Explore Nelson Surrounds

The Great South West Walk (GSWW) is a 262km walking trail located in the beautiful south west corner of Victoria, Australia. Experience four different environments - Forest, River, Beach and Cliffs.

GSWW can be completed as one journey over approximately 14 days or as short walks.

Walkers camps are located along the well maintained track.

If you need a break from walking, the river sections between Moleside Creek and Nelson can be paddled and there are designated canoe camps along the river.

Like walking but not the camping? Enjoy pack-free walking as we provide accommodation, cooked breakfasts, packed lunches, dinners and transfers.

Located halfway through the GSWW, Nelson is the perfect stopover to restock with supplies and stay to recharge, or base yourself for the river and beach sections of the walk.

The GSWW turned 40 in 2023 and is lovingly maintained, upgraded and promoted by the volunteers 'Friends of the Great South West Walk'.

Need further inspiration?

Check out the Friends of the Great South West Walk or the ABC 'Backroads' episode featuring Lisa Millar and volunteers from the Friends of the Great South West Walk.

Lower Glenelg National Park is a beautiful spot that holds significant cultural value for the Gunditjmara People, who have a deep, ongoing connection to these lands and waters. The park is known for its stunning limestone gorge carved by the Glenelg River, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.

Visitors can enjoy riverside camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and exploring the Great South West Walk. A highlight of the park is the Princess Margaret Rose Cave, which offers fascinating tours. If you're not up for a canoe trip or a long hike, driving along the river provides breathtaking views, with plenty of picnic spots to enjoy.

Keep in mind that this is a natural environment, so be aware of potential hazards and follow safety advice to ensure a fun and safe visit.

First discovered in 1936, the cave features stunning actively growing stalactites, stalagmites and helictites.

The cave is 17 km from Nelson by road or upstream on the Glenelg River.

The Princess Margaret Rose Cave is currently closed to the public whilst undergoing upgrades.

Further information is on the Park Victoria website.

Internationally celebrated, the Coonawarra wine region is located one hour from Nelson.

Known for its rich red soil, "Terra Rossa," Coonawarra is celebrated for producing world-class wines, from elegant reds to crisp whites and sparkling varieties.

With over 25 cellar doors along one main road, it's easy to explore.

Coonawarra offers a laid-back country experience, where you can enjoy stunning vineyards, exceptional wines, and plenty of food and wine adventures in a peaceful, beautiful setting.

Mount Gambier offers a range of stunning natural attractions.

Blue Lake/Warwar, an extinct volcanic crater, turns a brilliant blue from November to March and is perfect for a scenic walk or drive.

Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi precinct has fun activities like disc golf and water sports, ideal for families.

Umpherston Sinkhole is a unique sunken garden perfect for a picnic.

Engelbrecht Cave offers guided tours into a fascinating underground world.

Lastly, the Cave Garden/Thugi features beautiful roses and dramatic views, with a bonus waterfall after rain.

The 'Aussie Camino' was founded in 2013 and is the Australian version of the Camino de Santiago and follows the step of Mary MacKillop from Portland, Victoria to Penola, South Australia.

Leaving Portland, pilgrims follow the cliff and beach sections of the Great South West Walk until they arrive in Nelson. From Nelson they head to Port MacDonnell, Mount Gambier, Kalangadoo and finally Penola along roads, and farm tracks.

Nelson Cottage has the 'Nelson' stamp so pilgrims are able to get their passport stamped.

The founders of the 'Aussie Camino' also featured on the ABC 'Backroads' episode along with the Friends of the Great South West Walk.

Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park is a fascinating place to explore, but keep in mind that water activities like diving and snorkeling are currently off-limits. This closure is to help regenerate aquatic vegetation and fauna after a filamentous algae outbreak. However, the park is still open for visitors to enjoy its unique landscapes and natural beauty.

The park is known for its spectacular underwater features, such as The Chasm and The Cathedral, which are formed by freshwater rising to the surface and eroding the limestone. If you're visiting, make sure to check out the Lower South East Marine Park for more diving opportunities.

On land, you can take a scenic walk along the beach and see freshwater springs bubbling up on the sand. There are also trails through coastal wattle and heath, leading to a lookout with stunning views of the wetland and surrounding areas.

Entry to the park is free, and while pets aren't allowed, assistance dogs are welcome.

Ewens Ponds Conservation Park is a must-see spot for underwater adventurers in South Australia!

Known for its stunningly clear waters and vibrant underwater gardens, it's considered one of the best freshwater dive sites in Australia.

The park features three spring-fed ponds, each around 10 meters deep, with visibility up to 80 meters.

Before you go, book your snorkel slot online and pick up your gear at the nearby Allendale East General Store.

Be ready for chilly waters and keep an eye out for the rare Ewens Pygmy Perch.

It's a fantastic spot for both adults and kids to enjoy!

Port MacDonnell, known as "The Bay" and Australia's Southern Rock Lobster Capital, is a charming fishing village half an hour from Nelson.

It’s famous for its rugged coastline, lobster fishing season from October to May, and rich seafaring history showcased at the Maritime Museum.

History buffs will love visiting "Dingley Dell," the former home of poet Adam Lindsay Gordon.

For breathtaking views, Cape Northumberland offers dramatic cliffs and ocean panoramas.

Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy top-notch fishing year-round with local charters, hoping to catch anything from tuna to snapper, or even a lobster!