Five Reasons to Visit Rawson

Posted on by Miriam

Fancy a weekend filled with excitement, history, rugged tracks and awesome scenery? And possibly some of the best Aussie tucker you’ll find this side of Melbourne.

We spent a weekend rollicking through Rawson a few months ago and I wrote a story which, I’m excited to say, was published in this month’s issue of 4×4 Australia, one of Australia’s most read four wheel drive magazines.

So, where the hell is Rawson, you might ask.

For the answer to that, and a glimpse at some highlights of “Parmas and Potholes” here’s five things to love about Rawson.

1. Rawson caravan park

Rawson Caravan Park is 170kms east of Melbourne via the Princes Highway and north via C466.

It’s the perfect base for exploring. The park feels more like a bush reserve with four wheel drive tracks literally at its doorstep. From here you can take the short cut to Walhalla or head out towards Mt Baw Baw. At Reception we’re given a mudmap of the area and then we’re ready to explore.

But first the essentials. Every site is powered and has its own dunny. Yep, there’s no running through the scrub in the middle of the night here. It might not be a Hilton en-suite but having our own toilet and shower right outside the van is a bit of a luxury.

2. Rawson Stockyard

Rawson Stockyard is at the heart of the Caravan Park … its very own bar and bistro on site. And it’s an absolute ripper.

You almost expect to see whip cracking cowboys with their horses sauntering up outside. Inside this barn like bistro has a rustic charm that’s straight out of a Wild West movie. There’s timber beams and history hanging on the corrugated iron walls, happy go lucky locals and huge meals. And at the bar everyone’s your mate!

It’s lively, family friendly and the food is top notch. I had one of the most unusual chicken parmas ever … a chicken schnitzel topped with vegemite, cheese and avocado. Sound weird? Trust me, it works.

3. Adventure on the tracks

Did I say adventure? Yep, there’s plenty around here. Tracks that lead to Mt Baw Baw, Thomson Dam, Bruntons Bridge and Coopers Creek. We found ourselves on Lower Saddle Track, which was heaps of fun (though slightly hair-raising). It involved a river crossing, a steep incline and then a very steep descent, through ruts, grooves and pot holes.

Whilst hub was manoeuvring the track I was furiously taking photos on my phone. Mainly to keep my white knuckled nerves distracted!

4. History in Walhalla

Spot the bagpiper

Walhalla is not far from Rawson and is one of my favourite places in Victoria. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this gold rush town feels suspended in time. On the weekend we were there a piper was playing bagpipes on an outcrop, which added a magical element to an already enchanting town.

Walking through Walhalla feels like stepping back in time. There’s tours through the Long Tunnel Extended Mine, heritage buildings like the fire station and the Chronicle to explore, an old fashioned lolly shop, ghost tours at night, the Tramline Walking track high above the town and cafes where you can stop and take it all in.

Hop on board the restored railway and take a scenic train ride through mountain scenery.

5. Views Everywhere

Did I mention the scenery around here? Hit the tracks and roads and prepare for a treat. The views around Rawson, Walhalla and Mt Baw Baw are nothing short of spectacular.

Rolling hills, lush valleys and pristine rivers and well, there “ain’t no mountain high enough” … it’s enough to make a girl want to break out in song.

Rawson is an enticing part of Victoria, it’s just over two hours from Melbourne, taking the Moe turnoff and a perfect weekend destination. Another getaway = another story.

Enjoy your own journey, wherever you’re heading. Keep looking out for the magic and writing your own chapters, where you get to be the hero in your own life story. Where will it take you today?

I hope it’s somewhere special.

In light and love

Always look up for the magic
Adventure is just around the corner …

75 thoughts on “Five Reasons to Visit Rawson”

  20. Wow Miriam, I loved the journey you took me on via your 4×4.. Some exciting scenery and sounds like that campsite had all the facilities and night life to boot..
    Walhalla also sounded perfect and old worldly.. So enjoyed you taking me along with you on your adventure and Well done for the great article you got published too in the magazine…
    I hope your weather is now warming up for you as you head into Spring, we had a heatwave over last weekend now its getting back to more normal here in the UK..
    Sending much love your way and special thoughts to you and yours Miriam..
    Hugs and Blessings
    Sue ❤ 😀

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Thanks so much Sue. It was a wonderful weekend packed with adventure and I must admit I love re-living and sharing it thorough my blogs and published articles.
      Yes, the weather is ever so slowly warming up here, though this morning it’s a chilly 2C. We have only two days left of winter before spring officially begins. Glad to hear that your heatwave has subsided, so unusual for your climate isn’t it. Stay well my friend and thanks again for your lovely visit. Big hugs xx

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  21. Congratulations on the publication of your article! I’m not surprised you’ve had success as an author, because you write about your travels so compellingly that it makes the reader feel as if we’re right there with you. And that we want to go check out the place for ourselves!

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  23. Rawson looks like a great place for adventure! Congratulations on your article, Miriam. I love that you’ve given us a peek at it. Those views do look stunning and I will definitely be on the lookout for magic. I wish you much success in doing the same (although I have no doubt that you find it since it’s all around :)!). xx

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  28. Congratulations on your publication Miriam. An enjoyable read about being out “bush” we certainly loved the chances we had to freedom camp. The Australian National Parks and the walks are a real credit to the people who have spent developing them. Wonderful!

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    1. Hi Suzanne, thank you and yes, I couldn’t agree more. We have loads of wonderfully maintained parks around Australia. And we certainly do love to make the most of them. Have a great weekend.

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  32. Hi Miriam, Your post are just so enticing and inspiring to come and visit. We live such different lifes and I always feel more alive after reading your post. Your photos and your way with words full of energy and life. I love the first photo, a cup of coffee, a computer and a magazine, just sets the seen to plan , visit, to read, to experience.

    fab post as always.

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