Heathcote: Walking Trails, Wine and Local History

Discover Heathcote through its walking trails, McIvor Creek and local wine offerings.

Walking trails with different route profiles

The McIvor Creek Trail runs through the town and is about 2 km long one way. The Pink Cliffs Loop Trail, by contrast, covers 8 km; it passes the historic cemetery and climbs to the Pink Cliffs. The distances represent different types of routes: the McIvor Creek Trail is explicitly given as a one-way distance, while the Pink Cliffs Trail is described as a loop. So when choosing a trail, consider not just the distance but also whether you plan to walk one way or take a loop.

If you’re looking for a shorter loop, the Viewing Rock Loop Trail offers a route of about 2.6 km. It leads to a large rock above Heathcote and offers impressive views; the trail is somewhat more challenging. The Liquid Amber Trail is a 1 km loop from the Visitor Centre to the liquid amber trees and a picnic area at McIvor Creek. At 1 km, it is shorter than the Viewing Rock Loop; the landmarks also differ: here, the trees and picnic area are the destinations, while there it’s a rock above the town.

The O'Keefe Rail Trail starts at Herriot Street, where parking is available. Since the starting point and parking are practical planning details, check both again before you arrive.

McIvor Creek and nature

McIvor Creek runs parallel to Heathcote’s main road. Fishing and birdwatching are popular activities there. Pink Cliffs Reserve is on the outskirts of town and is suitable for bushwalking and photography. If you plan to visit the reserve, check current parking conditions before your visit.

Shiraz, wine tastings and market

Heathcote is known for Shiraz and has more than 30 cellar doors. As the number may change, check which ones are currently operating before your trip. Heathcote Winery offers wine tastings and wine sales; check current availability before your visit. This lets you include both the town’s general association with Shiraz and the specifically named winery as distinct aspects of your plans.

The Bush Market offers regional food on the first Saturday of every month. If the market is part of your stay, check the dates before your trip so you can include a visit in your day’s plans.

Local history and architecture

Heathcote’s Old Gaol is a historic building of Victorian architecture. It offers a different way to explore the town’s history than the historic cemetery on the Pink Cliffs Loop Trail, which the route passes: one is an architectural feature of the town, the other a point along the trail.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Dixons Creek, Tabilk, Keilor East, Yarram, Echuca, Raywood, Durham Lead, Laharum

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.