The McIvor Creek Trail runs through Heathcote; trails to Pink Cliffs and a loop to a lookout rock offer different points of interest. There’s also Shiraz, wine tastings and a market featuring local food. When choosing a trail, consider its route and destination: some pass through town, while others form loops leading to a rock, trees or a picnic spot.

Trails by length and destination

The McIvor Creek Trail runs through Heathcote and is about 2 km one way. The Pink Cliffs Loop is 8 km long, passes the historic cemetery and climbs to Pink Cliffs. The Viewing Rock Loop is a slightly more challenging loop of about 2.6 km to a large rock above Heathcote, which offers impressive views. At 1 km, the Liquid Amber Trail is the shortest of the trails listed; it’s a loop from the Visitor Centre to the liquid amber trees and a picnic spot by McIvor Creek. Consider the distances alongside the route types: the McIvor Creek Trail is listed as a one-way route, while the other three are loops.

The O'Keefe Rail Trail starts at Herriot Street, where parking is available. If you’re heading to this starting point, check the current parking situation before you set out.

Scenery and activities

McIvor Creek runs parallel to Heathcote’s main street. Fishing and birdwatching are popular activities along the creek; there’s also a picnic spot by the stream on the Liquid Amber Trail. Pink Cliffs Reserve on the edge of town is ideal for bushwalking and photography. Check current park conditions before your visit. The creek, reserve and trails offer different ways to enjoy the outdoors, from nature-watching by the stream to bushwalking and photography on the edge of town.

Wine and local events

Heathcote is known for Shiraz and has more than 30 cellar doors. As the number may change, it’s worth checking the current selection of wineries before your trip. Heathcote Winery offers wine tastings and wine sales; check in advance whether tastings are available on the day of your visit. The Bush Market features local food on the first Saturday of each month. If you’d like to include the market in your plans, check the date in advance.

Historical connections

History features in different ways: the Pink Cliffs Loop passes the historic cemetery, while Heathcote’s Old Gaol is a historic building in the town’s Victorian architectural style. The route description therefore links a specific historic site along the way with an architectural feature of the townscape. Alongside scenery and wine, Heathcote also offers a distinctive architectural landmark.

Discover more destinations: Mount Clear, Safety Beach, Yan Yean, Bushfield, St Andrews Beach, Ballarat, Grovedale, Tuerong

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.