Explore North East Victoria with the Family

While the cottage and farm offer plenty of space to slow down, we know families sometimes love to explore further afield. North East Victoria is rich in natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and folklore—perfect for creating lasting family memories.

Summer Adventures & Water Play:

Benalla Splash Park & Indoor Aquatic Centre

Cool off at Benalla’s family-friendly splash park with fountains, water play, and shaded picnic spots. The adjoining indoor aquatic centre offers pools, slides, and a café — a perfect option for hot summer days or rainy afternoons.

King River Swimming Holes

The King Valley is dotted with crystal-clear swimming spots perfect for families. Local favourites include:

·       Moyhu – a gentle river bend with shady banks and a rope swing loved by kids and adults alike.

·       Cheshunt – natural waterholes tucked away in bushland, great for cooling off in summer.

·       Lake William Hovell – ideal for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddling, with BBQ facilities for a lakeside lunch.

Many of the rivers and lakes in the region are equipped with picnic tables and BBQ facilities. Pack a basket, enjoy the water, and make a day of it.

More Summer Favourites

·       Strawberry & berry picking at local farm gates (seasonal).

·       Fishing in rivers and lakes, easy for beginners and kids.

·       Canoeing & paddling on calm waterways.

·       Playgrounds & Gardens in Benalla and Mansfield with shaded spaces and cafés nearby.

Year-Round Family Favourites

·       Brookfield Maze - Lose yourselves in the hedge maze, challenge the kids to a treasure hunt, and enjoy a relaxed lunch at this classic country attraction.

·       Powers Lookout - Take in sweeping views of the King Valley from the historic hideout of bushranger Harry Power, said to have mentored Ned Kelly.

·       Paradise Falls - A gentle bushwalk rewards you with the sight of a spectacular 30-metre waterfall, flowing strongest after rain.

·       Bike Riding Trails - Bring your bikes and enjoy gentle rides around Benalla, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, or family friendly paths in nearby towns.

·       Glenrowan & Ned Kelly History - Step back in time in the famous town of Glenrowan, where Australia’s most notorious bushranger made his last stand.

·       North East Victoria Silo Art Trail Follow the regional silo art trail to see large-scale artworks across country towns—an inspiring way to combine art, history, and a drive through the countryside.

·       Mansfield Zoo - A small, family-owned zoo where children can hand-feed deer, kangaroos, and other friendly animals, along with seeing more exotic residents like lions and monkeys.

·       Walks in Mount Samaria State Park: Explore family friendly walking tracks through forests, waterfalls, and old sawmill sites—perfect for curious kids with a love of nature.

Snow Adventures (Winter Months)

During winter, the Victorian Alps come alive. Enjoy tobogganing, beginner ski slopes to black runs, or simply a snowy picnic at:

o   Mount Buffalo

o   Mount Buller

o   Falls Creek

o   Mount Hotham

Nearby Towns & Distances

Dunmore Farm is ideally located to explore the region. Distances are approximate and make for easy day trips:

o   Glenrowan – 25 minutes (Ned Kelly history, heritage walks)

o   Milawa – 30 minutes (Milawa Cheese Co., Ava Restaurant, Milawa Gourmet Region)

o   King Valley – 40 minutes (wineries, walks, lookouts, food experiences)

o   Mansfield – 55 minutes (family zoo, mountain gateway, local markets)

o   Benalla – 20 minutes (art gallery, lake, botanical gardens, street art, splash park)

Make It Your Own Adventure

Whether it’s splashing in a river, wandering through a maze, learning about Ned Kelly, or experiencing the magic of snow for the first time, these day trips are designed with families in mind. You’ll return to the farm with plenty of stories to share around the fire or while soaking in the hot tub under the stars.