Discover the Natural Wonders of The Lakes National Park
Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems of The Lakes National Park in Victoria, Australia, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Lakes National Park, nestled in Victoria, Australia, is a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its diverse ecosystems, stunning lakes, and abundant wildlife, this national park offers a unique escape for tourists looking to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the serene landscapes, The Lakes National Park promises a memorable experience for everyone.
A brief summary to The Lakes National Park
- Lake Victoria Track, Loch Sport, Victoria, 3851, AU
- +61131963
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings and stunning light for photography.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures.
- Keep an eye out for trail markers to ensure you stay on designated paths while hiking or biking.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Sale, head south on the Princes Highway (A1) towards Traralgon. Continue on the A1 for about 40 kilometers, then take the exit toward Maffra. Follow Maffra Road until you reach Maffra, then turn right onto the Maffra-Sale Road (B400). Continue on this road until you reach the roundabout, and take the second exit onto the Loch Sport Road. Follow this road for approximately 30 kilometers, which will take you directly to Loch Sport. Once in Loch Sport, follow Lake Victoria Track to reach The Lakes National Park entrance. The drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Public Transportation
To reach The Lakes National Park using public transportation, start by taking a V/Line train from Melbourne to Sale. The train ride takes about 2.5 hours. Once in Sale, transfer to a bus service that goes to Loch Sport. Check the local bus schedule for departures as they may not run frequently. Upon reaching Loch Sport, you can either walk or take a taxi to the park entrance at Lake Victoria Track. Be prepared for a total travel time of approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on connections.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route after arriving in Sale, consider using a taxi or rideshare service from Sale to Loch Sport. This option is more expensive but can save you time. The ride is approximately 40 kilometers and typically costs between AUD 100 to AUD 150, depending on the service and traffic conditions.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, cycling from Sale to The Lakes National Park is possible. You can follow the Maffra-Sale Road and Loch Sport Road, which are scenic but may have traffic. Ensure you have appropriate cycling gear and plan for a ride of about 40 kilometers, which could take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Note that some sections may not have dedicated bike lanes, so caution is advised.
Discover more about The Lakes National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gippsland Lakes Escapes Holiday Accommodation - Paynesville
4.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Gippsland Lakes Escapes in Paynesville, where comfort meets nature for an unforgettable vacation getaway.
Fraser Island Retreat
21.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and comfort of Fraser Island Retreat, a self-catering accommodation in Nyerimilang, Victoria, perfect for your next getaway.
Lonsdale Eco Cruise
25.3 km
Discover the breathtaking waterways and wildlife of Lakes Entrance with Lonsdale Eco Cruise, an eco-friendly adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Sale Botanic Gardens
58.1 km
Explore the Sale Botanic Gardens, a serene oasis in Victoria, showcasing diverse plant life and tranquil landscapes perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
Connors Hill lookout
70.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Connors Hill Lookout, a must-visit destination along the Great Alpine Road in Victoria.
Ned Stringer Memorial
96.0 km
Discover the Ned Stringer Memorial in Toongabbie, Victoria, where local history and cultural heritage come alive amidst serene landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Raymond Island Gippsland Lakes Reserve
3.8 km
Explore the enchanting Raymond Island in Gippsland Lakes Reserve, a perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters.
Paynesville Beach
4.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Paynesville Beach, a stunning seaside escape in Victoria, renowned for its pristine sands and vibrant wildlife.
Koala Trail
4.1 km
Explore the Koala Trail in Paynesville, where nature meets wildlife and unforgettable encounters await in a serene atmosphere.
Gippsland Lakes
7.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Gippsland Lakes in Victoria, Australia - a natural paradise for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Jetty
11.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Jetty in Eagle Point, a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking tranquility and stunning views.
100 Steps
13.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of 100 Steps in Metung, a hidden gem in Victoria, Australia, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Metung Hot Springs
13.4 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Metung Hot Springs, where natural thermal baths meet stunning views in Victoria's picturesque countryside.
Metung Park (Shaving point)
14.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Metung Park, a picturesque haven in Victoria, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and stunning waterfront views.
Chinaman's Creek
15.5 km
Explore Chinaman's Creek in Metung, VIC – a serene haven for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful getaway amidst stunning landscapes.
East Gippsland Historical Society
15.6 km
Explore East Gippsland's heritage at the East Gippsland Historical Society, where fascinating stories and artifacts come alive.
Howitt Park
15.7 km
Explore Howitt Park in East Bairnsdale, a serene green space with playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and exciting outdoor activities for the whole family.
Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place
15.8 km
Explore the rich Aboriginal heritage and vibrant culture at Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale, Victoria.
Bataluk Cultural Trail
15.8 km
Discover the Bataluk Cultural Trail, where Aboriginal heritage meets stunning natural beauty in Victoria's captivating landscapes.
Mitchell River Walk
16.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Mitchell River Walk in Bairnsdale, a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and scenic beauty for every outdoor enthusiast.
Nyerimilang Heritage Park
20.8 km
Explore Nyerimilang Heritage Park, where scenic beauty meets rich Australian history, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Essential places to dine
SARDINE dining
4.1 km
Discover exquisite Australian cuisine at SARDINE dining in Paynesville, where fresh local ingredients meet stunning waterfront views.
Pier 70 Bar & Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Pier 70 Bar & Restaurant in Paynesville - where stunning waterfront views meet delectable local cuisine.
Cafe Chez Joe
14.2 km
Discover Café Chez Joe in Metung – where fresh local ingredients meet cozy ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Old Grain Store
15.8 km
Discover The Old Grain Store in Bairnsdale: A charming restaurant specializing in locally sourced breakfasts and dinners amidst rustic decor.
The Stables Cafe Est 1889
16.0 km
Experience the charm of The Stables Cafe in Bairnsdale—where history meets delicious cuisine and local artistry.
Wyanga Park Winery
26.4 km
Discover exquisite wines and authentic Mexican cuisine at Wyanga Park Winery in Lakes Entrance - a perfect getaway for relaxation and celebration.
Lake Tyers Beach Tavern
34.5 km
Experience great food, stunning views, and vibrant live music at Lake Tyers Beach Tavern—your ultimate beachside retreat in Victoria.
Badger & Hare
55.4 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Badger & Hare Cafe in Stratford - where delicious breakfasts meet exceptional coffee.
A Taste of Avon
55.4 km
Discover A Taste of Avon in Stratford - where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
Gippsland Palace Asian Restaurant
59.1 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Gippsland Palace Asian Restaurant in Sale – where every dish tells a story of tradition.
Tinamba Hotel
72.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Tinamba Hotel – where great food meets exceptional service in Victoria's picturesque landscape.
Carrajung Estate
93.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at Carrajung Estate - where fine dining meets breathtaking vineyard views in the heart of Victoria.
High Country Cafe
95.6 km
Discover delicious take-away options at High Country Cafe in Omeo – your perfect stop for fish and chips, pizza, and more!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Metung Village Store
14.3 km
Explore the Metung Village Store: your one-stop-shop for local products, fresh produce, and a taste of the vibrant Metung community.
Seven Sundays Bairnsdale
16.0 km
Explore Seven Sundays Bairnsdale for unique fashion accessories that enhance your style and reflect your individuality while visiting Victoria.
Gippsland Grain Stores
16.1 km
Explore Gippsland Grain Stores, where quality animal feed meets local charm and agricultural insights in Bairnsdale, Victoria.
Nicholson River Soaps
16.1 km
Discover the essence of artisanal soap making at Nicholson River Soaps, a charming shop in Bairnsdale offering handcrafted personal care products.
Eclectic Wisp
16.1 km
Explore Eclectic Wisp in Bairnsdale, a captivating antique store brimming with unique treasures and vintage finds that tell a story.
Lakes Entrance Shopping Centre
25.6 km
Experience a diverse shopping adventure at Lakes Entrance Shopping Centre, offering everything from fashion to local delicacies in a vibrant setting.
Purpose in The Hub
26.2 km
Explore Purpose in The Hub - your one-stop destination in Lakes Entrance for unique clothing, books, jewelry, and delightful novelties.
frolic LIFESTYLE BY THE SEA
26.2 km
Explore Frolic Lifestyle by the Sea in Lakes Entrance for stylish beachwear and women's clothing that embody the spirit of coastal living.
Queen of All Things
59.0 km
Explore the charm of local craftsmanship at the Queen of All Things, a unique gift shop in Sale, Victoria, offering handcrafted treasures and memorable souvenirs.
Denim & White Boutique
59.1 km
Explore the essence of Australian fashion at Denim & White Boutique, Sale's stylish clothing destination with unique selections.
Target Sale
59.2 km
Discover unbeatable deals and an extensive selection at Target Sale, the ultimate shopping destination in Sale, Victoria.
Gippsland Centre
59.3 km
Explore Sale's vibrant shopping scene at Gippsland Centre, where diverse retail and dining options meet family-friendly activities.
Kaisercraft Sale
59.3 km
Explore Kaisercraft Sale for unique gifts and craft supplies that celebrate Australian creativity, perfect for souvenirs and special occasions.
Ozmosis Sale Plaza
59.3 km
Explore Ozmosis Sale Plaza in Sale, Victoria - a vibrant shopping destination filled with trendy clothing stores and delightful dining options.
I Home And Gifts
59.3 km
Discover unique gifts that reflect the charm of Sale at I Home And Gifts, your go-to treasure trove in Victoria.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sardine CANTINA
4.1 km
Discover the enchanting Sardine CANTINA, a wine bar in Paynesville offering exquisite local wines and gourmet dishes with stunning waterfront views.
The Metung Hotel
14.3 km
Discover the charm of The Metung Hotel, where delicious cuisine meets stunning waterfront views in Victoria's scenic coastal town.
Northern Ground Deli & Wine Bar
16.1 km
Experience the best of local gourmet cuisine and wines at Northern Ground Deli & Wine Bar in Bairnsdale, Victoria, where every bite tells a story.
The Wy Yung Pub
18.4 km
Experience the heart of Australian hospitality at The Wy Yung Pub, where delicious food and friendly locals await in a cozy atmosphere.
Red Bluff Brewers
29.9 km
Explore the unique flavors of handcrafted beers at Red Bluff Brewers, a cozy pub in Lake Bunga, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.
The Gippsland Hotel
58.9 km
Experience the essence of Australian pub culture at The Gippsland Hotel in Sale, Victoria, where good food and local brews meet a warm atmosphere.
Jack Ryans Irish Bar
59.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Irish flavors at Jack Ryan's Irish Bar in Sale, Victoria – a must-visit for every tourist!
The Gippy Nook
59.1 km
Discover the charm of The Gippy Nook, a vibrant cocktail bar and event venue in Sale, Victoria, perfect for social gatherings and celebrations.
Woodside Beach Hotel
96.8 km
Discover the delightful Woodside Beach Hotel, a perfect blend of great food, drinks, and stunning coastal views in Victoria.
