A lovely little town, Forrest is home to bushwalks, a brewery and some of the most popular cross-country mountain bike tracks in Victoria.
The bush around Forrest is mostly ‘forest park’ rather than National Park which means higher impact activities such as dogs, horses and mountain bike riding are welcome in many places in this area.
Things to do near Forrest
You can do some activities like the rail trail from in town, the bushwalks require driving to get to.
Places to Eat & Drink
Forest Brewery
A popular place for people to catch up after a mountain bike ride (beer and bike riders seem to go together) or a bushwalk the forest brewery does tasting paddles and has a dog friendly courtyard. Forest brewery is open for breakfast and lunch – the kitchen closes mid afternoon so don’t ride to late or you will miss out!
Forrest General Store
A really nice little hub to grab a coffee, hot pie and lots of local products from producers around the area.
Pies and other hot pastries are all handmade on-site, they’re not cheap but in my opinion, they are worth it. They have a vegetarian option until it sells out and the pies are chunky.
Terminus Hotel Forest
A traditional country pub that generally offers pub meals from Thursday to Sunday nights but might be restricted to snacks or particular options at other times depending on when the chef is on (this is a seasonal small town).
A great relaxed place to escape for a beer and pool, especially when you are stuck in a tent or van in bad weather or its just cold!
Things to do in and near Forrest
Is Forrest Dog Friendly?
Forrest is a very dog friendly destination for outdoor adventures, so is a great day trip to take your dog on. Dogs are allowed in the brewery beer garden and on nearby bushwalks like the Lake Elizabeth Walk and others at the nearby West Barwon Dam such as Fern Gully.
Accommodation in Forrest
Forrest has camping and cabins available at the small local caravan park (called Forest Holiday Park (previously Wonky Stables see on booking.com) which is right in town and walking distance to the brewery. They will also be launching Glamping tents in late 2022.
Forrest Holiday Park – Images open in Agoda
There are also holiday houses available (Stayz link) both in the town and in nearby country areas. Many of them are dog friendly and book out quite far in advance so if there is not much choice, try dates further away.