Nicholson

Nicholson brings together the East Gippsland Rail Trail, a striking river crossing and several different things to discover: nature by the water, wine tastings at Nicholson River Winery and facilities at Nicholson River Reserve. This gives visitors a range of reasons to shape their trip. The trail adds an active element, the river helps orient visitors around the area, and the winery and fishing event each bring their own themes to the planning.

Crossing the river on the East Gippsland Rail Trail

The East Gippsland Rail Trail runs from Bairnsdale to Nicholson on a sealed surface. Here, it crosses the river via a spectacular bridge dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge makes Nicholson a distinctive landmark along the trail. If you enjoy walking or cycling, you can make this crossing a specific reason to include Nicholson in your travel plans.

Paths and facilities by the water

In Nicholson, a path along the riverbank passes under the road bridge and leads to BBQ facilities in the Nicholson Wharf area. Nicholson River Reserve has toilets, a pavilion, an electric barbecue, a boat ramp, a fishing platform and a jetty. The route to the wharf area and the various facilities in the reserve are two distinct points to consider when planning: one describes the path along the riverbank, while the other brings together amenities for different interests by the water.

On the western bank of the river, on either side of Nicholson's former railway bridge, there is a restoration project for a remnant patch of rainforest. An information board, a picnic bench and a memorial bench complete the site. Here, a nature-focused attraction meets a place to pause and remember; the two benches serve different purposes.

Wine tasting and local history

Nicholson River Winery also gives Nicholson its own character. The winery was established in 1978 and is run by Juliet and Ken Eckersley. Wine tastings are offered at the cellar door. It is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm; call before your visit, as opening hours may change. This makes a visit to the winery a distinct reason to travel, alongside time on the trail and by the river.

Nature on the way in and a July event

Bosses Swamp wetland lies on the road into Nicholson. It is often a habitat for spoonbills, swans and other waterbirds. Nature is therefore not limited to the river in town: the wetland on the way to Nicholson is also a notable feature for travellers interested in the landscape and birdlife.

For anglers, the Twin Rivers Bream Classic is also a seasonal highlight. The event takes place every year in July and brings the small towns of Nicholson, Swan Reach and Johnsonville into the spotlight. It is associated with several towns, not Nicholson alone. If the date matters for your trip, check the event dates before planning.

Which accommodation suits your reason for travelling?

If you are looking for accommodation for a stay in Nicholson, first consider what you would like to focus on during your time there: the sealed East Gippsland Rail Trail and the river crossing, the facilities by the water, wine tastings or a July visit connected with the fishing event. These different reasons for travelling can help guide your search for a suitable base, without limiting Nicholson to just one type of stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Campbellfield, Newhaven, Big Hill, Barongarook, Tinamba, Tynong, Cobram, Meeniyan.

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.