Stawell is the largest town in the Grampians, nearby to the tourist village of Halls Gap. Only 2.5 hours from Melbourne, Stawell is a great location to jump into the beautiful natural forests in the Grampians area. Stawell is world famous for the Stawell Gift, a collection of Australia's fastest runners who meet and race here every Easter. Whether you come for the celebrations around Easter time, or you’re here to delve into their rich gold mining heritage, Stawell is a fascinating place full of history and intrigue.
Definitely try to be here around Easter, for one of the world's most prestigious handicap races. There is a certain buzz of excitement around Stawell as some of the world’s best athletes go head to head with the best local talent. A lot of people flock to Stawell for the Gift, so Stawell has the accommodation to please travellers of all wants and needs. Affordable budget hotel and motel accommodation can easily be found, as can some more luxury hotels or elegant resorts. If you aren't here around the Gift, never mind, there is plenty else for you to do. Stawell is full of buildings and artefacts to teach tourists about the gold rush in Stawell. Pleasant Creek was the first place gold was spotted in Stawell, so see if you can fossick for gold and discover a fortune of your own.
Staying in Stawell is a great idea due to its fantastic accommodation and along with the comfortable hotels and motels, Stawell offers a wide range of self contained family apartments. But be sure you get out and see the surrounding area. There are some of the best wineries in Victoria scattered throughout the area, so a wine taking tour is a must. For something more active, the Grampians National Park is only a stones throw away. With its awesome mountains, beautiful flowers and breathtaking views, the Grampians is one of the most spectacular sites in all of Victoria.