Koonwarra village store
A tiny village famous for its café and local produce, right on the Great Southern Rail Trail.
Koonwarra
Koonwarra is a charming rural village in South Gippsland, surrounded by rolling green hills, fertile farmland and beautiful countryside. Known for its local produce, food and relaxed country atmosphere, Koonwarra is a delightful stop along the scenic South Gippsland countryside.
- 2 hr from Melbourne
- 1 hr 5 to Tidal River
- Village store, rail trail
Tucked away amongst the rolling green hills of South Gippsland, Koonwarra is a tiny village with an enormous amount of character. Located between Leongatha and Meeniyan, Koonwarra is surrounded by lush farmland, wetlands and native bushland and has become well known for its strong connection to sustainable living, local produce and the slow-food movement. It is a peaceful and picturesque place where a strong sense of community, creativity and country hospitality comes together.
Life at Koonwarra
Koonwarra is perhaps best known for its wonderful local food culture. On the first Saturday of each month, the Koonwarra Farmers Market brings the village to life with fresh local produce, farm eggs, artisan breads and other regional specialties. The village also has cafés and food businesses that champion seasonal, organic and locally produced ingredients. For those wanting to explore the countryside, the Great Southern Rail Trail passes directly through Koonwarra, with an easy and particularly scenic section leading towards Meeniyan through farmland, wetlands and the beautiful Black Spur. The nearby Koonwarra Biodiversity Walk also provides an opportunity to discover the area's native flora and fauna, wetlands and internationally significant fossil beds. Koonwarra's combination of beautiful countryside, exceptional local produce and its strong environmental ethos makes it one of South Gippsland's most charming little villages.
Things to do in Koonwarra
- Koonwarra Farmers' MarketOne of South Gippsland's best-known farmers' markets, held on the first Saturday of each month, featuring local produce, artisan food, plants, crafts and live music.
- Walk or cycle the Great Southern Rail TrailThe trail passes directly through Koonwarra, making it a great place for a scenic walk or bike ride.
- Visit the Koonwarra Food Co-opBrowse local and organic produce, artisan foods and regional products.
- Explore Koonwarra VillageEnjoy the small village atmosphere, historic buildings, cafés and local businesses.
- Visit local galleries and studiosKoonwarra and the surrounding area have a strong connection with local artists and makers.
- Enjoy the surrounding farmlandTake a scenic drive through the rolling green hills and dairy country around Koonwarra.
- ry local food and produceThe surrounding South Gippsland region is particularly well known for cheese, dairy products, vegetables, berries and cool-climate produce.
Close to Koonwarra
Beaches, walks and good food within a short drive.
Meeniyan food strip
A short main street with a big reputation for food, local wine and live music at the town hall.
Great Southern Rail Trail
The old railway line through Koonwarra, Meeniyan, Fish Creek and Foster. Flat, family friendly and never far from a café.
The Caves and dinosaur dig
Sea caves and rock platforms where some of Australia's most important dinosaur fossils have been found.
Fish Creek Hotel
The Art Deco pub with the big fish on the roof. Counter meals, a beer garden and a good spot to finish a rail trail ride.
Alison Lester Gallery
Prints, books and cards from the much-loved children's author and illustrator, in an old shopfront in Fish Creek.
Neighbouring towns
Easy to combine in one trip.
