Lara: Trails, sweeping views and history

In Lara, nature watching, outdoor activities and a tangible historic site offer different reasons to visit. The Hovells Creek section of the Bay Trail opens up sweeping views over Corio Bay; the section is popular with birdwatchers, walkers and cyclists. The Kevin Hoffman Walk has a different focus: it is a landscaped linear walking trail, surrounded by native vegetation, with views of Hovells Creek. The Lara Museum and Historical Centre is located on the grounds of the Lake Bank Hotel, which was established around 1860. These themes give you different ways to plan your stay in Lara around nature, outdoor activities or history.

Sweeping views and activities on the Bay Trail

Several interests come together on the Hovells Creek section of the Bay Trail. The section is popular with birdwatchers, walkers and cyclists, and offers sweeping views over Corio Bay. If you want to combine nature watching with outdoor activity, you can choose which of the activities mentioned to focus on; others may prefer to take in the expansive views over the bay. This makes it easy to choose this part of the trail based on the experience you are looking for: birdwatching, walking or cycling, each with Corio Bay as a striking landscape feature. For people travelling together, this mix is a useful starting point when different preferences for outdoor activities come into play.

A walking trail with its own character

The Kevin Hoffman Walk in Lara is a landscaped linear walking trail. It is surrounded by native vegetation and offers views of Hovells Creek. Its linear layout, surrounding greenery and creek views make it a distinct walking option. By contrast, the Hovells Creek section of the Bay Trail also offers cycling and birdwatching, as well as sweeping views over Corio Bay. When weighing up the two trail experiences, consider whether you would prefer a walking trail with vegetation and creek views, or a section offering several of the activities mentioned and views across the bay.

Museum and history

Lara also has a tangible point of interest for those interested in history. The Lara Museum and Historical Centre is located on the grounds of the Lake Bank Hotel, which was established around 1860. The museum offers guided tours for groups by prior arrangement. Arrange a time directly with the museum before your visit. This adds a cultural dimension to the nature and trail experiences: its connection to the Lake Bank Hotel grounds the museum in a specific local history.

Match your experiences with your hotel search

When looking for a hotel in Lara, first decide which experiences you want to shape your stay: nature watching and bay views on the Bay Trail, the walking trail with native vegetation, or the museum’s historic connection. If you are travelling with others, a quick chat about whether outdoor activities, nature watching or history should take priority can help with planning together.

Discover more destinations: Glenrowan, Edi Upper, Murrabit, Mildura, Creswick, Willung South, Seymour, Craigieburn.

View the broader travel guide: Victoria.