Wandi, as it is affectionately known by all the locals, is an absolute must see during any visit to Victoria’s High Country.
To understand some of what makes it so special, here is a speedy 30 second history lesson.
The area surged to popularity when gold was discovered in 1856 to 1858 and the township was established in the 1850s with the gold rush. At its peak the population was close to 2000 people and this popularity and wealth is what built the churches, schools, library & halls, many of which still stand today.
Now don’t quote me on this but the name Wandiligong was apparently named after the Wondillegong pastoral run from the 1840s. And long before it came to be known as Wandiligong in 1872 it went by the name of Growlers creek, the name of one of the 2 creeks that run through the cosy valley. And it’s thought that the name Wondillegong was derived from an Aboriginal word describing a spirit. How about that?
Wandiligong is registered with the National Trust of Australia as a historic town with many historical building, most of which you can spot by taking a leisurely drive along its little windy roads.
Today Wandiligong is home to approximately 500 people & maintains a lot of its historical charm enforcing strict building guidelines. Its windy, narrow roads, historical homes & buildings and surrounding hills instantly soothe the soul & need to be experienced by everyone. Be sure to drop by for a visit.
So, if you’d like to get out and explore Wandi & some of its history these are some of the highlights
1. Food & Drink
For a tiny little town, you have some great options for eating out.
Wandi Pub
Reputation precedes the Wandi Pub with amazing food, 9 taps of Australia’s best craft beers and craft ciders, a beautiful shady beer garden with music most Sundays. It’s a guaranteed great day or night out.
5 Acres Bar & Kitchen
Delicious food in stunning surrounds. Enjoy the glorious garden setting with some good vibes music, gourmet food, cocktails & a spot of mini golf to keep the kids entertained while the grownups play.
Nightingales Alpine Apples Farm Gate Store
The Nightingale Bros Produce Store brings the region’s best seasonal produce direct from the grower to you! You can stock up on apples, chestnuts and persimmons, or select from our range of seasonal fruit and vegetables & stay a while & enjoy a drink and a snack in this picturesque orchard setting.
2. Wandi Nut Festival
Just for one day, the Alpine Park becomes a hive of nut-based activities such as chestnut, hazelnut and walnut growers, nut-cracking tables, chestnut roasting, and nut-based cooking demonstrations, all in celebration of the nut harvesting time in the Victoria Alpine valleys.
This annual event offers market stalls, activities & entertainment for everyone, you will discover local art, craft, local products & most importantly food and drink.
3. Playground at Alpine Park
Kids will love the playground at Alpine Park, nestled in the shade on the banks of Morses Creek. Pack a picnic if you’re looking for a quiet place to spend the day. Its also perfectly positioned along the scenic bike track so could make an ideal pit stop along the way exploring all Wandi has to offer.
4. The Diggings Walk
The Diggings was the location of extensive mining in the area during the gold rush, and now has walking tracks and footbridges to enjoy the historical landmark. A highlight is the Chinese Swing Bridge which was built as a tribute to the large number of Chinese who lived here during the days of the gold rush.
5. Scenic Bike Ride
Part of the Murray to Mountains trail ride this easy 11-kilometre return ride follows Morse’s Creek out to the picturesque township of Wandiligong & back again. The quiet, looping bike track meanders past Mystic Mountain bike park, the Paragliding landing paddock and up along Morses creek with plenty of opportunities to stock for a picnic along the way or drop into local apple or nut orchard farm gates.
We have 4 beautiful homes in Wandiligong.
Take a sneak peak by clicking on each of the links below: