Summary

Step into a hidden oasis where natural landscapes and waterways complement a fine winemaking heritage. Stroll along 6km of beautiful trails and boardwalks through rich river flats and past billabongs.

Description

Established in 1860, Tahbilk is one of Australia's most beautiful and historic wineries. Owned by the Purbrick family for five generations, Tahbilk is located in the Nagambie Lakes region of central Victoria. It is an easy day trip 120km north of Melbourne (90 minutes) and close to regional centres such as Shepparton (40 minutes) and Bendigo (60 minutes).

This is one of the nation's premium viticultural areas. Fine wine and food are certainly great reasons for visiting Tahbilk. However, you will also step into a significant wetland, where the natural landscapes and waterways blend to complement the rich winemaking heritage. The property comprises some 1,214 hectares of river flats with an 11km frontage to the Goulburn River and 8km of permanent backwaters and creeks.

The name Tahbilk originates from the location, which local aboriginal people first referred to as "tabilk-tabilk", meaning "place of many waterholes". Originally spelled Tabilk, the 'h' was added later.

In 1995 the first steps were taken to regenerate the waterway areas. This complex web of billabongs consists of many backwaters and creeks. Additional understory vegetation was planted to provide habitat necessary to attract greater numbers of native birds and animals. Prior to opening in 2005, these efforts were complemented by the nature walking paths, timber boardwalks, docking points for the Eco Trails boats and two bird hides. An ongoing works program continues to maintain and enhance this landscape as an important conservation area.

These deep wetlands are now the site of the Tahbilk Eco Trails. Start your walk by heading across the historic Long Bridge. The Long Bridge was built from timber hewn on the Estate to replace a ford on the site soon after Goulburn Weir was completed in 1889. Following floods in 1954, the bridge was repaired and reduced to single lane. In 1996 it was completely rebuilt, again with timber cut and milled on the property. Stroll across a range of beautiful paths and boardwalks along the 6km circuit.

Note: a gold coin donation is requested at the entrance. Make one of the best gold coin investments you ever will.

Amenities
Restaurant, car parking, toilets, informative signage, seating, waterway cruises, bird hides, adjacent historic winery.

• You must complete the Visitors Register at Tahbilk Restaurant before entering or leaving. When the Restaurant is closed, please do so at the Cellar Door.
• Enclosed footwear MUST be worn, carry water, wear a hat and sunscreen.
• You must stay on designated pathways.
• Wheel chair access is challenging due to rough surfaces.
• All rubbish is to be taken away with you.
• Smoking, alcohol and DOGS ARE NOT PERMITTED
• The Eco Trails are closed on days of total fire ban.

Don’t forget Tahbilk is not the only great winery in the area. There are also Mitchelton, Strathbogie Ranges wineries and Fowles. Also, Tahbilk is only a stone throw from Heathcote or Rutherglen.

5703 Views

Points of Interest

1. Entry point

Admission to the wonderful Tahbilk Eco Trails requires registration at the Tahbilk Restaurant or Cellar Door and a gold coin donation.

2. Eco Cruises

To view the wetlands from the water or be dropped off or collected along the way, the Tahbilk Eco Cruise boat can take bookings of up to 30 people.

3. The long bridge

Originally the site of a ford, then bridged with timber cut and milled on site, this crossing begins access to the Eco Trails.

4. Short walk option

For those with less capacity for longer walks of up to 6km, the option of a 700m waterside loop is immediately available.

5. Straight to the water's edge

A boardwalk takes you across lily padded mud flats to a waterside track.

6. Comprehensive interpretive signage

Signs throughout the Eco Trails provide an interesting historical and environmental commentary as you go.

7. Summer water lilies

Every season has its own flora to show off. In summer, the water lilies put on an extraordinary display.

8. Gorgeous vistas

The waterways provide enticing scenery that keeps you hungry for more.

9. Billabongs and backwaters

The sound of frogs, insects and bird calls follow you throughout the walk. As you experience the extent of the wetland network you appreciate just how fertile a habitat it is.

10. Bird Hide

This is the first of two bird hides. Good for birdwatching, it is also a good place for a bit of a rest and some quiet reflection.

11. Pelican Point

Pelicans are regular visitors to the Tahbilk wetlands. They are often to be found resting opposite this narrow promontory.

12. Abundant birdlife

Whether you think you are a birdwatcher or not, you can't help but be taken with the variety to observe.

13. Tabilk Tabilk bird hide

There are two well situated bird hides along the trail. Chalk boards inside each give visitors a chance to share their observations.

14. An easily navigable trail

The trail itself is wide enough for a few abreast, kept clear of debris and well maintained. Directional signs are present at all way points.

15. Landing Station 4

This is the furtherest of the 4 landing stations at which the Eco Cruise boat stops before returning to the Tahbilk Restaurant dock.

Features

Picnic spot

Drinking water available

Seating available

Public toilets

Pram friendly

Historical interest

Local treasures

Art and culture

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river