Ararat

Population 8000

Established in 1857, Ararat is a thriving community which is renowned for its production of quality merino wool, a diverse range of agricultural crops and a range of fine wines.

Activities and attractions

Explore Ararat's gold heritage, reflected in the town's impressive architecture, some of which is recognised by the National Trust
View unusual exhibits of fibre and textile art at the Ararat Regional Art Gallery
Discover the town’s unique Chinese heritage at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre and the Langi Morgala Museum
Inspect J Ward, formerly Victoria’s asylum for the criminally insane
Take a wander through the beautiful Alexandra Gardens, which feature the famous orchid glasshouse
Play a round of golf at the Chalambar Golf Club, rated one of Victoria’s top 50 golf courses
Meet the winemaker at one of the region’s wineries
Tour Australia’s largest wind farm at Challicum Hills.

Major events

Ararat Gift – February
Jailhouse Rock Festival – March
Montara ‘Scarecrows in the Vineyard’ – May
Ararat One Act Play Festival – August
Cymbidium Orchid Festivals – September and October
Golden Gateway Festival – October
Ararat Chinese Racing Festival – November

How to get there
Ararat is approximately 2.5 hours from Melbourne via the Western or Pyrenees highways.