Cactus Country, Victoria: Why visit Australia’s largest cactus farm?

Cactus Country in Strathmerton, Victoria, is home to thousands of cacti. The garden trails make for fabulous photo – and you can also try cactus ice cream.

Cactus Country is perhaps the most spectacular stop on the Murray Farm Gate Trail in northern Victoria. This quirky attraction in Strathmerton is home to thousands of cacti, all arranged into gardens.

Cactus Country in Strathmerton, Victoria, on the Murray Farm Gate Trail — Cactus Country in Strathmerton, Victoria, is a highlight of the Murray Farm Gate Trail. Photo by David Whitley/ Australia Travel Questions

Cactus Country, Victoria: Australia’s largest cactus farm

Cactus Country bills itself as Australia’s largest cactus farm. It’s about an hour’s drive from Echuca and three hours from Melbourne.

This cactus farm is essentially the work of one man, Jim Halls, whose father kept cacti in his garden. Jim loved the variety of cacti, and when his father died, he wanted to keep the collection.

How big is Cactus Country?

He not only kept the collection, he significantly expanded in. Nowadays, Cactus Country covers 12 acres.

The farm sells cacti, but has got a second string to its bow as a photo shoot destination. The cactus gardens are undeniably striking, and the variety is extraordinary. Different species of cactus from different deserts looks remarkably different from each other. Don’t be surprised to come across social media influencer posing for a zillion selfies.

Mexican food at Cactus Country, Strathmerton

To complement the Mexican-themed photo opportunities, Cactus Country also offers a café serving Mexican-themed food. The most interesting option here is the cactus ice cream. Don’t worry – the prickly bits are taken out.

The simplest entry and tour package at Cactus Country costs $17.50, although several more complex packages including food are also available. Visit the farm website for more information.

You can visit Strathmerton on the drive from Albury to Echuca. Other good stops before you reach Echuca include Yarrawonga on Lake Mulwala, the All Saints Winery in Wahgunyah and wildlife-heavy Ulupna Island near Tocumwal.