26 Jul 2021
Well-known by Victorians as a place to indulge their favourite watersports and go fishing for days on end, Nagambie is also the perfect spot to explore world-class wineries, get lost in mother nature and gather the family on the banks of the Goulburn River.
If you’re planning a trip to ‘Nagas’, here is a list of six things to do when you get there:
Take a River Cruise
It would be rude not to entertain the idea of exploring the rivers and lakes of the Nagambie region. Linking two of the area's most iconic cellar doors, booking a cruise on The Goulburn Explorer is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and unwind at the same time. Enjoy sunset views from the top deck of this state-of-art charter vessel and spot all kinds of wildlife along Victoria’s most scenic inland waterway. Contact the front desk at Discovery Parks - Nagambie Lakes to make a booking!
Choose Your Favourite Watersport
For those lucky enough to own their own boat, a trip to Nagambie Lakes should be an annual event. With multiple boat ramps accessible all-year-round, it’s easy to transform yourself on the water. If hiring a tinnie, a two-man kayak or even a canoe is more your thing, there are plenty of ways to do that as well. If you’re feeling fit, why not give rowing a go? The Nagambie Rowing Club at the Nagambie Regatta Centre might be the perfect place to start, and often plays host to some of Australia’s most prestigious competitions. You could even meet an Olympian!
Go Fishing
Is there anything more relaxing than casting a line out with your favourite fishing buddy? We don’t think so. Well established amongst keen anglers as a reliable spot for Golden Perch, Trout and Redfin, we recommend preparing your campfire story early, because you’re going to have some tales! Speaking of which, Go Fish Nagambie is already Australia's richest fishing competition, so why not get the lowdown from the locals and sign up? Note that a local license is required in Nagambie and these are available from the Discovery Parks - Nagambie Lakes office.
Visit a Winery
What goes with fresh fish? Wine, of course. Perhaps a Riesling, perhaps something else – the good thing about Nagambie is that there's plenty of choice, so you CAN afford to be fussy. As part of the Goulburn Valley Wine Region, Nagambie’s soils have been producing some of Australia’s best wine since Tahbilk Winery was founded here in 1860, and any tour should include this slice of history. Mitchelton Winery is also nearby and frequently plays host to food and wine festivals that are too good to be missed.
Tour a real life Horse Stud
A lot of people wouldn’t be aware that Nagambie is close to the heart of the Gouldburn Valley Stud region, the birthplace of some of Australia’s most successful racing thoroughbreds. One of them, Black Caviar, is still known as the fastest horse in the world and was foaled on nearby Gilgai Farm. After winning all 25 of her professional race starts and accumulating nearly $8 million in prizemoney for her owners, a bronze statue of the horse and her ever-present jockey Luke Nolen was erected in Nagambie High Street after she was retired in 2013. With several to choose from, Nagambie is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible animals.
Explore Botanical Gardens
Popular as a wedding destination and for those interested in the history of the region, National Trust-listed Noorilim Estate is just a few minutes north of Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes. Constructed in 1879 for the wealthy pastoralist William Irving Winter, it is surrounded by 20 acres of manicured botanical gardens, an ornamental lake and a further 75 acres of vineyards. Beautifully restored and meticulously maintained, a walk of this stately properly could be the perfect romantic interlude.