Trail Fast Facts
Victor Harbor Heritage Trail is a 5.5km, grade 3 hike in Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia. This hike typically takes 2 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Heritage Trail, also known as the Kings Head Hike, offers a scenic and informative dog-friendly and child-friendly walk along Victor Harbor's stunning coastline. Stretching from Kent Reserve to Kings Beach Road, the trail connects with the Heysen Trail, providing the opportunity for longer hikes.
The Heritage Trail highlights the region's cultural, environmental, and historical significance through interpretive signage. Explore the beaches and headlands between Petrel Cove and Kings Beach, keeping an eye out for dolphins and whales offshore. Learn about the landscape's geology, European and Aboriginal history through the informative signs. You can even choose to include the 800-meter Rosetta Trail and ascend The Bluff for panoramic views.
For a longer adventure, consider starting your walk in central Victor Harbor or Kent Reserve. Alternatively, continue along the Heysen Trail towards Waitpinga Cliffs. This section is particularly scenic and popular with walkers and photographers, offering varied terrain from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches.
The Heysen Trail offers further exploration opportunities. From Kings Beach Road, you can head southwest towards Cape Jervis (a 67km, 3-5 day trek) or north towards the Flinders Ranges (a challenging 1200km, 50-60 day hike). Regardless of the chosen distance, a moderate level of fitness is recommended, and always ensure you carry sufficient water and wear appropriate clothing for the conditions.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 17 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 112 m
Total descent: -112 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Located 4 kilometres southwest of Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula, The Bluff carpark (also known as Rosetta Head carpark) is easily accessible by car. From Victor Harbor, head south on Victor Harbor Road, turning left onto Rosetta Road a short distance later. Follow Rosetta Road for approximately 4 kilometres until you reach the car park at the end. Remember, parking is limited, so arriving early on busy days is recommended.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
The Fleurieu Peninsula, located just south of Adelaide, boasts a delightful Mediterranean atmosphere. This region showcases South Australia's best coastal scenery, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Explore charming towns like Victor Harbor, Willunga, Normanville, Goolwa, Yankalilla, and Rapid Bay, all nestled amidst rolling vineyards, farmland, and pristine beaches.
McLaren Vale, a world-renowned wine region, is a highlight of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Here, you can sample acclaimed wines at cellar doors, some offering unique experiences like tastings in a giant Rubik's Cube or a double-decker bus. For an extended culinary adventure, embark on a road trip along the Epicurean Way.
Beyond the vineyards, the Fleurieu Peninsula offers diverse landscapes. Explore the stunning scenery of Deep Creek National Park with its walking trails, or visit Coorong National Park to witness the Murray River merge with the ocean. For a family outing, kayak or bike around Myponga Reservoir.
The coastline itself varies dramatically. Find long stretches of pristine white sand beaches with clear water, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Dramatic cliff faces and the wild Southern Ocean provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and surfing.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.