Tower Hill, a dormant volcano in the heart of south west Victoria, is a treasure trove of natural and cultural significance. As one of the oldest known volcanoes in Victoria, Tower Hill is more than just a crater. It’s a connection between the ancient landscape and the cultural stories of the Gunditjmara and Eastern Maar people. Today, Tower Hill is a nature reserve and a wildlife sanctuary and a cultural tourism site. It’s a popular stop on the Great Ocean Road and a must see for anyone visiting south west Victoria. Learn about Aboriginal history, explore the volcanic landscapes and see native wildlife. A combination of culture and scenery, Tower Hill is a must visit.
Where is Tower Hill?
Tower Hill is located between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, 270 km west of Melbourne on the Princes Highway. Its central location makes it a perfect weekend getaway for those driving the Great Ocean Road and exploring South West Victoria. Situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, Tower Hill has a range of activities, from walking trails that take you through its different habitats to educational experiences about the Aboriginal cultural heritage. The Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is well signposted and can be visited as a day trip or as part of a longer stay to enjoy the natural environment and surrounding areas such as Port Fairy, Logan’s Beach and other local attractions.
How Was Tower Hill Formed?
Tower Hill was formed around 30,000 years ago after a series of massive volcanic eruptions. The first eruption blasted through the Earth’s crust and created the large crater we see today surrounded by crater walls and volcanic cone shaped hills. Further volcanic activity deposited layers of ash and lava and created the scoria cones and fertile soil that supported the growth of ancient rainforests and native plants. Over time the Tower Hill crater became a basin for lakes, wetlands and diverse ecosystems. Today it’s a geological wonderland with a vast array of native animals and biodiversity. The volcanic landscape is not only a natural wonder but also has cultural significance for the Indigenous people particularly the Gunditjmara and Eastern Maar. You can learn about the geological history of Tower Hill through the interpretive displays and guides at the Tower Hill Visitor Centre and see artwork such as the detailed paintings of Eugene von Guerard who captured the early beauty of this cultural landscape in the 1800s.
Tower Hill’s Aboriginal Culture
For the Gunditjmara people, Tower Hill is a sacred site. As the traditional owners of this land they have lived here for tens of thousands of years. The area around Tower Hill provided everything they needed to live their way of life, food, water, building materials and tool making. Aboriginal culture is embedded in the landscape, traditional fire management, bush tucker harvesting and stone tool making is part of their daily life. The landscape itself, the crater walls and volcanic features are part of the Aboriginal stories and ceremonies. Today, visitors can learn about this living culture through various programs and guided Great Ocean Road Tour offered in partnership with the local Gunditjmara people. These experiences allow you to connect with one of the oldest living cultures on earth and see the deep connection between the Aboriginal people and the land.
Discover the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
The Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a thriving ecosystem after a successful revegetation program. This nature reserve is home to many native animals and bird species, emus, koalas, kangaroos and seasonal reptiles like the Wedge-tailed Eagle. You can walk along the walking trails through forests of wildflowers, see blue wrens flitting through the trees and take in the views. A perfect place to get away from it all and learn about conservation.
Worn Gundidj Guided Tours
For a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture the Worn Gundidj Guided Tours offer the opportunity to walk with Aboriginal guides. These 2 hour interactive walks cover bush tucker, traditional tool making and Aboriginal settlement. Led by experienced guides you will learn about the Gunditjmara people and their connection to the land and how they adapted to the volcanic landscape. A great way to experience the culture and history of the area.
Bush Tucker
Bush tucker is part of the Aboriginal way of life and Tower Hill is the perfect place to learn about traditional plants for food and medicine. On guided tours, you can discover native botanicals and plants used in ceremonies and as medicine. This connection to the natural environment is part of the Gunditjmara people’s culture and a glimpse into how they lived sustainably on their traditional lands for thousands of years.
Gunditjmara People and Their History
The Gunditjmara have been here for over 30,000 years, one of the oldest cultures on earth. They are famous for their aquaculture systems which are part of the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their land management, building weirs and channels to harvest eels, shows their deep connection to the land. Today their history is shared through Aboriginal tour options so visitors can connect with this enduring culture.
Volcanic Landscapes
The volcanic landscape of Tower Hill is a sight to behold. The conical hills and scoria cones are the remains of the big eruptions that formed the area. This dormant volcano is a must see, walk on the crater floor and marvel at the volcanic cone shaped hills. The Tower Hill Reserve is a reminder of natures power and its role in the culture and history of the land.
Iconic Animals of Tower Hill
Tower Hill is famous for its native wildlife, visitors can see some of Australia’s most iconic animals. Emus, kangaroos and koalas are everywhere, echidnas and native birds are common. The wetlands on the crater floor are home to aquatic birds like magpie geese, the forests are home to small mammals and reptiles. Birdwatchers will love spotting wedge-tailed eagles soaring above the scoria cones and volcanic hills. The diversity of Australian wildlife in the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a nature lovers and photographers paradise.
Around Tower Hill
The area around Tower Hill has even more to see. Just a short drive away is Port Fairy, a beautiful coastal town with stunning harbour views, historic buildings and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors to Tower Hill can also visit Logan’s Beach for whale watching or Basalt Wines for a wine afternoon. The countryside is dotted with natural attractions from coastal cliffs to lush forests, perfect for road trips and day trips. Port Fairy also hosts events like Port Fairy Winter Weekends, where locals and visitors can celebrate the town’s culture, food and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Tower Hill is a game changer, Indigenous culture, wildlife and volcanic landscapes all in one. With cultural stories, scenic walks and Aboriginal guides Tower Hill is a window into Australia’s Indigenous past. Whether you’re in the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, learning about bush tucker or seeing the iconic animals of the region Tower Hill is a modern experience on top of an ancient landscape that the Gunditjmara people have cared for for generations.
FAQ
How was Tower Hill created?
Tower Hill was formed 30,000 years ago by a volcano and is one of Australia’s largest volcanic craters and now a nature reserve.
Can I see native wildlife at Tower Hill?
Yes, Tower Hill has native wildlife including emus, koalas, kangaroos and many bird species including the wedge-tailed eagle.
What cultural experiences are available at Tower Hill?
Worn Gundidj Guided Tours – a deep dive into Aboriginal culture, bush tucker and the history of the Gunditjmara people.
Is Tower Hill good for walking?
Yes, there are kilometres of walking trails with views of the volcanic landscape and wildlife in the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
What else is near Tower Hill?
Port Fairy, Logan’s Beach for whale watching and Basalt Wines for wine tastings – a great day trip or weekend getaway.