Lake Lonsdale: Wine, Water and Wide Skies
After a few weeks of dry inland travel, rolling up beside Lake Lonsdale felt like a decent reward. It’s a vast, open lake just north of the Grampians, surrounded by low scrub and gum trees. The camping area is flat and free, with ample space to spread out. A good stop if you’re travelling with a motorhome or van. The lake was low during our stay, but the birdlife didn’t seem to mind. A few pelicans and ducks worked the shallows while the rest of us set up for the evening.
We spent a couple of quiet days here, reading, walking the shoreline, and taking short drives around the district. Great Western is only half an hour away and is worth the trip. Seppelt’s Great Western was our first stop, one of the oldest wineries in the region and home to some seriously cool underground cellars. Known as “The Drives,” these hand-dug tunnels stretch for kilometres beneath the winery and have stored barrels since the 1800s. We joined a guided tour and were blown away by the craftsmanship, history, and the lingering scent of oak and time.
Afterwards, we stopped in at the cellar door for a tasting. Sparkling reds, a few crisp whites, and an easy chat with staff who clearly enjoy what they do. It’s one of those stops that ties local history and fine wine together neatly.
Back at Lake Lonsdale, we ended the day with a simple dinner and that good kind of tired you get from doing just enough exploring. This part of Victoria continues to surprise us with its blend of nature, history, and quiet corners that offer far more than they initially appear to.
It’s a relaxed place: no bookings, no rush, and plenty of space to breathe.
If you’re after a quiet camp near the Grampians with a bit of heritage nearby, this one’s worth marking on the map.
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Lake Lonsdale & Great Western
Lake Lonsdale sits about 20 minutes north of Stawell and within easy reach of the Grampians National Park. It’s a popular free camp with open views and water access when levels are high. Great Western nearby forms part of Victoria’s oldest wine region, home to both Seppelt and Best’s wineries.
How to Get There
Lake Lonsdale is around 250 km northwest of Melbourne. From Stawell, follow the Western Highway and turn off at Pomonal Road. Great Western lies 15 minutes east of Stawell, with all main roads sealed and suitable for caravans and motorhomes.
What to See, Tours and Activities
What we did:
Camped at the free site beside Lake Lonsdale.
Walked sections of the lakeshore and watched local birdlife.
Toured Seppelt Wines’ underground cellars (The Drives).
Sampled regional wines at the cellar door.
Other highlights nearby:
Explore walking trails and waterfalls in the Grampians National Park.
Visit Best’s Wines and the Great Western Hotel.
See the Stawell Gold Mine lookout and town centre.
When to Visit
Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and calmer weather, ideal for camping and winery visits. Summer can be hot and dry, while winter often brings misty mornings over the water.
Final Thoughts
Lake Lonsdale is the kind of camp that suits an unhurried traveller — quiet, open, and close to a bit of local character. Between the water, the wine, and the easy access to the Grampians, it’s a solid all-round stop.
What’s Nearby
From here, you can continue north toward Horsham or head into the Grampians for walks, lookouts, and waterfalls. Either direction keeps you close to good country drives and relaxed camps.
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Fast Facts
Location: Lake Lonsdale, near Stawell VIC
Distance: 250 km northwest of Melbourne
Traditional Owners: Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali Peoples
Access: Sealed roads suitable for all vehicles
Facilities: Free camp, toilets, picnic area, boat ramp (seasonal)
Walking Track: Short informal lakeside trails
Dog Friendly: Yes, on lead
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn
Things That Could Kill You (Probably Won’t)
A semi-serious guide to surviving Australia. Mostly common sense, occasionally luck.
Magpies: Keep your hat handy during nesting season.
Sunburn: Clouds don’t count as sunscreen.
Wine Tastings: One more glass is rarely a good idea before a curvy drive.
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