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  4. Swifts Creek & Ensay

Set by the Tambo River, the tranquil towns are drenched in an idyllic countryside lifestyle.

Deep along the dramatic Great Alpine Road where valleys plunge into riverside beds and mountain peaks rise high into the alpine skies, lies Swifts Creek and Ensay.

Little River Inn at Ensay Great Alpine Road 3611 crop
Ensay Winery exterior view of winery building
Ensay Hotel exterior of building
Tambo River along Great Alpine Road near Bruthen

Art & shopping

The beauty of the surrounds has attracted many artists to the area who draw inspiration from the land. The Great Alpine Gallery in Swifts Creek is a revolving door of displays by local artists, with many works for sale, and the gift shop is home to the delightful and unique.

The Poet’s Walk is a 1km walk past six stanzas of a poem by John Butler inscribed on six cairns. Wind through native plants and birdlife following the looping Tambo River. It's right in the heart of town, and has seating, picnic areas and easy access.

Nature & outdoors

There are sumptuous spots to cast a line or cool off in the Tambo River between Swifts Creek and Ensay. The Ensay-Doctors Flat Rd wends its way alongside the river, and makes an excellent cycling route through the picturesque countryside.

Orbost restaurants & cafes

A quick drive down the hill along the East Gippsland Drink Trail gets you to Ensay Winery, where stunning vistas of poplar tree-lined valleys await at the rammed earth cellar door.

Take a little high-country detour off the Great Alpine Road and you’ll be rewarded with a tasty tipple of wines and a select range of ciders produced from the orchards at Cassilis Estate Wine and Cider.

Tambo Valley picnic races

The Tambo Valley Picnic Races have been held on Easter Sunday on the outskirts of Swifts Creek for more than a century. Enjoy the excitement of horse racing with family entertainment by the tranquil Tambo River.

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