7 haunting historic hotspots in Victoria

Geelong Gaol is the longest-running gaol in Victoria, having operated from 1853 right up until 1991. Make the trip to observe first-hand the brutal conditions experienced by inmates inside this bluestone behemoth, known for once having a horrifyingly high one-in-20 death rate. The souls of those departed are said to remain onsite, including those of convicted murderers James Murphy and Yankee Tom. Join one of the ghost tours or paranormal investigations to find out for yourself.

Explore Geelong with a visit to Geelong Gallery. 

Venture up the hill overlooking Beechworth to a decommissioned psychiatric hospital that once held more than 1200 patients and 500 staff. The asylum closed back in 1995 after staying open for almost 130 years. Spend the day exploring the haunted buildings and grounds with a history tour or a photography tour, or even an escape room. At night things get even eerier, with paranormal investigations and ghost tours galore.

Drop by the famous Beechworth Bakery while you're there for a sweet snack.

Next time you’re around the Grampians, stop by the Aradale Lunatic Asylum in Ararat. You’ll have the chance to walk the halls of Australia’s largest abandoned asylum, where more than 10,000 people have died during the 127 years the facility was open. Many people endured inhumane conditions and treatments here from 1867 onwards, which is why the asylum is thought to be one of the most haunted locations in the country. In particular, the asylum’s infamous J Ward has seen stints from notorious figures including Chopper Read, William Wallace and Gary Webb all completing stints in the facility. There are regular tours, or nighttime ghost tours for those who dare.

While you're in the Grampians region, check out the Balconies for an awe-inspiring view.

This central highlands city might be known for its golden past, but what about the spooky side of Ballarat? Show up to Ballarat Railway Station after the sun goes down for an evening walk through Ballarat’s magnificent Gothic-inspired buildings, as your guide tells stories of strange happenings and the enduring Aussie spirit.

While you're in town, grab some beer and caramel bacon popcorn at Hop Temple. 

In the Spanish flu days of 1919, this former local pub was transformed into a bush hospital to help handle the pandemic. These days, Lancefield Guesthouse is a delightfully cosy bed and breakfast, but its quaint guest rooms were once surgery rooms and even a labour ward. Book a paranormal investigation experience for dinner, a sleepover and an insight into this building’s tragic past.

For something a little more lighthearted, extend your trip to include Mad Gallery and Café, which boasts books, gifts and heart-warming coffee.

This tiny mountain town in Gippsland was a hive of activity during the gold rush, but now its heritage buildings are frozen in time. Now, the town is home to only around 35 permanent residents and an unconfirmed number of spooky neighbours. Partake in a ghost tour to hear terrifying tales of local goings on past, or explore the expansive cemetery where 1,100 souls rest.

The next morning, trace the steps of miners of yesteryear with the Walhalla Tramline Walk. 

Step back in time to the gold rush era when you visit Maldon, one of Australia’s best preserved gold mining towns. Maldon’s Kangaroo Hotel has been around since 1856 and rumour has it a contingent of spooks has accumulated over the years. Take a ghost tour for a hearty dinner and an intriguing investigation.

Make the most of Maldon and surrounds with a stop at local brewery Love Shack in Castlemaine.