Discover reminders of Heathcote’s golden history among tranquil bush settings. Enjoy a walk, a bike ride or a drive and simply relax with a picnic while taking in the panoramic views. The natural highlights are many in this picturesque region.
Pink Cliffs Reserve
This interesting and colourful phenomenon was brought to light by early gold-mining activities. Sluicing work was carried on until the early 1880s and it was in this period that work in the Pink Cliffs area brought to light these colourful “hills”. Walking tracks offer a pleasant and interesting stroll, spotting birds and wildflowers.
Valley of Liquidambers
Close to the centre of town and adjacent to the McIvor Creek and caravan park, you’ll find this valley area to be a great spot for a picnic. It is superbly colourful in autumn. Take a leisurely stroll across the swinging bridge back into the main street.
Viewing Rock
From here you can view the township of Heathcote. Take a walkfrom the Powder Magazine up the incline through the forest to the rock for a great view of the town and surrounding area.
Devil's Cave
A slight deviation close to the top of Viewing Rock will bring the traveller to Devil’s Cave where First Nations and, later, gold miners sheltered. This is a 1½ hour return easy to moderate climbing walk.
Dargile Reserve
A tranquil camping ground with a wood fired BBQ in the rotunda and a composting toilet. Good for wildflowers, look out for the stand of local grass trees and ironbarks that were once prolific in the area. Rodneys Track and the Mt Ida Ridge Walk are amongst the many tracks here.
McIvor Creek
This pristine creek runs parallel to the the main street in Heathcote. During his 1836 expedition, Major Mitchell named McIvor Creek after a member of his party. Fishing and birdwatching are both popular.
To explore these amazing sites, contact the Heathcote Visitor Centre for more information.