WITL 3 : The Grampians

The Grampians is a national park in Victoria, Australia and is located 235km west of Melbourne. The Park is listed on the Australian Heritage list for its outstanding natural beauty. There is a wide range of outdoor activities on offer such as, walking and hiking around the park while stopping at the many scenic lookouts,   rock-climbing, kayaking or canoeing at remote mountain lakes and much more.

Our first day here started with "breakfast with emus", as the grazed in front of the park. Too bad they were aware of my presence and ran away as I was trying to take their picture.

Our first destination was Lake Wartook, the reservoir in the Grampians National Park. Bordered by many wild flowering plants and the majestic mountain in the background, Lake Wartook is one of the popular scenic spots in the Grampians. There are many species of native birds and animals on display throughout the ranges that have to be seen to be believed.

Around 10km from Lake Wartook is McKenzie Falls, the most visited waterfall in this area. The walking trail from the car park to the base of the falls is fabulous. We stopped at several lookouts which offered a magnificent views. With a height of around 25 meters and measuring 20 meters across, it is the largest waterfall in the Grampians.

Our next destination is Stawell ( pronounce Stawl), a small town located just around 30 minutes from the Gramphians National Park. With the population around 6,000 people, the town which enjoyed the gold mining boom of the 19th century, is now famous for the countries oldest and richest professional sprint race, the 120 metre Stawell Gift.

On the way back to the caravan park, we stopped at the Giant Koala which situated at small community of Dadswells Bridge. Inside the Giant Koala there is a gift shop which sells a large range of gifts and souvenirs for all ages. As Dadswells Bridge is regarded as the gateway to the Gramphians Ranges, Sam the Giant Koala, is their guardian.

The excitement had not finished yet. Back at the caravan park, we saw a kangaroo in front of our cabin...then another and another until they had invaded the caravan park. Garry, the owner of the caravan park feeds them every evening, so they know when there is a free feed on offer.

As Garry came out with a basket full of bread, I followed him and helped him feed the growing mob. We counted 35 of them! Although I was a bit scared at first, I really enjoyed being so close to these wild animals. It was a fun and exciting experience.