Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE GRAMPIANS
Rising up from the western Victorian plains, acting as a haven for bushwalkers, rock-
climbers and nature lovers, the Grampians are one of the state's most outstanding natural
and cultural features. The rich diversity of wildlife and flora, unique rock formations, Ab-
original rock art, spectacular viewpoints and an extensive network of trails and bush camp
sites offer something for everyone. The local indigenous Jardwadjali people called the
mountains Gariwerd - in the local language
'gari'
means 'pointed mountain', while
'werd'
means 'shoulder'. Explorer Major Thomas Mitchell named the ranges the Grampians after
the mountains in Scotland. In 1836 he eloquently described them as: '…a noble range of
mountains, rising in the south to a stupendous height, and presenting as bold and pictur-
esque an outline as a painter ever imagined.'
It's really something to be surrounded by these spectacular shapes, whether you're ab-
seiling down in a harness or peering over a cascading waterfall. Over 900 species of native
trees, shrubs and wildflowers have been recorded here, with everything from fern gullies to
redgum forests. It's worth visiting at any time of year, but it's at its colourful best in spring
when the wildflowers (including 20 species that don't exist anywhere else in the world) are
at their peak. Water supplies can be erratic so take your own supplies to picnic areas and
camping grounds.
