You might have heard of Victoria’s pretty pink lakes, but what about its pink cliffs? Just on the edge of Heathcote, over 90 minutes away from Melbourne, you’ll find the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve. Marvel at a colourful landscape, filled with mini gorges and cliffs of pink clay. This unique area was created by gold-mining activities in the 1880s. Hydraulic sluicing used high pressure jets of water, revealing the pink and orange landscape that you see today.
Pink Cliffs in Heathcote
Go for a day trip or treat yourself to a weekend getaway in Heathcote, and spend some time in this intriguing reserve. You can walk to the pink cliffs from town, or drive to the car park.
From the car park, go on an easy 30-minute loop through the bush and around the striking landscape. There’s a few viewing platforms along the way, so you can drink in the sights. The vibrant colours seem to shift throughout the day, offering plenty of possibilities for keen photographers. The Pink Cliffs are great for viewing all year around, but if you’re a fan of wildflowers, spring is a lovely time of year to visit, as you’ll see plenty of pretty blossoms along the walk.
What else can you do?
Head back to Heathcote, and get a glimpse of its gold mining past by admiring the heritage streetscapes. Amble through town and look at historic buildings, such as the old courthouse and post office. Purchase a Miners Right and go fossicking for gold yourself.
Stay in the great outdoors and spend some time in Heathcote-Graytown National Park, which offers plenty of possibilities for bushwalks. Take in the view from the aptly named Viewing Rock or from Mt Ida. Stay in town and stroll along the creek, or go a little further to Lake Eppalock for swimming, boating and more water-based activities.
If you’d prefer a more leisurely day out, take it slow and discover some excellent cellar doors or wineries. You’ll also find a few breweries and distilleries around the region. If you’re feeling fancy, book yourself in for lunch at the fine dining French restaurant, Chauncy.