With sprawling views of the surrounding mountain ranges everywhere you look, we invite you to hit the road and explore the beauty of the outdoors in the Pyrenees.
Studies have shown that taking time to unplug and be outside, with no goal beyond just experiencing the world around you, has a positive effect on your well-being. Being in nature can help clear your head and bring you into the present moment, and is a great way to de-stress and relax.
Leave your home and office behind and take advantage of your natural surroundings. Listen to the birds singing, the breeze through the trees, or the sound of a babbling creeks. And there is no better place to do it than the Pyrenees. Here are just some of the ways you can relax in nature this Summer in the Pyrenees
Watch the sunrise/sunset
Get up early to watch the sunrise, or head to the nearest hilltop to watch it set. It can help you prepare for the day ahead and de-stress after a busy day. There are lots of great locations to watch a sunset in the Pyrenees including Ben Nevis Lookout in Mount Cole, Governors Rock Lookout in the Pyrenees State Forest and Beaufort’s Camp Hill Lookout just to name a few.
Hiking
Take a relaxed, meandering walk, let go of the thoughts in your head, and focus on the present moment. The Pyrenees is a place peppered with inspired tracks celebrating the region’s beauty. The Regions State Parks and Forests have plenty to keep you on the go with an extensive network of bushwalking and Gravel Riding trails. The regions famous Beeripmo Walk guides you through the Mount Cole and Mount Buangor State Parks along winding bush tracks through towering rainforests to hidden waterfalls and fern-filled gullies.
Outdoor Events
Over the Summer months there is a wide range of outdoor events hosted in the Pyrenees including The Hideout Music Festival, Sunday by the River, Wild Mount Trail Run, Live music at cellar doors and so much more. Download the Visit Pyrenees App to see the full line up of events.
Water Activities
Kick back and relax at Beaufort Lake, where the air feels fresh and clean. Located just 30 minutes from Ballarat, in the township of Beaufort, this man made lake is great for fishing, water skiing, canoeing and swimming. Pack a picnic and make the most of the great picnic and barbecue facilities. There is a leisurely 3km or 1km walking/running track around the lake with fitness equipment dotted along the way. As you stroll the banks of the lake, you will find the Koori Art Trail with 12 art installations strategically placed around the lake.
Explore Historic Gardens
Discover handsome homesteads surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. Call ahead and discover the hidden treasures hidden behind the farm fences of some of Victoria’s oldest pastoral homes. Eurambeen Homestead, Mount Mitchell Homestead and Mooramong Homestead all have annual open garden days but will open by appoinment for a private garden tour. Take a guided walk through the beautiful grounds and discover the history of the flower gardens, orchards and vegetable beds. You will find a touch of romance and nostalgia around every corner.
Go camping
Pitch a tent and sit by a campfire at night. Escape the crowds by picking a secluded chilled out campsite within Mount Cole, Mount Buangor or Pyrenees State Forest that have basic campsites with non flush toilets, wood fired BBQs and get your dose of nature. If you prefer a few more amenities, Avoca and Beaufort have Caravan Parks located by the River or Lake so be sure to pack the fishing rods!
Visit www.visitpyrenees.com.au to start planning your next outdoor adventure or download the Visit Pyrenees App.
