Accessible walks
Where nature is available to all
THERE’S NOTHING QUITE like getting out in nature and breathing in a big gulp of fresh mountain air. But for wheelchair users or those with crutches or other mobility aids, it’s not always easy to see the natural wonders of our beautiful state. Stairs, rough terrain, sand and narrow paths can be insurmountable barriers. But Parks Victoria has implemented facilities in these popular tourist destinations in order for people of all abilities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Buchan Caves
If you’re headed east by the coast, make a pit stop at these hidden palatial limestone caves. The caves were formed 300 million years ago by underground rivers cutting through layers of limestone rock, and they feature striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites. A Stairclimber is available for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, allowing them to descend the steep and narrow steps into the spectacular Fairy Cave. Parks Victoria recommends booking in advance to secure use of a Stairclimber.
Buchan Caves Reserve, 98 Caves Rd, Buchan 3885. 03 5162 1900. parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/ buchan-at-cave-reserve. Daily 9am-4.30pm.
Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilsons Prom is mainland Australia’s southernmost point and lays claim to a rugged national park bursting with beaches, greenery and friendly wildlife. Accessible accommodation is available at Tidal River, where modified cabins are equipped with special equipment such as electric high/low beds as well as all-terrain wheelchairs for access to Norman Beach. Motorised Trailriders are also available for longer walks around the park.
Wilsons Promontory 3960. 03 5680 9555. parkweb.vic. gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park/ accessibility.
Dandenong Ranges National Park
Just 35 klicks east of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges region boasts plenty of exquisite fauna and flora, sprawling gardens, artist studios, wineries and quaint villages. Trailrider all-terrain wheelchairs are available to collect at Grants on Sherbrooke Restaurant in Kallista. You can also book volunteer sherpas to guide you through the towering forest. Beginners can try the 30-minute return Margaret Lester Forest Walk, and the more outdoorsy can attempt the Sherbrooke Loop Walk, which is a two-hour, four-kilometre circuit for true immersion in the wild.
Grant’s Picnic Ground, 70 Monbulk Rd, Kallista 3791. 03 9755 3376. parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/ dandenong-ranges-national-park. Various times.
Point Nepean National Park
This part of Boonwurrung country has some of the earliest European settlement in Victoria. You can explore it all (and spy some killer bay views) on coastal tracks that run past the old Quarantine Station and some World War II military buildings. All-terrain beach wheelchairs and one standard wheelchair are available to hire – best to book them in advance from the Point Nepean Information Centre.
Point Nepean Information Centre, Ochiltree Rd, Portsea 3944. 03 8427 2099. parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/ point-nepean-national-park. Daily 10am-5pm.