Escape Melbourne and discover the northern Grampians (Gariwerd)

A must-visit getaway for Melbourne locals

Living in Melbourne definitely comes with its perks – vibrant culture, world-class dining, great coffee and a buzzing city life. But sometimes, even the most passionate Melbournians crave an escape from the urban sprawl. Enter the Northern Grampians, a breathtaking natural haven just a few hours from the city, offering the perfect blend of adventure, tranquillity and discovery.

Here’s why you should pack your bags and book your next stay at GlamVan Camping. It’s the perfect spot for Glamping in the Grampians and exploring the area.

1. Immerse yourself in natural beauty

The Northern Grampians (Gariwerd) is a nature lover’s paradise. With rugged mountain ranges and amazing views, the landscape offers a refreshing contrast to Melbourne’s city skyline.

Key highlights include the iconic Mount Stapylton and Mount Zero, which boast panoramic views of the region and are perfect for hiking enthusiasts. These great hikes along with Hollow Mountain and Gulgurn Manja Shelter are within a 3 minute drive of the GlamVan glamping campsite making it the ideal base for your challenging trek or peaceful nature walk.

Enjoy this spectacular mountain view from the GlamVan campsite.

2. Discover the rich Indigenous heritage

This region is steeped in Aboriginal history and culture. The Grampians (Gariwerd) is home to some of the most significant Indigenous rock art sites in Victoria, with Bunjil’s Shelter and Gulgurn Manja (Flat Rock) being must-see spots. These sacred sites provide an insight into the deep connection that the traditional custodians, the Djapwurrong and Jardwadjali peoples, have with the land. Exploring these sites is not only fascinating but also a meaningful way to learn about and honour Australia’s cultural heritage.

Experience the six distinct weather periods recognised in the Gariwerd seasonal cycle.

Gariwerd seasons - Kooyang

Late summer
January-March

Eel season

  • Hottest and driest time
  • Scarce surface water
  • High bushfire risk
  • Night sky is bright with stars

Gariwerd seasons - Gwangal moronn

Autumn
March-May

Honey bee season

  • Warm, still days
  • Country starts to cool
  • Cooler mornings
  • Red sunrises and golden

Gariwerd seasons - Chunnup

Winter
May-July

Cockatoo season

  • Freezing winds
  • Coldest time of year
  • Bleak mists
  • Rain

Gariwerd seasons - Larneuk

Pre-spring
July-August

Nesting bird season

  • Dramatic weather changes
  • Wettest time of year
  • Rivers run high

Gariwerd seasons - Petyan

Spring
September-November

Wildflower season

  • Tempestuous weather
  • Warmer days
  • Bush bursts into life
  • Emu constellation appears

Gariwerd seasons - Ballambar

Early summer
November-January

Butterfly season

  • Summer heat starts
  • Hot, dry days
  • Stable weather

3. Indulge in local food and wine

The Northern Grampians (Gariwerd) is a rapidly growing food and wine destination which is evident with the increasingly popular Grape Escape festival that celebrates Western Victoria’s finest food, wine and music. This annual festival is held at Halls Gap, a 40 minute drive from the GlamVan campsite, making it the perfect day trip destination. You can learn more about this event at the Grampians Grape Escape website.

Other great wineries close to the GlamVan campsite include Mount Stapylton Vineyard which lies on the foothills of the Mount Stapylton range. Located 30 minutes drive and in close proximity of each other are the Barangaroo Winery and Norton’s Estate.

Grampians Great Escape

4. Reconnect with adventure

For adventure seekers, the proximity to Mount Stapylton and Hollow Mountain offers excellent rock climbing and abseiling opportunities. And for the bouldering enthusiasts, the Mount Stapylton Amphitheatre is a popular location to spend the day practising your craft.

After an adrenaline-filled day, return to the comfort of your GlamVan to relax by the campfire under the stars.

5. Relax and recharge

Not every getaway needs to be action-packed. GlamVan Camping provides a cozy, off-grid caravan equipped with modern amenities. Unwind by the campfire, enjoy the stunning mountain views and revel in the peace that only the great outdoors can provide.

Grampians Great Escape
Grampians Great Escape

6. Easy access from Melbourne

Located about three hours by car from Melbourne, the Northern Grampians is close enough for a weekend getaway yet far enough to feel like a true escape. The scenic drive through Victoria’s countryside adds to the experience, with charming small towns like Ararat and Stawell offering perfect pit stops along the way.

Plan your escape today

The Northern Grampians is calling, and it’s a call worth answering. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, looking for your next hiking adventure or just looking for a break from the city grind, pack your bags, embrace the call of the wild, and book your stay at GlamVan Camping for an unforgettable Northern Grampians adventure.