Bacchus Marsh

"As a young child I remember setting out on family holidays. The long drive through Melbourne, on to the Ballarat Road, then, excitement as we passed the African Lion Safari - I always felt this was the point our holiday began."

Now, as Melbourne's 'burbs' spread, Bacchus Marsh increasingly signifies the end of Melbourne's sprawl & the beginning of Central Victoria.

Taking the first exit from the highway, the gateway to Bacchus Marsh is the Avenue of Honour, planted in 1918 to commemorate those who served in WWI. Seemingly ancient trees, spread & join over the road as if to offer protection to all who drive under them.

For more than a century fruit & vege stalls have lined the Avenue of Honour selling locally grown produce. Before that, the hotels catered to traveling gold miners on their perilous journey between Melbourne & the goldfields.

Now, visitors will find places to picnic & shop before heading further. This is the last main shopping area before Ballarat with banks, supermarkets, hairdressers & medical services.

Visitors to Bacchus Marsh should make the Visitor Information Centre their first stop. The friendly and helpful staff will be more than happy to welcome you to this beautiful town and introduce you to the attractions that it holds; the Avenue of Honour, bush walks, aerial sightseeing, forest parks, wildflowers, eagles, national and state parks and much more.