Exciting Journeys Awaiting Beyond Melbourne's City Limits
Victoria, Australia's smallest mainland state, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and charming destinations, many of which are within a three-hour drive from Melbourne. Whether you're seeking mountains, forests, beaches, or quaint villages, Victoria has it all.
The Grampians National Park
Approximately three hours from Melbourne, the Grampians National Park offers a stunning mountainous landscape and a rich Aboriginal cultural heritage. The heart of the park is Halls Gap, a charming village that serves as a gateway to natural attractions such as Splitters Falls, Boroka Lookout, and the Venus Baths Loop Trail.
Phillip Island
Phillip Island, located about two hours from Melbourne, is a wildlife-focused destination known for its picturesque beaches and coastal charm. The Penguin Parade, where you can witness penguins returning to shore at sunset, is a must-see attraction. The island also offers the Nobbies boardwalk, providing stunning coastal views, and the Moonlit Sanctuary, home to native Australian animals.
Cape Otway and Great Otway National Park
Cape Otway and the Great Otway National Park, around 2.5 to 3 hours away, offer a mix of lush eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and several beaches. Cape Otway is home to Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse, adding a touch of historical charm. The nearby towns and lightstation accommodations offer character alongside opportunities for forest walks and beach relaxation.
Geelong
For city lovers, Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, offers a beautiful beach waterfront esplanade, art deco boardwalk, Geelong Botanic Gardens, Geelong Gallery, Geelong Gaol, and the National Wool Museum.
Other Notable Destinations
- Daylesford, a favourite for relaxation and spa treatments, is a 25-minute drive from RACV Goldfields Resort.
- Heathcote, a hidden gem 90 minutes from Melbourne, offers vineyards, historic buildings, and nature walks.
- The Otway Fly Zipline Tour in the Otway Ranges allows visitors to swing through the towering canopy 30 meters above ground level.
- Inverloch, known for its stunning beaches and proximity to Phillip Island, is a two-hour drive from Melbourne.
- Macedon, an hour from Melbourne, offers hiking trails, country pub experiences, and local wineries.
- Bendigo, an award-winning regional city two hours north-west of Melbourne, is built upon a rich gold mining legacy and offers attractions like the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Art Gallery, and Bendigo Botanic Gardens.
- The Great Ocean Road, a world-class day-trip destination, offers a culinary cornucopia, brilliant activities, and playful pit-stops.
- The Yarra Valley, an hour's drive from Melbourne, offers sensory indulgence with award-winning cellar doors, world-class distilleries, hatted restaurants, and resort accommodation.
- Torquay, a surfside town along the Great Ocean Road, is a must-see wonder.
- Nagambie, two hours from Melbourne, is a scenic spot for water sports, breweries, and wineries like Tahbilk and Mitchelton.
Practical Tips
- Electric car owners can check EV charging availability along their chosen route prior to leaving. RACV Members can access information about EV charging stations via the RACV App.
- Packing a car safety kit, updating emergency roadside assistance plan, and downloading the VicEmergency app are recommended before leaving for day trips in Victoria.
Victoria's diverse day trip destinations ensure there's something for everyone, from the rugged beauty of the Grampians to the coastal charm of Phillip Island, and the historical allure of Cape Otway and Bendigo. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover Victoria's treasures!
- A day trip to the Grampians National Park, near Halls Gap, offers a blend of breathtaking mountainous landscapes and rich Aboriginal cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of nature and history.
- For travelers interested in home-and-garden aesthetics, Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, boasts a beautiful beach waterfront esplanade, art deco boardwalk, and the Geelong Botanic Gardens, providing a scenic backdrop for exploring the city's lifestyle offerings.
