YOU may well be surprised to hear that Victoria is home to more than 400 volcanoes.
In fact, the state is home to the third-largest volcanic plain in the world. Happily, these volcanoes are not extinct, but dormant: the last eruption was more than 7000 years ago!
Here are some of the best places to see them:
Volcanoes Discovery Centre: The southern region of the Grampians is rich in volcano history and the centre is an ideal destination for those keen to learn about it. Located in Penshurst at the foot of dormant Mount Rouse, the centre details how the area’s volcanoes formed and shaped the surrounding landscape. The 120- metre high MountRouse is within walking distance from there and at its peak, panoramic views can be enjoyed in all directions. At sunset, wallabies and kangaroos can be seen bounding across the crater.
The 120- metre high Mount Rouse is within walking distance from there and at its peak, panoramic views can be enjoyed in all directions. At sunset, wallabies and kangaroos can be seen bounding across the crater.
Mount Napier: The most recently active volcano in Victoria, views can be enjoyed from here to the Grampians. A walking track to the summit winds through manna gum and blackwood forest and past a lava canal. The state park is also home to Byaduk Caves, one of the most extensive and accessible sets of lava caves in Australia. They are part of a lava flow stretching 24km and contain stalactites and stalagmites, columns and ropy lava.
Tower Hill Reserve: Perhaps our most famed crater, Tower Hill is west of Warrnambool on the Great Ocean Road. The large nested maar volcano erupted about 25,000 years ago. Today it is a wetland reserve and home to emus, koalas, kangaroos, echidnas and wedge-tailed eagles. Walking tours conducted by guides provide an opportunity to discover native wildlife and learn about traditional Aboriginal culture.
Hanging Rock: The centre of the state’s volcanic plain, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, is home to some stunning formations. Most famously, Hanging Rock, a 10-minute drive from Woodend, is the best example of a mamelon (the last stump of an eruption) in the world. It has been a popular choice for picnickers since the early colonial days and was made famous by Peter Weir’s 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock. At Hanging Rock Winery, the fruits of the rich soil can be tasted.
Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens: In the centre of Daylesford, perched high on the summit of an extinct volcano, this has been a must-see since the 1860s. With sweeping views, it is the perfect place for a picnic or a wander. Atop the hill is Wombat Hill House, a cafe and garden run by chef Alla Wolf-Tasker, serving simple seasonal food, sourced locally where possible.
Mount Franklin: Just outside Daylesford, visitors can walk around the crater and enjoy fine views. The rocks are a remnant of the volcanic blasts, and although large, are actually very light – making the perfect prop for a selfie.
