Warragul is an easy 100 clicks of the odometer to the east of Melbourne, where the outer reaches of suburbia give way to bucolic countryside and bordered by the nearby township of Drouin.
The grass is so green you could be forgiven for thinking you’re looking through a filter. This rich landscape supports a large number of dairy farms (think world-class cheese, wineries, fruits and vegetables). Amidst this rural landscape lies Warragul, West Gippsland’s civic centre.
Warragul is a pleasure to wander, with cutesy streetscapes, tree-lined streets and open, grassy spaces. The town is full of cafes and providores, providing cosy nooks for caffeine indulgence. Heritage buildings are dotted about the town - including a stunning rail station - adding charm to the commercial centre.
THINGS TO DO IN WARRAGUL
- Visit the leafy Civic Park and stroll around the lake with a rotunda adding to its appeal.
- Check out the cafe culture and dine at one of Warragul's exquisite restaurants.
- Held on the third Saturday of every month, the Warragul Farmers Market supports a swag of terribly talented local growers and makers. The market isn’t just a grab-it-and-leave kind of gig - there is live music, ready to eat food and fantastic coffee, so you can take your time and enjoy shopping organic fruit and vegetables, woodfired sourdough bread, local wines, gourmet sausage rolls and flavoured popcorn.
- Head to Violet & Ivvy where - surrounded by this many plants - you could be excused for thinking you’re in a greenhouse. Artworks adorn the walls and the space is bursting with homewares, gifts, jewellery and trinkets.
- Visit String & Salt for a stunning selection of spices or join in a salting, curing or sausage-making workshop.
- Head north into the foothills and discover picturesque villages, like Noojee and Neerim South. The stunning landscapes have attracted artists to the area, and the surrounds abound with studios and galleries. Take a short drive to Jindivick to where recycled metal sculptures add delight and whimsy to the Laurie Collins Sculpture Garden.
- Get the legs pumping and cycle the 8km Two Towns Cycling Trail connecting Drouin and Warragul. The wide, flat and easy-to-ride shared pathway is perfect for children and learner riders.
ART & CULTURE
Warragul Artist Studios (WAS) hosts exhibitions featuring oil and watercolour paintings, ceramics, jewellery and object design, photography and illustration. The space has two curated exhibitions on display, changing every few months, and there are stunning artworks are for sale. Buy yourself something pretty.
The West Gippsland Arts Centre hosts events by world-class performers, musicians and comedians, and regular art exhibitions.
At Violet & Ivvy you'll find ceramics and paintings for sale, and regular art workshops take place in this warm space.
Come to Warragul hungry to fully enjoy its outstanding restaurants and cafes. This town offers a wide variety of dining, from upscale fine dining to vibrant Mexican and sumtuous Thai.
Warragul's thriving cafe culture attracts coffee enthusiasts with cozy spots and lively brunch venues, all made better by the area’s rich supply of fresh, high-quality produce—a favorite among local chefs and restaurateurs.
Nearby Walking & Cycling
Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Warragul blends country charm with city conveniences. Accommodation in Warragul spans from hotels to B&Bs, supporting both business events and leisurely getaways in scenic surroundings. The town is easily accessible by V/Line trains, with the station close to the center and accommodation options.
