General News
28 November, 2024
A memorable summer at Wild Misty Mountain | Eat Play Stay magazine
Dining experience with a difference is a hidden gem in Pomonal.
Special publication
On the outskirts of the picturesque town of Pomonal at the foot of the Grampians in Western Victoria, you'll find Wild Misty Mountain, a dining experience with a difference set in the original Grampians Railway Station.
Created by owner Jemma Pursell, this bohemian restaurant with its eclectic charm, is a fusion of her two loves: wonderful food and live music.
Open every Saturday from midday to midnight, patrons are served Mexican dishes with an Australian twist, with some accommodation available in converted train carriages on site.
"We have live music in the evenings, an open mic night once a month and the bar is open until 1am," Jemma says.
Continuing her welcoming approach to your experience, she doesn't take bookings. You just turn up and find your space, in front of the band, at a table or any one of the many nooks and crannies in and around the restaurant, undercover or under the stars.
Wild Misty Mountain survived the devastating Pomonal fires in February 2024, but Jemma's home was one of the 46 lost.
"After spending the winter in a van in the woods away from the fire-affected area, I was ready to start again," she says. "It was the best thing for me. As winter turned to spring, the buds on the trees opened, and the birds sang again; so did I.
"I began writing music and returned to the restaurant to plan its comeback."
Wild Misty Mountain is as unique as its creator, and you'll find yourself wandering through this restored, once derelict former station master's residence in awe.
To dance under the dome she has created from saplings sourced from her land, complete with the thatched roof of the Kunsia Grass, again from her land, is worth the visit alone.
"After the fires, I just had to use what I had," she says. "We reopened in September, and now I look forward to people enjoying Wild Misty Mountain again."
There is ample parking space amongst the kangaroos, but her shuttle bus operates on Saturday nights between Ararat, Stawell, Halls Gap, Horsham, and Pomonal.
It meets and returns guests to the Melbourne train at the Ararat Station, so no driving is required to enjoy this unique experience. Make sure you don't miss the sun setting on the mountain.
Find out more about one of the Grampians best kept secrets at wwm.art.
This story is from the new summer edition of Eat Play Stay magazine. Click here to read the entire publication online.