East Gippsland Shire Map

Located in the eastern part of Victoria, Australia, East Gippsland Shire is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich history, and vibrant local communities, this region offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience for all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an action-packed holiday, or a mix of both, East Gippsland Shire has something to offer.

Top Attractions

One of the top attractions in East Gippsland Shire is Lakes Entrance, a picturesque seaside town that boasts a stunning network of lakes, rivers, and canals. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and other water sports, as well as scenic walks and bike rides along the foreshore. Another must-see destination is Croajingolong National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that features pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife. Other popular attractions include Buchan Caves, Snowy River National Park, and the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park.

Hidden Gems

While East Gippsland Shire has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also many hidden gems that are worth exploring. For example, the town of Metung is a charming and peaceful retreat that offers great views of the lakes and hills. Visitors can go for a stroll along the boardwalk, visit the local galleries and antique shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants. Another hidden gem is Raymond Island, a small island near Paynesville that is home to a large population of koalas. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and walk or cycle around the trails to spot these cute and cuddly creatures in their natural habitat.

Food Scene

East Gippsland Shire has a thriving food scene that showcases the region’s fresh and diverse produce. From seafood and dairy products to fruits and vegetables, you can taste the local flavors in many restaurants, cafes, and markets. Some of the top dining destinations include Sardine Eatery and Bar in Paynesville, Saltwater at Metung, and The Long Paddock in Lindenow South. For a more casual and authentic experience, you can visit the local farmers’ markets, such as Bairnsdale Farmers’ Market and Lakes Entrance Farmers’ Market, where you can buy fresh and organic produce, artisanal bread, homemade jams, and other goodies.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, there are many ways to save money in East Gippsland Shire. One tip is to book your accommodation in advance and look for deals and discounts online. You can also save money on food by cooking your own meals or having a picnic in one of the parks or beaches. Another budget-friendly activity is hiking, which is free and allows you to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the best hiking trails include the Mitchell River Walking Trail, the Cape Conran Coastal Park Trail, and the Alpine National Park.

Outdoor Adventures

East Gippsland Shire is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities and landscapes to explore. Whether you’re into water sports, hiking, biking, fishing, or wildlife watching, you can find plenty of options here. Some of the best outdoor adventures include kayaking in the Gippsland Lakes, surfing in Lakes Entrance, hiking in the Snowy River National Park, and fishing in the Tambo River. You can also go on a wildlife tour to see kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, wombats, and other native animals in their natural habitat.

Historical Landmarks

East Gippsland Shire has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks, museums, and heritage sites. One of the most significant landmarks is the Old Butter Factory in Myrtleford, which was built in 1904 and now houses a museum, art gallery, and cafe. Another interesting site is the Buchan Caves Reserve, which features limestone caves that were formed millions of years ago. You can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about their geology, history, and cultural significance. Other historical landmarks include the Orbost Exhibition Centre, the Bairnsdale Railway Station, and the St Mary’s Church in Bairnsdale.

Family-Friendly Activities

East Gippsland Shire is a great destination for families, with many activities and attractions that cater to all ages. For example, you can take your kids to the Lakes Entrance Aquadome, a water park that features pools, slides, and a splash park. You can also visit the East Gippsland Rail Trail, a 100-kilometer cycle and walking path that runs from Bairnsdale to Orbost and offers stunning views of the countryside. Other family-friendly activities include visiting the Wyanga Park Winery and Wildlife Reserve, the Raymond Island Koala and Wildlife Shelter, and the Sarsfield Recreation Reserve.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for unique and authentic experiences in East Gippsland Shire, there are many off-the-beaten-path options to choose from. For example, you can visit the Buchan Caves Thermal Pool, a natural hot spring that is located in a secluded and peaceful setting. You can also explore the Tambo Valley, a hidden gem that offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities. Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include visiting the Nyerimilang Heritage Park, the Mallacoota Artisan and Farmers’ Market, and the Cann River Rainforest.

Natural Wonders

East Gippsland Shire is blessed with some of the most spectacular natural wonders in Australia, from towering mountains and deep valleys to pristine beaches and ancient forests. One of the most iconic natural wonders is the Ninety Mile Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand that extends from Lakes Entrance to Port Albert. You can go for a swim, a walk, or a horse ride on the beach, or watch the sunset over the ocean. Other natural wonders include the Mitchell River National Park, the Croajingolong Wilderness Coast, and the Alpine National Park.

Vibrant Nightlife

While East Gippsland Shire is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, it also has a lively and diverse nightlife scene. Whether you’re into live music, comedy, theater, or pub culture, you can find plenty of options here. Some of the top venues include the Bairnsdale RSL, the Metung Hotel, and the Lakes Entrance Bowls Club. You can also check out the local festivals and events, such as the Lakes Entrance Fishing Festival, the Bruthen Blues and Arts Festival, and the Paynesville Music Festival.

Local Markets

East Gippsland Shire has a vibrant and colorful market culture that showcases the region’s local produce, arts, crafts, and culture. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade jewelry, or unique souvenirs, you can find them at one of the many markets in the region. Some of the most popular markets include the Lakes Entrance Farmers’ Market, the Bairnsdale Farmers’ Market, and the Bruthen Village Market. You can also visit the local art galleries and studios, such as the Wyndham Art Gallery, the ArtSpace at Lakes Entrance, and the Forge Gallery in Bairnsdale.

Beaches and Mountains

East Gippsland Shire offers a perfect balance of beach and mountain experiences, with stunning coastlines and rugged peaks that offer breathtaking views and endless adventures. Some of the best beaches in the region include Lakes Entrance Beach, Metung Beach, and Bastion Point Beach. You can swim, surf, fish, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun. If you’re into hiking, you can explore the mountains and forests in the Alpine National Park, the Snowy River National Park, or the Croajingolong National Park. You can also go on a scenic drive along the Great Alpine Road, which offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Cultural Immersion

East Gippsland Shire has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, food, and festivals. Whether you’re interested in indigenous culture, colonial history, or contemporary arts, you can find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. For example, you can visit the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place, a museum that showcases the culture and history of the Gunai-Kurnai people. You can also attend the Lakes Entrance Indigenous Festival, the Paynesville Classic Boat Rally, or the Orbost Exhibition.

Art and Music Scene

East Gippsland Shire has a vibrant and diverse art and music scene that attracts artists, musicians, and performers from all over the world. Whether you’re into classical music, jazz, blues, or rock, you can find live performances and festivals that cater to your taste. Some of the top venues for music include the Bruthen Blues and Arts Festival, the Paynesville Music Festival, and the Metung Jazz Festival. You can also visit the local art galleries and studios, such as the ArtSpace at Lakes Entrance