Penshurst 

At the foot of an extinct volcano; Mount Rouse, Penshurst sits, oozing the charm and character of its begginings as a quaint German settlement. The inexpensive yet lush land attracted German emigrants from South Australia. Fine historic bluestone buildings, such as the former council offices, numerous private residences, shops and churches are a feature of the town.

The Penshurst Botanic Gardens, developed around a 'never failing spring', are a natural wetland area. A series of narrow gateways cascade into a larger lake where a gazebo nestles on the edge of the water, providing breathtaking views of the Grampians and beyond. The gardens boast a large collection of Australian, American, European and Asian plantings.

• If you come for the outdoors, you won't be dissapointed; Mt Rouse and nearby Lake Linlithgow, are a delight for picnicking and bird watching. Penshurst is also renowned for its country race meetings and market days, visitors flock to the town for the Easter and Boxing Day meetings.