Bairnsdale Art Gallery view of the historic buildings from the street

Discover Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale is the civic hub of East Gippsland, and gateway town to shimmering lakes, untouched coastline or mountain adventure. The leafy banks flanking the tranquil Mitchell River set the laid-back tone for the town, belying its commercial spirit.

The Riversleigh Hotel Bairnsdale lounge with fire burning in the grate

Things to do in Bairnsdale

Use Bairnsdale as your base to explore the world-renowned Gippsland Lakes, Australia's largest inland waterway system. Fed by a network of mighty rivers, rafting, kayaking and fishing adventures await.
Visit the Kroathunkoolong Keeping Place to immerse yourself in the region's Gunaikurnai culture.
Lace up your runners and venture along the tranquil Mitchell River or start an epic cycling adventure along the East Gippsland Rail Trail.
Whether you're staying in town or just passing through, Bairnsdale is a restaurant and cafe epicentre of East Gippsland, with a strong cafe-culture and dining scene.
Marvel at the architecture of St Mary's Church, built at the beginning of the 19th century. The murals by Italian artist Francesco Floreani, have achieved somewhat of a cult-status.
Set out on the East Gippsland Drinks Trail to discover nearby wineries and breweries.
Take an adventure to explore Gippsland's high country. Bairnsdale marks the beginning of the Great Alpine Road, one of the country's best road trips with alpine vistas that dazzle.
Families, get to Howitt Park for a playground in scenic surrounds and the thrill of a giant slide.

Mitchell River Silt Jetties Eagle Point panoramic view of boat on water

Bairnsdale restaurants & cafes

Bairnsdale sports an impressive restaurant and cafe scene with a big focus on Gippsland produce. Start your day at New Leaf Café, a light-filled haven of blooms, brews and thoughtful bites, where nourish bowls, smoothies and baked treats are made with care alongside a florist and gift store.

A former milk bar come sophisticated wine bar, serving Spanish tapas, paella and wines by night, with coffee, flaky pastries, and loaves of sourdough by day - The EAST Handy Store is a must visit. At The Grand Terminus Hotel, they work with the region’s most passionate producers to bring the freshest possible produce to the plate.

Continuing the tradition of fine bistro dining, the Mitchell River Tavern takes it to the next level with a luxurious menu of celebrated pub classics. Meanwhile, The Mitch Cocktail Bar is the place to be for live music and cocktails.

Bairnsdale cafe favourite, Mr D’s, boasts an extensive all day breakfast/lunch menu, plus fun and fruity cocktails. Dine amid rustic history in the beautifully refurbished Old Grain Store, or stop in for a serve of gorgeous pancakes at The Stables est 1889.

If you’re chasing a dash of spice, you’ll love the flavoursome rice and noodle dishes; salads, banh mi and spring rolls at Benjamin’s House. Or head to Cinnamon Thai Restaurant, where the high ceilings and exposed brickwork create an airy feel, and the authentic Thai cuisine is a delight for the senses.

5ive Canarys have outgrown their ever-popular food trailer and moved into 'The Nest,' a new home for their oh-so-tasty street food inspired menu serving bold burgers, Korean-style "nuggiez" and house-made hot sauces.

Where to stock up

Meat, fish, fruit and veggies at David Lucke’s Fresh Food Market.
Picnic Point Farm has everyone’s favourite apples and fresh produce.
Gluten free and dietary friendly items at Paper Chase Café & Providore.
Stop in and stock up on local goodies at the Nicholson General Store, be sure to grab one of their famous gourmet pies.

Northern Ground bowl of mussels at Bairnsdale cafe restaurant

Discover Bairnsdale's Walking & cycling

East Gippsland Rail Trail panoramic view of cyclists over bridge

Person admiring view along the Mitchell River Walking Track

Two Mountain Bikers cycling through a forest

Mt Taylor MTB Park Mountain biker taking on bend on mountain bike trail

Adult and child viewing river on the Den of Nargun Loop Walk

Aboriginal Bairnsdale

A creative community thrives in the area, and the East Gippsland Art Gallery celebrates that artistic spirit as a centre for visual arts. Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place, a museum displaying the heritage of the Gunaikurnai people, with hunting and fighting weapons, baskets, canoes and contemporary art on display. Join a guided tour to learn about the area’s Aboriginal history.

Just across the river is Howitt Park. This scenic and shady reserve is a great spot to stretch the legs or for kids to play on the playground (check out the enormous slide), but it is also a site of deep Indigenous significance. It is one of the eleven sites across Gippsland on the Bataluk Cultural Trail. Marvel at the mighty canoe tree, notable for the size of its scar.

Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place Bairnsdale interior with museum displays

Wineries near Bairnsdale

Start your journey at Lightfoot Wines' stylish cellar door. The tasting space connects beautifully with the region, using reclaimed timber from the old Calulu Bridge and Gippsland Lakes jetties. The exposed position on a limestone cliff creates both exceptional views and excellent conditions for producing fine wines, which can be enjoyed with a local tasting platter on the deck.

Sarsfield Estate Vineyard & Winery is popular with the locals, they don’t do tastings but you’ll find this wine on most local wine lists and it’s worth making an appointment to grab a few bottles for home.

Just down the way is Tambo Wine. A long hunt and a lot of research brought owners Bill and Pam Williams to this very spot, their “warm site in a cool area,” allowing them to produce fine wines with a sense of place.

You can find all wineries and breweries near Bairnsdale on the East Gippsland Drink Trail.

Lightfoot Sons people enjoying a tasting at the winery cellar door near Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale accommodation

Accommodation in Bairnsdale is plentiful due to the proximity of the show-stopping Gippsland Lakes, mighty rivers and ever-popular destinations of Lakes Entrance, Metung and Paynesville. Bairnsdale is laced with motels, hotels and a caravan park, conveniently located near services, restaurants and shops.

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