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It isn’t a road trip without a stop in at the local country bakery. That’s why we’ve put together a trail of the best bakeries in the Wimmera Mallee, so that you try all the pies and a vanilla slices from right across the region. By the end of the trail, you’ll have become a country bakery connoisseur. Taste test, take notes and find your favorite.  

Wimmera Bakery, Dimboola 

The first stop on your bakery trail will land you at local institution, the Wimmera Bakery in Dimboola. Be greeted by the smell of freshly baked bread and delicious baked treats as you enter through the historically preserved building. Known for their extensive pie menu, the Wimmera Bakery serves up a selection that is a little out of the ordinary. Have you ever tried a creamy prawn pie? Well, you can here! Located in the main street of Dimboola, it makes the perfect place to stop in after checking out the Dimboola Imaginarium. Pop over to the Arkona Silo art painted by Smug or stay longer and explore the spectacular natural wonder, the Little Desert, on your way to the next bakery stop! 

Monday – Friday, 7am – 4pm
Saturday, 7am-1pm 

Bow Bakery, Rainbow and Hopetoun 

Your next stop is at the Bow Bakery in Rainbow. This authentic country bakery is the pot of gold awaiting you at the end of the Rainbow. Their delicious pies, pastries and deserts are always fresh, homemade and many locals will argue, the best in the region. You’ll want to try everything (trust us on that one, we may have attempted). On your way to the next stop, take a little detour out to the Albacutya Silo Art to see the artwork by Kitt Bennett, then snap a pic as go past the Rosebery Silo Art painted by Kaff-eine. 

Found something you loved at the Bow Bakery in Rainbow and feel like seconds? You’re in luck because the next stop is their sister-store. Bow Bakery in Hopetoun is the same real-deal in this quaint Mallee Town. Take your treats to the crystalline Lake Lascelles picnic area. And if the food coma starts to set in early, we’d recommend a stay at Mallee Bush Retreat’s unique silo huts.  

Monday – Friday, 8am – 4:30pm 

Sharp’s Bakery, Birchip 

Deep breath to make more room! Our next stop brings us out to Birchip. Sharp’s Bakery currently holds the title for Australia’s Best Vanilla Slice, and we think it’s well deserved, though there is still fierce debate among the locals. The perfect ratio of custard to pastry, sweet but not too sweet, and perfectly flaky pastry make this vanilla slice a must-eat. While the snot block takes all of the fame, it’s not to discount their incredible deserts and array of hot bakery goodies including a great sourdough loaf. 

Monday – Saturday, 8am – 5pm
Saturday, 8am – 12pm 

Bakery on Broadway, Wycheproof 

Next up, Wycheproof! The Bakery on Broadway is perfectly nestled on the main street of Wycheproof. They have coffee that stands up to our urban Victorian counterparts, great pies and salads and wraps if you’re after something a bit lighter. Of course, no regional roadtrip is complete without the spoils to take home. There is an extensive selection of local produce from Mallee Country including Lake Tyrrel Salt, olive oils, preserves and more. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, head up to the world’s smallest, officially registered mountain, Mt Wycheproof. The views across the plains will take your breath away (and not just because you’re full of baked goods). 

Monday – Friday, 7am – 3pm
Saturday – Sunday, 8am – 3pm 

Charlton Bakery Café 

After conquering Mt Wycheproof, you’ll be on your way to Charlton. Its named ‘the friendly river town’ for a reason. When you head into Charlton, you’ll be greeted with cheerful country hospitality at the Charlton Bakery Café. Owned by locals, this bakery serves up a classic and delicious bakery meal. Pick up your pie and head to the Avoca River to enjoy it as you look over the tranquil, flowing river. It does not get much better than that.  

Monday – Friday, 6:30am – 3pm
Saturday, 7am – 2pm 

Donald Bakery 

Welcome to Donald! Often buzzing with locals and visitors alike, the town of Donald is a beauty with its vintage streetscape. Head down the main street where you’ll find the shearing-shed-inspired bakery. Complete with tin walls, bales of wool and restored wood, it feels just like getting a hard-earned lunch after a long day of shearing. Their Ned Kelly pies are a must-try when you stop in here. 

Monday – Friday, 7am – 2pm 

Warrack Hot Bread 

Hope you’re not too full! Take a deep breath, this is the last stop on the Wimmera Mallee Bakery trail. Landing in Warracknabeal, the Warrack Hot Bread Bakery not only serves up the classic bakery finds, but they also offer great alternatives if you’re all pie’d-out. You’ll find their famous roast pork rolls on Fridays, as well as an assortment of great wraps and sandwiches. Once you’re done, Warrack (as it’s affectionately known), features some of the best vintage shopping in the Wimmera Mallee including Wheatlands Warehouse, Antique and Second Hand Shop and the splendid The Mid-Centurion. 

Monday, 7am – 2pm
Tuesday – Friday, 8am – 3pm