Nature Lovers Escape

Reconnect with nature in North East Victoria, where riverside trails, mountain lookouts, and peaceful billabongs await. This three-day itinerary is perfect for those who love bushwalking, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to slow down and soak it all in. 

Getting There & Travel Tips 

Wangaratta is just a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Melbourne via the Hume Freeway. With Warby Ovens National Park, Glenrowan, Milawa, and the King Valley all within 15–45 minutes, it’s the ideal base for nature-based day trips. 

Top Tips for Nature Lovers: 

• Pack walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera. You’ll want to capture the views and wildlife. 

• Bring a picnic blanket and cooler bag for scenic lunches. 

• Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. 

• Book accommodation close to nature. Painter’s Island Holiday Park is a great riverside option. 

Day 1 – Wangaratta: Riverside Trails & Billabong Wonders 

Check into Painter’s Island Holiday Park, located just across the river from the CBD. Nestled beside the Ovens River, this peaceful park offers cabins, powered sites, and accessible facilities—perfect for nature lovers who want to stay close to walking trails. 

Start your day with a walk along the Bullawah Cultural Trail, a 2.4 km riverside path showcasing Aboriginal art, sculptures, and native plants. Keep an eye out for birdlife along the riverbanks. 

Next, explore the Kaluna Island Loop Walk in Merriwa Park, a tranquil circuit through wetlands and river red gums. In the afternoon, head to the Mullinmur Billabong, where you can count turtles, photograph native flora, and learn about citizen science through interpretive signage. 

Evening Tip: Take a gentle stroll through Apex Park and along the boardwalk at dusk to witness the grey-headed flying foxes soaring across the sky, a magical end to your first day. 

Day 2 – Warby Ranges & Glenrowan: Bushwalks & Lookouts 

Start early and drive 15 minutes to Warby Ovens National Park, a haven for bushwalkers and birdwatchers. Choose from short wildflower walks or longer hikes to waterfalls and granite outcrops. 

Next, head to Mt Glenrowan, a 9 km return walk offering panoramic views of the valley and a chance to spot wedge-tailed eagles. The trail is well-marked and ideal for a morning hike. 

Stop in Glenrowan for lunch at Café 1880 or pack a picnic to enjoy in the shade near the Siege Precinct, where you can also explore the town’s historic sites. 

Afternoon Tip: Return to Wangaratta via the scenic Warby Ranges and relax at your riverside accommodation. Enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature. 

Day 3 – King Valley: Waterfalls, Lakes & Garden Lunches 

Today is all about exploring the King Valley’s natural gems. Start with a drive to Paradise Falls, a short walk leads to a stunning 31-metre waterfall surrounded by forest. 

Continue to Lake William Hovell, a peaceful spot for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. Bring a picnic or enjoy a quiet moment with the birds and breeze. 

Next, visit Powers Lookout, a historic hideout with sweeping views over the valley, perfect for photography and reflection. 

Lunch Tip: Stop at the Mountain View Hotel in Whitfield, where the award-winning beer garden offers a relaxed dining experience surrounded by nature. 

Wrap up your trip with a slow drive back through the valley, soaking in the scenery before heading home. 

Trip Highlights 

• Painter’s Island Holiday Park – Riverside accommodation with cabins and accessible facilities. 
  Location: Wangaratta. Across the river from the CBD. 

• Bullawah Cultural Trail – 2.4 km riverside walk with Aboriginal art and birdwatching. 
  Location: Wangaratta. Free access. 

• Kaluna Island Loop Walk – Tranquil circuit through wetlands and river red gums. 
  Location: Merriwa Park, Wangaratta. Free access. 

• Mullinmur Billabong – Scenic walking loops with turtles, birdlife, and citizen science signage. 
  Location: Wangaratta. Free access. 

• Apex Park Boardwalk – Evening stroll with views of grey-headed flying foxes. 
  Location: Wangaratta. Free access. 

• Warby Ovens National Park – Bushwalking, waterfalls, wildflowers, and birdwatching. 
  Location: 15 min drive from Wangaratta. Free access. 

• Mt Glenrowan Walk – 9 km return hike with panoramic views. 
  Location: Glenrowan. 15 min drive from Wangaratta. 

• Paradise Falls – 31-metre waterfall surrounded by forest. 
  Location: Cheshunt. Short walk from car park. 

• Lake William Hovell – Peaceful lake for swimming, fishing, and relaxing. 
  Location: King Valley. 20 min drive from Cheshunt. 

• Powers Lookout – Historic lookout with sweeping valley views. 
  Location: King Valley. Free access. 

• Mountain View Hotel – Award-winning beer garden and seasonal menu. 
  Location: Whitfield. Bookings recommended.