Things To Do
in Stawell
Stawell is a town located in Victoria, Australia, known for its rich gold mining history. The town is situated at the foot of the Grampians mountain ranges, offering stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing. Stawell is also famous for hosting the annual Stawell Gift, a prestigious foot race that attracts athletes from around the world.
The town has a close-knit community and a charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grampians National Park for a morning hike. The fresh air and beautiful landscapes will set a positive tone for the day.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's stunning viewpoints. Take some time to relax and soak in the serene environment.
Head back to Stawell and enjoy dinner at a local pub. Try some traditional Australian dishes while reflecting on your day's adventures.
Begin with a visit to the Stawell Historical Society to learn about the area's rich gold mining heritage. The engaging exhibits will give you a deeper appreciation of Stawell's past.
Take a leisurely stroll through the town and visit the local shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Grab a light lunch at a cafe along the main street.
Experience Stawell's vibrant arts scene by attending a local performance or exhibition. Wind down your day with dessert at a popular bakery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in gold mining history and heritage.
- Known for its annual Stawell Gift, a prestigious footrace.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and national parks.
- Strong sense of community and small-town friendliness.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited employment opportunities outside of tourism and agriculture.
- Public transport options may be limited.
- Some amenities and services may be lacking compared to larger urban areas.
- Potential for isolation from major metropolitan centers.
- Extreme weather conditions with hot summers.
Best Activities in Stawell
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning wilderness of Grampians National Park with activities like hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching.
Attend the famous Stawell Gift, an annual footrace that is the highlight of the local sporting calendar, featuring both elite and amateur runners.
Enjoy scenic horse riding trails around Stawell, suitable for all skill levels, including guided tours through beautiful landscapes.
Cycle or hike the Goldfields Track, which extends through the area, providing a great way to see the local scenery and historical sites.
Spend a relaxing day with family and friends at Lake Bellfield, offering BBQ facilities, picnic spots, and water activities like kayaking.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Wimmera River, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the riverside.
Places to Visit in Stawell
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering breathtaking views from various lookout points, the Grampians National Park is perfect for photography, especially at sunset and sunrise. Key locations include the Boroka Lookout and the Pinnacle Walk.
Home of the famous Stawell Gift racing event, this park provides a picturesque setting with ample photo opportunities, especially when the events are happening.
This iconic local landmark is perfect for unique photography, showcasing the natural beauty of the area along with its historical significance.
Just outside Stawell, Lake Bellfield offers stunning water reflections of the surrounding hills, ideal for scenic photography, particularly during the golden hour.
Located a short drive from Stawell, this lookout provides an expansive view of the Grampians, ideal for panoramic shots and nature photography.
Food in Stawell
Stawell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try delicacy, kangaroo steak offers a unique taste of the Australian bush. Head to the Stawell Hotel to savor this local specialty.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the classic Aussie pub meal of chicken parmigiana with a cold draft beer. Visit the Diamond House Restaurant for a delicious serving of Parma and Pot.
Treat yourself to a tender and succulent serving of slow-cooked lamb shoulder, available at the Royal Hotel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Take a leisurely stroll through the Stawell Farmers' Market to sample a variety of fresh local produce, artisanal products, and delicious street food from different vendors.
Explore the various food trucks along Main Street offering a diverse range of street food delights, from gourmet burgers to freshly made Vietnamese banh mi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stawell is known for its beautiful natural scenery. When enjoying the outdoors, it’s important to respect the environment by not littering and following local regulations regarding wildlife and conservation areas.
Engaging with local community events is appreciated in Stawell. Showing interest in local culture, attending events like the Stawell Gift, and participating in community gatherings can foster goodwill.
Australians often communicate in a relaxed manner. Using first names, a friendly tone, and humor can help build rapport, but it’s important to remain respectful and avoid overly formal language.
Safety
Tipping in Stawell
Ensure a smooth experience
In Stawell, Australia, tipping is generally not a common practice in most service industries. Instead, workers are typically paid a fair wage, and customers are not expected to tip for services like dining or taxi rides. However, if exceptional service is provided, some might choose to leave a small discretionary tip as a token of appreciation.
In Stawell, payment methods generally include cash, credit cards, and increasingly, contactless payment options like mobile wallets. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and ATMs are available throughout the town for cash withdrawals. In restaurants and shops, it is common to settle the bill at the end of the service, and invoices may be provided for larger transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Stawell as the weather begins to warm up, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. You can expect blooming wildflowers and lush greenery in the parks and surrounding areas. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring local trails.
Summer (December to February) brings warmer temperatures, often exceeding 30°C. This is the peak tourist season, and visitors can enjoy festivals, events, and plenty of outdoor activities. Expect clear skies, long days, and popular events like the Stawell Gift, an annual footrace that attracts participants from all over the country.
Autumn (March to May) offers mild temperatures, usually between 10°C and 24°C, perfect for outdoor exploration. The foliage begins to change, creating picturesque landscapes. This season is ideal for wine enthusiasts, as many local wineries host tastings and tours, showcasing their seasonal offerings.
Winter (June to August) sees cooler temperatures, ranging from 2°C to 14°C. While it’s the off-peak season, visitors can enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere. Expect some rain and overcast days, but it's also a great time for indoor activities such as visiting art galleries or cozying up in local cafes.
Stawell at Night
Hiking in Stawell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring rugged mountain ranges, scenic hiking trails, and unique wildlife. Popular hikes include the Pinnacle Walk and MacKenzie Falls.
A short and accessible hike that leads to ancient Aboriginal rock art, offering insight into the cultural heritage of the area.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Grampians region from the summit.
A popular area for hiking, with a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to more strenuous routes, including pathways to waterfalls and lookouts.
A picturesque short walk that leads to a typically flowing waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for family outings.
Aiports
How to reach Stawell by plane.
The primary international airport serving Melbourne, located approximately 236 kilometers southeast of Stawell.
International airport located in Adelaide, around 653 kilometers west of Stawell.
An international airport located near Geelong, approximately 193 kilometers southeast of Stawell.
Although primarily a regional airport, it serves some international flights and is located about 102 kilometers southeast of Stawell.
Another regional airport that occasionally handles international flights, located about 150 kilometers east of Stawell.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, primarily English-speaking and predominantly of European descent.
Individuals who primarily communicate in English, including second-generation immigrants.
A significant demographic segment, often retired individuals from various backgrounds.
A smaller but important demographic group, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Individuals who have moved from New Zealand, contributing to the local culture and economy.
Individuals and families from non-English speaking backgrounds, including refugees and permanent residents.
The younger demographic, including students, apprentices, and first-time job seekers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Stawell is famous for the Stawell Gift, one of Australia's most prestigious foot races held annually over Easter, making athletics a very popular sport in the area.
Australian Rules Football has a strong following in Stawell, with local clubs and competitions drawing significant community support.
Netball is widely played in Stawell, especially among women and girls, with numerous local teams participating in competitions.
Cricket is a popular summer sport in Stawell, with local clubs and a strong community engagement in both junior and senior levels.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Stawell, with local leagues and school competitions providing opportunities for youth involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stawell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Stawell offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from hearty salads to creatively crafted plant-based meals. Notable places include Café 1868 and the Diamond House Restaurant.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at several establishments in Stawell, such as the Royal Hotel Dining Room which features a selection of gluten-free dishes on their menu.