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Visitors to Leongatha will find a range of attractions to see and do. The town is a main hub to the surrounding dairy region and includes plenty of cafes and shopping in its CBD. But be sure to stay and discover all the great things to do in Leongatha and surrounds.
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Featured article: 42 Ultimate Things to do in South Gippsland
Things to do in leongatha
1. Maison de Emily Koenders Art Gallery
Located just 10 minutes drive from Leongatha is Masion de Emily Koenders Art Gallery. Visitors will be astounded by the amazing talent of Emily, clearly evident through her intricate detail of each and every piece.
Emily’s passion for painting all types of wildlife stems from a very young age, and has earned her recognition from around the country. From animals across the globe to native species and birds inspired from her own garden, there is so much to love about what she does.
The hilltop gallery space is sophisticated, with ceiling to floor windows overlooking the rolling hills of South Gippsland all the way to Wilsons Promontory.
To keep up to date with current exhibitions you can follow the facebook page here.
Why visit: artistically talented artwork in a scenic hilltop gallery.
Location: 230 Ruby Fairbank Rd, Ruby
Opening days and times: during exhibition or by appointment only. Check the facebook page.
2. Leongatha Wetlands
If you love a surprisingly hidden gem, then the Leongatha Wetlands will tick all the boxes. It is one of the best things to do in Leongatha for families.
A haven for bird life including ducks and geese, you’ll find a short but peaceful walk that makes its way around the ponds. The area is surrounded by lush plant life and trees, creating the perfect oasis in which to spend time wandering. In fact, it is hard to believe that such a pretty attraction exists so close the towns CBD.
While all visitors enjoy the wetlands, kids in particular will certainly love feeding the birds, but keep an eye on those geese with attitude,
Why visit: A scenic and peaceful walk suited for the whole family
Location: Johnson St, Leongatha
3. McIndoe Park
McIndoe Park is one of the best Leongatha attractions for good reason. It is the meeting place of family and friends and a place where kids can spend hours in the play ground.
The parks BBQ area is well equipped under the cover of a big rotunda. There are four BBQ’s and four picnic tables which see plenty of use. The playground is complete with swings, slides, monkey bars, puzzles and more, and is fully fenced for safety. This is also public toilets located here.
On those dry and sunny days, picnics on the expansive lawn is ideal. The large overhanging trees create shaded pockets all across the park.
One of the best features of the park in the path just over the bridge that extends the length of McIndoe Park. The short trail is set among native trees and flora, making for a picturesque scene.
Why visit: a beautiful scenic park with ammenities
Location: 78 Tarraville Road, Port Albert
Opening days and times: Friday to Monday 10 am to 4 pm / Adult $8 / Kids under 16 $2 / Families $16
4. Leongatha Rail Trail
The Leongatha portion of the Great Southern Rail Trail extends to Koonwarra and Meeniyan to the south east, and Korumburra to the west.
Passing through the centre of town, participants can access the trail from various points including the old railway station or at the top of Young Street.
Bike riders particularly love the Leongatha to Koonwarra section which is only 8 km n length and usually includes a stop in the neighbouring town of Koonwarra for brunch before turning back for the journey home. The trail has some short sections of incline as it passes through farm land but the scenery well and truly makes up for any discomfort.
For those up for a longer challenge I highly recommend going all the way to Meeniyan, (some 16 km total) or cycling to Korumbura (15.8 km) in the opposite direction for the best scenic experiences.
Why visit: a safe and scenic trail for all to enjoy
Location: official starting point at Railway Station off long Street, Leongatha
5. Leongatha Art and Craft Gallery
The Leongatha Art and Craft Gallery is a joyful display of the many talents of the South Gippsland Community.
Located in the heart of town at Memorial Hall, visitor can expect to see a range of handmade items on display. These include pottery, painting, glass, photography, jewellery, woodwork, knitting and much more.
Great for unique gift hunting, the gallery is sure to impress.
Why visit: local artists showcasing their talents
Opening days and times: Tuesdays to Fridays 10 am to 4 pm & Saturdays 10 am to 1 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday
Location: Corner McCartin St & Michael Place, Leongatha
6. Mossvale Park
One of the best things to do around Leongatha is to pay a visit to Mossvale Park.
This immensely popular Botanical Park is just a 13 minute from town heading toward Mirboo North. It it definitely one of the best things to do in South Gippsland.
Home to a stunning amount of century old trees, the park is also home to festivals and loved by locals for its beauty and open space. Bring a picnic and relax on the lawns or under the shade of a nearby tree.
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit when many of the deciduous trees display their leaves of rich reds and oranges. Summer and Spring are also a gorgeous time to visit.
Facilities includes toilets, BBQ area, tables and seating, and a small childrens’ playground.
Why visit: a popular park for all visitors with plenty of space to roam
Location: 65 Mossvale Park Rd, Berrys Creek
Opening days and times: 24/7
7. Mount Worth State Park
Attention nature lovers! Located within the lush forests of the Strezlecki Ranges is a magical place of thriving fern gullys and towering mountain ash trees. With trails leading into the depth of the forest from the car park, visitors will be spellbound by the beauty of Mount Worth State Park. If you have visited the incredible Tarra Bulga National Park in the past, you will find many similarities.
Closest to the town of Warragul on the Princes Hwy, or only a 30 km trek from Leongatha.
Once you reach the car park walk over toward the rotunda to your right and you’ll find a small shlter with information boards and most importantly, paper maps you can access to take with you. There are also toilets to use in the car park area.
For a great half day out and perfect for young kids, my personal favourite trails include Maslin Mill and Giants Forest. The first trail leads out past the rotunda along Moonlight trail until you reach the mill. From here you can continue on for a short distance before hitting the link trail to your left which brings you onto the Moonlight Divide trail. Turn right and its a 1 km walk back to the car Park.
If you only have time for one trail, I suggest Giants Track. The richness of ferns is astounding and creates a wonderful canopy of beauty to pass under. You’ll also pass by the sounds of trickling creeks and bird life throughout.
Tip for your time here
The area can get muddy after rain so bring appropriate foot wear for this reason.
Why visit: a nature lovers paradise with varied walking trails
Location: Grand Ridge Road, Trida
8. Rec Reserve
The local rec reserve is a hub of all things sporty.
You’ll find the local football oval as well as the Aerodrome and netball courts here. While dogs are not allowed on the turf, you can walk them around the precinct on the grounds.
Kids will love that there is a decent skate here and also SPLASH where an indoor swimming pool is open for those to use.
On the far side of the is the entrance to the nine hole Woorayl Golf Club. Visitors are welcome to drop in for a round on the year round all weather course.
Why visit: an excellent reserve for all things sporty
Location: 52 Roughhead St, Leongatha
9. Koonwarra township
For more things to do in Leongatha, why not take the drive five minutes down the road to the tiny community of Koonwarra,
The two cafes on opposite sides of the road are both worthy stops for breakfast, lunch or just great coffee. These quaint cottage style cafes offer delightful indoor decor and even nicer gardens outside.
Ethnic Food Store: utilizing seasonal produce with a big hit of country flare, the store is fully licenced and also offers an all day breakfast on weekends.
Milly and Romeos: this is home style cooking at its absolute best. Indulge in the freshest produce or take home something from the pantry to enjoy.
Ruperts: located in the historic store keepers house you will find many interesting treasures including home wares, gifts and clothing
Why visit: the best in country style cooking
Location:Koonwarra, off the South Gippsland Hwy.
Amazing places to stay around Leongatha
Why not stay the night and explore the township of Leongatha
