New push to attract visitors to Pyrenees' natural attractions

Pyrenees Shire Council is launching a new campaign to attract Ballarat people to picturesque parks in the Pyrenees.

Mount Cole State Forest and Mount Buangor State Park campgrounds remain closed in line with state-wide restrictions, however day visitors are welcome to explore the parks.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced hiking as a day-trip activity would be permitted as of Tuesday night as part of the gradual easing of restrictions.

Pyrenees Shire Council tourism officer Alana Burge said visitors could drop in to Beaufort cafes to gather produce and takeaway food and then travel on to the parks, that are one hour west of Ballarat and 25 minutes out of Beaufort.

"I am sure people are looking forward to doing some more recreational activity just a little bit further from home," she said.

"The main street of Beaufort is dotted with beautiful cafes offering local produce. We are recommending people can grab a bite to eat on their way through to the parks, have a picnic and go on a walk."

Ms Burge said it was a great opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty on our 'back doorstep'.

"We have got some really beautiful parks and landscapes around the area," she said.

"I think it is a great opportunity for regional areas.

"People are going to be reluctant to travel too far. They are going to be reluctant to travel into the city, so we are really going to be focusing on our promoting to our regional neighbours."

Ms Burge said attracting visitors back to the Pyrenees would also help businesses in towns like Beaufort.

"All of our businesses are struggling," she said.

"We are a small regional area, so they are all struggling quite a lot and really dependent on our locals to keep them going."

Visit visitpyrenees.com.au/ for information on Mount Cole and Mount Buangor parks.

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