Hanging Rock Reserve, Woodend: Address, Phone Number, Hanging Rock Reserve Reviews: 4.5/5
Hanging Rock Reserve
Hanging Rock Reserve
4.5
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Restaurants
2 within 5 kms
Attractions
26 within 10 kms
A Market at Hanging Rock
9
0.3 kmFlea & Street Markets
Mount Macedon Memorial Cross
100
4 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
Forest Glade Gardens
74
Gardens
Mount Macedon
112
Mountains
Hanging Rock Winery
54
3.3 kmWineries & Vineyards
Woodend Children's Park
51
Parks
Mount Macedon Winery
53
Wineries & Vineyards
Camel's Hump
5
4 kmNature & Wildlife Areas • Lookouts
Sanatorium Lake
15
4.1 kmBodies of Water
Paramoor Winery
33
Wineries & Vineyards
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4.5
425 reviews
Excellent
235
Very good
147
Average
32
Poor
3
Terrible
8
TimeTraveller1972
Houston, TX82 contributions
Having never been here before (no real reason to either) the other day a friend suggested this might be a cool afternoon.
Right she was!
How do you write a review on a rocky crop , hour north of Melbourne? You kind of don't. You tell people that you stop at Woodend for a coffee and a Ruben sandwich, then head out to Hanging Rock , where you park and an easy / mid energy climb up a pathway to the summit awaits you. Once atop, (you can chose which rock is the top ) , climb around, take in the views, chat to people (weather they want to or not!) rock hop, take a breath and wander back down.
Id go again !
Right she was!
How do you write a review on a rocky crop , hour north of Melbourne? You kind of don't. You tell people that you stop at Woodend for a coffee and a Ruben sandwich, then head out to Hanging Rock , where you park and an easy / mid energy climb up a pathway to the summit awaits you. Once atop, (you can chose which rock is the top ) , climb around, take in the views, chat to people (weather they want to or not!) rock hop, take a breath and wander back down.
Id go again !
Written 4 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sue P
2 contributions
Friends
Totally disappointed! Took my 87 year old mother on an outing for the day. She uses a walker to get around. The disabled toilets were a long walk from the cafe and not easily accessible and down a steep slope not to mention have to reverse the process of up the slope. The toilets were not in a very good state.
She was not able to access the main dining in area with her walker unless she walked around the perimeter of the cafe and that was too far especially after the toilet debacle. We decided to order takeaway but there was no where to sit and wait the 25 minutes for a simple order of steak chips and aoli at an overpriced $11 for a paper bag of greasy chips. The take away area was very ‘tired’ and coffee as only available in one size.
We did not expect to do any of the walks due to my mothers mobility issues however there was nowhere we could drive around the grounds (there was a big road closure sign), to at least catch a glimpse of the rock. There was no disabled parking. The $10 per car exit fee was the last straw! I tried to ‘swipe’ my ticket as per instruction however this did not seem to do anything. Thankfully the boom gate was up and we could leave quick enough. Will not be recommending this so called attraction to any of our friends.
She was not able to access the main dining in area with her walker unless she walked around the perimeter of the cafe and that was too far especially after the toilet debacle. We decided to order takeaway but there was no where to sit and wait the 25 minutes for a simple order of steak chips and aoli at an overpriced $11 for a paper bag of greasy chips. The take away area was very ‘tired’ and coffee as only available in one size.
We did not expect to do any of the walks due to my mothers mobility issues however there was nowhere we could drive around the grounds (there was a big road closure sign), to at least catch a glimpse of the rock. There was no disabled parking. The $10 per car exit fee was the last straw! I tried to ‘swipe’ my ticket as per instruction however this did not seem to do anything. Thankfully the boom gate was up and we could leave quick enough. Will not be recommending this so called attraction to any of our friends.
Written 30 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
excess5
Australia2,364 contributions
As this had been one my very first trips in Australia I have always linked it to the new surroundings, the kangaroos in the area, the beautiful rocks and the steel steps to get there. Intriguing story for
The list girls novel but if you make it I’m the summit at closing time and dusk you will see why..
A true Australian sightseeing
The list girls novel but if you make it I’m the summit at closing time and dusk you will see why..
A true Australian sightseeing
Written 18 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Traveller
Melbourne, Australia11,353 contributions
My wife and I visited this place during our drive home from a holiday in Bendigo. We arrived at 9 am on a Tuesday morning when there was no one else around.
We walked up to the Summit (1.8 km return trip) using the stairs one way and using the ramp the other way. It was an easy and scenic walk in the pleasant autumn weather. The views of the surrounding areas at the summit are very nice.
We also walked the 1.8 km circuit of the Base Walk to enjoy the views and the physical exercise. I paid the $10 car parking fee at the machine near the cafe after I parked my car in the morning, in case it got crowded later in the morning, to avoid the risk of joining a queue.
We walked up to the Summit (1.8 km return trip) using the stairs one way and using the ramp the other way. It was an easy and scenic walk in the pleasant autumn weather. The views of the surrounding areas at the summit are very nice.
We also walked the 1.8 km circuit of the Base Walk to enjoy the views and the physical exercise. I paid the $10 car parking fee at the machine near the cafe after I parked my car in the morning, in case it got crowded later in the morning, to avoid the risk of joining a queue.
Written 15 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
H & S
Victoria, Australia118 contributions
Family
Absolutely shocking..you drive in the car park and you don't realise you get charged 10 dollars just to drive in.and this is only a car.we went to get a coffee $5 dollars for a small and I mean SMALL.We got charged 80 dollars for 4 small cakes 7 drinks.just a money makings scam.we will never be back .the toilets are disgusting
Written 15 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Njoy51
Melbourne, Australia57 contributions
Couples
Looks very neglected. Info centre had no one on duty for info and the info buttons are in need of repair. Doors from info centre to lookout were bolted shut. Lookout doesn’t face the rock anyway. Walking track signs don’t display distance or time so I had to google to decide which walk suited us.
Toilets on base walk were closed so I used the toilet near cafe. The bowls were very filthy and seemed like they hadn’t been scrubbed in weeks/months. Roads within the area seemed to be closed off to cars for no specific reason that I could see. Not sure what they do with the $10 entry fee per car charge. Cafe doesn’t face the rock so don’t expect a Hanging Rock view. We had a fabulous walk then went elsewhere to eat.
Toilets on base walk were closed so I used the toilet near cafe. The bowls were very filthy and seemed like they hadn’t been scrubbed in weeks/months. Roads within the area seemed to be closed off to cars for no specific reason that I could see. Not sure what they do with the $10 entry fee per car charge. Cafe doesn’t face the rock so don’t expect a Hanging Rock view. We had a fabulous walk then went elsewhere to eat.
Written 2 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Andrew Goh
Singapore, Singapore6,420 contributions
Family
A small hike to the summit with 30 mins up and down. Beautiful nature with lots of unnatural spirit on the place. Some claimed quite creepy as you may lost your way. Claiming some energy from the aboriginal where you may feel not uncomfortable… but myths about some hikers lost their way and disappeared! Short hike to teach summit to view the magnificent view of the surrounding and love the breeze at the summit.
Written 20 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Maree O
Melbourne, Australia605 contributions
Couples
We were at Gisborne for the weekend and had always thought to head to Hanging Rock if we were ever in the area for a visit, but had never been. It’s only a short drive from Gisborne, so glad we went. $10 entrance for a car load. We only did the base walk but could have done longer if we had more time, to do the summit. Would look so much better if they did clear out some of the dead trees, so that you could get a better view. But I suppose it’s it’s own natural habitant and that’s what they want to keep. Well worth a visit.
Written 8 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Etsa
Melbourne, Australia3 contributions
Family
As we had never been to Hanging rock, we were eager to try the experience. When we arrived we were met by a small entry fee, however it was absolutely worth it as we enjoyed such a lovely time of peace, adventure and mystery. We enjoyed taking a walk to the top of the rock and we were impressed by the access to the rock. We enjoyed playing in the cracks of the rocks and the view was a true insight into the Macedon valley area. After, we climbed we enjoyed a delicious meal at the scenic restaurant. We also visited the information centre there and indulged in the tranquillity of the peace of the valley. A helpful tip for most is to remember about the fee, but please come and enjoy this, we had such a great time and we will definitely be back
Written 13 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Meriki C
2 contributions
I travelled to Mount Macedon from Melbourne with a friend and all our kids last week only to find the road closed half way up the mountain.
We were then recommended by locals to visit the Hanging Rock café for lunch instead.
Whilst the Hanging Rock café provided great food, it was seriously overpriced, especially as we had to pay an entry fee just to get in!!
I found it incredibly rude that an entry fee was charged when all the walking tracks were closed and believe in times like this, when tracks and the particularly the Rock itself are inaccessible, the boom gates should remain open to allow for free entry to the reserve.
Very disappointed.
We were then recommended by locals to visit the Hanging Rock café for lunch instead.
Whilst the Hanging Rock café provided great food, it was seriously overpriced, especially as we had to pay an entry fee just to get in!!
I found it incredibly rude that an entry fee was charged when all the walking tracks were closed and believe in times like this, when tracks and the particularly the Rock itself are inaccessible, the boom gates should remain open to allow for free entry to the reserve.
Very disappointed.
Written 9 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cathy C
6 contributions
Is it still worth going to with the summit peak closed off for covid? It's an hour drive, with kids, and I remember climbing the rocks at the top was the best bit. I haven't been there in years though. Is there still lots to climb (safely, for kids), or not currently?
alfieatthelse
Hong Kong, China29 contributions
Elton John Hanging Rock Sunday 26th
Is anyone planning on driving from Melbourne and would have 2 spare seats for carpooling?
Geraldine
1 contribution
Hi, I’m planning to get to Hanging Rock from Woodend Station. As I don’t intend to rent a car, I would like to find out if it is easy (availability wise) to get an Uber or cab from the station to Hanging Rock, and back to the station?
BHewe54
Glen Waverley, Australia651 contributions
It is in a remote location and you would be unlikely to get an Uber in such a rural area. An organised tour from Melbourne or rental car would probably be the best options.
Kimmy T
Melbourne, Australia1 contribution
Hi,
Thanks for your review.
I'm planning to take my kids to the Hanging Rock, may I know how long is the walk, return? As I have bad knees, would you say it was a hard walk? Is it easier coming down the ramp or steps?
Cheers
Kim
Martin H
Victoria, Australia230 contributions
Hi Kim, give the walk about 30 mins each way to take it easy and lots of stops, the ramp is definitely the easier option to stop the jarring on your knees. The climb will be tough on your knees, in saying that there were all walks of life and ages/sizes doing the climb. It is well b worth the effort, just take it easy. Enjoy.
Sharon F
Cairns, Australia1 contribution
how to get there and back from melbourne city but not a full day tour
Marion & Bob K
Ringwood, Australia59 contributions
Firstly, it will take about one hour to get their from the CBD. Secondly, to see and enjoy you'll need 2hours plus. Thirdly, another hour to return to the CBD.
Plus whatever time you need to get to and from the CBD from your home/base.
To drive .... follow the Calder Highway until you reach the turn off ... well signaged .... a km or so past the Woodend turn off.
There is a cafe there ...... for a coffee, sandwich, cake, etc.
I doubt I'd consider a visit between june and august ..... can get cold, misty .....
Sharon F
Cairns, Australia1 contribution
I am coming from melbourne city and wanting to know the best travel option as i may be by myself - i have seen there is a full day tour but is there any other way to go up and come back for half a day approx thanks everyone
FamilyTraveller1012
Melbourne, Australia322 contributions
hi Sharon. the only practical alternative is to hire a care and drive yourself for the 1/2 day. Its only about an hour drive, easy to get to, but there no real public transport options.
Alan MacDonald
Labrador, Australia9 contributions
Is the reserve pet friendly, wondering as I want to take my pups with me.
beryl_be
Melbourne, Australia3,286 contributions
Hi Alan,
As a National Park there may be restrictions in place so I think it's best that you email them to enquire.
Cheers, BB
Michele J
Longwarry, Australia
Where is the nearest Camping grounds for car and Caravan please?
TheMuggins
110 contributions
There is a caravan park at Macedon. Only a 10-15 minute drive from hanging rock. I haven't stayed there so can't comment on it.
The Macedon area is a very pretty part of Victoria. Much wildlife around if that's your thing, wineries, bush walks etc.
Ballarat that another couple mentioned is a large country town of about 100,000 people. The drive is a bit over an hour away. I wouldn't recommend staying in Ballarat to visit hanging rock. Ballarat is nice and worth a visit though.
bellatoscana
San Quirico D'Orcia, Siena, Italy1 contribution
Is there free drinking water available in the Reserve?
Mark G
Melbourne, Australia1,125 contributions
When I was there that trailer with water taps was there. I thought the water was fine and quite cold. All the kids used it. Of course It was near the shop so you can buy if you want. But the free water was fine for me. Just avoid other taps around the reserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hanging Rock Reserve
- Hotels near Hanging Rock Reserve:
- (0.31 km) Hanging Rock Cottage
- (0.72 km) Hanging Rock, Wineries, Nature, Woodend, Country Getaway ,Bed and Breakfast.
- (7.92 km) Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat and Bed & Breakfast
- (0.84 km) Ardingly Tiny House S
- (4.45 km) Mirkwood Forest Self-contained Accomodation
- Restaurants near Hanging Rock Reserve:
- (0.32 km) Hanging Rock Cafe
- (6.75 km) Kuzu Izakaya
- (6.58 km) Paysanne
- (10.12 km) Mr. Macedon
- (7.38 km) Trading Post
- Attractions near Hanging Rock Reserve:
- (0.32 km) A Market at Hanging Rock
- (0.93 km) Hanging Rock Llama Treks
- (11.04 km) Edgar's Mission
- (3.97 km) Mount Macedon Memorial Cross
- (6.23 km) Forest Glade Gardens