Aradale Lunatic Asylum: A Journey into the Past
Explore the haunted history of Aradale Lunatic Asylum in Ararat, Victoria. Guided ghost tours reveal chilling stories and paranormal mysteries.
Aradale Lunatic Asylum, located in Ararat, Victoria, is a sprawling complex with a dark history. Operating for over 130 years, it housed thousands of patients and is now a popular destination for ghost tours, offering a glimpse into the lives and treatments of those who resided within its walls.
A brief summary to Aradale Ghost Tours, Ararat Lunatic Asylum
- 13 Heath St, Ararat, Victoria, 3377, AU
- +611300856668
- Visit website
- Friday 6 pm-11:55 pm
- Saturday 6 pm-11:55 pm
Local tips
- Book your ghost tour in advance, as they are popular and often sell out, especially on weekends.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking through the large complex.
- Bring a flashlight, as some areas of the asylum are dimly lit, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
- Dress warmly, as the asylum can be cold, especially during the evening tours.
- Be respectful of the site and its history; remember that it was once a place of suffering for many people.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the centre of Ararat, walking to Aradale Lunatic Asylum takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Head east on Barkly Street (the main street) towards High Street. Turn left onto High Street and continue north. High Street eventually becomes Heath Street. Aradale is located at 13 Heath Street. The walk is straightforward, but be mindful of the distance. No costs are involved.
-
Public Transport
While there isn't a direct bus route to Aradale, you can take a local taxi from the Ararat train station or the town center. The taxi ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. A typical taxi fare from the Ararat train station to Aradale costs around $15-$25 AUD. Check local taxi services for current rates.
-
Driving
Driving to Aradale Lunatic Asylum is straightforward. From the Western Highway (A8), take the Ararat exit and follow the signs to the town center. Once in Ararat, head north on High Street, which turns into Heath Street. Continue on Heath Street until you reach number 13. Parking is available on-site, and it is free. There are no tolls on this route.
Discover more about Aradale Ghost Tours, Ararat Lunatic Asylum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Montara Wines
4.3 km
Discover Montara Wines in Ararat, where exquisite wines and stunning vineyard views create an unforgettable experience in Victoria's wine country.
Grampians Helicopters
30.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Grampians National Park from the sky with Grampians Helicopters, an unforgettable aerial adventure awaits.
Mount William
31.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount William, a scenic gem in the Grampians National Park with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Pomonal Estate
32.0 km
Explore the enchanting Pomonal Estate, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking views in Victoria's pristine wine country.
Mount William Station
32.7 km
Experience the ultimate blend of luxury and nature at Mount William Station, the perfect retreat in Victoria, Australia.
Mount Direction
34.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Mount Direction, a stunning mountain peak in Victoria, Australia, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Nook On The Hill
37.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Nook On The Hill, a cozy bed and breakfast in Halls Gap, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Grampians National Park.
Grampians Pioneer Cottages
37.6 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Grampians Pioneer Cottages, your perfect retreat in Halls Gap, Victoria, surrounded by stunning landscapes and adventure.
Grampians Getaway
38.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Grampians Getaway, a perfect self-catering retreat in Australia's stunning Grampians National Park for nature lovers.
Fallen Giants Vineyard
38.4 km
Experience the beauty and flavor of Victoria's wine region at Fallen Giants Vineyard, where breathtaking views meet exquisite wines.
DULC
40.1 km
Discover the beauty of Halls Gap at DULC, a self-catering accommodation perfect for adventure and relaxation in the stunning Grampians region.
Grampians Tourism
40.2 km
Explore the stunning Grampians region with Grampians Tourism, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in nature and culture.
Breeze Holiday Parks - Grampians
40.7 km
Discover the natural beauty and adventure at Breeze Holiday Parks - Grampians, your gateway to the stunning Grampians National Park.
Grampians View Cottages & Units
40.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Grampians at Grampians View Cottages & Units, a perfect self-catering retreat for nature lovers and adventurers.
The A-Frame
40.9 km
Discover The A-Frame, your cozy self-catering accommodation in Halls Gap, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Grampians National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Langi Morgala Museum
2.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of rural Australia at Langi Morgala Museum, a must-visit destination in Ararat, Victoria.
J Ward Ghost Tour - Lantern Ghost Tours
2.4 km
Explore the haunted corridors of J Ward, where history and ghostly legends intertwine in a captivating tour of Ararat's iconic asylum.
J Ward Museum
2.5 km
Discover the J Ward Museum in Ararat, Victoria, where history and human experience intertwine in a unique exploration of mental health care.
Alexandra Gardens Park
2.6 km
A historic and scenic park in Ararat, Victoria, offering a tranquil escape with gardens, a lake, and recreational facilities.
Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre
2.9 km
Discover the rich history of Chinese miners in Ararat and their contribution to Australia's gold rush era at this interactive heritage centre.
One Tree Hill Lookout
6.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas at One Tree Hill Lookout, a scenic gem in Victoria's Grampians, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Langi Ghiran Hidden Lagoon
13.2 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Langi Ghiran Hidden Lagoon, a serene oasis in Victoria perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Seppelt Cellar Door
16.2 km
Experience the rich heritage and exquisite wines at Seppelt Cellar Door in Great Western, Victoria – a must-visit winery for every traveler.
Mount Langi Ghiran Vineyard
17.0 km
Discover award-winning cool-climate wines amidst the stunning beauty of the Grampians at Mount Langi Ghiran Vineyard in Bayindeen, Victoria.
Bunjil's Shelter
25.2 km
Discover the enchanting Bunjil's Shelter, an Aboriginal historical landmark in Victoria, showcasing breathtaking rock art and stunning views of Gariwerd.
Sister rocks
25.4 km
Explore the stunning Sister Rocks near Stawell in Victoria, a captivating fusion of nature and artistry awaiting your discovery.
Mount Buangor State Park
26.2 km
Discover Victoria's natural beauty at Mount Buangor State Park: hiking trails, waterfalls, camping, and panoramic views await in this diverse landscape.
Big Hill Lookout
29.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views of the Grampians at Big Hill Lookout, a scenic paradise in Stawell, Victoria, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Central Park
29.4 km
Home to the historic Stawell Gift, Central Park is a vibrant sports and recreation hub in the heart of Stawell, Victoria.
Deep Lead Flora and Fauna Reserve
34.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Deep Lead Flora and Fauna Reserve, a must-visit nature preserve in Victoria, Australia.
Essential places to dine
Ararat Roadhouse
3.7 km
Discover delicious meals at Ararat Roadhouse - your perfect pit stop on the journey through Victoria's scenic landscapes.
Chally's Bar and Bistro
4.4 km
Discover the flavors of Ararat at Chally's Bar and Bistro - where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Grampians Estate
14.9 km
Experience exquisite wines and stunning landscapes at Grampians Estate Winery in Victoria's picturesque wine country.
Salingers
16.9 km
Discover Salingers: A delightful cafe in Great Western serving scrumptious breakfasts and quality coffee amidst a warm atmosphere.
Pachamama Cafe
29.3 km
Discover Pachamama Cafe in Stawell: A cozy spot offering fresh local cuisine and exceptional coffee for travelers seeking authentic Australian flavors.
Diamond House Heritage Restaurant and Motor Inn
29.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of history and cuisine at Diamond House Heritage Restaurant & Motor Inn in Stawell.
WILD MISTY MOUNTAIN
29.6 km
Discover exquisite dining at Wild Misty Mountain, where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking views in Victoria's picturesque landscape.
Barney's Bar & Bistro
32.8 km
Savor local flavors at Barney's Bar & Bistro in Pomonal - where delightful cuisine meets stunning Australian landscapes.
The Views
39.8 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at The Views in Halls Gap, where culinary excellence meets nature's beauty.
The Brambuk Cafe & Eatery
40.2 km
Discover delightful dining at The Brambuk Cafe & Eatery in Halls Gap – where exceptional coffee meets mouthwatering meals amidst nature's beauty.
Grampians Chalets
40.9 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Grampians Chalets in Halls Gap—your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Halls Gap Hotel Restaurant
41.0 km
Discover exquisite dining at Halls Gap Hotel Restaurant – where local flavors meet stunning views in Victoria's beautiful Grampians region.
Spirit of Punjab
41.4 km
Savor authentic Indian cuisine at Spirit of Punjab in Halls Gap - a culinary journey through India's vibrant flavors awaits.
Darcy's Stonegrill Licensed Restaurant
41.5 km
Savor unique stone-grilled dishes in Halls Gap at Darcy's Stonegrill Licensed Restaurant—where every meal is an interactive experience.
Kookaburra Hotel
41.7 km
Discover Kookaburra Hotel in Halls Gap: A perfect blend of great food, stunning views, and local Australian charm awaits you.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lyal Eales Stores
2.5 km
Explore Lyal Eales Stores in Ararat for unique gifts, camping essentials, and local treasures that define the spirit of Victoria.
Something Beautiful
2.5 km
Explore Something Beautiful in Ararat - Your go-to gift shop for unique local crafts and memorable souvenirs.
We're Knot Crazy
2.5 km
Explore We're Knot Crazy in Ararat for unique gifts and handmade treasures that embody the spirit of local craftsmanship.
Grow Master Garden Centre
3.4 km
Discover a lush sanctuary at Grow Master Garden Centre in Ararat, where plant lovers and gardening experts unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
Great Western General Store
16.9 km
Explore Great Western General Store: A local gem for coffee, fish and chips, and unique finds in Victoria's Great Western.
Moyston General Store
17.2 km
Discover the charm of Moyston General Store, a café and general store blending local flavors with a warm atmosphere along your journey through Victoria.
Grampians Mobility
28.9 km
Discover the beauty of the Grampians with accessible mobility solutions at Grampians Mobility, your trusted supplier for wheelchairs and disability equipment.
Inika Indulge
29.3 km
Explore Inika Indulge, a boutique gem in Stawell, Victoria, where unique treasures and local craftsmanship await every visitor.
Stawell Newsagency-Largest Range of Ink Cartridges
29.3 km
Discover Stawell Newsagency, the vibrant gift shop offering a wide range of art supplies, stationery, toys, and unique local souvenirs in Victoria, Australia.
INSPIRED BY 3
29.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of metaphysics at Inspired By 3, Stawell's premier metaphysical supply store, offering crystals, tarot cards, and more.
Stawell Craft Shop
29.3 km
Explore the heart of Stawell's creativity at the Craft Shop, where unique, handmade gifts await every traveler.
Linda's Cottage Country
29.3 km
Experience the essence of the Grampians at Linda's Cottage Country - a charming homewares store filled with unique treasures.
That One Place
29.3 km
Explore the charm of Stawell, Victoria at That One Place, your go-to gift shop for unique treasures and local crafts.
Sneek A Peek
29.4 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Sneek A Peek, Stawell's charming clothing store, offering local styles and memorable souvenirs.
Grampians Store Pomonal
32.4 km
Discover Grampians Store Pomonal, your essential stop for supplies and local produce while exploring the stunning landscapes of Victoria's Grampians National Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Great Western Hotel
16.9 km
Discover the Great Western Hotel, a charming bar and hotel in Victoria, perfect for unwinding with local drinks and hearty meals.
Maroona Hotel
20.0 km
Experience the welcoming atmosphere of Maroona Hotel, a charming bar in Victoria offering delicious meals and a great selection of drinks in a cozy setting.
Grampians Ale Works
29.4 km
Experience the essence of craft brewing at Grampians Ale Works, a premier brewpub in Stawell, Victoria, offering locally crafted beers and a warm atmosphere.
Gift Hotel
29.5 km
Discover the charming Gift Hotel in Stawell, where comfort meets local hospitality in the heart of Victoria's scenic landscapes.
Grampians Motel
39.8 km
Discover comfort and nature at Grampians Motel, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Grampians National Park.
D'Altons Studios
41.5 km
Discover the charm and comfort of D'Altons Studios, the perfect self-catering retreat in Halls Gap, Victoria, for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Country Plaza Halls Gap
41.6 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Country Plaza Halls Gap, your perfect base for exploring the stunning Grampians National Park.
The Peaks Halls Gap
41.7 km
Experience tranquil stays at The Peaks Halls Gap, your gateway to the stunning Grampians National Park and its breathtaking landscapes.
The Grand Halls Gap
41.8 km
Discover tranquility at The Grand Halls Gap, your ideal motel retreat near the breathtaking Grampians National Park in Victoria, Australia.
Gariwerd Motel
41.9 km
Experience the natural beauty of the Grampians from the comfort of Gariwerd Motel, offering cozy accommodations and scenic views.
Halls Gap, The Grampians, Victoria
42.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Halls Gap, the gateway to adventure in the stunning Grampians National Park.
Lake Bolac Hotel & Brewery
49.4 km
Discover Lake Bolac Hotel & Brewery: A perfect blend of local brews, hearty meals, and cozy accommodations in Victoria's stunning landscape.
THE WANDER INN WARTOOK VALLEY
61.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and serenity of The Wander Inn Wartook Valley, a premier wedding venue and self-catering accommodation in the Grampians.
Blue Bell Hotel
82.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Blue Bell Hotel, a beloved pub in Wendouree, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a taste of local culture.
North Britain Hotel
85.0 km
Explore the heart of Soldiers Hill at the North Britain Hotel, a charming pub offering delightful food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.