Car Rental Wangaratta Downtown

Venture to welcoming Wangaratta for a rural treat, just three-hours north-east of Melbourne. Become familiar with its unique heritage, gourmet food scene, nearby wineries, premier events, and quaint neighbouring villages. Perhaps you’re keen to dig into its Gold Rush past, attend the renowned Jazz and Blues Festival, or explore Victoria’s epically picturesque High Country. You’re also in the midst of Ned Kelly territory, Australia’s infamous bushranger and outlaw. Old haunts of the Kelly gang include Glenrowan, Greta and Benalla, all just a few minutes down the road.

A short drive east in your rental car will introduce you to the charms of historic Beechworth. This enchanting town receives a lot of attention in the autumn, when the leaves burst into an array of glorious hues. Arrive for the High Country Harvest Festival and mingle with wine-makers, food producers, and savour the party atmosphere. Learn the secrets of beekeeping and sample the produce at Beechworth Honey. Like Wangaratta, Beechworth is also a former gold rush settlement – arguably the most finely preserved of its era – home to the gaol where Ned Kelly was held captive, and the courthouse that trialled Australia’s first woman ever hanged. Swot up on your history at Beechworth’s Historic Precinct, and take the Gold Rush or Ned Kelly Walking Tours. The self-guided Wangaratta Heritage Trail will also add to the picture, along with visits to Wangaratta Historical Museum and the Vine Cellar Historical Museum.

While you’re in town, spend time in the thriving Arts and Culture Precinct in the heart of Wangaratta. Several galleries and the Performing Arts and Convention Centre create a showcase of regional artists, and a stage for the district’s best entertainment. The Wangaratta Textile Award, the only one of its kind in Australia, is a drawcard for the nation’s top textile makers and interstate visitors. Look for handmade goods at the Self Made Market, or wander through the specialty shops along the Reid, Ford and Ovens Street shopping strips. When it’s time to revive your energy levels, stop for lunch or coffee at one of the many wonderful cafes, restaurants and eateries scattered around Wangaratta. For stellar Italian, in one of Wangaratta’s early art deco’s buildings, Rinaldo’s Casa Cucina comes recommended. This is one town that will leave you satiated with its excellent offerings.

Take the gourmet trail – from Wangaratta to beyond – in your hire car

Follow your taste buds beyond Wangaratta to the epicurean epicentres of the King Valley Wine Region and Milawa, Australia’s first official Gourmet Region. Indulge in the finer things of life, less than 20-kilometres from Wangaratta. The best of food, wine and craft await you. Think clean, abundant and green as you discover the culinary enclave of Oxley, Milawa, Tarrawingee, Markwood and Whorouly. 

The vineyards to the south are known for their exceptional Italian varietals. Uncover top drops at the cellar doors of premium wine-makers – including Brown Brothers, one of the most popular producers in the country. Wine lovers will also want to travel the half-hour north to Rutherglen, the cream of Australia’s award-winning grapes grow in the soils here. Naturally, you’ll want to bring a friend who’s abstaining, as you embark on the ultimate tour of the region!

Say hello to High Country in your hire car

Imagine the perfect getaway destination that allows you to take it easy as you like it, or get active in the great outdoors. Wangaratta promises alpine adventures at nearby Mount Buffalo, while the snowfields and resorts of Mount Stirling and Mount Buller are just a little further afield. Whether you’re here to ski or toboggan your way through the wonderful winter season, or just to connect with nature in the highlands in greener times, there are loads of attractions and things to thrill in the High Country.

But if relaxation is what you’re after, stroll the parklands and banks of Wangaratta’s Ovens River – the perfect spot for picnics and general downtime. Wangaratta also has some hidden gems up its sleeve. Buy yourself a Miner’s Right and head down to Reedy Creek to do some panning and fossicking. The treasures haven’t dried up yet in the creek: precious stones have been found here since the gold rush era. They say Eldorado is guaranteed to yield gemstones and crystals – from sapphires, diamonds and rubies, to alluvial gold and agates. Not a bad way to end a holiday!