Harcourt - More Than Just a Nice Drive

The area has plenty to offer, from fishing, bush walking, industrial architecture, play ground & parks, wineries, cider & apple stalls, restaurants, hotel, take away food, barbeques, lawn bowls, Aussie rules football and much more.

There are sign boards at the Heritage centre (ANA) hall to help you understand the town's history.

The drive is about 20 kilometres and will take you on the tourist road across the top of Mount Alexander where you will discover the Dog Rocks, the TV and communication towers which are among the tallest structures in Victoria, Lang's lookout which has magnificent views as far as the eye can see, the silk worm station, which provided employment for the local woman in the early 1870s. (The ruin still stands today), and Leangannook Reserve, which has fresh water, toilets and picnic, tables. All are worth stopping and stretching the legs and taking in some mountain air. The more adventures may plan a bush walk or a mountain bike ride on the many trails. You will also pass a number of granite quarries which have been a large part of the local economy over the years. Harcourt granite is widely used through Australia for soldier memorials, headstones and buildings of historical note. At the lower entrance to the park (weather permitting) you will discover a unique oak forest which was established by the tanning industry for the acorns. There are also abandoned quarry sites at the end of some of the tracks which are very interesting. The quarries are not far but very steep. It's a hard walk or a four wheel drive is a must.

Harcourt has been known for its apple and pear industry for over a century and as you drive around you will notice large shade structures over the orchards. This is hail netting. You can also see large wind machines to lower the effect of frost on the fruit trees. These are new innovations in the fruit industry to help maintain a competitive edge.

Fishing: After catching fish at the well stocked Barkers Creek Reservoir you may take a leisurely walk along the bank or have a picnic lunch under the trees.

Gold was first discovered on the Mount Alexander diggings at Barkers Creek and the ruin of Doctor Barker's house still stands today.

On exploring the railway line you will discover the bridges that were built in the 1860s by English engineers. If you look at the top of the arch you will notice a tapered key stone which locks all the other stones in place and allows the bridge to carry a great weight. The north bridges are a great place for train spotting as they run on the hour. Standing on the bridge is a great thrill for the kids as the train speeds under you. In summer the pool is a great place to cool off. At the bowling club you can see the local legends in action, or just drop in and have a roll or a beer from 5 till 7.30 pm on Fridays. In winter, Aussie rules football is played at the oval every second Saturday.

Heritage centre and museum (ANA hall) in the town centre is a must when open and if you need any more information, they will be very helpful.

The town centre has a park, barbeques, and all weather van and mobile home parking, opposite the fire brigade station and close to the pool. The centre has all services you may require.

There are many different private attractions on your tour and we have tried to highlight all the points of interest on the map on the other side. We thank you for taking the time to visit and please call again.

Harcourt more than just a nice drive.