What to Do in Erica After a Delicious Pub Lunch 

So, you’ve just finished a hot rock steak or a parma at our place, maybe capped it off with a beer by the fire. What now?

Luckily, Erica is the kind of town where the best discoveries are often found after the meal. Whether you're staying the night or just lingering for the afternoon, there’s plenty to do within a short walk or drive from nature walks to quirky shops, scenic drives to lazy second rounds.

Here’s our local guide to what to do after lunch in Erica — with real info on where to go, what’s open, and what’s worth it.

For a broader look at what the area offers across an entire stay, visit our Explore Erica page for the full lowdown.

8 Things to Do in Erica After a Pub Lunch

1. Stroll the Start of the Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail

You don’t have to hike 13 kilometres to enjoy the Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail. Starting right here in town (opposite the general store), this flat, easy track offers instant access to native bushland, old railway relics, and views over the Tyers River.
Even 30 minutes out-and-back is enough to stretch the legs and walk off your meal. If you’ve got bikes, even better.

2. Dig for Treasures at the Erica Op Shop

Open most weekends and run by local volunteers, the Erica Op Shop is one of those hidden gems with proper country-town charm. You’ll find clothing, books, vintage knick-knacks, and the occasional bush poet’s memoir.
  • Price: Budget-friendly browsing
  • Opening Hours: Typically open Saturdays & Sundays from 10am–3pm
  • Info: Just a 2-minute walk up School Road (ask us for directions)

3. Grab a Coffee (or Something Stronger) at the General Store

The Erica General Store is a little bit of everything — takeaway coffee, snacks, supplies, and ice cream in summer. If you’re not quite ready to leave town, grab a takeaway and wander across the road to the public reserve or settle into one of the benches outside.

  • Price: Coffees ~$5, toasties & treats available
  • Opening Hours: Open daily from 8am–5pm
  • Info: Google Maps

4. Drive to Mushroom Rocks for a Short Walk

Just 15 minutes up the road is one of the region’s most popular short walks. The trail to Mushroom Rocks leads through alpine ash forest to a boulder-strewn clearing that looks like something out of a fantasy novel.

  • Price: Free, approx. 3km return walk
  • Opening Hours: Best in daylight hours (no lighting on trail)
  • Info: More Info
Bring good shoes and a jacket — weather can change quickly this high up.

5. Visit Thomson Dam Lookout

If you’ve got the car and a bit of time, the Thomson Dam lookout is worth the detour. It’s a 25-minute scenic drive from Erica through rainforest and winding hills. The dam is one of Melbourne’s main water supplies — and the lookout gives you wide open views over the reservoir and mountains.

6. Browse the Erica & District Historical Museum

Right behind the pub, this small but fascinating museum is run by volunteers and showcases relics from the region’s timber and railway past. Worth a look if you like old maps, tools, photographs, and a peek into Erica’s working-class roots.

  • Price: Gold coin donation
  • Opening Hours: Usually open Sundays 10am–2pm, or by request (ask us at the bar)
  • Info: Museum Listing

7. Relax on the Deck With a Second Drink

Sometimes the best thing to do after lunch... is nothing.

If you’re feeling satisfied and a little sun-drowsy, pull up a spot on our pub deck (or by the fire inside during winter), order a local wine or cold beer, and enjoy the slow pace of Erica life. After all, that’s why most people come here.

8. Stay the Night at the Motel

Not in a rush? Our on-site motel rooms are clean, warm, and about 10 steps from the bar. If your post-lunch adventure turns into dinner and a few drinks, there’s no better way to settle in.

Rooms sleep singles, couples or small families, and there’s ample parking for bikes, trailers or 4WDs.

Check availability or book here

Still Hungry for More Ideas?

This is just the start. For day trips, waterfalls, alpine trails and quirky towns nearby, head over to our full Explore Erica guide. Or ask us in person - we’re always happy to share what’s good that week.

Contact Us

If we don’t pick up straight away, we’re probably behind the bar or on the floor — leave a message and we’ll call you back.
All enquiries:

Accommodation

For motel room availability and bookings:
For group bookings or functions, please call or email directly.

Bar Hours

  • Wednesday:
    12:00pm - 8:30pm

    Thursday:
    12:00pm - 8:30pm

    Friday:
    11:30am - close

    Saturday:
    11:30am - close

    Sunday:
    11:30am - 9:00pm

Kitchen Hours

  • Wednesday:
    Lunch: 12pm-2pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm-7:30pm

    Thursday:
    Lunch: 12pm-2pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm-7:30pm

    Friday:
    Lunch: 12pm-2pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm-8pm

    Saturday:
    Lunch: 12pm-2:30pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm-8pm

    Sunday:
    Lunch: 12pm-2:30pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm-7:30pm

    Last orders taken 15min prior to kitchen close

  • Wednesday & Thursday

    Lunch: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm - 7:30pm

    Friday & Saturday

    Lunch: 12:00pm - 2:30pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm - 8:00pm

    Sunday

    Lunch: 12:00pm - 2:30pm
    Dinner: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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