Stanley: Small Town Delights
Stanley in Victoria, Australia is a small town nestled in the hills at the edge of the Alps. Its nearest neighbor is the historic town of Beechworth, about 5 miles away. The town used to be known as Snake Gully and many properties in the area still bear the remains of gold diggings from the 1800s gold rush in the region.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are good times to visit Stanley for its great weather since you can explore the city on foot or on a bike and simply just enjoy the scenery. In October the town comes together for the Stanley Plateau Music Carnivale which began in 2010 with the participation of local artists, musicians, dancers, and street performers. Those who plan to come to town during this period should book their Stanley hotels early on to avoid the surge in rates.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Nearby Beechworth is worth exploring too starting at the Beechworth Historic Park for scenic views of the town as well as to see old mine sites & wildlife such as kangaroos & koalas. Visit these orchards while you’re in the area: Swaraj Harvest Organic Farm or High Grove Orchards then hie off to Lake Kerfeld for a picnic amidst its beautiful sights and sounds. The well-appointed Beechworth Cabins is a fine hotel in the area. So are the Best Western Beechworth Motor Inn, along Beechworth's Sydney Road and the Empire Hotel at the main street of the township of Beechworth.