Dartmoor on the Glenelg River

Dartmoor lies on the Glenelg River and brings together nature, outdoor activities and notable chapters of local history. You can explore the town on a paved trail on foot or by bike, experience the river by canoe or learn about the district’s history. The range of activities gives you several ways to plan your stay around your interests.

A trail through the town centre

The 1.3 km Dartmoor Rail Trail is paved and runs through the town centre. You can use it on foot or by bike. The trail runs from Radiata Road to Fort O'Hare in Dartmoor. Its short distance makes it a compact route through town; the paved path and two endpoints provide clear orientation for this activity.

Canoeing on the Glenelg River

The Glenelg River Canoe Trail runs from Dartmoor to Nelson. Stretching more than 75 km from Dartmoor to the mouth near Nelson, the Glenelg River offers opportunities for canoeing on calm water. This puts two very different route lengths side by side: the 1.3 km trail through the town centre and the longer river route. If you enjoy making your trip active, the water offers a different perspective on the surroundings than the route through town.

Nature and wildlife

Dartmoor Waterfall Gardens offer an opportunity to explore nature. Native wildlife is also part of the town’s character, including koalas and kangaroos. Their presence may vary depending on the season. Alongside the river landscape, there are other nature-based options that differ from a canoe trip or a route through the town centre.

Architectural history and remembrance

The Dartmoor and District Coach-House Museum opened on 26 January 1993. The building was originally constructed in 1880 from local field limestone as a coach house and blacksmith’s workshop. This distinguishes the building’s former use from the later opening of the museum. The museum’s address is 90 Greenham Street, Dartmoor. The operators, Michael Greenham and Elly Colley, are committed to preserving the material, written, oral and pictorial history of the Dartmoor district.

Another historical landmark is at the end of the Avenue of Honour by the Village Green: a Gallipoli Lone Pine and a memorial plaque. The site is at the intersection of Greenham and Ascot Street. While the museum connects architectural and district history, the Lone Pine is a specific memorial site in the townscape.

Golf by the river

Dartmoor has a 9-hole golf course in bushland on the banks of the Glenelg River. Summer and winter competitions and tournaments are held there. If a competition is important to your travel plans, check the latest dates in advance. The course adds its own way to spend time outdoors alongside the nature and river activities.

Choose Dartmoor as a destination

The Rail Trail, river route and historical sites offer different starting points for planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Netherby, Scotsburn, Balnarring, Frankston North, Chepstowe, Torrumbarry, Oakleigh South, Nyah West

For the main travel overview: Victoria.