Discover Merricks: Sculptures and Trails

Merricks offers different travel interests: monumental art at Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park, trails for different uses, and a historic railway line. Nearby, the Red Hill Rail Trail follows the former route between Merricks and Red Hill; its history tells of fresh apples being transported to the markets of Melbourne. When planning, you can therefore treat art, activity and the region’s past as separate points of focus.

Sculptures in the Garden and Landscape

Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park displays more than 70 monumental original works by international and Australian artists across 16.5 acres of manicured gardens. Vineyards and sea views provide the backdrop. Sculptures, garden and landscape together shape the setting: the works are not separate from their garden surroundings and views. The collection continues to evolve, so its selection is always changing. The park offers guided tours of the sculpture park and creative experiences such as Sip and Sketch. If you would like to plan a tour or a particular experience, check current availability directly with the venue.

Trails with Different Points of Focus

The Merricks Trail offers a different focus. It can be used on foot, by bicycle or on horseback; one access point is at Merricks Red Hill Station Ground Equestrian Reserve. This lets you plan around your preferred way of getting around. Check local notices for current trail conditions before setting out.

Nearby, the Red Hill Rail Trail follows the former railway line between Merricks and Red Hill. Fresh apples were transported along this route to Hastings and from there onwards to the markets of Melbourne. This sequence shows that the produce’s journey extended beyond the connection between the two towns: Hastings first, then the markets in Melbourne, were part of this transport history. Today, the Rail Trail can be used on foot and is a shared trail for pedestrians, mountain bikers and horse riders. If you plan to use it, check current trail conditions and businesses before travelling.

This leaves two different questions to consider: Which way of getting around would you like to use, and are you also interested in the history of the former railway line? Walking, cycling or riding are the main activities on the Merricks Trail; the Red Hill Rail Trail brings together shared use and the historic transport route.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Trip

Your travel interests can also be a good starting point when looking for a hotel in Merricks. Would you like to connect your stay mainly with art and creative experiences, or are trails and their different uses more important to you? Tours and trail conditions are practical details to consider for each activity.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Musk, Black Rock, Birregurra, Moonambel, Sutherland, Moorabool, Inverleigh, Fingal.

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.