Kristy’s Guidebook

Kristy
Kristy’s Guidebook

West Gippsland Foodie's Guide

Gippsland has some amazing produce and this list offers you the option to go low-key and local or venture wider to some of our favourite places to eat, drink and spend time with the people we love.
This local pub is brilliant. The front bar draws locals in for a beer, a game of pool and a counter meal and has a great atmosphere. The dining room is small and we recommend you book - especially if you are a group. The meals are simple, fresh and generous. You can't go past the scotch or fillet steak if you are a meat lover (Gippsland beef is the best) and the 'curry of the day' is a popular choice for our family. Good choice of vegetarian options and a good selection of pizzas. MY FAV: If you have a sunny afternoon, the beer garden is a lovely way to spend away a few hours. Enjoy a selection of 'taste' plates and a cold beverage. Yep, dreaming of a Ploughman's Lunch and cold 'Fifty Lashes' pale ale right now.
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Yarragon Hotel
105 Princes Hwy
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This local pub is brilliant. The front bar draws locals in for a beer, a game of pool and a counter meal and has a great atmosphere. The dining room is small and we recommend you book - especially if you are a group. The meals are simple, fresh and generous. You can't go past the scotch or fillet steak if you are a meat lover (Gippsland beef is the best) and the 'curry of the day' is a popular choice for our family. Good choice of vegetarian options and a good selection of pizzas. MY FAV: If you have a sunny afternoon, the beer garden is a lovely way to spend away a few hours. Enjoy a selection of 'taste' plates and a cold beverage. Yep, dreaming of a Ploughman's Lunch and cold 'Fifty Lashes' pale ale right now.
Piccollo Cafe has relocated to The Village Walk and opened in August 2023 to very happy regulars who have missed their delicious food. The new location has more tables and a bigger space to gather. A brilliant selection of homemade sweet and savory meals and treats means you'll probably come here more than once and they make the BEST coffee in town and a mean Prana chai. We often get our meals 'to go' here and take them back to The Ridge House for a lazy lunch around the table, on the back deck, or pack up for a picnic. MY FAV: Quinoa And Pumpkin Patties with black rice salad. But honestly, I must mentioned their generous homemade sausage rolls - they are famous.
Cafe Piccolo
6 Princes Hwy
Piccollo Cafe has relocated to The Village Walk and opened in August 2023 to very happy regulars who have missed their delicious food. The new location has more tables and a bigger space to gather. A brilliant selection of homemade sweet and savory meals and treats means you'll probably come here more than once and they make the BEST coffee in town and a mean Prana chai. We often get our meals 'to go' here and take them back to The Ridge House for a lazy lunch around the table, on the back deck, or pack up for a picnic. MY FAV: Quinoa And Pumpkin Patties with black rice salad. But honestly, I must mentioned their generous homemade sausage rolls - they are famous.
Cute local cafe set in a weatherboard house. You can pick up one local organic veggies and the best smoothies in town. Great selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten meals and their homemade pies and relish are delicious. You can sit outside on a sunny day under shady trees and brunch the morning away. MY FAV: Vegan lemon slice and a spiced chai latte
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Fozigobble Café
79 Princes Hwy
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Cute local cafe set in a weatherboard house. You can pick up one local organic veggies and the best smoothies in town. Great selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten meals and their homemade pies and relish are delicious. You can sit outside on a sunny day under shady trees and brunch the morning away. MY FAV: Vegan lemon slice and a spiced chai latte
Heading into Warragul - this is one of our favourite places to breakfast. Food, coffee, service - amazing - and their take home treats make for a nice afternoon around the fire playing scrabble! MY FAV: Chilli scrambled eggs with house hot sauce. Kids love the Strawberries and Cream smoothie made with fresh strawberries and coconut yogurt. 🍓🥤
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Main Street Cafe
43 Smith St
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Heading into Warragul - this is one of our favourite places to breakfast. Food, coffee, service - amazing - and their take home treats make for a nice afternoon around the fire playing scrabble! MY FAV: Chilli scrambled eggs with house hot sauce. Kids love the Strawberries and Cream smoothie made with fresh strawberries and coconut yogurt. 🍓🥤
You're craving some local cheese. You need fava beans for your Gourmet Traveller dip recipe. You're dreaming of artisan chocolate. You're dying for an almond milk latte. Stella's Pantry is your place! This gourmet deli in Warragul is so lovely. You can stock up on local produce (they sell our Green Hills Honey 🍯) as well as quality imports. You can also get something to eat made with love and a decent hot beverage! MY FAV: These guys are the owners of Gippsland made chocolate WAHA. Super cute packaging and too cool for school flavours like fried almond smoked salt, will have you stocking up on some for local gifts for you and your friends. 🍫 🤤 Stacey is the owner and her and her staff are always willing to make your day better.
Stella's Pantry
12 Victoria Street
You're craving some local cheese. You need fava beans for your Gourmet Traveller dip recipe. You're dreaming of artisan chocolate. You're dying for an almond milk latte. Stella's Pantry is your place! This gourmet deli in Warragul is so lovely. You can stock up on local produce (they sell our Green Hills Honey 🍯) as well as quality imports. You can also get something to eat made with love and a decent hot beverage! MY FAV: These guys are the owners of Gippsland made chocolate WAHA. Super cute packaging and too cool for school flavours like fried almond smoked salt, will have you stocking up on some for local gifts for you and your friends. 🍫 🤤 Stacey is the owner and her and her staff are always willing to make your day better.
This family run shop will bring you back to the days of the traditional fish n' chip shop / milk bar. It's a simple recipe - they cook their meals to order. If you pop in around 3.45pm, it is so cool to see local kids coming in to split $3 chips. Great option for a night in when you can't be bothered cooking. You can call and place your order, drive down the hill into town and hot fish and chips will be ready for you. Just don't try and pry open the paper for a sneaky chip on the way back the hill (do it before you get in the car 😉)
Yarragon Milk Bar
95A Princes Hwy
This family run shop will bring you back to the days of the traditional fish n' chip shop / milk bar. It's a simple recipe - they cook their meals to order. If you pop in around 3.45pm, it is so cool to see local kids coming in to split $3 chips. Great option for a night in when you can't be bothered cooking. You can call and place your order, drive down the hill into town and hot fish and chips will be ready for you. Just don't try and pry open the paper for a sneaky chip on the way back the hill (do it before you get in the car 😉)
OK, this place is a step up in terms if dining. Hogget Kitchen offers the best of West Gippsland's local and seasonal produce in a stunning sensory display (both on the plate and the views that surround you) that is worth the time you spend here. They use a 'nose to tail approach' when it comes to all the meat served and they do all the carving and butchering in-house - ensuring the best possible cuts of meat and the least wastage. The food is complemented by local wine makers and we can highly recommend anything by Bill Downie who is the 'rock-star' winemaker who lives down the road. MY FAV: Don't eat breakfast and go the 'set sharing menu'. At $55 for 2 courses and $65 for 3 courses it is a bargain given the skill and love that goes into the preparation of your meal. Lunch here is a lovely option with people you love and enjoy spending time with.
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Hogget Kitchen
6 Farrington Cl
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OK, this place is a step up in terms if dining. Hogget Kitchen offers the best of West Gippsland's local and seasonal produce in a stunning sensory display (both on the plate and the views that surround you) that is worth the time you spend here. They use a 'nose to tail approach' when it comes to all the meat served and they do all the carving and butchering in-house - ensuring the best possible cuts of meat and the least wastage. The food is complemented by local wine makers and we can highly recommend anything by Bill Downie who is the 'rock-star' winemaker who lives down the road. MY FAV: Don't eat breakfast and go the 'set sharing menu'. At $55 for 2 courses and $65 for 3 courses it is a bargain given the skill and love that goes into the preparation of your meal. Lunch here is a lovely option with people you love and enjoy spending time with.
New owners Tom and Nicola took over The Shot House in 2022 and have locals constantly referring them to as "The Best Coffee in Yarragon". I have to agree. They have a wide array of single-origin beans for sale (grab a pack to grind* at The Ridge House for the freshest plunger coffee) and take great pride in brewing the freshest coffee possible. I love their freshly brewed filter coffee from their Moccamaster. They have a small but tasty array of savory and sweet snacks such as toasted sandwiches, fruit toast and muffins. Located in the Village Walk off the main shopping strip, you can also check out the homewares and fashion shop --The Wardrobe in the Lane -- and the local gallery -- Town & Country Gallery -- and support local businesses. *We have an electric bean grinder and plunger pot at The Ridge House if you want to bring some beans with you.
The Shot House
2 Village Walk
New owners Tom and Nicola took over The Shot House in 2022 and have locals constantly referring them to as "The Best Coffee in Yarragon". I have to agree. They have a wide array of single-origin beans for sale (grab a pack to grind* at The Ridge House for the freshest plunger coffee) and take great pride in brewing the freshest coffee possible. I love their freshly brewed filter coffee from their Moccamaster. They have a small but tasty array of savory and sweet snacks such as toasted sandwiches, fruit toast and muffins. Located in the Village Walk off the main shopping strip, you can also check out the homewares and fashion shop --The Wardrobe in the Lane -- and the local gallery -- Town & Country Gallery -- and support local businesses. *We have an electric bean grinder and plunger pot at The Ridge House if you want to bring some beans with you.
Awarding winning pies 🥧 are a reason why people stop in Yarragon Village. A family pie is a great option if you want to take back to The Ridge House for a meal in.
Yarragon Country Style Bakery
67 Hotham St
Awarding winning pies 🥧 are a reason why people stop in Yarragon Village. A family pie is a great option if you want to take back to The Ridge House for a meal in.
The town of Drouin is a 20 minute drive away and has a quaint main street you can stroll. It is a good place to stop for a coffee on your way to Ripplebrook Winery, Lardner Park Events or Korumburra. Coffee is good but it is the menu of croissants, quiches and French baguettes that makes this cute eclectic cafe a local favorite.
The French Pear Cafe
85 Princes Way
The town of Drouin is a 20 minute drive away and has a quaint main street you can stroll. It is a good place to stop for a coffee on your way to Ripplebrook Winery, Lardner Park Events or Korumburra. Coffee is good but it is the menu of croissants, quiches and French baguettes that makes this cute eclectic cafe a local favorite.
Situated in the heart of Warragul in a 1900’s old bank building which still maintains lots of its restored charm - make sure you look up at the ceiling. Great coffee (Industry Beans) and good selection of breakfast and lunch options with a large choice of vegan, GF and DF options - our fav, the vegan Sweet Waffle with poached stone fruit and coconut ice-cream. Bonus: sweets cabinet of treats including vegan options from Sweet Nectar
South Brew Cafe
3 Smith St
Situated in the heart of Warragul in a 1900’s old bank building which still maintains lots of its restored charm - make sure you look up at the ceiling. Great coffee (Industry Beans) and good selection of breakfast and lunch options with a large choice of vegan, GF and DF options - our fav, the vegan Sweet Waffle with poached stone fruit and coconut ice-cream. Bonus: sweets cabinet of treats including vegan options from Sweet Nectar
Great coffee with a choice of all the milks/mlyks! But the bonus of homemade sweet treats is what locals go for. Great place if you need a special occasion cake. The savory options are also worth a short trio here for breakfast - may be take a cake or two home for afternoon tea
Sweet Treats By Jamie-Lee - The Studio
14 Contingent Street
Great coffee with a choice of all the milks/mlyks! But the bonus of homemade sweet treats is what locals go for. Great place if you need a special occasion cake. The savory options are also worth a short trio here for breakfast - may be take a cake or two home for afternoon tea
Discover a hidden gem that caters to food lovers' every desire. This enchanting place greets you with a delightful array of dine-in options and an extensive takeaway selection of wraps, rolls, and sandwiches. Perfect for a picnic or hike if you are off on a day trip. The coffee is good. They use local Yarragon roaster SWIG coffee. You can often see SWIG coffee vans at local markets like Warragul Farmers Market and Rokeby. But it doesn't stop there. Venture further and find tearooms (homemade scones, jam & cream anyone?), Gippsland's largest local cheese deli, Gippsland Wine Cellars, a gourmet produce store, and an ice-cream counter. You can even order a picnic hamper in advance. With free Wi-Fi and disabled access, this haven caters to all and is always open 7 days a week.
Gippsland Food & Wine
Discover a hidden gem that caters to food lovers' every desire. This enchanting place greets you with a delightful array of dine-in options and an extensive takeaway selection of wraps, rolls, and sandwiches. Perfect for a picnic or hike if you are off on a day trip. The coffee is good. They use local Yarragon roaster SWIG coffee. You can often see SWIG coffee vans at local markets like Warragul Farmers Market and Rokeby. But it doesn't stop there. Venture further and find tearooms (homemade scones, jam & cream anyone?), Gippsland's largest local cheese deli, Gippsland Wine Cellars, a gourmet produce store, and an ice-cream counter. You can even order a picnic hamper in advance. With free Wi-Fi and disabled access, this haven caters to all and is always open 7 days a week.

Wineries to Visit

Looking for a day trip - we have some great wineries and wine makers you can visit. Some are closer than others so just check distance before you head out. Near or far, the country scenery is always worth the drive.
This place features in my West Gippsland Foodie's Guide Book. What makes this place so special is the collaboration between local chef, Trevor Perkins and two local wine makers -- William 'Bill' Downie and Pat Sullivan. Bill is a bit of a local rock star and people travel from all of the world to taste his Pinot Noir. They both make magnificent wine and it is hard to get onto their subscribers list so Hogget's is a great way to taste their wares. Hogget Kitchen has local wines by the glass and people are welcome to have a plate of charcuterie (which they make in-house) and a glass of wine on the deck or by the fire, depending on the weather! https://www.williamdownie.com.au https://patricksullivan.com.au
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Hogget Kitchen
6 Farrington Cl
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This place features in my West Gippsland Foodie's Guide Book. What makes this place so special is the collaboration between local chef, Trevor Perkins and two local wine makers -- William 'Bill' Downie and Pat Sullivan. Bill is a bit of a local rock star and people travel from all of the world to taste his Pinot Noir. They both make magnificent wine and it is hard to get onto their subscribers list so Hogget's is a great way to taste their wares. Hogget Kitchen has local wines by the glass and people are welcome to have a plate of charcuterie (which they make in-house) and a glass of wine on the deck or by the fire, depending on the weather! https://www.williamdownie.com.au https://patricksullivan.com.au
This is a half-day trip but worth the drive. Approx 1-hour 15-minutes each way. Marcus and Lisa are a passionate wine making couple producing some of the best Pinot's in the region. I love their concept of growing wine in different 'dirt' locations. Best described from their website. "We make wines from patches of dirt somewhere along the coast between the penguins and the prom. We love Pinot Noir and the three distinct “Dirts” the vines are grown in. We strive to make wines with soul and harmony, that sing of the dirt in which they’re grown and that ooze the love we have for this wily grape. We would love for you to share the ride with us." If you take the C425/C432 route you can stop off at The Borough Dept. Store in, Korumburra (50-minute drive). Breakfast / Lunch at Udder & Co, Afternoon tea at Tamsin's cake store and more wine tasting if you want. It is all under one roof and set to be 'must-do' destination for local food and wine - see description in guide.
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Dirty Three Wines
64 Cashin St
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This is a half-day trip but worth the drive. Approx 1-hour 15-minutes each way. Marcus and Lisa are a passionate wine making couple producing some of the best Pinot's in the region. I love their concept of growing wine in different 'dirt' locations. Best described from their website. "We make wines from patches of dirt somewhere along the coast between the penguins and the prom. We love Pinot Noir and the three distinct “Dirts” the vines are grown in. We strive to make wines with soul and harmony, that sing of the dirt in which they’re grown and that ooze the love we have for this wily grape. We would love for you to share the ride with us." If you take the C425/C432 route you can stop off at The Borough Dept. Store in, Korumburra (50-minute drive). Breakfast / Lunch at Udder & Co, Afternoon tea at Tamsin's cake store and more wine tasting if you want. It is all under one roof and set to be 'must-do' destination for local food and wine - see description in guide.
This family run winery is about 1 hour away. Wines are definitely worth exploring (all wine is grown, made and bottle on site) but their cellar door is are open at certain times of he year. So please check their website before you make the journey. CELLAR DOOR OPEN DAYS 2019 Easter weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 20-21 April Queen’s birthday weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 8-9 June Melbourne Cup weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 2-3 November Summer cellar door from 27 December
The Wine Farm
370 Koonwarra-Inverloch Rd
This family run winery is about 1 hour away. Wines are definitely worth exploring (all wine is grown, made and bottle on site) but their cellar door is are open at certain times of he year. So please check their website before you make the journey. CELLAR DOOR OPEN DAYS 2019 Easter weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 20-21 April Queen’s birthday weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 8-9 June Melbourne Cup weekend, 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday, 2-3 November Summer cellar door from 27 December
This is on my 'must visit' list. This family run winery has many award winning wines and this year achieved a 5-star entry in James Halliday's Wine-lovers’ bible - James Halliday Wine Companion 2019. Their cellar door looks like a fun place to visit. They often have live music and a selection of wood-fired pizza's to enjoy your wine tastings with. Check their website for Cellar door opening times. If you head out this way you can also visit Narkoojee in Glengarry. Another 5-star winery listed in James Halliday Wine Companion 2019. See more in guidebook description.
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Blue Gables Vineyard
100 Lanigan Rd
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This is on my 'must visit' list. This family run winery has many award winning wines and this year achieved a 5-star entry in James Halliday's Wine-lovers’ bible - James Halliday Wine Companion 2019. Their cellar door looks like a fun place to visit. They often have live music and a selection of wood-fired pizza's to enjoy your wine tastings with. Check their website for Cellar door opening times. If you head out this way you can also visit Narkoojee in Glengarry. Another 5-star winery listed in James Halliday Wine Companion 2019. See more in guidebook description.
Another James Halliday 5-star rated winery in the hood. About 40-minute drive from The Ridge House their awarding winning wines, views and restaurant (byJorg) has many locals always telling me it is well worth a trip. Narkoojee’s Cellar Door is open daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday. Winery tours can also be arranged. But always check cellar door times before you go as things can change in the county. Some food pics from my recent birthday lunch here with my family. All so tasty! Great space for large groups, families, kids and prams. Narkoojee, 220 Francis Rd, Glengarry North VIC 3854, Australia https://narkoojee.com
Narkoojee
220 Francis Rd
Another James Halliday 5-star rated winery in the hood. About 40-minute drive from The Ridge House their awarding winning wines, views and restaurant (byJorg) has many locals always telling me it is well worth a trip. Narkoojee’s Cellar Door is open daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday. Winery tours can also be arranged. But always check cellar door times before you go as things can change in the county. Some food pics from my recent birthday lunch here with my family. All so tasty! Great space for large groups, families, kids and prams. Narkoojee, 220 Francis Rd, Glengarry North VIC 3854, Australia https://narkoojee.com
This is a favourite place for us to spend a long lunch at and it is only 30 minutes drive away. Run by a second generation family from the Aeolian Islands, not only are they producing fabulous premium organic wines but their Italian menu, inspired by their Nonna Angelina, is the best! The woodfire pizza's are superb using fresh, seasonal food from local producers - one of them being our organic veggies from our farm next door -- Green Hills Farm. Bookings: ripplebrookwinery.com.au
Ripplebrook Winery
681 Gardner and Holman Rd
This is a favourite place for us to spend a long lunch at and it is only 30 minutes drive away. Run by a second generation family from the Aeolian Islands, not only are they producing fabulous premium organic wines but their Italian menu, inspired by their Nonna Angelina, is the best! The woodfire pizza's are superb using fresh, seasonal food from local producers - one of them being our organic veggies from our farm next door -- Green Hills Farm. Bookings: ripplebrookwinery.com.au
A favourite among guests for a day out eating delicious local food and wine "made by hand from the ground up". This award-winning single estate winery is very cool in its modern design and the cellar door is a nice place to spend an hour or so wine tasting. It is an easy 30min drive from The Ridge House
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Cannibal Creek Vineyard - Gippsland Winery
260 Tynong N Rd
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A favourite among guests for a day out eating delicious local food and wine "made by hand from the ground up". This award-winning single estate winery is very cool in its modern design and the cellar door is a nice place to spend an hour or so wine tasting. It is an easy 30min drive from The Ridge House
Another lovely winery and restaurant are set on a magnificent estate in the undulating hills of West Gippsland. The restaurant and bar lounge is set in a modern building with floor to ceiling windows making it easy to while away several hours drinking in both the wine and the view. A hidden gem here is their luxury day spa with include a Turkish Hammam. This makes the perfect couples or girls day out. Spa, lunch, wine bar - it's my kind of heaven.
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Brandy Creek Estate
570 Buln Buln Rd
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Another lovely winery and restaurant are set on a magnificent estate in the undulating hills of West Gippsland. The restaurant and bar lounge is set in a modern building with floor to ceiling windows making it easy to while away several hours drinking in both the wine and the view. A hidden gem here is their luxury day spa with include a Turkish Hammam. This makes the perfect couples or girls day out. Spa, lunch, wine bar - it's my kind of heaven.

Hiking Trails

From easy walks to serious hiking trails there is a lot to choose within a hour drive The Ridge House.
Lace up your hiking boots and head to Mount Worth State Park for walking tracks that weave through mountain ash and blue gum forest. Replete with fern glades, lyrebirds and the enormous Standing Giant, a 300-year-old mountain ash, the trails range from an easy 30-minute stroll to more moderate 3-hour hikes that take you through several sites of old logging sawmills from the early 1900’s. It is fun to find remnants of the sawmills slowly being hidden by the returning bush growth. There are great picnic amenities (including restrooms) which provide the opportunity to enjoy local food and wine you can buy from Yarragon Village.
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Mount Worth State Park
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Lace up your hiking boots and head to Mount Worth State Park for walking tracks that weave through mountain ash and blue gum forest. Replete with fern glades, lyrebirds and the enormous Standing Giant, a 300-year-old mountain ash, the trails range from an easy 30-minute stroll to more moderate 3-hour hikes that take you through several sites of old logging sawmills from the early 1900’s. It is fun to find remnants of the sawmills slowly being hidden by the returning bush growth. There are great picnic amenities (including restrooms) which provide the opportunity to enjoy local food and wine you can buy from Yarragon Village.
This is an easy 3.5km loop walk in bushland on the northern slopes of the Strzelecki Ranges but note it does require a walk up the slope which has some stairs. Stewart track is wheelchair friendly and an easy flat stroll among the tall timbers if you have any injuries that may inhibit a longer walk. A small car park is available at the entrance to Uralla Nature Reserve, off Giles Road. Make it a longer walk by starting at Contingent Street Trafalgar and adding 2.5km to the walk. Finish with a coffee at Coffee Life or Sweet Treats in Trafalgar.
Uralla Nature Reserve
This is an easy 3.5km loop walk in bushland on the northern slopes of the Strzelecki Ranges but note it does require a walk up the slope which has some stairs. Stewart track is wheelchair friendly and an easy flat stroll among the tall timbers if you have any injuries that may inhibit a longer walk. A small car park is available at the entrance to Uralla Nature Reserve, off Giles Road. Make it a longer walk by starting at Contingent Street Trafalgar and adding 2.5km to the walk. Finish with a coffee at Coffee Life or Sweet Treats in Trafalgar.
Tooronga/Amphitheater Falls Loop Walk. This is an easy 2.2km (60min) walk to see two waterfalls - Toroonga Falls and Amphitheater Falls but gets mossy and slippery in winter months so good walking shoes are a must. Autumn, Winter & Spring (especially after rain) is the best time to visit to see the falls in full action. There are toilets and picnic tables at the start of the walk. The Little Red Duck Cafe in Noojee is the best place for coffee and lunch. They make an amazing homecooked curry which is so nourishing after a brisk winter walk in past the Falls.
Amphitheatre Falls lookout
Tooronga/Amphitheater Falls Loop Walk. This is an easy 2.2km (60min) walk to see two waterfalls - Toroonga Falls and Amphitheater Falls but gets mossy and slippery in winter months so good walking shoes are a must. Autumn, Winter & Spring (especially after rain) is the best time to visit to see the falls in full action. There are toilets and picnic tables at the start of the walk. The Little Red Duck Cafe in Noojee is the best place for coffee and lunch. They make an amazing homecooked curry which is so nourishing after a brisk winter walk in past the Falls.

Day Trips (within 90min drive)

Blue Rock has a lot to offer people who love to play in and on the water. Gorgeous fresh water makes it a lovely way to spend a warm day. Boat ramps and a beach area mean you can easily get access the water (fishing for bass is local fav) and the sheer size of the lake means you can spend the day splashing around in your own space. Great place to Kayak and SUP too! Pack a lunch of local produce because there is a large expanse of green grass, picnic tables, shelter, toilets and a new all-abilities adventure playground opened in Sept 2020. There is also a 3.5km (45min loop) walking track around the lake good for bikes and prams too. Great on a summer's evening because you can take a refreshing swim at the end. 20 min drive from Yarragon.
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Blue Rock Dam
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Blue Rock has a lot to offer people who love to play in and on the water. Gorgeous fresh water makes it a lovely way to spend a warm day. Boat ramps and a beach area mean you can easily get access the water (fishing for bass is local fav) and the sheer size of the lake means you can spend the day splashing around in your own space. Great place to Kayak and SUP too! Pack a lunch of local produce because there is a large expanse of green grass, picnic tables, shelter, toilets and a new all-abilities adventure playground opened in Sept 2020. There is also a 3.5km (45min loop) walking track around the lake good for bikes and prams too. Great on a summer's evening because you can take a refreshing swim at the end. 20 min drive from Yarragon.
This historic timber trestle bridge is 21m tall and one of the only remaining of its kind in Victoria. The Noojee Trestle Bridge sits along the meandering old railway line through the Noojee Bushland Reserve and the township of Noojee. The grand structure stands amongst mountain ash forest and is a brilliant and well-preserved timber rail bridge. Great family easy hike day out!
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Noojee Trestle Bridge
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This historic timber trestle bridge is 21m tall and one of the only remaining of its kind in Victoria. The Noojee Trestle Bridge sits along the meandering old railway line through the Noojee Bushland Reserve and the township of Noojee. The grand structure stands amongst mountain ash forest and is a brilliant and well-preserved timber rail bridge. Great family easy hike day out!
You can walk the trail or picnic here, ending up at the gorgeous Tooronga Falls. See the post above on Amphitheatre Falls for hiking track info. Great to link this with a visit to Noojee Bridge
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Заповедник Турунго-Фоллс
640 Toorongo Valley Rd
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You can walk the trail or picnic here, ending up at the gorgeous Tooronga Falls. See the post above on Amphitheatre Falls for hiking track info. Great to link this with a visit to Noojee Bridge
Great fun to be had here both Winter and Summer. Winter (Snowshoe, Toboggan, Cross Country Ski, Meet the local dingoes) If you have never seen snow, or want to introduce snow to visitors or your kids - this is the BEST place to visit) Summer (Trail hikes, Mountain bike and Mountain E-bike trails, Wildflowers, and Birdwatching). Head to their website for all the info and weather conditions.
Baw Baw National Park
Great fun to be had here both Winter and Summer. Winter (Snowshoe, Toboggan, Cross Country Ski, Meet the local dingoes) If you have never seen snow, or want to introduce snow to visitors or your kids - this is the BEST place to visit) Summer (Trail hikes, Mountain bike and Mountain E-bike trails, Wildflowers, and Birdwatching). Head to their website for all the info and weather conditions.

Grocery

Here are the local shops we recommend for when you want to get your staples.
It’s a tricky right hand turn off the highway heading to Trafalgar but you can’t miss the big spuds and forks installation in front. This place is brilliant for fruit and veggies and has a large selection of food catering for dietary needs like vegan and gluten-free. If you’re looking for coconut yogurt, tofu burgers and kombucha, this is your Mecca.
The Spud Shed
Princes Highway
It’s a tricky right hand turn off the highway heading to Trafalgar but you can’t miss the big spuds and forks installation in front. This place is brilliant for fruit and veggies and has a large selection of food catering for dietary needs like vegan and gluten-free. If you’re looking for coconut yogurt, tofu burgers and kombucha, this is your Mecca.
Located in Trafalgar (Traf - as the locals call it), this large community supermarket will cover all your needs. Tip: grab a coffee and pastry from our fav coffee shop in Traf, Cafe Life
IGA
5 McCrorey St
Located in Trafalgar (Traf - as the locals call it), this large community supermarket will cover all your needs. Tip: grab a coffee and pastry from our fav coffee shop in Traf, Cafe Life
This is the only place in town to buy the newspaper. Good for the odd one-off item like milk, butter, or brown sugar for the cake you want to bake and it is run by locals so the service is friendly.
YARRAGON VILLAGE SUPERMARKET
2 Campbell St
This is the only place in town to buy the newspaper. Good for the odd one-off item like milk, butter, or brown sugar for the cake you want to bake and it is run by locals so the service is friendly.
This is a community-run food hub selling local organic produce. Each day they have a different micro baker supplying Sourdough loaves. Georgie's bread, which you enjoy as part of your breakfast provisions, sells here bread there on Thursdays. There are always loaves in the freezer too!
Baw Baw Food Hub
156-158 Queen Street
This is a community-run food hub selling local organic produce. Each day they have a different micro baker supplying Sourdough loaves. Georgie's bread, which you enjoy as part of your breakfast provisions, sells here bread there on Thursdays. There are always loaves in the freezer too!
High quality green grocer with lots of great specialty items like Prom Coast ice cream and Noojee smoked trout.
Warragul Lean & Green
43 Smith Street
High quality green grocer with lots of great specialty items like Prom Coast ice cream and Noojee smoked trout.
Locals were so excited when Cheffields opened a direct-to-public store because prior they only sold wholesale. Supporting Gippsland beef and produce they are very reasonably priced for really great quality. It is in a weird industrial estate location not too far from Bunnings in Warragul so you will need your mobile maps to find it.
Cheffields Providore
Locals were so excited when Cheffields opened a direct-to-public store because prior they only sold wholesale. Supporting Gippsland beef and produce they are very reasonably priced for really great quality. It is in a weird industrial estate location not too far from Bunnings in Warragul so you will need your mobile maps to find it.

Farmer’s Markets

There are many great markets all year round. Below are a few of my favourites, For a full calendar of Gippsland markets search 'Markets' on the Visit Gippsland website.
WARRAGUL FARMERS MARKET 3rd Sunday every month Where: Civic Park, Warragul Time: 8:30am-1pm This market is full of great local produce, creatives, and makers. Go with an appetite and empty basket and fill both as you peruse the market stalls. Excellent park and kid's playground here for young ones to enjoy. 20 minutes from The Ridge House
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Warragul Farmers' Market
Civic Place
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WARRAGUL FARMERS MARKET 3rd Sunday every month Where: Civic Park, Warragul Time: 8:30am-1pm This market is full of great local produce, creatives, and makers. Go with an appetite and empty basket and fill both as you peruse the market stalls. Excellent park and kid's playground here for young ones to enjoy. 20 minutes from The Ridge House
YARRAGON CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET 4th Sunday of every month (except Christmas when they do a Friday night market) Where: Campbell St, Yarragon (Either at the Hall (if bad weather or on the green grass strip of Yarragon town) Time: 9am-1pm More arts and crafts style market showcasing the talent of amazing locals. The Lions shop also opens their large shed store on market days so you can go on a second-hand hunt.
Yarragon Craft and Produce Market
Campbell Street
YARRAGON CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET 4th Sunday of every month (except Christmas when they do a Friday night market) Where: Campbell St, Yarragon (Either at the Hall (if bad weather or on the green grass strip of Yarragon town) Time: 9am-1pm More arts and crafts style market showcasing the talent of amazing locals. The Lions shop also opens their large shed store on market days so you can go on a second-hand hunt.
KONGWAK MARKET 1st Sunday of the Month (except Christmas Day) Where: 1487 Korumburra-Wonthaggi Rd, Kongwak Time: 10am-2pm Super cute market with great food and vintage goods. It is about an hour's drive through the gorgeous countryside of South Gippsland rolling hills and you can make it a day trip by exploring parts of South Gippsland such as Loch and Korumburra. There is also another very sweet market you can visit on the way to Kongwak called JUMBUNNA BUSH MARKET held at the Jumbunna Community Hall from 9am-1pm. Here you can get locally baked scones and tea and lovely homemade jams and relishes. The locals run this market to support the upkeep of this treasured local hall.
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Kongwak Market
Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road
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KONGWAK MARKET 1st Sunday of the Month (except Christmas Day) Where: 1487 Korumburra-Wonthaggi Rd, Kongwak Time: 10am-2pm Super cute market with great food and vintage goods. It is about an hour's drive through the gorgeous countryside of South Gippsland rolling hills and you can make it a day trip by exploring parts of South Gippsland such as Loch and Korumburra. There is also another very sweet market you can visit on the way to Kongwak called JUMBUNNA BUSH MARKET held at the Jumbunna Community Hall from 9am-1pm. Here you can get locally baked scones and tea and lovely homemade jams and relishes. The locals run this market to support the upkeep of this treasured local hall.
ROKEBY MARKET 2nd Sunday of the Month from September to May Where: 1016 Brandy Creek Rd, Rokeby Time: 8am-12:30pm Great local country market and a lovely drive through the backcountry. About 30 mins from The Ridge House via Warragul.
Rokeby Market
1016 Brandy Creek Rd
ROKEBY MARKET 2nd Sunday of the Month from September to May Where: 1016 Brandy Creek Rd, Rokeby Time: 8am-12:30pm Great local country market and a lovely drive through the backcountry. About 30 mins from The Ridge House via Warragul.