Walhalla was one of those places that had been on our bucket list for a long time. We had always been curious as to what the big attraction was with this small country town. It didn’t take us long to realise why this small town attracts so many tourists.
If you are into exploring historical places of Victoria this is certainly a great place to visit. From the old gold mining area to the old train line which was used during the gold mining rush days. You can still see some of the old shops and homes. Within a short driving distance take a journey on the Walhalla Railway Train.
About Walhalla
The town is small with a population of about 20 permanent residents. It is a popular tourist destination which takes you back in time. The town was founded in 1862 as a gold mining community.
Walhalla was originally called Stringers Creek after a former convict Edward Stringer who was one of four prospectors who found gold in the Thomson River Valley in December 1862. He died in 1863. It didn’t take long for the news of the gold to be spread and a rush of people came to the area and a town was built. After the town was surveyed it was later renamed Walhalla.
Here you can go on a gold mining tour. On this trip we opted not to explore the mines, however on our next trip we will definitely take the opportunity to. Throughout the town you will find signage explaining the history of the buildings and the town itself.
You can relax in the local pub and have a meal or beverage or take in the serenity and have a picnic in the park.
Our Experience in Walhalla
Visiting here on a winters day the air was crisp and fresh. The town was a buzz with tourists like ourselves. Some of which it was obvious were camping in the area or passing through on their road trip whilst others were staying in town. There were a number of bikies taking a day trip and groups of 4WD enthusiasts.
We walked around the beautiful town and along the old railway trail. This took us past where you can take a gold mining tour and view some of the relics that were used in the gold rush era.
From the railway trail you could look down on the valley and see the town of Walhalla. There are still old homes and buildings left standing, some have been restored due to bush fire damage. As you walk through the town you will find signage explaining the history of some of the buildings and town.
We had lunch at the local pub which was full of tourists and locals from the nearby towns. We were honored to have a local Kookaburra come and visit whilst we ate.
Whilst we didn’t get to explore inside the Post Office as it was closed on the Sunday, suggest if you get the opportunity to check it out. The Post Office holds lots of history.
As we walked through the town we saw so many gorgeous coloured birds, Lorikeets and Rosellas being our favorite.
Nearby Attractions
Whilst is the area we recommend you explore the following nearby attractions. To see more about the below please click on the links. The only attraction we opted not to explore on this visit was the Walhalla Gold Mining Tour and hence there is no link for this.
- Walhalla Goldfields Railway
- Walhalla Gold Mining Tour
- Bruntons Bridge
- Thomson Dam
Free Camping Nearby
Coopers Creek Campground
We stayed at the scenic Coopers Creek Campground. The campground comprises of two camping areas which are suitable for tents, camper vans and caravans. There are more sites suitable for tents which are walk in. Campground2 was under refurbishment when we visited and hence we stayed at Campground1. The campgrounds are within a short walking distance to each other and the Thomson River which is popular with canoeists and 4 WD enthusiasts which can cross the river.
Bruntons Bridge Campground
There is also the Bruntons Bridge Camping Ground which when we visited was in the process of being rejuvenated. It is scheduled to re-open late 2019. Once it opens it will be a lovely spot to stay which has drop toilets and easy walking distance to Bruntons Bridge.
Walhalla Location
Approximately 184km, 2hrs 20 mins East of the Melbourne CBD
Feedback/Comments
Walhalla is such a beautiful place full of history, adventure which I am confident there are many whom have frequented this area and have a story or two to tell. If you have a story we’d love to hear about it.
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