Morwell accommodation from AU$109

Morwell was settled by Europeans in the mid 19th century. The region was used as farm land for miners during the gold rush era until brown coal was discovered towards the end of the century. Coal remains a major industry in the area, with 40% of Victoria’s electricity being produced in this region. Today, you can visit the mining landmarks as well as exploring the region by 4WD, hiking, bushwalking, camping, and fishing in the mountain streams.

Morwell is famous for its Centenary Rose Garden, which is listed in the World Federation of Rose Societies. Once you’ve finished strolling around the garden, you might like to walk through one of the national parks. The Morwell National Park is home to more than 40 species of native orchids, as well as many birds and other animals. Morwell features numerous art galleries and cultural centres – the most famous being the LaTrobe Regional Gallery. Art enthusiasts will be more than delighted by the masterpieces on display. On the other hand, a day spent shopping at the Mid Valley Shopping Centre and browsing the antique stores, is a day well-spent. For those who love to hit the markets, the LaTrobe Country Market is held every Sunday morning. Here, you can find new and second-hand goods, plants, crafts and affordable groceries. The nearby Traralgon Farmers Market is held on the fourth Saturday of every month, and offers a range of organic vegetables, meat, eggs, honey, cakes, and much more. Take a break from the shopping, nature walks and gallery-browsing to enjoy a meal at one of the local grills, fish and chip shops, cafes or Asian restaurants.

March is a fantastic time of year to visit Morwell, as the annual Chinese Festival and Moe Jazz Festivals are held then. Sports-lovers won’t be disappointed in Morwell. Come along and watch, or join in the Victorian Junior Tennis Championships, Water-Ski Championships, or LaTrobe Spring Racing Carnival. Or wot about placing a bet on your favourite horse in the annual Moe Cup, held each October? Getting around Morwell is easy with public trains and buses, which can also take you to some of the surrounding regions such as Moe and Traralgon. In winter, you can show your mates wot you’re made of and challenge them to a snowboard race, on the nearby snow fields of Baw Baw.

Art, culture, nature, shopping, great food and wine – wot more could you want? The only thing left to do is to choose from our Morwell accommodation below, and enjoy all that this unique region has to offer. Don’t forget to check out our cheap flights to Melbourne too.

Image credit Speedemon08gt