3 Best Restaurants in Grampians National Park, Victoria

Expansive views of the southern Grampians peaks compete with the extraordinary food plated up at the hotel in the tiny town of Dunkeld. The main restaurant, Wickens, is one of Victoria's signature dining experiences—the menu changes daily depending on the harvest from one of the country's largest working restaurant kitchen gardens, specializing in organic and heirloom vegetables. Other produce comes from the Royal Mail's own cattle and sheep farm, free-range laying hens, nearby orchards, and its olive grove. Chef Robin Wickens' culinary innovation is on display on his chef's tasting menu, with or without meat, Thursday through Saturday (bookings essential). The more relaxed Parker Street Project serves bar snacks and light meals—expect the same exciting, innovative food as in the dining room (mains A$30). Round out the experience by staying in the hotel's fine accommodation (from A$235). 

Flipping dough into the same oven since 1887, this Grampians bakery earns its name. Stock up on today's baguettes and gourmet pies—try the beef and ale or the crowd-pleasing lamb ragù—to eat on the road, or grab a little table in the sun at the front of the bakery. The hot property at this small-batch, artisan bakehouse are its croissants and coffee scrolls: get in early with the locals on weekends, or miss out. It also has a couple of three-room suites for those who don't want to leave.

In the heart of Halls Gap, this is one of the town's best dining options and serves an imaginative range of dishes, all fully prepared in-house. The restaurant and bar provides a casual gastropub experience, with signature dishes the kangaroo fillet. Kookaburra's homemade sorbets, with hand-picked fruit, is a particular treat. The wine list includes regional wines, best enjoyed by the fire. Bookings are recommended.