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Exploring Melville Caves - A Hidden Gem Near St Arnaud
- Jul 30, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 29
Exploring Melville Caves - A Hidden Gem
Near St Arnaud
Melville Caves are a fascinating natural formation of enormous granite boulders stacked and balanced against one another on a rocky ridge in the Mount Kooyoora Ranges in Victoria. Over time, the gaps between these massive stones have created a series of cave-like chambers, tunnels, and narrow passages that are both impressive and fun to explore.
Located within Kooyoora State Park near St Arnaud in the Goldfields region of Victoria, Melville Caves are steeped in bushranger history. The caves are named after the notorious Captain Melville, who is said to have used this rugged hideaway as a lookout and refuge in the mid-1800s.
Today, the area feels wonderfully peaceful, with native bushland, birdsong, and the chance to quietly spot kangaroos resting among the rocks — a reminder that this dramatic landscape is as alive as it is historic.
Melville Caves Walk
Distance: 750 metres - Time: 20 minutes - Medium
The walk to Melville Caves from the Melville Caves Lookout car park is 750 metres and takes about 20 minutes. The well-formed, undulating path meanders alongside incredible, gigantic rock formations. After about 300 metres, you reach the lookout, which offers incredible views over the hills and into the valley. A monument shows the landmarks' names and directions.
The path then winds down a short section of steps before opening into a large clearing, where there is a sign to another lookout and the caves. There is a seat to enjoy the views and a steep drop-off at the lookout area, so be careful in this area.
To the left of this area is the rocky path to the caves. Multiple caverns and pathways are beneath and around the massive rocks. The main cave has two levels and a small staircase to the second level. Make sure you look up inside the caves to see the rocks precariously balanced on each other, high above you.
Tips for Exploring Melville Caves
Wear sturdy shoes – The tracks and rock surfaces around Melville Caves can be uneven and rocky, so good walking shoes are recommended.
Take care around the caves – The rock formations are natural and fragile; climbing inside or on top of caves should be done cautiously and only where it’s clearly safe.
Bring water and sun protection – There’s limited shade in parts of the reserve, especially on warmer days.
Allow time to explore – Set aside time to wander the area, explore the caves, enjoy the views and read the information signs about the site’s history.
Visit during daylight hours – The caves are best explored during the day, as lighting is limited and visibility can drop quickly late in the afternoon.
Keep an eye out for wildlife – Kangaroos, birds and reptiles are often seen around the reserve, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Respect the site’s history – Melville Caves has cultural and historical significance, so please leave the area as you find it and take all rubbish with you.
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