Located in the heart of dairy country in the foothills of the Strzelecki Ranges, Leongatha is the commercial centre of South Gippsland.
Some gorgeous old buildings from the turn of the 20th century line the streets, adding charm to the boutique shops, cafes and art galleries. The lively town centre has a strong cafe and retail scene. Wander the streets’ gift stores, cafes, and providores and stock up on the best of the region’s produce.
Around Town
The town centre marks the beginning of the 72km Great Southern Rail Trail. From Horticultural Park, you can walk, cycle or even horse ride all the way to Port Welshpool. The trail works its way through lush farmland and historic bridges, with delightful villages including Koonwarra, Meeniyan and Fish Creek punctuating the journey.
The area is perfect for Sunday Drivers to get out and explore the idyllic rural setting of rolling hills. Take the short drive to picnic-perfect Mossvale Park along the twisty-turny Strzelecki Hwy and discover this oasis of green, thanks to some mighty towering European trees.
The call of Leongatha’s coastal playground is easily heard. In under an hour you can be at dreamy South Gippsland Beaches, including Walkerville, Sandy Point, Yanakie and the entrance of The Prom.
Eat & Drink
Number 9 Dream Café has got your back for lazy brunches, while pintsized Lyon & Bair hits the mark with their strong coffee game.
Sweet Life Café & Cakes’ offers up an array of treats for sweet tooths. And the aptly named, In The Arcade, is worth the hunt for their fantastic range of hampers and decadent treats.
Nestled within South Gippsland's largest retail homewares store, Henriettas offer fresh, healthy lunches and great coffee for your shopping break.
Leongatha is also close-by to some boutique wineries that form the South Gippsland Drink Trail.
The Fleet Wines team have been producing wines in Gippsland since 2016 – in fact, they were shortlisted for ‘Best New Winery’ in the 2024 Halliday Wine Companion. Their much anticipated cellar door has opened on the outskirts of Leongatha for tastings and wine by the glass/bottle, alongside a delicious snacks menu.
