for all your golf gear needs. After the last round, settle the scores over a drink and a meal at the Fairways Bistro. With an extensive menu celebrating the best of Australian cuisine, it’s the ideal spot to wind down with friends and family. On the opposite end of the spectrum, theatre-goers will be delighted with the range of concerts, performances and musicals on offer at the West Gippsland Arts Centre. Browse the program before your visit to catch the best shows, events and exhibitions in town, and elevate your experience with an authentic woodfired pizza at Pellegrino beforehand.
Between the city and Warragul South, you’ll find some of the best wine and fine dining at Hogget Kitchen. Part of the Gippsland Wine Region, Hoggett sits across from the Wild Dog Winery and includes their boutique wines in the restaurant’s curated menu. With a focus on using seasonal ingredients, the menu at Hogget Kitchen changes weekly, offering diners the choice between two chefs’ menus. Choose from a six or four-course menu, designed specially by Head Chef and owner, Trevor Perkins, and enjoy a delectable degustation set amongst the greenery of the vines. On the opposite side of the city, Brandy Creek Estate offers winery tours to guests, showcasing the best cool-climate wines in the region. The restaurant offers a Churrasco BBQ menu on weekends, a monthly Paella Feast and mouth watering tapas, making dinner at Brandy Creek Estate a must when in Warragul. Plus, the venue doubles as a day spa with treatments including a Turkish style Hammam and traditional facials and massages for a full-service luxury experience.
Discovery Abroad on a Day Trip
Out of town, put your rental car to good use with a road trip to Mount Baw Baw. Visit here for some fun and adventure just over an hour and a half out of Warragul. Not only visited in the winter months, the mountain is also open during the summer for activities such as wildlife encounters and disc golfing. If you are visiting during snow season, the alpine terrain is perfectly suited for skiing and snowboarding, plus little ones will enjoy tobogganing and snow play. The resort offers lunch with a view at the Village Central Restaurant, drinks and pizza at The Woodshed and quick bites available throughout. Plus, traditional lodging accommodation is also on offer for those wanting to undertake a true snow-style holiday.
Just over an hour from Warragul is Phillip Island, home to the largest colony of little penguins in the world. Book a private day tour here and travel in style with a helicopter picking you up from Cowes to see the island from a bird's-eye view. Tours of the island’s famous Penguin Parade are also available, where you’ll see the tiny penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows on the shore. Also on offer at Phillip Island is the chance to see majestic seals up close on a two-hour cruise across the western coastline. Venture here for a bucket list experience and elevate your holiday with an array of luxury accommodation options available. When it comes to dining on the island, a meal at Saltwater can’t be beaten. With waterfront views and a relaxing atmosphere, lunch or dinner here is more than just a meal, it’s an experience to write home about.
From sampling the best wines in the region to adventures beyond the bay, an escape to West Gippsland is an experience to be enjoyed by all.
