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Venus Baths Grampians National Park
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Aug 31, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Venus Baths - Grampians National Park
The Venus Baths Walk is a delightful and accessible trail located in the heart of the Grampians National Park, near Halls Gap. This scenic walk winds through lush bushland along Stony Creek, leading to a series of natural rock pools known as the Venus Baths. These crystal-clear pools cascade gently into one another, creating a serene and picturesque setting perfect for a peaceful stop or a refreshing dip on warmer days. Along the way, you’ll pass towering trees, native ferns, and moss-covered rocks, all while enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water. Ideal for families and casual walkers, the Venus Baths Walk offers a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of the Grampians.
The Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), located around 260 kilometres west of Melbourne, is renowned for its spectacular sandstone ridges, scenic waterfalls, and a wide variety of native birds and wildlife. The park’s five sandstone ranges stretch from north to south, with steep, rugged slopes on the eastern side and gentler, rolling slopes to the west.
Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy breathtaking lookouts, rich Aboriginal heritage, and abundant opportunities for nature photography, making it a must-visit destination in Victoria.
Venus Baths Walk - 2.3-kilometre circuit - 1 Hour - Easy
The walk to the Venus Baths begins at the Halls Gap Botanic Gardens, a peaceful and beautifully maintained starting point. Stroll through the gardens, enjoying the mix of native and exotic plantings, before exiting through the back gate to reach the beginning of the track. From here, the well-marked path gently winds along Stony Creek, passing under shady trees, over small footbridges, and alongside impressive sandstone cliffs that showcase the rugged beauty of the Grampians.
Soon, you’ll spot a small footbridge on your left — a clear sign you’re close. A short distance beyond, you’ll arrive at the Venus Baths, a series of shallow rock pools carved into the sandstone in a wide canyon. The pools glisten in the sunlight, offering a tranquil spot to relax, dip your feet, or even swim on warmer days. The combination of flowing water, smooth sandstone, and the surrounding bush makes this one of the Grampians’ most picturesque and peaceful locations.
After soaking in the scenery, and having a dip if its warm enough, continue your walk back toward the footbridge to start the circuit section. This part of the trail crosses the creek and follows a slightly more rugged track with a few steps and rocky sections. It eventually emerges near the Halls Gap Caravan Park, from where you can cross back over the bridge to return to the Botanic Gardens. The full walk is an enjoyable loop, combining gardens, creekside paths, sandstone cliffs, and the serene Venus Baths — perfect for a leisurely outing in the heart of the Grampians.
Tips for Hiking to Venus Baths
• Start at the Botanic Gardens: The walk begins at the Halls Gap Botanic Gardens a perfect place to stretch, enjoy the gardens, and use the facilities before heading out.
• Take your time: This is a leisurely, family-friendly walk, but allow extra time to stop and enjoy the scenery, explore the pools, and take photos.
• Wear sturdy shoes: The track is mostly well-maintained, but some sections have uneven rock and steps, especially near the creek and sandstone formations.
• Bring water and snacks: There are no facilities along the track, so carry water and light snacks, especially in warmer months.
• Swimming optional: The Venus Baths are shallow and calm, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer, but always check the water conditions first.
• Respect the environment: Keep to the track, take your rubbish with you, and avoid disturbing plants or wildlife.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light for photos and fewer crowds. The pools are particularly beautiful after rainfall, when Stony Creek is flowing gently over the rocks.
• Family-friendly: This walk is suitable for children, but keep a close eye near the water and rocky areas.
Other Must-See Sights in the Grampians National Park
The main gateway to the Grampians, Halls Gap is a charming town with cafes, galleries, and accommodation. It’s the perfect base for exploring the park and spotting local wildlife, including kangaroos and emus.
MacKenzie Falls is one of the Grampians’ most iconic waterfalls, where water thunders year-round over rugged sandstone cliffs into a deep, dramatic gorge below.
One of the most iconic hikes in the Grampians, The Pinnacle offers sweeping panoramic views over the ranges. The trail passes through rugged cliffs and lush bushland, with the summit providing a truly unforgettable lookout.
A picturesque waterfall where water flows over rocky cliffs into a shallow pool. The walk to the falls is relatively easy, making it ideal for families, and the surrounding bush is particularly beautiful after rain.
A series of natural rock pools along Stony Creek is perfect for a refreshing dip or a relaxing stop. The area also features small waterfalls and scenic walking trails.
Also known as the “Jaws of Death,” this lookout offers dramatic views over the Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges. It’s easily accessible from a short walk and is perfect for sunset photography.
A hidden gem of the Grampians, Splitters Falls cascades into a tranquil pool surrounded by lush bush. It’s a quieter spot compared to the more popular falls and offers a peaceful retreat.
Famous for its dramatic rock formations and the challenging walk to the summit through a natural “tunnel” in the cliffs. The climb rewards hikers with panoramic views of the park.
The Grampians are rich in Aboriginal heritage, with numerous rock art sites, including the iconic Billimina Shelter. These ancient paintings offer a glimpse into the culture and history of the local Aboriginal people.
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