Kaniva, Victoria - Creative Country Charm on the Western Highway

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jan 20, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Jan 19

Kaniva, Victoria - Creative Country Charm on the Western Highway

Tucked into the heart of Victoria’s Mallee-Wimmera region, Kaniva is a welcoming and quirky country town that surprises visitors with creativity, community spirit and classic outback hospitality. Known as Victoria’s first and last highway town, Kaniva sits along the Western Highway between Melbourne and Adelaide and offers wide streets, iconic windmills, vibrant outdoor art and family-friendly attractions that make it worth a stop — whether you’re on a long road trip or exploring local gems off the beaten track.

A Must-See Stop on the Silo Art Trail

Kaniva proudly sits at the western gateway to the Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail, a celebrated stretch of painted grain silos that has become one of regional Australia’s most photographed attractions.

The Kaniva GrainCorp Silo is a standout: towering nearly 30 metres high, its mural features an elegant Australian Hobby bird flanked by native sun orchids, symbolising the rich biodiversity of nearby Little Desert National Park.

Sheep Art Trail: A Colourful Walk Through Town

One of Kaniva’s most charming quirks is the Sheep Art Trail, a creative public art project that celebrates the region’s strong sheep farming history and community pride.

The trail stretches roughly 900 metres from the silo art to the Wetlands and Fauna Park, passing murals, hidden games and colourful sculptures.
You’ll discover over 50 painted sheep, including lambs and sheep dogs, each with its own name and a QR code linking to stories, local facts and interactive content.
Most of the route is accessible by pram or wheelchair, making it a fun stroll for families, art lovers and curious travellers alike.

Download the App for an interactive walking tour, themed trails are tailored to kids, art lovers and history buffs.

Family-Friendly Fun at the Wetlands & Fauna Park

Located at the end of the Sheep Art Trail, the Kaniva Wetlands and Fauna Park is a peaceful green space that’s perfect for a relaxed break during your visit. The park features a bird aviary and small wildlife enclosures showcasing native species, along with well-maintained walking paths lined with informative signs about the local environment.

Families will appreciate the playgrounds, picnic shelters and barbecue facilities, while shaded seating and exercise equipment make it an enjoyable spot for visitors of all ages. It’s a lovely place to stretch your legs, spot local birdlife and enjoy a quiet moment in nature.

A Touch of Magic at the Kaniva Puppet Shop

A visit to the Kaniva Puppet Shop feels like stepping into a world of imagination and nostalgia. This much-loved attraction is filled with an extensive collection of puppets, toys and puzzles, alongside a fascinating marionette display that delights both children and adults.

Visitors can browse themed rooms such as the Christmas display, and admire intricate model train sets like the Polar Express. It’s a joyful, slightly whimsical experience and a wonderful place to find unique gifts or simply enjoy a moment of playful fun in the heart of town.

Kaniva is a Hidden Gem Worth the Stop

Though modest in size, Kaniva packs big heart and character into its wide streets and creative spaces. From the awe-inspiring mural on the silo and the vibrant sheep trail that winds through town to family-pleasing attractions like the Wetlands and delightful Puppet Shop, this country gem is more than just a road trip rest stop — it’s a destination in its own right.

Whether you’re exploring local history, hunting for roadside art, letting the kids romp outdoors, or simply taking in the peaceful rural atmosphere, Kaniva invites you to pause, explore and discover something unforgettable in the heart of western Victoria.