Your ideal base for exploring the vast Gippsland Lakes, Mitchell River and surrounding forests, Bairnsdale is a laid-back country town with fascinating cultural trails and scenic drives.
Outdoor adventure
Stock up on outdoor, surfing, camping and fishing gear at Bairnsdale’s wide range of shops and services – there’s plenty of accommodation options too. Its location at the junction of the Great Alpine Road and the Princes Highway also provides easy access to explore the alpine region of Omeo, Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham.
History and culture
Tour the Bataluk Cultural Trail and discover elements of Koorie history and culture or visit the Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place to view artefacts and history on the Gunai/Kurnai people of East Gippsland. Bairnsdale is also a commercial centre for the local wool, dairy and timber industries.
Food and wine
Drive along the local Twin Rivers Food and Wine Trail to discover the region’s wineries, restaurants, berry farms and fruit orchards. Visitors can also wander around town on a self-guided heritage walk stopping in at St. Mary’s Church, local art galleries, museums, craft and antique shops.
The Great Alpine Road
Drive one of Australia’s great touring routes, The Great Alpine Road, and explore Victoria’s north-east all the way down into the heart of Gippsland.
Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place
Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place is an Aboriginal cultural museum housing a vast collection of artefacts, art and information where visitors can learn about the history of the Gunai/Kurnai people.
Nicholson River Winery
A small pioneering enterprise in East Gippsland producing wines characterised by fragrant aromas, intense flavours and complexity on the palate.
Mitchell River National Park
Mitchell River National Park has impressive river scenery, serene rainforest gullies, rugged landscapes. Surrounding the spectacular Mitchell River north-west of Bairnsdale, it features gorges, forests and long walking tracks.
East Gippsland Rail Trail
Experience the diversity of East Gippsland as this trail weaves through farmland, forests, creeks, rivers and flood plains towards the Snowy River.
Snowy River Day Rides- Snowy River Cycling
Snowy River Cycling offers this self guided day ride, allowing you to explore the farmlands forest and surrounds of the Snowy River as it nears the sea.