Elmhurst Between History and Nature

Elmhurst was first settled in 1840 and lies on the Pyrenees Highway, halfway between Avoca and Ararat. In town, local history and community life centre on the Elmhurst Mechanics Institute; nearby are the scenery and trails around Ben Nevis, as well as Mount Cole State Forest. If you’re looking for a hotel for a stay in Elmhurst, you can weigh these highlights against each other: local history and community life, or views and hiking trails in the surrounding area.

History and Community Life in Elmhurst

The Elmhurst Mechanics Institute is of local historical, aesthetic and social significance to Ararat Rural City Council. It was originally built around 1870 as the Good Templars’ Hall. The hall continues to serve as an important meeting place for the Elmhurst district community. Its architectural history and ongoing social role come together here—a distinct highlight alongside the natural attractions near Ben Nevis.

Picnic and Memorial at the Recreation Reserve

Elmhurst Recreation Reserve offers a scenic picnic area with an electric barbecue, playground, and tables and chairs. The garden area also contains a memorial to former members of the Elmhurst CWA, who maintain the area. The reserve thus combines facilities for an outdoor break with a local place of remembrance. Check the condition of the facilities before your visit, as visitor amenities can change over time.

Views and Destinations near Ben Nevis

From Elmhurst, you can access Mount Cole State Forest and Ben Nevis Lookout. From the lookout, views extend across surrounding peaks, bushland and fields. At the Ben Nevis car park, there is a picnic shelter, tables, a water tank and a toilet. These facilities may be useful when planning an outing in the area; check their condition before your visit. The summit of Ben Nevis is accessible via a gravel road. Check road conditions and summit access before driving.

Walking Trails and Routes of Different Lengths

A short, easy 200 m trail leads from the Ben Nevis car park to the lookout. For the Borella Walk, you can start either at the Ben Nevis picnic area or at Chinamans Campground; the trail can be walked one way or as a return trip. The Scenic Borella Walk runs from Chinamans Campground to Ben Nevis and is 5 km long and steep. This makes it possible to distinguish the short access trail to the lookout by length and difficulty from the longer, steep walk. The Borella Walk also celebrates the area’s diverse birdlife. Check conditions at your chosen starting point and the current state of the trails before driving.

Discover more destinations: Berriwillock, Kilmore, Korweinguboora, Gruyere, Neerim, Wycheproof, Bandiana, Netherby

For the main travel overview: Victoria.