Victoria’s Best Day Trips
The smallest state on Australia’s mainland, Victoria’s landscape varies from rugged coastline and fertile hinterland to forested mountains and everything in-between. Get out of town at these top day trip destinations.
Yarra Valley
With over 60 cellar doors and some of Australia’s best cold climate wines, oenophiles are spoilt for choice in the Yarra Valley – less than an hour from Melbourne. Start the day with a hot air balloon ride over the hills, then tour the region’s wineries. Meletos, Levantine Hill and TarraWarra Estate are all excellent choices for lunch, while the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery has dessert covered. Spend the afternoon meeting Australia’s furry friends at Healesville Sanctuary then rest in comfort at one of the region’s luxury accommodation options such as Balgownie Estate or Yering Gorge Cottages.
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs
Australia’s spa capital, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are home to more than 80% of the country’s natural mineral spring water. Soak in the healing properties of the water or book in for a treatment at one of the region’ many day spas such as Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa or Salus Spa. Relax with a long lunch at Sault Restaurant or take your pick of culinary delights on Piper Street in nearby Kyneton before resting your head at the Lake House or Hepburn Spa Retreat.
Mornington Peninsula
Lined with calm bay beaches on one side and rugged ocean beaches on the other, there is a beach or bay for all desires. Surfing, snorkelling and sea-kayaking are all popular activities on the water, while the hinterland is brimming with wineries and farm gates to satisfy any palette. Taste fine wine and dine in style at Ten Minutes by Tractor, Max’s at Red Hill or Polperro, then take to the sky and see Port Phillip Bay from above with The Eagle Skylift at Arthur’s Seat.
Great Ocean Road
Stretching 243 km along Victoria’s southern coastline, the Great Ocean Road offers spectacular ocean views as you wind your way from Torquay to Allansford. Stop for a break at the seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, take in the view at the Bay of Islands and then capture that magic moment at the 12 Apostles. Return along the inland route, stopping to fly through the forest at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures and taste the local brew at Forrest Brewery.