News Villages by pedal: Great Southern Rail Trail

• Explore warm country villages, each with their own personality. Find artsy vibes at Fish Creek, foodie haunts in Meeniyan, and oodles of character at Loch.

• At Gurneys Cider (Foster) you can join a tour to learn about the ‘orchard to glass’ process and enjoy an intimate tasting of their most exclusive ciders, including the newly released seven-year-old apple brandy.
• Wander through Fish Creek's Sculpture Park, where the Great Southern Rail Trail intersects with Falls Rd in the centre of town, adding a touch of beauty and whimpsy to this arts-fuelled village.

• Take in sweeping panoramas of rolling green hills and patchwork farmland at Cape Horn Lookout, just outside Loch.

• Just off the highway between Fish Creek and Foster, the Hoddle Lookout reveals an incredible sweep of Wilsons Promontory, Corner Inlet and the lush hinterland in between. From here, there is a short loop walk taking in the sumptuous views.

• Step back in time as you cross the historic Loch Suspension Bridge, a postcard-perfect spot to pause and soak in the tranquil valley views.

• Wander past building facades splashed with vibrant murals in Loch, Korumburra & Leongatha that celebrate the local stories, heritage and characters of each town.

Head to Loch for your first hit of village-life. Just outside of town, pause at Cape Horn Lookout for sweeping views across Gippsland’s enchanting green hillscape. Continue on to the storybook village of Loch, with its boutique shops, cafes, distillery and character-filled streets. Your car will stay here for the next night, leaving you to explore the region by pedal.

Jump on your trusty bike (or e-bike) and tackle the Great Southern Rail Trail, beginning a gentle uphill climb toward Korumburra. This is some of the prettiest countryside you’ll find, with hills that roll as far as the eye can see... and even a small waterfall in Hilda Falls to break up your journey.

Continue on to Korumburra, where colourful murals brighten the town and local flavours await at Burra Pantry—perfect for picking up picnic supplies. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Coterie, a vibrant café and gallery space that champions Gippsland produce.

After your pit stop, set back along the Great Southern Rail Trail to Leongatha. A short 2km detour off the trail, Fleet Wines tempts with cool-climate vintages in a relaxed cellar door setting.

Stay overnight in Leongatha.

Hit the trail early and smash out your first 16km, weaving downhill through paddocks past the avenue of deciduous trees at Koonwarra. Reaching the impressive white Tarwin River Bridge, you’ll know that Meeniyan is just around the corner.

Fuel up with brunch in your next village delight – Meeniyan is abuzz with galleries, boutique shops and foodie finds.

The next 18km of the trail to Fish Creek sees a steady climb along a thin bush tract, flanked by paddocks ending with a sharp ascent at Buffalo, then zoom downhill to Fish Creek. Just outside of Meeniyan, nature lovers can duck into the Meeniyan Bird Hide, accessed from the trail - this quiet wetland spot is a birdwatcher’s dream, offering a front-row seat to the area’s feathered residents.

Art takes centre stage in Fish Creek, home to quirky galleries and creative spaces that reflect the town’s eclectic personality. Take the opportunity to grab a snack or have a more substantial lunch at the pub.

The next section of the trail is one of the steepest sections of the Great Southern Rail Trail, but your uphill slog is rewarded with luscious views looking over Corner Inlet and Wilsons Prom.

Conveniently sharing a boundary with the rail trail, Gurneys Cider is begging for you to swing by for a tasting of their crisp, traditionally made, small-batch ciders.

Arrange a transfer to return you to your car in Loch (the folk at Great Southern Ride or True Blue Bus Lines can help you out), then stay there for the night.

Step back in time at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum in Korumburra, where a recreated 19th century village - complete with genuine heritage buildings, exhibitions and regular art shows - bring the region’s past to life. The lovely, leafy grounds make an excellent spot to enjoy some morning tea.

Head into the forested hills to arrive at Mirboo North. If you’re after a Sunday Drive, take the scenic route via Hallston and Allambee South, dropping you in town via the stunning Grand Ridge Road. Settle in for lunch from an inspired cafe menu at Lamezleighs or hearty pub fare at the Mirboo North Hotel.

In the afternoon, lace up your boots for the Lyrebird Forest Walk or hop on a bike to experience the Grand Ridge Rail Trail. The 13km Grand Ridge Rail Trail weaves through towering eucalypts and fern gullies with birdsong all around. If you prefer to stick to walking, take the enchanting Lyrebird Forest Walk (5km) looking out for lyrebirds, while wandering beneath a canopy of cool temperate rainforest.