Located on the Great Alpine Road in the beautiful Tambo Valley, Europeans settled Swifts Creek during the gold rush of the mid 1800s and there are several places of heritage significance in the area. Take the back road between Swifts Creek and Omeo to explore the historic Cassilis, once a thriving mining community and now a ghost town and home to the original goldfields. Set in the 3600-hectare Cassilis Historical Area, the mines are now a popular tourist attraction with many relics of the gold mining era. Visit the Winery, which stands on the site of the original Hotel. Ensay is another high altitude delight. Take the scenic route around these towns and take in the beautiful Tambo Valley and the incredible high country scenery or sample the local grape offerings at high altitude wineries, or book a tour so you can indulge without having to drive home.

Swifts Creek sits on the banks of the Tambo River and and is home to an historic wood fire oven built in 1886 in the local bakery. Once a town known for its timber industry, Swifts Creek and adjoining Cassilis are now well-known hideaways for many talented artists and home to the very successful Gallery which displays art, paintings and sculpture. Named after a small Scottish township, Cassilis is close by and was once a thriving mining centre and home to some 1000 people. If you look closely enough you will still find some of the mining relics. The Tambo Valley includes Bindi and Tongio and is the home of the historic Bindi Station and offers an exciting new olive grove.

Things to do 

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  Visit the gallery and take home works by local artists who are inspired by the beautiful surrounds of the Swifts Creek area

• The Swifts Creek Town Walks  will show you all the beauty and history of this region

• Cycle from Swifts Creek to Ensay along the picturesque Swifts Creek East Road and Ensay Doctors Flat Road following the Tambo River, taking in beautiful rural settings and passing good fishing and swimming spots

• Visit the Cassilis Historic Area which includes the heritage listed King Cassilis and Cassilis mine treatment plants. Walk the terminating section of the Jirnkee Water Race and admire the historic rockwork along the Charlotte Spur Track

• Indulge in delicious cider and ale's brewed at micro brewery and local wineries 

• Hit the gravel roads, drive through Brookville and visit the Dogs Grave on the Dargo Road; a tribute to man's best friend, buried in 1863

• Experience fine dining at a local cafe, bakery or hotel

• The Bentley Plains Walks will take you along boardwalks, past old huts and views that must be seen to be believed

• Walk the Butlers Trail alongside the Tambo River

For further information or brochures visit the local Visitor Information Centre online, Omeo Region, or call 03 5159 1455.