Just beyond Ballarat's historic streetscapes lies an impressive array of natural delights and humble wonders.
We know, we know – you’re thinking ‘Ballarat?!' But press pause on your doubts and read on.
The western marvel of Werribee Gorge is a day hiker's dream, tucked away in the Pentland Hills near Bacchus Marsh (so closer to Ballarat than Werribee – confusing we know!).
Tackling the 10km circuit walk anticlockwise gets the climb to the rim out of the way. On the descent, you'll be rewarded with stunning lookouts, a sandy riverside 'beach' on the gorge floor (perfect for a mid-hike picnic) and a fun rock scramble with a bit of help from a steel cable.
While you're in the area, stop by Payne's Orchards for seasonal fruit picking or try some local drops at St Anne's Vineyards.
Or head on to Ballarat, about 35min drive west along the highway.
Known to surprise first-time visitors – “Is that… a lake?” – the 238-hectare Lake Wendouree is a local favourite for rowing, sailing, fishing, nature-spotting and picnicking.
The Steve Moneghetti Track loops around the lake for 6km, offering an accessible path for walking and cycling.
Keep an eye out for wildlife like the rakali (native water rat), coots, cormorants and the rare Cape Barren goose.
For those who like their nature a little less flat, Creswick's Djuwang Baring mountain bike trails offer the perfect up-and-down escape.
Meaning ‘long track’ in the Dja Dja Wurrung language, Djuwang Baring is a 60km network of trails starting at Hammon Park and passing through the cultural lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung people.
Just 20 minutes from Ballarat, these fully accessible trails cater to all people and all abilities – from gentle beginner routes to more challenging loops.
For a triple ‘ture outing – nature, adventure, and culture – the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail offers a scenic, mostly flat path through rolling countryside and native grasslands.
Its highlight is the historic timber trestle Nimons Bridge, offering a glimpse into the region’s railway past.
The 53km trail stretches from western Ballarat to Skipton, with a chance to spot a platypus at Mt Emu Creek (they missed a naming trick there!).
The best nature is the kind you can eat or drink – don’t argue, it’s a fact.
The nearby Pyrenees region, named for its resemblance to the French wine region, is home to renowned wineries nestled in rolling hills.
Dalwhinnie and Summerfield are celebrated for their award-winning wines and stunning locations, with cellar doors offering sweeping vistas, rich reds, crisp whites, sparkling wines and locally-grown produce.
For more delicious nature, visit Mrs Baker’s Still House, tucked away in the quiet Glenpatrick, about 50 minutes northwest of Ballarat.
This micro-distillery, run by a mother-and-daughters team, prides itself on low-impact production methods and a 100% solar-powered distillation process using locally-grown botanicals.
For some me-time away from it all, pitch your tent at Richard's campground in Mt Cole State Forest or book yourself into an Unyoked tiny home perched above rolling vineyards.
Stepping out of Ballarat into the great outdoors, you’ll find nature at your fingertips – or your feet, pedals and lips.
From cycling scenic trails to exploring state and national parks, to discovering hidden wineries nestled in the Pyrenees foothills, there’s plenty to explore at your own pace and in your own space.
