road trips victoria australia

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Home » Oceania » Best Road Trips in Victoria (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips in Victoria (Insider Guide for 2024)

Victoria may be one of Australia’s smallest states – but it’s brimming with all kinds of breathtaking sights to satisfy your wanderlust. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, alone easily trumps  all  lists on the most liveable (not to mention the coolest) cities down under.

But, only a short drive outside Melbourne, and you’ve got a myriad of national parks, dope surfing, and quirky Gold Rush cities.

We say  drive  because road trips in Victoria are the best way to make the most of what this beautiful state has to offer. It gives you the freedom to really take your time and find those hidden sweet-spots where the public buses don’t go.

But when it comes to planning a road trip in Victoria – where should you  start?

Well, here! We’ve mapped out three adventurous itineraries for you to choose  from – all  you have to worry about  is what day you hit the road.

Let’s dive in and get those bags packed.

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Why Roadtrip in Victoria?

The great ocean road – plus, alpine discovery, the melbourne inland loop , driving in victoria, insurance in victoria, what to pack for a road trip in victoria, final thoughts on the best road trips in victoria .

Not sure a road trip is the best way to get around? Well, here are five reasons why we think it’s a win-win. 

• Year-round appeal: It’s true you’ll want your layers during the winter months. But even with a frosty nip in the air, road trips in Victoria are always a recipe for adventure. What’s not to love about snow capped mountains and diminished crowds?
• The Great Ocean Road: Victoria is home to one of the world’s most talked-about road trips. This is a chance to see those famous limestone towers for yourself and experience some of the best surf in the world. 
• Awesome national parks: While the Australian coast gets (and deserves) a lot of the glory, there is plenty of scope for avid hikers and rainforest lovers in Victoria. 
• Remarkable wildlife: From koalas to penguins, Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most exotic and endangered wildlife.
• Tasty tucker: While on the road, you can enjoy simple fish ‘n’ chips on the beach or treat yourself to some of the world’s best oysters.  Victoria is also home to some world-class wine cellars for you to pop your head into.

The Great Ocean Road – Plus (8 days)

Alpine discovery (5 days), the melbourne inland loop (4 days).

Without further ado, here are our Victoria road trip ideas in detail. Starting with:

• From:  Melbourne
• To:  Melbourne
• Total Distance:  1,060 km
• Days:  8
• Top road trip stops:  Grampian National Park, Mount Gambier, 12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay, Torquay

The Great Ocean Road is arguably one of the best road trips in Australia . But why stop there? Our ultimate itinerary takes you beyond the magnificent Limestone Coast. This epic 8-day road trip also includes lush national parks, a deluxe spa town, and cities built upon ancient volcanoes.

Road trip highlights:

• Cruise the legendary 243 kilometres that comprise the Great Ocean Road
• Catch a wave in Torquay – Australia’s Surf Capital
• Marvel at the volcanic landscape of Mount Gambier
• Explore the fern gullies and waterfalls of the Grampian National Park
• Sight whales off Logan’s Beach (May – October) and look for wild koalas in the gum trees at Kennett River

Day 1: Melbourne to Daylesford (2 hours)

Skip the freeway and take the backroads that skirt the eastern rim of the Lerderderg State Park. Stop off at Mount Macedon – a town overflowing with gardens built beneath a dormant volcano. Once in Daylesford, soak up the natural mineral waters – it’s a spa town after all.

The Hepburn Springs Bathhouse is the place to go if you’re feeling flush. The Hepburn Springs Bathhouse is the place to go if you’re feeling flush. On the other hand, the Peninsula Hot Springs cater to budget backpackers looking to get hot and muddy. Accommodation in town isn’t cheap, but you can head up the road to Hepburn Springs and score yourself a free camping spot.

• Best stops: Mount Macedon, Trentham Falls, Wombat Hills Botanical Gardens, Lake Daylesford, Hepburn Springs
• Where to eat: The Nook Cafe (Sunbury), Top of the Range Tea Rooms (Mount Macedon), Cliffy’s (Daylesford)
• Where to stay: Mount Franklin Reserve (free), Dulwich Studio -a cosy 1br cottage ($$$), Albert Guesthouse and Mills Spa Suites ($$$)

Day 2-3: Daylesford to Halls Gap (2 hours)

Now that you’re feeling zen, you can tackle the sights of one of Victoria’s treasures – the Grampians. On the way, why not take a detour via 1852. The town of Sovereign Hill is basically a living museum – it’s not changed a bit since the Gold Rush.

Once at Halls Gap you’ll find hiking trails, Aboriginal rock art, the MacKenzie Falls, and natural waterslides to explore. Spend a couple of nights in Halls Gap to make the most of the park.

• Best stops: Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Ararat
• Where to eat: Yellow Espresso (Ballarat), Waack’s Bakery (Ararat), Bushfoods Cafe & Restaurant (Halls Gap)
• Where to stay: Grampians Eco YHA ($), Modern Caravan ($$), The Grampians Mote ($$)

Day 4: Halls Gap to Mount Gambier (2 hours 30 minutes)

We’ll leave the highlands behind and travel to one of South Australia’s best-kept secrets today: the Blue Lake of Mount Gambier. There are several places to stop for a short hike along the way, including the Mount Abrupt trail. Mount Gambier is a small town just over the state border that is built on the slopes of a volcano.

Once you’ve arrived, stroll around the cobalt blue crater lake, dive into a cenote, and wander the sunken garden of the Umpherston Sinkhole. Divers can book a magical underwater tour of the Engelbrecht Caves, while hikers can trek around the Blue Lake.

• Best stops: Mount Abrupt, The Piccaninny, Hamilton
• Where to eat:  Izzy’s Cafe (Dunkeld), The Roxburgh (Hamilton), Limestone Coast Pantry (Mount Gambier).
• Where to stay: Tarpeena Recreation Ground (free) The Old Mount Gambier Gaol ($$), Annie’s Apartment ($$$)

Day 5: Mount Gambier to Princetown (3 hours)

And back into Victoria! Stop at Discovery Bay to kayak, or Cape Bridgewater to spot the furry colony  on the ‘Seal Walk’. You can even do a cage dive if you want to get even closer.

Once you leave the cute seaside town of Port Fairy, you’ll officially enter the Great Ocean Road leg of the journey, and those legendary limestone shapes will start to rise from the roaring surf.

There’ll be plenty of time to stop at the various lookouts for photos before catching the sunset over the 12 Apostles.

• Best stops: Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Cape Bridgewater, Port Fairy, Warrnambool, London Bridge, The Arch, The Grotto,12 Apostles
• Where to eat:  The Brass Compass (Bridgewater), Charlie’s On East (Port Fairy), 12 Apostles Inn (Princetown)
• Where to stay: The 13th Apostle Backpackers ($), Princetown Recreation Reserve ($), Twelve Apostles Motel Comfort Queen Bedroom ($$)

Day 6: Princetown to Apollo Bay (1 hour)

No Victorian road trip is complete without catching the sunrise. So, get up early and catch first light over the 12 Apostles.

You only have one hour behind the wheel today, which is for the best as you have your second national park on the agenda. The rugged hinterland of Great Otway is one of Australia’s best national parks , and is excellent for hiking and chasing waterfalls. Ride the local zipline for a quick adrenaline rush and view of the canopy.

The  welcoming Apollo Bay will be home for tonight. Nestled in the foothills of the park you can swim, surf, and kayak alongside the fur seals.

• Best stops: 12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Marriner’s Lookout
• Where to eat:  Tiny Village Cafe (Lavers Hill), Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-op
• Where to stay: Apollo Bay Eco YHA ($), Surfside Backpacker ($$) Spa Woodfire Studio Apartment ($$$)

Day 7: Apollo Bay to Torquay (1 hour 30 minutes)

Take a break at Kennett River for a chance to spot wild koalas in the gum trees, and stop off at the lively beach resort of Lorne for lunch. We hope you like waterfalls – there are ten around the town to explore.

Park overnight up at Aireys Beach for a spot of surfing at Fairhaven Beach, or snorkelling at Step Beach. Tonight, let your salty hair down in Australia’s Surf Capital – one of the coolest places to stay on the Great Ocean Road.

• Best stops: Carisbrook Waterfall, Kennett River, Aireys Inlet, Lorne
• Where to eat:  Kafe Koala (Kennett River), The Salty Dog Fish & Chippery (Lorne), Fishos (Torquay)
• Where to stay: Bells Beach Backpackers ($), The View on Grossmans ($$), Bells Beach Shack ($$$)

Day 8: Torquay to Melbourne (1 hour 30 minutes)

The final stretch of the road trip is short, so take the morning to soak up the atmosphere of Torquay. The best waves are at Bells Beach, while Front Beach is less daunting for surf newbies.

On the approach to Melbourne, stretch your legs along the Geelong waterfront or explore the botanical gardens.

Further up the coastal road we’ll come to Melbourne’s first port settlement – Williamstown. Stop to ogle the tall ships, dip into the maritime heritage, and wander the gardens before heading back to one of Melbourne’s best hostels for the night.

• Best stops: Bells Beach, Geelong, Williamstown
• Where to eat:  King of the Castle Cafe (Geelong), Hug a Mug Cafe (Williamstown)
• Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), The Village Melbourne ($$), Bellbird – Free wi-fi plus breakfast first morning ($$)

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• From: Wangaratta
• To: Melbourne
• Total Distance: 960 km
• Top road trip stops: Mount Buffalo National Park, Ninety Mile Beach, Wilsons Promontory, Phillip Island

The Great Alpine Road is another of Victoria’s ultimate road trip destinations. Our route takes you beyond the magnificent mountains, down along Victoria’s sand-swept eastern coast.

If you travel the Great Alpine Road during the winter (June-October), don’t forget snow chains for your vehicle and keep an eye on the forecast! The weather in Victoria can be quite unpredictable.

• Drive the 308 km that form the Great Alpine Road
• Surf giant dunes and listen to sand that squeaks in Wilsons Promontory
• Explore the best of the Australian Alps on foot, bike or horseback
• Hit the slopes at the Hotham Alpine – snow permitting!
• See the penguins on Phillip Island

*If you start this trip in Melbourne, factor in 2.5-3 hours driving time to our official starting place of Wangaratta. 

Day 1: Wangaratta to Bright (2-3 hours)

We’ll follow the Great Alpine Road south out of Wangaratta. A worthy detour is the town of Beechworth, rich in Gold Rush history and wine culture. Beechworth Honey is a must-go for honey lovers – so feel free to pick up a jar or two.

After passing through a cluster of wineries, your next calling point is the Mount Buffalo National Park. Home to waterfalls, fascinating rock formations and unforgettable views across the Australian Alps, this is perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. 

Choose to camp here overnight or head to the leafy alpine town of Bright and check into a guest house. 

• Best stops: Beechworth, a Great Alpine Road winery of your choice, Mount Buffalo National Park
• Where to eat:  The Beechworth Pantry, Alpine Gate Cafe (Myrtleford), Bright Brewery
• Where to stay: Lake Catani Campground ($) Alpine Sports Lodge ($), The Boathouse Bright ($$)

Day 2: Bright to Omeo (2-3 hours)

After yesterday’s flat drive through farmland, things take a total u-turn as you tackle the stretch that gives the Great Alpine Road its reputation. The road snakes steeply up the mountains, offering beauty in every direction. Stop off at Hotham Alpine resort for skiing in winter or hiking/biking in summer.

Just before you approach Omeo, stop at the Kosciuszko Lookout. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Kosciuszko and Mount Townsend in the distance – the two highest peaks in Oz. 

• Best stops: Hotham Ski Resort, Danny’s Lookout, Kosciuszko Lookout
• Where to eat:  Bella’s Cafe (Harrietville), Mountain Kitchen (Dinner Plain), Omeo’s High Plain Bakery
• Where to stay: Colonial Motel ($$), Omeo Motel ($$)

Day 3: Omeo to Ninety Mile Beach (3 hours)

Spend the morning pottering around the historic town before heading south, completing the Great Alpine Road in Bairnsdale. This is a great place to stop off to learn about the indigenous heritage of the Gunaikurnai people of Gippsland. But the road trip doesn’t end here.

Continue southwest and join the coast at Ninety Mile Beach. As one of the most unspoilt beaches in the country, the beach offers 90 golden miles  of glorious swimming and cycling opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for a dolphin or breaching whale.

• Best stops: Bairnsdale, Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place
• Where to eat:  The Pressing Shed Cafe (Tongio), The Wooden Squirrel (Bairnsdale), Redd Cat (Sale)
• Where to stay: Paradise Beach Campground ($), Cape Cod Apartment ($$) 90 Mile Beach House & Villas ($$$)

Day 4: Ninety Mile Beach to Wilsons Promontory (2 hours 30 minutes)

Follow the coast,stopping along the way to look out at the islands sitting offshore. Today’s destination is mainland Australia’s southernmost tip: Wilson’s Promontory. 

Wilsons Prom is loaded with fun things to do, including snorkelling and surfing. If you don’t fancy getting wet, skip the waves and surf the giant sand dunes instead.

Head down to Squeaky Beach to experience sand that squeaks as you sink your toes into it. Alternatively, there’s a short but tasking hike to reach the summit of Mount Oberon.

• Best stops: Port Albert, Port Welshpool
• Where to eat:  Port Albert Cafe & Wine Bar, Latte Dah Cafe (Toora), Wilsons Prom Cafe & Pizza
• Where to stay: Tidal River Campground ($), Sandy Point Beach Escape ($$), Olivi ($$$)

Day 5: Wilsons Promontory to Melbourne (3 hours 30 minutes)

All good things must come to an end. Hug the coast all the way back to Melbourne, and stop off at coastal towns and bays along the way. The Bunurong Marine National Park is accessible from Cape Paterson and offers snorkelling with huge fish. Note that the water here is only suitable for strong swimmers.

Phillip Island is one of Melbourne’s ultimate must-sees ; take a detour on the way back and watch the penguins on their sunset waddle! You can opt to stay on the island for a night, or drive the two hours back to Melbourne to complete the trip.

• Best stops: Sandy Point, Venus Bay, Cape Paterson
• Where to eat:  Cape Tavern (Cape Paterson), Cheeky Goose Cafe (Phillip Island), Supernormal (Melbourne)
• Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), Leafy Room with Private Entrance & Bathroom ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

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• From: Melbourne
• Total Distance: 655 km
• Top road trip stops: Daylesford, Bendigo, Mount Buller, Yarra Ranges, Dandenong Ranges

If you’re looking for a short road trip to fill a long weekend in Melbourne , our short ‘n’ sweet inland loop is perfect. This one explores historic towns, fern glades, and fairytale forests sprinkled around Melbourne. This Victoria road trip itinerary also features mineral springs and wineries – feel free to treat yo’ selves people.

• Pamper yourself in the spa town of Daylesford
• Explore the Gold Rush era with Goldfields towns
• Breathe in the Alpine National Park from the slopes of Mount Buller – plan your road trip in Victoria during winter so you can ski
• Sip Chardonnay and sparkling wine in the Yarra Valley Wine Region
• Take to the sky with a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges

Day 1: Melbourne to Daylesford (3 hours)

Head out of Melbourne to Ballarat and wander around the botanical gardens and the lake of this historic town. There’s also the Ballarat Wildlife Park – home to Tasmanian Devils and other Aussie wildlife. Down the road is Sovereign Hill, where you’ll often see people kitted out in 19th-century costumes and horse drawn carriages.

Once at your final destination, Daylesford, you can detox in the mineral waters of the spa town. The Peninsula Hot Springs isn’t exactly cheap, but it is one of the more wallet-friendly options in town.

• Best stops: Geelong, Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, Hepburn Springs
• Where to eat:  Oh My Greens (Bacchus Marsh), Tic Tok Cafe (Ballarat), Sophie & Bill’s (Daylesford)

Day 2: Daylesford to Mansfield (3 hours)

Today, you’ll cruise through Victoria’s Goldfields region. Pretty Castlemaine and colourful Bendigo have plenty of galleries, gardens, and eateries to explore. Take a subterranean voyage 225 metres below ground at Bendigo to experience a glimpse into an ancient gold mine. If that’s not for you, check out the retro tramway instead.

Get a burst of adrenaline at Bonnie Doon with some horse trekking or dirt biking. Mansfield is the gateway to exploring the Alpine National Park. In winter, Mount Buller is a powdery wonderland for skiers. Come summer, it transforms into a playground for hikers and mountain bikers.

• Best stops: Castlemaine, Bendigo, Bonnie Doon, Mount Buller
• Where to eat:  Fig Cafe (Castlemaine), Ex Lion Tamer (Bendigo), Mansfield Pizza
• Where to stay: Delatite Hotel ($$), Studiolux ($$$)

Day 3: Mansfield to Yarra Glen (1 hour 30 minutes)

Today, you’ll loop down towards the Yarra Ranges. If you like wine and/or bushwalks, then this is pretty much one of the best things you’ll do while visiting Melbourne. There’s a huge variety of bushwalks to choose from to experience the natural beauty of the wine region.

Meanwhile, the Healesville Animal Sanctuary is home to some of Australia’s most endangered animals. You’ll stay in Yarra Glen, which is handily located close to a scattering of the vineyards. 

• Best stops: Healesville Animal Sanctuary, Yarra Yarra Valley
• Where to eat:  Giddy Goat Cafe (Yarck), Marmalades (Yea), Innocent Bystander (Healesville)
• Where to stay: Yarra Glen Bed & Breakfast ($$), Yarra Glen Peaceful Retreat ($$)

Day 4: Yarra Glen to Melbourne (2 hours)

Head back towards Melbourne via the Dandenong Ranges, an extension of the Yarra Valley. There’s so much to do here, it’s become one of our best places to stay in Melbourne .

Why not start the day with a hot air balloon ride over the verdant plains? The Currawong Bush Park is a great place to stop and look for native wildlife, or try out the zipline at the Glen Harrow.

• Best stops: Dandenong Ranges, Currawong Bush Park
• Where to eat:  The Trail Cafe (Mount Evelyn), Miss Marple’s Tea Room (Sassafras), MoVida (Melbourne)
• Where to stay: Melbourne Hostel ($), Studio Apartment fully furnished ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

Roads in Victoria are a siren’s call for road trippers – they’re sealed and flanked with splendid panoramas. If you plan on driving during winter, take extra precautions as the highlands are subject to snow and ice. Yup, even the land down under experiences the odd snowfall.

Renting a Vehicle in Victoria 

Renting a car or camper in Victoria is a doddle, and a popular choice with backpackers and holidaymakers. You’ll find it easier to rent a vehicle in Melbourne, but it’s possible in smaller cities too. 

You’ll need a valid driver’s licence from your original country to rent a vehicle in Victoria (You’ll also need photo ID if your licence doesn’t have a photocard). If your license isn’t written in English you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

When you pick up your wheels, the agency may add a few fees to your agreement. Make sure you factor these costs in when planning a road trip in Victoria:

• Age surcharge. You need to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle in Australia, but most companies charge a surcharge for renters under 25.
• Additional driver(s). If you intend to share the driving, your rental company will add additional drivers to your paperwork. Don’t lie to save the cash – it’s all for insurance purposes!
• Deposit. You will need to pay a deposit (bond) that covers the vehicle against any unexpected damage. In Victoria, a typical deposit ranges from $200 – $1000. Usually, you must pay by credit card rather than a debit card.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road rules in Victoria

One thing to bear in mind as you plan your road trip in Victoria is the local road rules. Every state/territory in Australia has its own laws in place, and the police don’t take kindly to reckless driving. 

Incidentally, Victoria was the very first place in the world to legislate seatbelts. Now, buckle up and familiarise yourself with a few other handy rules. 

• Always park in the direction of traffic. That means the nose of your car should face the direction of travel. There’s a penalty of up to AU$165 if you park the other way. 
• Think before you honk. Australia has a nationwide ban on needless honking, so only do it when it’s deemed necessary.
• Don’t pick up any hitchhikers in Victoria. It’s illegal (weird, we know) and warrants a $30 fine. 
• Don’t forget to lock up and roll up the windows when you’re away from your rental. It’s a road rule, but it also keeps out any curious wildlife.
• Don’t drive too slow! Aussies are extremely laid back, but they don’t mess around. If you want to take in a view, just pull up and have a few minutes break!

Okay, that’s enough of the rules – it’s time to start your adventure. We’ve compiled the three best road trips in Victoria for you to choose from. Ready?

Drivers in Australia must have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This is a personal injury insurance policy usually included in the rental agreement by default. You might hear it referred to as ‘Green Slip insurance’. 

Your rental rep will give you a quote, but there’s no harm in researching your options.  Consult a third party, such as RentalCover.com who offer transparent, backpacker-friendly policies. Their no-frills, flat fee insurance policies usually include things like Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance. 

In addition, your rental desk will probably try to flog you the likes of an ‘Excess Waiver’, ‘Damage Liability Waiver’ or ‘Reduction Liability Waiver’. This is a fee that brings the remaining excess on your rental to zero. Prices vary but it usually comes in around $20 – $60 per day on top of your rental fee.

We’re sure you’d rather spend your dollars on something much more interesting. That’s why we suggest you do your research before travelling Australia , and use an independent insurance company when you plan your road trip in Victoria.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Active Roots Money Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

GRAYL Geopress Filtered Bottle

Having a filtered water bottle means you can drink from just about any source. The GRAYL Geopress is hands-down the most effective one we’ve ever used as well!

Active Roots Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Active Roots Camping Hammock

Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organize your bathroom stuff. Well worth having as it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

And that’s it – three Victoria road trip ideas for you to take your pick from. 

All three routes offer a variety of landscapes, activities, wildlife, and gastronomy to give you a well-rounded Victorian experience. Many places we’ve covered in our itineraries aren’t accessible via public transport, so if you’re looking to strike out from the crowds, here’s your chance. 

So, what are you waiting for? Score yourself a rental deal, grab your road trip gear and hit the road. Just don’t forget the golden rule in Victoria – no hitchhikers!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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10 hidden-gem road trips in Victoria

30 October 2023

Prepare yourself to take the road less travelled as we introduce you to some of Victoria’s hidden-gem road trips.

The Great Ocean Road , Mornington Peninsula , Grampians National Park – Victoria is full of hot-shot road trips that get plenty of love.

But what about the lesser-known spots that are as equally enticing? Turns out, you can embark on a number of road trips that even plenty of Victorians have never heard of.

So, here are 10 hidden-gem road trips to discover on your next driving holiday.

1. See the Silo Art of Western Victoria

Silo art trails have been popping up around Australia as the hot new way to see the countryside and get a culture fix at the same time. This particular one, located in Victoria’s west , is considered the largest outdoor gallery in Australia – stretching over 200 kilometres and linking six small country towns.

In 2016, Canberra artist Guido van Helten painted an anonymous, multi-generational quartet of female and male farmers across four 1939-built GrainCorp silos. With that action, he transformed the spirit of the Wimmera Mallee region, linking Brim with the neighbouring towns of Lascelles, Patchewollock, Rosebery, Rupanyup and Sheep Hill to create the Silo Art Trail.

Julia Volchkova depicted Rupanyup locals Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann on the silos. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

These days, visitors can tackle the self-guided journey by car. Stop to enjoy the allures of each region, as well as marvelling at the area’s ancient Indigenous roots and its history as one of Australia’s most important grain-growing regions.

Don’t miss: See the silos from above on a scenic flight with Grampians Helicopters . Learn about the faces and places painted by the locally born and raised pilot.

Guido van Helten’s Brim mural was the first silo artwork to appear in Victoria. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

2. A detour to Otway

The Great Ocean Road is firmly at the top of most of the best Victorian road trip lists. However, one of the lesser-known towns among the many that populate this route is Otway. Hidden among its delicious produce, waterfalls and hinterland is Cape Otway National Park – a place that’s worth getting in the car for.

Inside you’ll find a rugged coastline, rock formations, beaches, ferny forests and hopefully, Australia’s largest remaining marsupial carnivore, the tiger quoll. The forests, woodlands and coastline of the Otway Ranges are one of the last remaining habitats for this special creature that is on the brink of extinction. Keep your eyes peeled.

Don’t miss: Hopetoun Falls. There’s a platform 20 metres from the car park where you can view the waterfall from the top.

Otway Rainforest has some of the tallest eucalyptus trees in the world

3. Phillip Island to French Island

Find passionate producers, nature-based experiences and those famous surf breaks – could Phillip Island be the ultimate seaside getaway? Yes. Particularly because it comes with access to Victoria’s largest coastal island: French Island.

Approximately 70 per cent of French Island is national park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

One-hundred-odd people live on this slice of island paradise. Approximately 70 per cent of its 170 square kilometres has been declared a national park and the remainder is privately-owned freehold land, including some of the most exclusive real estate in Victoria. It sits just north of Phillip Island in Western Port and is connected by daily ferries from Stony Point.

Don’t miss: Thanks to its seclusion, French Island has remained relatively untouched over the years. And the flora and fauna have thrived as a result: find almost 300 species of birds, over 100 types of bush orchids, the endangered long-nosed potoroo, and koalas are free from the chlamydia disease that’s ravaged the population on the mainland.

French Island has remained relatively untouched over the years. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. The other Goldfields town

Bendigo ’s reputation isn’t as notorious as Ballarat ‘s, but the other Goldfields town at the heart of Central Victoria (and one-time richest city in the world) has been drawing people from across the globe ever since the 1850s gold rush.

The city now pays homage to a wealth of a different kind as a cultural and foodie hotspot. Wineries, craft brewers and boutique food producers abound (in 2019 Bendigo was designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy) all set among the legacy of grand buildings, historic gardens, avenues and charming homes.

Bendigo pays homage to a wealth of a different kind as a cultural and foodie hotspot. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Don’t miss: The Bendigo Art Gallery . It’s considered one of the country’s best regional galleries and has carved a niche for itself with blockbuster fashion and design exhibitions including  Marilyn Monroe  and  Marimekko: Design Icon 1951-2018.

Bendigo Art Gallery is considered one of the country’s best regional galleries. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. The Bellarine Taste Trail

The wide, sun-drenched landscape that stretches along the Bellarine Peninsula is one of the country’s most fertile food bowls, with local producers offering up everything from olives to cool-climate wines .

If you’re feeling peckish, chart a course along the Bellarine Taste Trail to discover a secret gem of a road trip ready to be savoured. There are some seriously decadent foodie institutions that embrace the farm-to-fork philosophy within easy reach from the town’s centre.

Campbell Point House is breathtaking.

White Fisheries sells Port Phillip Bay fish sold on the same day it’s caught. Find Lonsdale Tomato Farm and their authentic farmgate store down an unassuming country road.  Igni was named the 2017 Regional Restaurant of the Year in the Gourmet Traveller’s national restaurant awards and the fire-driven degustation menu is truly jaw-dropping. Wattle Grove Honey produces pure Australian honey and beeswax products from their own beehives.

Don’t miss: A stay at Campbell Point House . For those who have long dreamt of staying in an elegant, 20-million dollar luxury accommodation, this is the only way to do it.

Words don’t do this view justice.

6. Lake Mountain

Lake Mountain  is Melbourne’s closest and most affordable Alpine Resort. It has 30 kilometres of trails and is the third most visited cross-country site in the world. It’s around two hours’ scenic drive from Melbourne.

The spot caters to ‘snow play’ – cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, etc. There is no downhill skiing or snowboarding. When the snow melts and the crowds swap snow boots for board shorts and bikinis, you’ll find rolling green mountains, itching to be hiked and biked.

Don’t miss: The nearby town of Marysville has been experiencing a marvellous rebirth after the tragic Black Saturday bushfires of 2009. The 20-kilometre drive down from Lake Mountain is one of the most picturesque alpine drives in Australia and full of adventure: the town’s surrounds are a paradise for hikers, foodies and market shoppers.

Lake Mountain is Melbourne’s closest and most affordable Alpine Resort

7. Budj Bim National Park

Budj Bim National Park isn’t a place known to most Victorians, but it very well should be. A Gunditjmara name for Mount Eccles, Budj Bim is the long-dormant volcano that once spewed lava up to 50 kilometres toward the sea. It dramatically altered the waterways and wetlands which have remained untouched some 30,000 to 39,000 years later.

Lake Surprise – which has formed in the crater of Mount Eccles – offers a scenic location and playground for an ample dose of recreation. There are spots for camping, walking, mountain biking and 4WDing, plus opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Budj Bim dramatically altered the waterways and wetlands which have remained untouched some 30,000 to 39,000 years later.

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has been formally recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is the only Australian World Heritage property listed exclusively for its Aboriginal cultural values. It also features the earliest living example of aquaculture in the world, with a history of eel farming dating back over 6,000 years.

Don’t miss: Budj Bim Tours has been showcasing the important history of the Gunditjmara people since 1999. Take a tour and see remnants of a settled lifestyle that features circular stone dwellings and the remains of Australia’s first and largest freshwater stone aquaculture system.

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape’s cultural tours offer visitors an opportunity to form deeper connections to Country and the history and culture of Budj Bim, no matter what time frame they are working with. Whether you’ve only got a couple of hours or a whole weekend, there’s a tour to suit everybody .  

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has been formally recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

8. Pink Lakes of Murray Sunset National Park

Pink Lakes live on the edge of Murray Sunset National Park – a location that is often referred to as Victoria’s own outback. It is pristine, untouched and in a fast-paced world, it offers a chance to get back to nature.

Thanks to the Pink Lakes’ combination of salt-loving algae and high salinity levels the pink hue of the water changes by the hour, depending on the cloud conditions above. Generally, you’ll find that on cloudy days the pinks are at their most striking, and at other times they are more of a fairy-floss hue.

The flora and fauna are varied and abundant at the Pink Lakes. Look out for the red kangaroos, the Murray Lily flower, and if you’re a bird watcher make sure to pack your guidebook as there are loads of colourful and elusive species to discover. For bushwalkers, the area offers some beautiful walks, particularly in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. There are easy walks around Lake Hardy and Lake Becking as well as the longer Kline nature trail.

Don’t miss: Murray Sunset National Park is considered a stargazing haven. Make a night of it and book a campsite to enjoy the evening spectacle.

On cloudy days the pinks are at their most striking, and at other times they are more of a fairy-floss hue.

9. The Macedon Ranges

While not as unknown as some of the others on this list, the Macedon Ranges do provide one point of bizarre difference not found anywhere else.

Macedon Ranges is home to Hanging Rock.

Straws Lane – or Anti-Gravity Hill – is the optical illusion landmark found in few places around the world. The phenomenon is the southernmost Gravity Hill in the world. A place where cars appear to roll upwards, contradicting the laws of gravity. Where the horizon is either obstructed or curved, and the false horizon makes judging the gradient of a slope difficult. As your eyes adjust your perception of the landscape is altered.

Videos online showcase the anti-gravity magic of Straws Lane. To see it for yourself, visit Straws Lane just south of the intersection at Romsey Road.

Don’t miss: Time your journey with a visit to Woodend, famous for its unusual volcanic rock formation (better known as the perpetually spooky Hanging Rock). Pack a picnic to recreate the setting of Joan Lindsay’s novel and Peter Weir’s iconic film.

Woodend is a quirky little town.

10. Black Spur Drive

The ghostly, peaceful driving experience through the tall, slender galleries of Mountain Ash along the Black Spur Drive is unforgettable.

Beginning at Healesville in the south and ending at Narbethong in the north, the snaking and steep Black Spur drive cuts through the lush rainforest landscapes of the Yarra Ranges. It links the Yarra Valley with the mountain areas around Marysville and is famous for its 27-kilometre twists of towering trees and spectacular valley views.

At the base of the Black Spur you’ll find Fernshaw picnic area with rest facilities. Dom Dom in Marysville State Forest has a few basic amenities, too.

Don’t miss: Before you begin, make a beeline for the local wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary . Forget everything you know about zoos – this bushland oasis specialises in native Australian animals, with a longstanding history of breeding programs and preservation.

Black Spur Drive is unforgettable.

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Comments (3)

Excellent report. Some locations have never been to

I would love to receive all the info a out the unique Aussie travels. There are so many roads not travelled.

Absolutely amazing.I have seen most of the places but still get a buzz looking at them again.Thank you.

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A perfect itinerary for australia’s victoria road trip.

A Victoria road trip is one of the most popular trips in Australia, especially if you’re living in Melbourne.

Although the state is compact, it has some impressive natural beauty that is easily accessible from the state capital. Encompassing the spectacular coastline of the Great Ocean Road, over to the enthralling diversity of the Grampians National Park, through the historically significant gold-rush area around Ballarat and past arty townships like Daylesford, this week-long Victoria road trip itinerary will show you some of the best that this Australian state has to offer.

Any car or campervan can be used for this road trip; there is no need for 4WD or AWD capability. You can opt to camp along the way, or stay in hostels and hotels en-route.

Use this Victorian road trip planner, which includes some recommendations for the best hotels and hostels, campgrounds and restaurants in certain areas, to create your dream trip.

And, if you are living in Melbourne but don’t have the time to take a whole week off for this trip, you could split it into three weekend trips from Melbourne.

Victoria Road Trip Route

Day 1: Melbourne

Kicking off your Victoria road trip than none other than its state capital, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Melbourne for much longer than a day.

However, if you’re keen to see the great Victorian countryside and only have a day to soak in the city, you can fit the highlights in in one day.

Things to do in Melbourne

• See the street art of Hoiser Lane
• Check out the amazing architecture of the State Library of Victoria
• Visit Federation Square and the AMCI
• Get lost down one of the laneways
• Enjoy a coffee at one of Melbourne’s best cafes
• Head to St Kilda to watch the penguins
• Dine at the vegetarian pay as you wish restaurant, Lentil as Anything
• And heaps more! Here’s a great list of things to do in Melbourne .

Where to stay in Melbourne

Urban Central Hostel offers affordable dorm rooms and great facilities. Each bunk is kitted with its own private light and charging points, and the 4 bed dorms are spacious. On site is a large kitchen and communal area. Check out prices and book today using this link .

Alternatively, if you’re after private accomodation, QT Melbourne is a fantastic option. It offers fantastic modern conveniences and is conveniently placed very near St Paul’s Cathedral and Federation Square, and there is an on site restaurant, cafe and bar. Click here for rates and book today .

Day 2 & 3: The Great Ocean Road

One of the best things to do outside Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is arguably Australia’s most famous stretch of coastline.

You can do the Great Ocean Road in a day, but it’s best to take some time and spend two days driving along the coastal route – especially in the summer, when temperatures can top 40 degrees and you’ll be wanting a dip in the ocean!

There’s plenty to see on the Great Ocean Road, which includes beaches (of course), rainforest and intriguing natural formations. The Great Ocean Road is also a great place to spot wildlife – keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, tiger snakes (not too common but they do lurk around) and native birds.

Day 2 – Torquay to Apollo Bay

Drive to Torquay and begin your exploration of the Great Ocean Road. Some of the best parts to visit on the eastern side of the Great Ocean Road include:

• Bells Beach – this is a popular surfing spot and beautiful beach
• Aireys Inlet – a township with beautiful beaches and the Split Point Lighthouse which was made famous in the Aussie kid’s TV show Round the Twist.
• Lorne – a charming seaside town, Lorne has a wonderful pier, lots of restaurants and cafes and of course, stunning beaches.
• Apollo Bay – gateway to the Otways and a lovely township with cafes, restaurants and watersports on offer.

Get to Apollo Bay for sundown and enjoy food at one of its restaurants. There are a variety of accommodation options available in Apollo Bay – these range from free campsites to hotels.

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

If you’re after a hostel with cheap rates and backpacker facilities, the Apollo Bay Eco YHA is a fantastic option. It has clean, airy dormitories and private rooms and well facilitated communal areas. Click here for rates and to book .

Alternatively, you could book a private cabin at Marengo Holiday Park, which sleeps up to 5 people. These self-catering cabins feature cooking facilities, sleeping arrangements, a private bathroom and balcony with BBQ. Click here for rates and to book .

If you’re travelling with a dog, some of Victoria’s best pet-friendly cabins are on the Great Ocean Road, too.

Day 3 Apollo Bay to Warrnambool:

The next morning, head to some of these great sights on the Western end of the Great Ocean Road.

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk – just 15 minutes’ drive inland from Apollo Bay, nestled in the Otways is this tranquil rainforest walk. The walk takes 30 minutes, but there are lots of places to sit and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Twelve Apostles – these interesting rock formations, which along with Mutton Bird Island were originally called ‘sow and piglets’ (the island was the sow and the apostles the piglets), but their name was changed to the 12 apostles for tourism purposes. There were actually only 9 when they were named so – and now, only 8 remain.
• Loch Ard Gorge – just west of the 12 Apostles, this part of Port Campbell National Park is an impressive drop between two cliffs right at the ocean’s edge; it’s a great spot to relax on the beach or take some beautiful photos.
• London Arch – another intriguing form, London Arch (formerly London Bridge) collapsed in 1990, meaning that it now can only be admired from the shore, rather than on the arch itself. If you’re around at the end of the day, you might spot some resident penguins returning to their sleeping spots for the night.
• The Grotto – (pictured above) beneath an arch, seawater gathers and creates a beautiful effect of different blues and greens dancing and glittering in the light. It’s a great, lesser well known spot near the western end of the Great Ocean Road.

Later in the day, you’ll reach Warnambool. Galleries, restaurants and a Flagstaff Maritime Village comprise some of the best things to do in this coastal town .

Depending on the time, whether you want to drive in the dark (there are kangaroos on the road at night, so be very careful if you do) and how early you want to get up the next day, you could either stay in Warrnambool, find a wikicamp on the way to The Grampians, or find accomodation in the national park itself.

Accommodation in Warrnambool

If you’re after a hotel in Warrnambool, check out the Best Western Tudor Motor Inn. With clean, aesthetically pleasing rooms with features making for a comfortable nights stay, it’s a great place to rest in Warrnambool. Check out prices and booking details here .

If you’re after your own space, Apartments 521 is the answer. These stylish flats give you your own space for the night – some which come with a spa bath and kitchenette. Check out this great accomodation by clicking here .

Day 4 & 5: Gariwerd (The Grampians)

One of the greatest Victorian road trip destinations, Gariwerd (commonly known by its anglicized name, The Grampians – but it was called Gariwerd by the indigenous population for thousands of years prior) is a spectacular national park.

Like many National Parks in Australia, Gariwerd is rich in Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty. The area is a spiritual place for Aboriginal people due to the food, water and shelter offered by the landscape, and also because of its integral part of the creation story of Bunjil the Eagle ; who created Gariwerd and then transfigured into an eagle to admire his work.

The park is home to Aboriginal rock art and a fantastic cultural centre, which is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated. Throughout the park, you can enjoy bush walks, spectacular waterfalls and astounding lookouts – it’s without a doubt one of the best spots to lose yourself in nature in Victoria.

Begin your day by checking out the Brambuk Cultural Centre ; which has an impressive amount of information about local Aboriginal culture – and is one of my favourite cultural centres in Australia. It discusses both the poetic stories of the dreamtime and other aspects of Indigenous culture, but doesn’t shy away from showcasing the horrors of what happened during the European invasion of the land – which, as a sign of respect for Aboriginal people, should be something that every traveller to Australia makes an effort to understand.

Pass your first afternoon in the national park by visiting Mackenzie Falls, a tranquil swimming spot in beautiful surroundings. There are also short walks such as the 2km ‘The Balconies’ walk and ‘The Chimney Pots’ which is 2.8km and takes around 3 hours.

Spend that night within the national park. There are hostels, guesthouses and campsites at Halls Gap (where there are also shops and restaurants, so don’t worry if you’ve forgotten anything!) or free camping spots at other locations within the park.

Accommodation in Halls Gap

If you fancy treating yourself, take a peek at The Grampians Motel and The Views Bar and Restaurant. This boutique hotel features stylish rooms with elegant bedsheets and wall hangings. There are rooms to suit all size groups; each with a private bathroom. Click here for rates and to book today .

If you are wishing to stay within nature, but don’t fancy camping independently, Mountain View Motor Inn & Holiday Lodges is a great middle ground. Frequented by emus and kangaroos, the property offers spectacular views of Gariwerd and fantastic features within the cottages and rooms; including a spa bath, flat screen TV and electric blankets. Check here for rates and to book .

Day 5: The Pinnacle Hike

Today’s the day to conquer the Pinnacle hike! If it’s a hot day, set off early to beat most of the heat while you’re climbing up. The view from the top is spectacular spreading across fields, forests and lakes; take a picnic to the top and spend some time taking it all in.

Further down the Pinnacle are Venus Baths, which are perfect for a post-hike dip. Once you reach the bottom of the pinnacle, continue your Victorian road trip by heading an hour and a half eastwards towards Ballarat.

Day 6 & 7: Ballarat & Daylesford

Famed for being the place where gold was first found in Victoria, Ballarat is a historic city with a wealth of attractions and sightseeing.

Sovereign Hill is undoubtedly its most renowned attraction – which is also widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive outdoor museums in the world – but other things to do in Ballarat include admiring old architecture, strolling around the many lakes and gardens and getting lost in various museums and galleries that tell the tale of the city that was built on gold.

Day 6: Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is most notably famous for one thing: gold. It was the site of Australia’s biggest gold rush and the Eureka Rebellion ; which is one of the most pivotal parts of Australian history.

Ballarat preserves this history extraordinarily, and one of the best things to do in the goldfields area of Victoria is to visit Sovereign Hill.

Sovereign Hill is an immersive experience of what life was like in the goldfields in the 1850s and is complete with schools, blacksmiths, authentic pubs and mine tours.

It is an all-day activity, and it’s best to get there early to make the most of all the attractions – although, if you do have some extra time on your road trip around Victoria, it’s worth noting that the tickets are valid for the following day as well.

Sovereign Hill Highlights

• Touring the mines (some come at an additional cost) to see how gold was extracted
• Learning how sweets, candles and more were made during the era
• Learning how to write in the cursive style typically taught in schools during that time (get ready to be told off – apparently I wouldn’t have got far in an 1850s school!)
• A Chinese temple – there were lots of Chinese workers on the goldfields and the area surrounding the temple tells their tale.
• Models of workers’ accomodations
• An 1850s bowling alley!

Soveriegn Hill is a fantastic way to learn about Australia’s gold rush and what life was like back then; and is a fascinating place to visit for people of all ages.

Blood on the Southern Cross

In the evening, Sovereign Hill turns into a re-enactment of the Eureka Stockade with the magnificent ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’. This sound and light show really gives you the feeling that you’re in the event, and can be combined with dinner and a stay in one of Sovereign Hill’s hotels.

Where to stay in Ballarat

Right in the heart of the city is Ballarat Station Apartments; self contained accommodation located next to the station. It’s a stones throw from the beautiful buildings of Lydiard Street, with facilities such as spa baths and free unlimited wifi; and each apartment offers fully equipped kitchens. Click here for rates and to book .

Set in one of Ballarat’s oldest buildings, built during the gold rush, Ansonia on Lydiard is a beautiful property catered for guests wanting to enjoy a night of relaxation. The guest lounge offers an open fireplace, and each room comes equipped with air conditioning, toiletries, an ipod dock and of course, an en suite bathroom. Check out the finer details here .

A short drive away from Ballarat, but perfect for budget travelers, Helen’s Luxury Hut is a firm favourite for travellers. The rooms are ornately decorated, and each features an en suite bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. There is a communal kitchen and lounge area. Click here for more details and to book .

Day 7 – Ballarat Town and Daylesford

Use the morning to see some more of Ballarat’s attractions. Being one of Australia’s most historic towns, there’s old buildings to admire, as well as a wealth of culture.

Things to do in Ballarat

• See the historic buildings of Lydiard Street
• Walk Sturt Street and see the many statues
• Walk or cycle around Lake Wendouree
• Check out the Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Visit the Botanical Gardens
• A lunch or afternoon tea at Craig’s Hotel

After lunch, head to the beautiful spot of Daylesford, which is semi-en route back to Melbourne. The main street of Daylesford doesn’t take long to explore, but the charming buildings, the plentiful art shops and independent shops are well worth perusing.

Hepburn Springs is located just down the road from Daylesford, and is home to walking tracks and a spa; Hepburn Springs is known to have pure, healing waters. Conclude your Victoria road trip by enjoying the tranquillity of the springs.

If you’re in a rush to return to Melbourne, Daylesford is located just an hour and a half away away. Or, spend a night in tranquil Daylesford, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stay at one of their lovely hotels.

Accommodation in Daylesford

Exposed brick and funky furnishings make each room at Daylesford Royal Hotel a little unique, and other features like free toiletries, an electric kettle and electric blankets make it a home away from home.

It’s in a great location in Daylesford and has a bar and restaurant on site, which serves a continental breakfast every morning. Click here for rates and to book.

If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind before heading back to city life, check out Hepburn at Hepburn, which boasts self-contained accommodation in the tranquil forest of Hepburn Springs. As well as your standard facilities such as a kettle, ironing facilities and toiletries, each villa has luxury touches such as a hot tub, flat-screen TV and an iPod station. Click here for prices and to book today.

Day 8: Return to Melbourne

If you’ve overnighted in Daylesford, today’s the day to conclude your Victoria road trip by returning to Melbourne.

From here, you could either stay and enjoy the city some more, or venture north-east wards to see what the east coast has to offer!

Alternatively, you could venture into South Australia; there are a few excellent places to visit on a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip over the border.

What time of year to do the Victoria road trip

Being British, I’m no stranger to talking about the weather – but while Victoria’s climate bears some similarities to ours in the UK; it can also be much more enthralling. Victoria sometimes gets temperatures of up to 40 degrees, and many days in the summer top 30 degrees.

BUT… you never know quite what the weather will do – one day it can be 35 and scorching, the next 15 and raining. It’s part of the adventure of travelling in Victoria.

Nonetheless, I’d recommend doing the Victoria road trip in the late spring, summer or early autumn (November-April) and just dealing with what weather comes your way.

In an ideal world, you’d have a clear, but not too hot day to explore the Grampians, glorious beach weather for the Great Ocean Road and pleasant temperatures for Ballarat and Daylesford. But you can’t guarantee anything until you see the weather forecast for the next week – and even then it’ll probably change.

Things you will need for your Victoria road trip

 If you’re planning on staying in hotels, your road trip essentials are mainly your clothes, electronics and toiletries – whatever you’d take on a normal holiday. If you’re camping, you’ll need some more gear. Here’s some recommended items to consider bringing (click through to see the products and purchase)

• Lonely Planet Australia or Lonely Planet Victoria and Melbourne
• Road map of Victoria
• Camera – to get some great high quality photos on. I use the Fuji x-a3
• GoPro – to get some awesome video shots on! My Go Pro Hero 5 is AWESOME .

If you’re camping

• Sleeping Bag
• Camping pillow
• Esky or cooler bag

If you enjoyed this article, please share it or follow me on Facebook for more! Here’s some more Australian road trip itineraries that I think you’ll love…

• West Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary
• Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary
• Darwin to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary
• Melbourne to Perth Road Trip Itinerary
• Adelaide to Cairns Outback Drive Itinerary
• Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

One thought on “ A Perfect Itinerary for Australia’s Victoria Road Trip ”

Why is it one of the greats? Taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road is an Australian rite of passage. It winds 243 kilometres along some of Australia s most stunning coastline, taking in rainforest, sunburnt cliffs, shipwrecks, and, of course, the famous Twelve Apostles of which there are now eight.

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7 best road trips victoria has to offer.

Being a classic intrepid kiwi, Arden loves to show people the beauty of nature, culture and adventure that the world has to offer. While finishing off her Masters in Environment and International Development, she likes to explore unique or unspoiled destinations like Central Asia, East Timor or local NZ & Aussie tracks.

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Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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For a small state, Victoria is crammed with some mighty fine road trips. From lunar landscapes to endless coastal cruises, forest bathing, and the alpine, we’ve handpicked the seven best road trips around Victoria for your cruising pleasure! Time to hit the road!

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Whether you’re after unspoilt beaches, historic towns, native wildlife, or to indulge in some scrumptious local food and wine, there’s a road trip in Victoria for you! Call your mates, pack the car, and start your engine – we’re going on a road trip!

Also Read:  10 Super Handy Car Accessories for Your Summer Road Trip

• Top 10 Road Trips in Queensland
• New England High Country Best Road Trips

Coastal Road Trips Victoria

1. great ocean road extended to south australia.

Distance:  Around 600km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Mount Gambier Highlights:  12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Loch Arch Gorge, Lower Glenelg National Park, Mount Gambier

Probably one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the Great Ocean Road never gets old. This is definitely the Victorian road trip for you if you can’t get enough of the rugged coast.

@elishadonkin

Starting from Melbourne, the route has endless stop-off points and views. But instead of doing the classic trip to the Twelve Apostles and then returning to Melbourne, you take your time and go a little further.

Start off at a cute coastal town to stay the night – I suggest Lorne or Apollo Bay. If you’ve got a surfboard then it’s time to hit the waves! This is the best way to avoid the crowds and get the real Great Ocean Road experience.

Before hitting the (in)famous Twelve Apostles, take a break at the often by-passed, Great Otways National Park and check out the beautiful waterfalls and forests. For some free camping , pitch your tent at the Beauchamp Falls campground.

Post-Apostles, don’t miss all the other incredible rock formations the Great Ocean Road has to offer, including The Razorback, Loch Ard Gorge, The Arch, and London Bridge.

Loch Ard Gorge | @lauraalycebell

But why stop there? All the way to South Australia there are some incredible coastlines and beaches to hit up. Just make sure to stop in Warrnambool, as it’s the last major city you’ll see for a while. Don’t forget a stop in Port Fairy for quaint and cosy coastal vibes.

Along the route, feel like a kid again and visit the Giant Yumbuk Slide – is there a better way to enter a beach?! Don’t reckon.

Check out some less travelled areas such as Cape Bridgewater’s petrified forest , Discovery Bay Coastal Park, and Lower Glenelg National Park, which is cosied right up next to the South Australian border.

Read more:  Remember to leave no trace

For a change of scenery, the Princess Margaret Rose Cave is a stunning example of a limestone cave, and it’s definitely worth popping over the border to Mount Gambier to dive into the sinkholes. Check out the Little Blue Sinkhole, Ewens Ponds , and Kilsby’s sinkhole to give your trip an immersive finale.

@jackjbrookes

Great Ocean Road Key Stops

Melbourne – Ocean Grove – Torquay – Lorne – Apollo Bay – Great Otway National Park – Wreck Beach – Gibson Steps – Twelve Apostles – The Razorback – Loch Arch Gorge – The Arch – London Bridge – Bay of Martyrs – Mepunga – Warrnambool – Port Fairy – The Giant Yambuk Slide – Portland – Cape Bridgewater Petrified Forest – Discovery Bay Coastal Park – Lower Glenelg National Park – Princess Margaret Rose Cave – Mount Gambier

How To Get There

2. The Gippsland Coast

Distance:  Over 1000km Start point: Melbourne End point: Mallacoota Highlights:  Wilsons Prom, Tarra Bulga National Park, Briagolong Blue Pools, Golden Beach, Lakes National Park

If you’ve done the Great Ocean Road to death, but aren’t over coastal road trips, try the eastern side of Victoria and head towards Gippsland .

Luminaire Pictures Stills

If you have the time, start by making the long dip into Wilsons Promontory National Park , it’s definitely worth the drive and it’s an incredible gateway into Gippsland.

Before the Prom, check out Eagles Nest near Inverloch, this beach is perfect for surfing and snorkelling , with jungle-island vibes and rock pools. Once in the Prom, some highlights include Whisky Beach, the Mt Oberon hike, or even the three day Southern Circuit to reach the southernmost point of mainland Australia.

Leaving Wilsons Prom, head to Tarra Bulga National Park for some serious Jurassic Park vibes. Although this road trip offers a lot of stunning coastal views, stay inland for a little and head up to Avon-Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve to check out the Channels walk for a sweet as dip in the river-churned red rock. This spot is pretty off-the-beaten-track, so I wouldn’t miss it if you like to avoid the crowds.

For another freshwater dip, head to the Blue Pools in Briagolong , which offers some great rock jumps, free camping, and a rope swing!

Laxin’ at the Blue Pools | @patcorden

After all that, make your way down to Golden Beach (stopping via Sale if you need supplies), for some serious sand time and the beginning of your time at Ninety Mile Beach.

From here, if you’ve got the time, take a side trip to Gippsland Lake Coastal Park and camp overnight, otherwise, start heading towards the Greater Lakes Entrance area. If you can, get a boat to take you out to the Lakes National Park for some stellar secluded beaches, or take the ferry to Raymond Island for endless koala time – it’s not a road trip without some native Australian animals!

The Snowy River is another key destination on the Gippsland road trip. Leave the coast (just for a second!) and head inland from the north via Deddick Valley. Check out Little River Junction campground for a serene spot to stay!

Croajingalong National Park | @etchd

Make your way back to the coast, to Gipsy Point and Mallacoota, via Croajingolong National Park. This area really makes you feel like you’re the only person on the planet. Some key walks in this greater area include the Thurra River Dunes Walk and the Genoa Peak hike – give your legs a stretch and check them out!

Exploring The Channels in Gippsland | @_ardenhaar

Gippsland Coast Key Stops

Melbourne – Eagle’s Nest – Wilson’s Promontory National Park- Tarra Bulga National Park – Avon Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve – Blue Pool Briagolong – Sale – Giffard – (Drive via Shoreline Drive) – Golden Beach – (side trip up to Gippsland Lake Coastal Park) then back around – Hollands Landing – Paynesville (side trip to Raymond Island) to Metung – Lake Tyers Beach – Nowa Nowa – Snowy River National Park from Deddick Valley – Goongerah – Cann River – Thurra River Dunes Walk – Genoa Peak Hike – Gipsy Point – Mallacoota

Mountain Road Trips Victoria

3. the grampians.

Distance: 200km Start point:  Horsham End point: Dunkeld Highlights: Wudjub-Guyan / Hollow Mountain, Halls Gap, Venus Baths, The Pinnacle

Starting from Horsham, take a roadie through the Grampians . Since this is a designated Grampians road trip, do it right and start it from the top. Most people coming from Melbourne will just head straight to Halls Gap, visit a couple of sights in the area and then head back to the city.

While Halls Gap is an incredible little town and definitely worth the visit, driving from the top of the Grampians, from Hollow Mountain, and heading down towards Dunkeld, really shows what the area has to offer.

This Victoria road trip is ideal for (but not exclusively so) hiking or climbing enthusiasts and is more of a hike-and-drive guide. If you can, take your time, drive slowly, camp, and visit all the lookouts and hikes the road offers you.

Gariwerd / Grampians National Park is home to unique rock formations and cultural history | @_ardenhaar

Start with the Wudjub-Guyan/Hollow Mountain hike, which is probably the closest you’ll come to Utah while in Australia. From here, take the beautiful Roses Gap Road, slowly heading to Halls Gap while stopping at the different waterfalls (especially Fish Falls) and lookouts on the way. If you can, check out Boroka Lookout at sunrise!

From Halls Gap, there are many different hikes and destinations to choose from that are close by, but some of our favourites include Mt Rosea ,  The Pinnacle , and the Venus Baths.

There’s also the classic Balconies Lookout which is a great spot to watch the sunset. If you don’t want to sleep in Halls Gap, opt for the free and epic Plantation Campground a little further up.

Once you’re done with Halls Gap, head down to Duwil /Mt William and climb the highest peak in Gariwerd /Grampians National Park – you can actually drive most of the way up, and then the summit is only 3.5km return. Hit Mad-Dadjug/Mt Abrupt, and then Wurgarri/Mt Sturgeon for some iconic peak walks.

Dunkeld is the perfect, relaxed town to end your Grampians road trip. Stay the night, check out the arboretum in the evening for a sunset view of Mad-Dadjug, and then have breakfast at the local Koopmans Cafe , which showcases artists in an industrial setting.

Grampians Key Stops

Horsham – Hollow Mountain – Beehive Falls – Wartook – MacKenzie Falls – Boroka Lookout – Halls Gap – Fish Falls – Halls Gap (side trips depending on hike choice) – Duwil/Mt William- Mad-Dadjug/Mt Abrupt – Wurgarri/Mt Sturgeon – Dunkeld

4. Lake Eildon and Mount Buller

Distance:  700km Start point: Melbourne End point: Melbourne Highlights: Cathedral Range State Park, Lake Eildon, Howqua, Mount Buller

This route is like a ‘getting out to nature’ starter pack – forests, mountains, a lake, and camping. Start the scenic way and drive via Warburton , heading towards Taggerty.

If you’re driving slowly, Taggerty is a wicked place to stop for a hike in the Cathedral Range State Park  and the Farmyard is a free hike-in campground.

Sugarloaf Peak | @_ardenhaar

From there head to Lake Eildon for camping, cycling , and hiking galore! Although there are a range of places to base yourself (take your pick!), if you’re crunched for time, opt to stay in the beautiful Jerusalem Creek Campground and then head towards Jamieson.

If you’re not on a time limit, then stay at multiple campsites in the Lake Eildon area, take in the scenery and do some hikes, like the Blowhard Summit, which overlooks the lake.

To get to Mount Buller, make sure you go via Howqua ( Sheepyard Flat is a free campground), Mansfield, and Merrijig for some legendary mountain views while on the road. Either stop by one of these towns for a break, or head straight to Mount Buller and soak in as much mountain scenery as possible.

Take on the Mt Stirling summit hike, or hike up to one of the alpine cabins such as Craig’s Hut. After Mount Buller, take a drive to the lesser-known Mount Samaria State Park (or extend the trip and follow the High Country road trip, heading up to Woolshed Falls), and hike the Mount Samaria summit loop.

From Mount Samaria, head back via Barjarg and Maindample for some more country views, and take the iconic Maroondah Highway back.

Lake Eildon & Mount Buller Key Stops

Warburton – Taggerty – Eildon – Jamieson- Howqua – Mansfield/Merrijig – Mount Buller – Mount Samaria State Park – Barjarg – Maindample – Maroondah Highway

5. High Country

Distance: 550km Start point:  Healsville End point:  Mt Hotham Highlights:  Mt Buffalo, Bright, Alpine National Park, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham

Getting out to Victoria’s High Country can be a bit of a mission since there isn’t a direct route from the city, but the journey is totally worth your while. The High Country road trip is epic in both summer and winter, but it depends what you’re after!

Start from Healesville and head past Toolangi for a good combination of country and forest scenery. One of the advantages of this route is that there are a lot of enchanting lookouts that you can easily drive to – the perfect place for a bit of stop, revive, survive on a Victoria road trip.

Check out the Mount Wombat Lookout and then, after a decent drive, go for a dip at Woolshed Falls . After Woolshed, drive on the beautiful alpine road towards Mount Buffalo National Park, making the most of all the drivable lookouts on the way, particularly, Murmungee Lookout and Mount Stanley Lookout.

Once in Mount Buffalo greater area or Bright , you have an endless supply of outdoor adventures awaiting. Summit Victoria’s highest peak, Mount Bogong or take a dip at Ladies’ Bath Falls . You can even get off the beaten track at Mt McLeod . If you have a 4WD , there are plenty of epic 4WD routes you can take in Mount Buffalo and Alpine National Park.

High Country offers epic 4WD routes | @explore_with_ab

Continue taking in the alpine views, and head to Falls Creek and Mt Hotham . On the way, you could even mission it up to Johnston’s Hut or do the Hotham Huts Walk . It’s the High Country, you can go anywhere as long as it’s up!

You can combine this Victoria road trip with number two on the list if you’re heading back to Melbourne. Go via Falls Creek and then head straight to Mallacoota to take the Gippsland route in reverse.

High Country Key Stops

Healesville – Toolangi and/or Kinglake – Mount Wombat Garden Range – Mount Wombat Lookout – Woolshed Falls – Murmungee Lookout – Mount Stanley lookout – Mount Buffalo National Park – Alpine National Park – Falls Creek – Hotham Heights

Country Road Trips Victoria

6. victoria’s outback.

Distance:  Over 1000km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Mildura Highlights:  Little Desert National Park, the pink lakes, Big Desert Wilderness Park, Murray River, Mungo National Park

If you’re looking for an out-there experience for Victoria, then the road trip from Melbourne to Mildura is the trip for you. Launching from Natimuk, head to Little Desert National Park , and stop off at the Pink Lake in Dimboola.

Next, make your way up to its big brother, via Lake Hindmarsh (another, even bigger pink lake?!) to Big Desert Wilderness Park . This part of northeast Victoria is wild, cruise through and enjoy feeling like you’re on another planet.

Time your visit with spring to see the desert wildflowers | @isobelccampbell

From here, drive to Lake Tyrrell , which is a popular spot for stargazing, photography and camping – and another pink lake! If you have a 4WD, you can drive to Lake Tyrrell via the Milmed Rock Track , which lets you drive through Big Desert Wilderness Park.

When driving in Big Desert, remember that this area is very remote, so be prepared, and check with the ranger about road accessibility and conditions.

Read more:  Outback Driving Survival Guide

From Lake Tyrrell, head up to Murray-Sunset National Park to see some of the finest sunsets Victoria has to offer. Stay here for as long as you like, and pretend you never have to return to a city again!

From here, stay within the same colour-hue theme, hit Red Cliffs (the town with the 70m high red cliffs), before driving into Mildura.

Mildura is where SA, VIC, and NSW borders meet , and it’s blessed with intact Aboriginal cultural landscapes and emus! It’s also located right on the Murray River, and offers an array of activities such as the paddle steamer , houseboat trips, waterskiing, or kayaking .

If you just want to chill, find a spot on the river banks where you can sit and enjoy the unique views. Mildura has a lot more to offer than you’d expect. It’s one of Australia’s regional art hubs, with some wineries nearby to help you along. Check out Trentham Estate Winery .

The Walls of China – Mungo National Park | @conormoorephotography

If you can stretch your road trip further, make your way over to NSW and check out the Perry Sandhills and then to Mungo National Park . This park has some pretty interesting sand features, and Aboriginal sites that are over 50,000 years old. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and it features the oldest Aboriginal remains ever found.

Outback Victoria Key Stops

Natimuk – Little Desert National Park – Dimboola (Pink Lake) to Lake Hindmarsh – Big Desert Wilderness Park – GrainCorps Lascelles Silo Art – Sea Lake Silo Art – Lake Tyrrell – Murray-Sunset National Park – Red Cliffs – Mildura – Perry Sandhills – Mungo National Park

7. Historic Goldfields Track

Distance:  400km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Echuca Highlights:  Daylesford, Heathcote, Bendigo, Echuca

Echuca’s at the NSW border, but it isn’t actually too far of a drive from Melbourne. Along the route you’ll pass through some of Victoria’s iconic towns and relaxed country scenes while driving along the general direction of the historic mining route, the Goldfields Track .

From wineries to lookouts to silo art, there’s a lot to see, especially if you’re willing to take a bit of a zig-zag route to see what the Victorian country really has to offer.

Start from Woodend and explore the greater Mt Macedon area, which has some nice and easy hikes overlooking country plains.

Then head to the beautiful Daylesford, which is a popular place for Melbourians to stay. Hepburn Springs is a highlight of the area, where you can soak and feel luxurious in mineral springs.

Following the Goldfields Track, driving via Maryborough, head to Castlemaine, where you can stop off at some lookouts as part of the Goldfields Track, including Lang’s Lookout and Shepherd’s Flat Lookout.

Country scenes on the Goldfields Track | @r.yanfisher

Heathcote is a beautiful town to stay the night with an endless array of wineries. There are some worthwhile landscapes nearby, including the Pink Cliff Reserve, Viewing Rock Lookout and Mt Ida Lookout.

After checking out the greater Heathcote area, stop in Bendigo. Contrary to popular opinion, it’s a picturesque town, and the museum is definitely worth checking out.

From Bendigo, head up to Echuca, stopping in Rochester for a wander and to see the silo art. Once in Echuca, rest up along the river or hire yourself a houseboat. If you’ve got the time, Barmah National Park isn’t far and is definitely worth visiting.

Barmah National Park | @lexcello

Historic Goldfields Key Stops

Melbourne – Woodend – (via Black Forest Drive) Daylesford – Maryborough – Castlemaine – Langs Lookout -Shepard’s Flat Lookout – Heathcote – Bendigo – Rochester – Echuca – Barmah National Park

Victoria Roadtrip FAQs

How long does it take to drive the whole great ocean road.

It takes around 9.5 hours to travel the 664km length of the Great Ocean Road.

How do you go roadtripping?

The first step take is to pick a destination. Choose the route you want to take and make sure you have a reliable vehicle before you leave. It’s a good idea to have your car checked by a mechanic. Once you set off, remember to keep your car adequately fuelled for the distance ahead, and stock up on essentials like food, medicines, and water.

What tourist attraction is located in Victoria that is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in Australia?

The Great Ocean Road is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in Australia. The iconic road hugs the coastline offering incredible rock formations and stunning views.

Where can I go for a long drive in Melbourne?

One of the best long drives that begins in Melbourne is the Gippsland coast. It’s over 1000km and takes in the gorgeous scenery of Wilsons Promontory and the Great Lakes national park.

Where to go in Victoria in the summer?

Summer in Victoria is hot! It’s best to stay near the coast or at least riverside where you can cool off. The Great Ocean Road and Gippsland Coast are great options.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out of Melbourne, hit the road, and discover some of the best national parks and road trips in regional Victoria!

Feature photo by @ben.savage

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our  Editorial Standards .

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6 Essential Road Trips & Scenic Drives In Victoria, Australia

As Australia’s second smallest state, it can be all too easy to overlook Victoria entirely when planning a trip to the land down under. But there’s more to see in Victoria than just the Melbourne city centre. In fact, the rich Victorian countryside is filled to the brim with hidden gems, ranging from alpine drives to lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls, to coastal highways that’ll have you passing through some of the state’s most adored rural areas.

And with Victoria’s eclectic landscape of regional economies, planning a road trip around this charming, little state is easier and more accessible than you might think. Simply look into cars and car insurance in Victoria , load up your new wheels with all the other travel essentials you may need, and then set off on your auto adventure. But where to begin on your journey? To help you pad out your Victorian road tripping itinerary, we’ve compiled our top 6 essential road trips and scenic drives to experience during your time in the garden state.

1. Great Ocean Road

One of the most iconic Victorian road trips you’ll find, the Great Ocean Road spans a whopping 243 km between the cities of Torquay and Allansford. Located just to the southwest of Melbourne and Geelong, the Great Ocean Road is a popular travel destination amongst Victorian locals due to its accessibility and stunning ocean views year-round.

But it’s not just the Pacific Ocean that you’ll get to bear witness to as you travel across this stretch of coast. You can also expect to see a few key attractions along the way, including the Great Otway National Park and its breathtaking redwood forests, and the Twelve Apostles –  a rock formation located in Port Campbell National Park and off the coast of the Princetown Beach.

And speaking of beaches, the Great Ocean Road is also your ticket to some of Victoria’s most serene and secluded swim spots. We highly recommend carving out some time in your trip to visit Bells Beach, Apollo Bay, the Peterborough Beach and neighbouring Coastal Reserve, and the Bay of Islands. And if you see any signs for lookout points along the way, believe us – you’ll want to stop.

2. Great Alpine Road

So you’ve experienced the Great Ocean Road. Are you ready to take on its larger, longer, alpine counterpart? Spanning a whopping 339 km from Wangaratta to the Gippsland Lakes with an ascent and descent of Mount Hotham in the middle, the Great Alpine Road is the quintessential driving experience for travellers who are looking to enjoy all the many peaks and troughs of the Victorian countryside.

Being one of the longest drives on this list, driving along the Great Alpine Road will also see you passing through some of Victoria’s most charming regional cities and townships. We recommend stopping in Bright, Beechworth, and of course the peaceful town of Wangaratta. All of these townships provide the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a good locally brewed beer and a flaky country pie.

And if you’re looking to travel during the winter months in order to do a little skiing, the Great Alpine Road is also your ticket to Mount Buller, Hotham, and some of Australia’s other must-experience ski spots . Who said you had to go to Thredbo to shred?

3. Phillip Island to Wilsons Promontory

Another Victorian road trip destination that’s actually quite accessible from Melbourne (being only just a 90 minute drive away), Phillip Island is renowned for two things in particular: beaches and penguins. Yes, penguins! 

Phillip Island is actually home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Little Penguins. Visitors to Phillip Island have the unique opportunity to watch the penguins make their happy, little journey from the foreshore to the ocean every summer evening from sunset to dusk. And despite the fact that Phillip Island is indeed an island, you can actually access it via car thanks to the San Remo Bridge, which connects the island to the Australian mainland from the coastal town of San Remo.

Because Phillip Island is a family-favourite destination, however, it can get a little crowded during holiday periods. So if you want to take the road less travelled, there’s nothing better than making the scenic trek from Phillip Island all the way through to Wonthaggi, Fish Creek, Waratah Bay, Yanakie, and finally to the breathtaking roadways of Wilsons Promontory National Park, or Wilsons Prom as it’s called by the locals. 

This fantastic and unique national parkland is renowned for its amazing array of day and overnight hikes, coastal swim spots, and the Tidal River main campsite. We strongly recommend having a dip at Squeaky Beach, named after its unique quartz sands that audibly ‘squeak’ when you walk across them.

4. Black Spur Drive

Have you ever wanted to drive through Jurassic Park? Well a trip down the Black Spur is guaranteed to make you feel like you have been transported to an ancient epoch. This winding roadway is located deep in the heart of the Yarra Valley region, starting from the leafy township of Healesville and all the way through to Narbethong. 

The Black Spur Drive is about 30 km long and is characterised by its winding shape, making it an ideal road trip destination for avid drivers who want a little something different from Australia’s expansive range of dead straight roadways. And due to the fact that it runs through the Yarra Valley, the Black Spur is also situated by plenty of the region’s most popular picnicking spots, so be prepared to stop and smell the eucalypts.

Whether you’re driving or picnicking, remember to take plenty of photos and videos, even if just to remember the sway of the towering gum tree forests that line the road and the long and dynamic shadows that they cast as the sun rises and sets. We also highly recommend stopping in the town of Marysville, where you can enjoy a handful of scenic walks, including the Tree Fern Gully Trail . This particular trail will take you straight to Steavenson Falls, known for being one of Victoria’s tallest waterfalls.

5. Yarra Valley Loop Drive

Victoria’s Yarra Valley is home to many different attractions, ranging from wineries to riding and biking trails. Along this stretch of motorway, you can also expect to find some of Victoria’s most beloved regional townships and cities. This includes the idyllic riverside town of Warburton, the cheery Healesville town centre, as well as Marysville, Yarra Glen, Millgrove, and Yarra Junction. You may even be able to go and see some cherry blossoms if you travel during spring.

Despite being hilly (and a little bit chilly in the cooler months), this region is actually highly accessible by car, bike, or even on foot, thanks in part to the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail that stretches all the way from Lilydale in Melbourne’s metropolitan region, and to the sleepy Warburton township which rests at the foot of Mount Donna Buang.

And speaking of Mount Donna Buang, a trip along the Yarra Valley Loop Drive is an absolute must for thousands of Victorians every year – especially in the winter peak. This is because Mount Donna Buang is actually the closest snowfield to Melbourne, being just an easy 94 km drive away.

6. Melbourne to Lakes Entrance

Another highly popular road trip destination for Victorian locals, the beautiful coastal town of Lakes Entrance in Victoria’s southeast is renowned for its vast system of inland waterways. This means that you’ve got a lot more to look forward to when visiting Lakes Entrance than just the scenic drive you’ll get to enjoy when travelling from Melbourne.

Lakes Entrance is also the best Victorian destination for sailing and leisurely water sports. There’s plenty of opportunities to go swimming, surfing, sailing, kayaking, and freshwater or saltwater fishing. You’ll be sure to find plenty of bream, flathead, whiting, and other catches in popular fishing holes around the township. If you’re feeling fatigued by driving, then why not charter your own boat and have a go at navigating the quiet and peaceful waters that adorn this stunning coastal town? After all, they say there’s no better place to watch the sun rise or set than on the bow of your own vessel.

Have any of these Victorian road trips and scenic drives piqued your interest? Then why not ready your vehicle, prepare your luggage, and hit the open road during your next free weekend or holiday period? You can do all these trips in one big go, or you can spread them out over your time in Victoria, if you’re planning to stay long-term or already call the state home.

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BEST Road Trips In Victoria (Insider Guide)

Introduction

Victoria, Australia is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, scenic drives, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, there is no better way to explore this diverse state than by embarking on a road trip. From the iconic Great Ocean Road to the stunning national parks and charming coastal towns, Victoria offers a multitude of road trip options that cater to every traveler’s tastes.

Whether you’re a local looking to uncover hidden gems in your own backyard or an international traveler seeking a unique Australian experience, this insider guide will unveil the best road trips in Victoria. Get ready to hit the open road and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonders that this captivating state has to offer.

From the moment you set off on your journey, you’ll be captivated by the majestic landscapes and picturesque views that unfold before your eyes. From stunning coastal cliffs and expansive beaches to lush rainforests and rugged mountain ranges, Victoria has it all. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in delicious local cuisine, sample world-class wines, and encounter fascinating wildlife.

Victoria’s road trips offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to all interests. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or a combination of both, there’s something for everyone. The route options are endless, allowing you to explore the stunning coastal regions, traverse through lush countryside, or venture into the heart of Victoria’s charming towns and cities.

Throughout this guide, we will take you on a journey through Victoria’s most iconic road trips. You’ll discover the famous Great Ocean Road, renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and beautiful rock formations. You’ll also uncover the rugged beauty of the Grampians National Park, where you can hike to stunning viewpoints and encounter native wildlife.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Mornington Peninsula offers stunning beaches, hot springs, and exceptional food and wine experiences. Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the pristine wilderness of Wilsons Promontory and the enchanting Phillip Island, where you can witness adorable penguins returning to their nests at sunset.

The Yarra Valley awaits wine connoisseurs, offering a picturesque setting and a chance to sample some of Australia’s finest wines. If you’re looking for a leisurely cruise along a majestic river, the Murray River is the perfect choice. And for a taste of history and culture, the Dandenong Ranges and the historic town of Ballarat will transport you back in time.

So buckle up, grab a map, and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through Victoria’s best road trips. Get ready to explore, discover, and create lasting memories as you traverse through the stunning landscapes that this magnificent state has to offer.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery and unique rock formations. Stretching along the south-eastern coast of Victoria, this 243-kilometer journey takes you from Torquay to Allansford, offering stunning ocean views, picturesque beaches, and charming coastal towns along the way.

As you begin your adventure from Torquay, you’ll be greeted by the famous Bells Beach, known internationally for its incredible surf breaks and panoramic coastal views. From there, the road winds its way through lush rainforests and coastal cliffs, unveiling spectacular landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Arch.

The Twelve Apostles is undoubtedly the highlight of the Great Ocean Road, a collection of limestone stacks rising majestically from the Southern Ocean. These incredible natural formations have been shaped over centuries by powerful waves and winds. Witnessing the sunset or sunrise at the Twelve Apostles is a sight that will leave you in awe.

Continuing along the route, you’ll come across the charming coastal town of Apollo Bay, nestled between the Great Otway National Park and the stunning coastline. Take a leisurely walk along the beach or indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local eateries.

For those who appreciate nature’s grandeur, a visit to the Great Otway National Park is a must. Trek through ancient rainforests, stroll along scenic waterfalls, and spot native wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is also home to the world-famous Otway Fly Treetop Walk, offering a unique perspective of the lush forest from elevated walkways.

As you approach the end of your Great Ocean Road journey, make a detour to the historic fishing village of Port Fairy. Admire the well-preserved 19th-century buildings, enjoy a stroll along the wharf, and savor delicious seafood at one of the charming waterfront restaurants.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking to unwind by the ocean, the Great Ocean Road offers an unforgettable experience. Be sure to allocate enough time to explore the various attractions, take in the stunning views, and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibes along the way.

With its stunning coastal beauty, diverse landscapes, and a wealth of attractions, the Great Ocean Road rightfully holds its place as one of the world’s most spectacular road trips. So grab your camera, embrace the wind in your hair, and embark on a journey of a lifetime as you drive along the mesmerizing Great Ocean Road.

The Grampians

The Grampians, located in western Victoria, is a remarkable mountain range that offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, ancient rock formations, and abundant wildlife. This road trip destination is perfect for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.

The Grampians boasts a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks that lead you to breathtaking viewpoints. One of the most popular hikes is the Pinnacle Walk, which rewards you with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes and impressive rock formations. Another highlight is the Mackenzie Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading down rugged cliffs and surrounded by lush vegetation.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Grampians offers a chance to spot native animals in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and a wide range of bird species that call this area home. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some koalas dozing high up in the gum trees.

The Grampians National Park is also known for its ancient rock art sites, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the local Indigenous communities. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to discover these fascinating cultural treasures.

In addition to its natural wonders, the Grampians region is home to several charming towns that are worth exploring. Halls Gap is the main gateway to the national park and offers a range of accommodation options, cafes, and galleries. Here, you can relax after a day of hiking and enjoy the picturesque mountain views.

The town of Dunkeld, located at the southern edge of the Grampians, is famous for its gourmet food and wine scene. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure and sample local produce, paired with fine wines from nearby vineyards.

Throughout the year, the Grampians hosts various events and festivals that celebrate the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From music festivals to art exhibitions, there’s always something happening in this vibrant and scenic area.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, peaceful surroundings, or a cultural experience, the Grampians has it all. Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the beauty of the Grampians inspire and rejuvenate your soul.

As you embark on your Grampians road trip, ensure you pack comfortable walking shoes, plenty of water, and a spirit of adventure. Get ready to immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes, explore hidden corners, and create lasting memories in this stunning mountain range. The Grampians are waiting to captivate you with their natural wonders and timeless beauty.

Mornington Peninsula

Located just an hour’s drive south of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is a picturesque coastal region that offers a blend of stunning beaches, natural hot springs, gourmet food and wine, and charming seaside towns. This road trip destination is a haven for relaxation, indulgence, and breathtaking coastal beauty.

One of the main highlights of the Mornington Peninsula is its pristine beaches. From the popular family-friendly beaches like Rye and Sorrento to the quieter and more secluded shorelines such as Rosebud and Mount Martha, there’s a beach to suit every preference. Spend your days basking in the sun, swimming in turquoise waters, and enjoying a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores.

For those looking for an idyllic coastal town experience, a visit to Sorrento and Portsea is a must. Wander through the charming streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Port Phillip Bay or explore the historic Fort Nepean, where you can learn about the area’s rich maritime history.

The Mornington Peninsula is also home to charming wineries, where you can sample some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines. Immerse yourself in the lush vineyards of the region and savor the flavors of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other varietals. Many wineries also offer cellar door tastings and picturesque settings for a leisurely picnic.

Indulge your senses at the Peninsula Hot Springs, a natural thermal spa that offers a range of thermal pools, saunas, and spa treatments. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters while surrounded by stunning views of the landscape. It’s the perfect place to unwind and pamper yourself.

The Mornington Peninsula is a food lover’s paradise, boasting an abundance of fresh local produce and award-winning restaurants. From casual beachside cafes to fine dining establishments, the region offers a diverse culinary scene that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.

As you explore the peninsula, don’t miss a visit to the beautiful seaside village of Mornington. Here, you can browse through boutique shops, enjoy waterfront dining, and stroll along the scenic pier.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a gastronomic journey, the Mornington Peninsula has something to offer every traveler. With its stunning coastal scenery, delicious food and wine, and an array of activities, it’s no wonder that this region is a favorite getaway for both locals and visitors alike.

So, pack your swimsuit, your appetite, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the beauty and delights of the Mornington Peninsula. This road trip destination is sure to leave you with lasting memories of stunning beaches, indulgent experiences, and the relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Wilsons Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, affectionately known as “The Prom,” is a pristine national park located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. This road trip destination offers a haven of unspoiled natural beauty, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

As you enter the national park, you’ll be greeted by a vast expanse of pristine wilderness, with walking trails leading you through lush forests, towering granite peaks, and stunning coastal cliffs. The Prom is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience.

The iconic Mount Oberon Summit Walk is a must-do, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands. For a more challenging trek, embark on the Sealers Cove or the overnight hike to South Point, where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of secluded beaches and ancient rainforests.

One of the highlights of Wilsons Promontory is its spectacular coastline. Explore pristine sandy beaches, including the popular Norman Beach and Whiskey Bay, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the golden sand, taking in the tranquility of the surroundings.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Prom offers a chance to encounter a variety of native animals in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wombats, koalas, and a wide range of bird species. If you visit during the months of winter and spring, you may even spot pods of dolphins playing in the coastal waters.

The marine environment of Wilsons Promontory is equally captivating. Snorkel or dive in the pristine waters of the marine park, where you can explore colorful reefs, swim alongside schools of fish, and perhaps even spot seals or whales during their migration season.

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Prom, consider camping overnight. The park offers a range of campgrounds, from basic sites to more luxurious options. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves, wake up to the call of native birds, and experience the serenity of this untouched natural wonderland.

Wilsons Promontory is a place of rugged beauty, where untouched wilderness and stunning coastal landscapes combine to create a truly memorable road trip experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a chance to reconnect with nature, the Prom offers it all.

So, pack your camping gear, hiking boots, and a spirit of adventure, and embark on a journey to Wilsons Promontory. This road trip destination is sure to leave you captivated by its wild beauty, its abundant wildlife, and its peaceful serenity. Discover the magic of the Prom and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island, located just off the coast of Victoria, is a captivating road trip destination that offers a unique combination of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly attractions. Famous for its adorable penguins and stunning coastal landscapes, this island is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

One of the main highlights of a visit to Phillip Island is the opportunity to witness the famous Penguin Parade. Every evening at sunset, hundreds of little penguins return to shore after a day of fishing, waddling their way across the beach to their burrows. It’s an enchanting sight that will leave you in awe of these adorable creatures.

In addition to the penguins, Phillip Island is also home to a variety of other wildlife. Visit the Koala Conservation Centre to observe koalas in their natural habitat, or head to The Nobbies, a rocky outcrop, to see fur seals basking in the sun. If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins or whales offshore.

Explore the stunning coastal scenery of Phillip Island by taking a drive along the coastline. Stop by Cape Woolamai Beach, a popular surf spot and home to magnificent coastal cliffs. Witness the powerful waves crashing against the rocks and enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shoreline.

For thrill-seekers, the island offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with Australian wildlife at the Phillip Island Wildlife Park. Hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle with koalas, and spot a wide variety of native Australian animals. It’s an unforgettable experience that will create lasting memories.

Phillip Island is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Visit the Glen Eira Cottage, home to an art gallery and heritage displays, or explore the many local shops and galleries that showcase the work of talented artists and artisans.

Indulge in the island’s culinary offerings by sampling fresh local seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants. From mouth-watering fish and chips to gourmet seafood platters, there’s something for every seafood lover to savor.

As you explore Phillip Island, be sure to also visit the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, where you can witness thrilling motorsport events or even take part in go-karting activities for a taste of adrenaline.

Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, stunning coastal vistas, or family-friendly attractions, Phillip Island offers it all. It’s the perfect road trip destination for nature enthusiasts, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience.

So, grab your camera, binoculars, and a sense of adventure as you embark on a journey to Phillip Island. Get ready to be captivated by the charming penguins, amazed by the diverse wildlife, and mesmerized by the natural beauty that awaits on this incredible island.

Yarra Valley

Nestled on the outskirts of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a picturesque region renowned for its rolling hills, lush vineyards, and world-class wineries. This road trip destination offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a perfect blend of scenic beauty and gastronomic indulgence.

The Yarra Valley is a wine lover’s paradise, boasting over 160 wineries and vineyards. Embark on a wine tasting journey through this renowned wine region, sampling a variety of cool-climate wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines. Take a guided tour or explore the stunning vineyards at your own pace, learning about the winemaking process and discovering the unique characteristics of each vineyard.

Aside from wine, the Yarra Valley is also known for its delectable local produce. From artisanal cheeses and freshly picked berries to farm-fresh vegetables and organic meats, the region is a haven for food enthusiasts. Indulge in a farm-to-table culinary experience at one of the many farm cafes, restaurants, or gourmet providores, where you can savor the flavors of the Yarra Valley in every bite.

For those seeking a touch of adventure, the Yarra Valley offers a range of outdoor activities. Explore the picturesque landscapes on a bike ride through the scenic trails or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards and rolling hills. For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a picnic by the river or take a leisurely stroll through the charming townships that dot the region.

In addition to its culinary and outdoor offerings, the Yarra Valley is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Explore art galleries, visit local museums, or catch a live performance at one of the many theatres. Immerse yourself in the creative spirit that thrives in this region.

The Yarra Valley’s natural beauty extends beyond its vineyards and farmlands. Experience the tranquility of the Dandenong Ranges, located just a short drive away. Discover the stunning national parks, lush rainforests, and magnificent waterfalls that adorn this mountainous region.

To fully immerse yourself in the Yarra Valley experience, consider staying overnight at one of the charming accommodations scattered throughout the region. From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, there’s an option to suit every taste and budget.

Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a food lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art enthusiast, the Yarra Valley offers something for everyone. So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds, indulge in the beauty of the landscapes, and experience the warm hospitality that awaits you on your road trip to the Yarra Valley.

The Murray River

The Murray River, Australia’s longest river, winds its way through the stunning landscapes of Victoria, offering a road trip experience like no other. This iconic waterway presents a unique opportunity to explore picturesque scenery, engage in watersports, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture that surrounds this mighty river.

As you embark on your Murray River road trip, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of peaceful riverbanks, towering gum trees, and abundant wildlife. The river stretches over 2,500 kilometers, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Murray River is by taking a leisurely cruise. Hop aboard a houseboat and meander along the waterway, experiencing the serenity of the river and the charm of the surrounding countryside. Relax on the deck, indulge in a barbecue, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere that the Murray River offers.

For those seeking adventure, the river provides ample opportunities for watersports such as kayaking, water skiing, and fishing. Cast a line and try your luck at catching a Murray cod or a golden perch, or simply paddle along the peaceful riverbanks, taking in the stunning scenery.

As you travel along the Murray River, you’ll encounter charming towns and settlements that hold a rich history. Stop by Echuca, once a bustling river port during the peak of the paddle steamer era. Take a ride on an authentic paddle steamer and learn about the river’s importance in the region’s past.

Immerse yourself in the local Aboriginal culture as you visit the Barmah Forest, a significant cultural site for the Yorta Yorta people. Embark on a guided tour and learn about the traditional practices and the connection the Aboriginal communities have to the river and its surrounding lands.

Indulge in the region’s produce as you visit wineries, farm gates, and local markets along the Murray River. Sample delicious wines, freshly harvested fruit and vegetables, and artisanal products that showcase the culinary delights of the area.

As night falls, experience the tranquility of the river under the canopy of stars. Set up camp along the riverbanks and listen to the sounds of nature as you drift off to sleep, surrounded by the beauty of the Murray River.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a journey into history and culture, or an active watersports adventure, the Murray River provides it all. It’s a road trip destination that allows you to connect with nature, unwind from the stresses of daily life, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

So, hop in your car, set your sights on the Murray River, and embark on a road trip that will lead you to discover the wonders of this majestic waterway. Let the beauty and serenity of the Murray River captivate your heart and soul as you explore the landscapes and experiences it offers.

The Dandenong Ranges

Located just a short drive from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges offer a lush and picturesque escape from the city. This mountainous region is characterized by its dense forests, towering ferns, and charming villages, making it a perfect road trip destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

As you make your way through the winding roads of the Dandenong Ranges, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountain ash trees, lush fern gullies, and a tranquil atmosphere. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

One of the main attractions of the Dandenong Ranges is the stunning network of walking trails. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the lush forests, where you’ll stumble upon enchanting waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and abundant birdlife. The popular Thousand Steps Walk is a challenging but rewarding trek, leading you through the Sherbrooke Forest to One Tree Hill for breathtaking panoramic views.

The region is also home to the famous Puffing Billy Railway, a heritage steam train that chugs its way through the scenic Dandenong Ranges. Hop aboard this iconic train and enjoy a leisurely ride as it meanders through fern-filled gullies, over historic bridges, and past picturesque townships, offering a charming glimpse into the region’s history.

The villages of the Dandenong Ranges exude a quaint charm and offer a variety of attractions. Visit the picturesque village of Sassafras, known for its boutique shops, delightful tearooms, and artisanal crafts. Explore the gardens and art galleries in Olinda, or indulge in a traditional Devonshire tea at one of the charming establishments.

For those with a love for nature and wildlife, the Dandenong Ranges offer unique experiences. Visit the William Ricketts Sanctuary, a tranquil haven filled with indigenous sculptures nestled among the ferns. Discover the stunning display of exotic bird species at the Australian Rainbow Lorikeet Sanctuary, where you can hand-feed these vibrant creatures.

While in the Dandenong Ranges, be sure to visit the beautiful National Rhododendron Gardens, showcasing an impressive collection of colorful rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas. The gardens offer a serene setting for a leisurely stroll and a picnic amidst the vibrant blooms.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the region offers a range of day spas and wellness retreats. Escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and pamper yourself with a massage, indulge in a facial, or simply unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings of nature.

The Dandenong Ranges provide a refreshing and rejuvenating escape from the city, boasting a harmonious blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming villages. So, pack your bag, embrace the serenity of the mountains, and embark on a road trip to the Dandenong Ranges, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural wonders that await.

Ballarat and Sovereign Hill

Located in the heart of Victoria, Ballarat is a historically significant city that offers a captivating blend of rich heritage, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions. One of the main highlights of a visit to Ballarat is the world-renowned Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates the gold rush era of the 1850s.

Sovereign Hill is a living museum where visitors can step back in time and experience the excitement and hardships of the gold rush era. Explore the streets lined with authentic buildings, interact with costumed characters who bring history to life, and even try your hand at gold panning. It’s an immersive experience that provides a fascinating insight into Australia’s gold rush history.

The recreated town of Sovereign Hill allows visitors to delve into the daily lives of gold miners and experience the bustling activity of the goldfields. Watch blacksmiths at work, witness the art of candle making, and visit the gold fields where visitors can try their luck at finding a nugget. The onsite gold museum provides further insight into the history and impact of the gold rush era.

Beyond the historical attractions, Ballarat offers a range of cultural experiences. Explore the impressive Art Gallery of Ballarat, the oldest regional art gallery in Australia, which houses an extensive collection of Australian art. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene by visiting local studios and galleries showcasing the works of talented local artists.

Ballarat is also home to beautiful gardens and parklands that provide a tranquil escape. Stroll through the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, admire the floral displays, and enjoy a picnic amidst the peaceful surroundings. Lake Wendouree offers opportunities for boating, walking, and birdwatching, providing a scenic retreat in the heart of the city.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Eureka Centre is a must. Learn about the Eureka Rebellion, a significant event in Australia’s democratic history that took place in Ballarat. The centre tells the story of this rebellion through engaging exhibits and multimedia presentations.

Ballarat’s rich heritage extends beyond the gold rush era. Explore the beautiful Victorian-era architecture by taking a stroll through the streets lined with grand buildings, or visit the historic Ballarat Railway Station, a magnificent structure that has stood the test of time.

As a thriving regional center, Ballarat offers an array of dining options, from cozy cafes to award-winning restaurants. Taste the local flavors and indulge in the region’s fresh produce, complemented by regional wines and craft beers.

Whether you’re intrigued by history, fascinated by cultural experiences, or simply seeking a fun and educational family outing, Ballarat and Sovereign Hill provide a unique and unforgettable road trip experience. So, step back in time, immerse yourself in history, and discover the treasures of Ballarat and its iconic gold rush era.

Embarking on a road trip through Victoria’s diverse and captivating landscapes is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that this state has to offer. From the iconic Great Ocean Road with its stunning coastal scenery to the majestic mountains of the Grampians and the serene beauty of Wilsons Promontory, each road trip destination has its own unique charm and allure.

As you traverse through the Yarra Valley’s vineyards, sample world-class wines, and indulge in local culinary delights, or explore the fascinating history of Ballarat and Sovereign Hill, you’ll find yourself immersed in the rich culture and heritage that Victoria has to offer. The Murray River will captivate you with its tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes, while the Dandenong Ranges will provide a serene retreat into nature’s embrace.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Victoria’s road trips have something for everyone. Connect with nature, explore charming townships, encounter fascinating wildlife, and indulge in delicious food and wine along the way.

As you embark on your road trip journey, be sure to plan your itinerary, allowing enough time to fully experience each destination’s highlights. Whether you choose to follow one road trip route or create your own unique adventure by combining multiple destinations, the possibilities are endless.

Finally, remember to embrace the freedom of the open road, take detours to uncover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the local culture and communities you encounter along the way. Let the magic of Victoria’s stunning landscapes and engaging experiences guide you on a road trip of a lifetime.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin as you embark on a journey through Victoria’s best road trips. Discover the beauty, the flavors, and the enchanting destinations that await you, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

7 Day Victoria Road Trip Itinerary | Australia Travel Planner

Although it’s one of the smallest states in Australia, Victoria is chock full of attractions to keep the most intrepid traveller busy, and this 7 Day Victoria Road Trip Itinerary , covers the the best things to do in Victoria, over a period of one week.

You could easily spend a week exploring Melbourne, the state’s capital, if you have the time.

Venture further afield and you’ll find stunning coastlines, lush rainforests, quaint villages, and beautiful mountain ranges.

With this 7 day Victoria road trip itinerary you’ll get to experience the state’s most impressive natural attractions and history.

You’ll wind your way along the world famous Great Ocean Road, which has been rated as one of the Best Road Trips in the World ; before heading to the Grampians National Park and the gold rush town of Ballarat.   

If you love road trips filled with nature and cultural heritage, then this 7 day itinerary is for you!

– Written By Audrey Chalmers from Victoria Uncovered  

Day 1 – Melbourne

Torquay: the gateway to the great ocean road, great ocean road chocolaterie and ice creamery, split point lighthouse, lunch at lorne, teddys lookout and erskine falls, koala spotting at kennett river, melba gully, gibson steps, 12 apostles, lunch in port campbell, london arch, bay of martyrs and bay of islands, day 4 – port campbell to halls gap, day 5 – halls gap, day 6 – halls gap to ballarat, day 7 – ballarat to melbourne, summary – 7 day victoria travel itinerary, share this:.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Australia, to tick off this 7 Day Victoria Travel Itinerary –

• Book your Rental Car in Victoria on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Victoria Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator or Klook
• Book your Budget Accommodation in Victoria on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get the best flight deals on Kiwi.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Victoria, and get access to premium Airport Lounges.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Victoria.

7 Day Road Trip Itinerary – Victoria, Australia

Pin this Australia Travel Guide featuring the Best 7 Day Victoria Road Trip Itinerary

No Victorian road trip guide is complete without including at least one day in the magnificent city of Melbourne. Of course, one day in Melbourne isn’t enough and I highly recommend spending more time if you can.

There are countless attractions to see and the city is often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia. At any given moment there are art exhibitions, live music performances, theatre productions, and an array of coffee shops to discover.

The city of Melbourne | Photo by Denise Jans on Unsplash

Start your day by ticking off some of the Best Things to do in Melbourne , such as exploring Melbourne’s graffiti covered laneways, then head to Federation Square a favourite meeting place for locals. Here you’ll find a range of restaurants, bars, and specialty stores. Follow this up with a visit to nearby St. Paul’s Cathedral and for sporting fans a tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a must.

When you are in Melbourne, we highly recommend you to sign up for the Klook Pass Melbourne , which will give you access to 20 of the Best Sights in Melbourne, and you’ll be able to save 45% of the costs as well.

Day 2 – Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Victoria boasts a multitude of picturesque landscapes, and one of the most iconic routes to experience its beauty is the Great Ocean Road. The road trip from Melbourne to Apollo Bay, offers travellers a blend of coastal charm, natural wonders, and cool surfing vibes.

Starting your journey in Torquay, the official beginning of the Great Ocean Road , visitors are greeted with a laid-back coastal atmosphere. Torquay is renowned for its surf culture, and a visit to Bells Beach , home of the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition, provides a glimpse into the world of professional surfing. The Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay is a treasure trove of surf history, showcasing the evolution of this water sport in Australia.

A few kilometres down the road, chocolate enthusiasts will find solace at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery . This sweet haven has a mind-blowing amount of chocolates and ice cream on offer from its enormous showroom. If you’re travelling with kids, there’s a window with views into the factory where they can watch the chocolates being made.

As the journey continues, the Split Point Lighthouse stands tall, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Known as the White Lady , the lighthouse is till in operation today, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of Bass Strait . Tours of the lighthouse take about 45 minutes.

Lorne, one of the biggest towns on the Great Ocean Road, beckons travellers with its inviting cafes and restaurants. For a satisfying lunch, Pit Stop is a local favourite serving milkshakes, hamburgers, and chips with an Aussie twist from a food truck in a 60s American Airstream.

The scenic route unfolds with Teddys Lookout, a vantage point that showcases the beach, lush greenery, and the winding Great Ocean Road below. Nature enthusiasts will find Erskine Falls, surrounded by dense forest, a refreshing stop. The 30 metre tall waterfall is easily accessed from the car park down several flights of stairs.

Erskine Falls | Photo by Andrew St Lawrence on Unsplash

A visit to Australia wouldn’t be the same without seeing a koala in the wild and Kennett River on the Great Ocean Road is just the place to see them. Home to a large population of wild koalas it’s relatively easy to spot them sleeping in the trees.

Apollo Bay marks the halfway point of the Great Ocean Road and is the perfect place to stop for a night or two. The town offers a range of accommodations and places to eat. For fine dining Chris’s Restaurant at Beacon Point, offers dinner with a view, or if you prefer a more relaxed setting, the Apollo Bay Hotel is a top choice.

Apollo Bay | Victoria, Australia

Day 3 – Apollo Bay To Port Campbell

Heading out from Apollo Bay, spend the day exploring the Otways and Port Campbell National Park .

Melba Gully is a beautiful patch of rainforest where you can walk between giant tree ferns under the shade of the rainforest canopy. The Madsens Track is a short 1.5 kilometre circuit walk through rainforest, past Anne’s Cascades. If you prefer, you can visit at night, when glow worms can be found along the trail.

Head back to the coast and you’ll reach Gibson Steps , where the enormity of the cliffs and the force of the Southern Ocean become apparent. Make your way down to the beach via the 86 steps that were carved into the face of the cliff by local settler Hugh Gibson. Here you can marvel at Gog and Magog , two limestone stacks rising up out of the sea.

View of Gog and Magog from Gibson Steps | Photo by Daniel Seßler on Unsplash

A short drive will take you to the world-famous 12 Apostles, which happens to be one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia. Shaped by the relentless crashing waves, these limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. For a truly memorable experience treat yourself to a helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles and other famous sites along the coast.

Stop in Port Campbell for lunch at 12 Rocks Beach Bar & Café , the only restaurant in town that overlooks the beach. There’s plenty of seating both inside and out, the service is fast, and the menu features seafood and other creative options.

Resume your driving along Great Ocean Road, stopping at the London Arch . Formerly known as London Bridge, this natural arch formation was once connected to the mainland until it collapsed in 1990 leaving two people stranded on the arch. No one was injured but it was three hours before they could be rescued by police helicopter!

The Arch | Photo by Stephen Mabbs on Unsplash

Further along, you’ll encounter The Grotto , part blowhole, part archway, part cave it is a geological wonder that mesmerises all who visits. A series of wooden boardwalks and lookouts allows you to see the cave formation from above before descending to the rock pool at its base.

With a 7 day Victoria itinerary, you’ll have time to see the less visited Bay of Martyrs and Bay Of Islands . This area of coastline is known for its towering limestone cliffs, flat island rock stacks, and views of the Southern Ocean. It offers a more peaceful experience away from the crowds and there are two walking tracks where you can take a stroll.

Now that you’ve finished your exploration of the Great Ocean Road head back to Port Campbell for the night stopping at the Sow and Pigletts Brewery for a beer and REAL Pizza for a bight to eat.

Now it’s time for a change scenery and to head inland to Halls Gap at the foot of the beautiful Grampians Mountain Range . Although bushwalking is the main activity here, there are plenty of other Halls Gap attractions to keep you busy.  From fascinating Aboriginal history, to wineries, galleries, a zoo and even Adventure Golf, this is a great place to spend a couple of nights.

There are a variety of places to stay in Halls Gap most are within the budget to mid-range price points. Self-contained cabins are a popular choice but there are a couple of motels to choose from as well. It’s best to book ahead especially at weekends.

Grampians Mountain Range

It’s about a 2 ½ drive from Port Campbell to Halls Gap. Once you arrive, you’ll have time for a short walk to the Venus Baths . An easy 2 ½ kilometres from the town centre, the walk crosses Stony Creek and leads to rocky platforms filled with water. You can enjoy the scenery while resting on large cool rocks or whether permitting splash around in the rock pools.

Alternatively, or if you still have time, make your way to MacKenzie Falls . There are a lot of steps to get to the base of the falls, but it’s definitely worth it and a must visit in Halls Gap.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Livefast Café before hitting the trails. The 2 hour walk to the Pinnacle, is a highlight of any visit to the Grampians, and takes in stunning views of the Wonderland range and Wimmera Plains . The walk is well designed but take care to stay on the track and carry plenty of water.

Halls Gap | Photo by Huzaifa Tariq on Unsplash

With hundreds of kilometres of trails throughout the park there are plenty of other walking tracks to choose from. Other must-see sights include Boroka Lookout, Reeds Lookout, and The Balconies.  

Finish the day, with an ice cream from Coolas Ice Creamery , a beer at Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co , and dinner at Flame Brothers Restaurant and Bar.

Now it’s time to start heading back towards Melbourne, but not before learning a little about the history of Victoria. The regional city of Ballarat is the perfect place to do just that. This gold rush era town is filled with wrought-iron-trimmed streets, grand architecture, and immersive experiences that take you back in time.

On arrival, get to know the city’s history by taking a heritage walking tour. Maps are available from the Visitor Centre and guide you through streets passing by landmark buildings like, Her Majesty’s Theatre and a Turkish Bath House . You can stop in along the way.

Afterwards head to the Eureka Centre , site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade Rebellion (a pivotal moment in Australian history) and home to the Eureka Flag. Through art installations and modern digital technology you’ll hear the stories of the men and women who fought for miners’ rights and learn of the gold rush’s cultural impact.

A stroll around Lake Wendouree is a lovely way to end the day. Buy an ice cream from an old tramcar and take a 45 minute cruise, onboard the replica Golden City Paddle Steamer. Finish off with a bite to eat at the Yacht Club or head back into town for dinner at the Golden City Hotel .

For your last day of this 7 Day Victoria Road Trip Itinerary, step back in time at Sovereign Hill – a huge outdoor museum that transports you back to the 1850s. Costumed characters and horse drawn carts add to the realism of this recreated goldfields town filled with shops, hotels, a theatre, schools, gold diggings, and underground mines. It’s possible to spend a whole day here panning for gold, shopping for old-fashioned sweets and candles, or riding a horse and cart. You can even get beneath the earth’s surface on a gold mine tour.   

Alternatively, you can get up close to native animals at the Ballarat Wildlife Park . There are more than 100 free range kangaroos onsite, as well as koalas, emus, wombats, reptiles, and penguins. The park is also home to animals from around the world including two Sumatran-Siberian tigers, called Kai and Akasha.

Meet Koalas at Ballarat Wildlife Park

The park is just a 4 minute drive from Sovereign Hill, so it’s possible to visit both attractions before driving back to Melbourne.  

Day 1 – Arrival in Melbourne | Explore Melbourne

Day 2 – Road Trip from Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Day 3 – Road Trip from Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Day 4 – Port Campbell to Halls Gap

Day 5 – Explore Halls Gap

Day 6 – Road Trip from Halls Gap to Ballart

Day 7 – Road Trip Ballart to Melbourne | Departure from Melbourne

Victoria, despite being one of the smallest states in Australia, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for the avid traveller. This 7-day Victoria road trip itinerary show cases the diversity of attractions, seamlessly blending natural wonders with cultural heritage.

Starting in the cultural capital of Melbourne this Victoria itinerary takes you along the incredible Great Ocean Road, then inland to the beautiful landscapes of Halls Gap, culminating in the historical city of Ballarat. Ensuring a well-rounded exploration for those with an appreciation for both nature and cultural heritage.

If you have time, you can extend your trip to Australia, and experience this 7 Day Cairns Itinerary as well. Since you are in the region, you can even fly from Melbourne to Auckland, and experience the best of New Zealand with this 14 Day New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary .

Pin this Australia Trip Planner featuring the Best 7 Day Victoria Travel Itinerary

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7 of the best road trips and scenic drives in Victoria

Posted March 19, 2024

Keen to head on a road trip for some fresh air? These road trips and scenic drives celebrate the diversity of the Victorian landscape, with many not far from Melbourne.

Victoria might be Australia’s second smallest state geographically but that hasn’t stopped it packing some must-see locations into a pint-sized package. Every corner of Victoria offers something new, from desert landscapes to magical rainforests and spectacular ocean vistas, all of which are easily traversed by car and some just a few hours from Melbourne.

Before you leave, ensure that your  car is prepared and safe for your road trip, pack an emergency  car safety kit , and check that you have  emergency roadside assistance  in place .

Seven of the best road trips in Victoria

If you take Melbourne as the starting point, freeways in all directions have you out in open country in no time, and you’re never more than five or six hours from any part of the state.

Here are seven of the best, and most contrasting, drives in Victoria.

The Black Spur

• Where:  Healesville to Narbethong
• Distance:  20 kilometres 
• Time:  Half/full day.
• Because:  It’s the perfect Sunday drive. 

The Black Spur section of the Maroondah Highway connecting Healesville to the Central Highlands isn’t long, but don’t think you can do it in the blink of an eye. 

On its hairpin turns, the winding road allows you to take your time on this drive, and that’s to your advantage, as the majesty of the mountain ash forest you’re enveloped in needs to be absorbed slowly and deeply. 

The towering Mountain Ash trees found here are the highest flowering plants on Earth, and are so tightly packed together, the sun barely penetrates through to the forest floor. And the fern gullies are something else. 

This stretch of road has virtually no places to pull in and admire these giants up close. To do that, simply keep going to Marysville, loop back via the Acheron Way to Mount Donna Buang (a sealed but very narrow road) or return to Healesville and then up into Toolangi State Forest. Glory awaits at every turn. 

Don’t miss:  Marysville. It has regrown from the devastation of Black Saturday, and the forest is slowly but surely doing the same.

The Great Ocean Road

• Where:  Torquay to Peterborough
• Distance:  202 kilometres 
• Time:  One to two days.
• Because:  Show off your state to visitors. 

The popularity of this unique stretch of Victorian coast shows no sign of diminishing; the  Great Ocean Road  is almost as famous as Uluru or the Great Barrier Reef. 

And that’s because the journey itself is the destination. On one side, the Southern Ocean is spectacular no matter what season or time of day. On the other, you’re against sheer cliffs, but only for as long as it takes to round a promontory and dip into holiday havens such as Lorne and Apollo Bay, or pull up at beaches in the likes of Wye River, Skenes Creek or Princetown. And there are those amazing rock formations and coves near Port Campbell. 

But try pulling away from the splendour now and then, for hidden treasures off the main road. 

The region has the best waterfalls in Victoria, so seek out Beauchamp, Triplet or Hopetoun Falls (all near Beech Forest) or Carisbrook (near Apollo Bay). 

When the tide is right, walk out to old anchors embedded in the rocks at Wreck Beach. 

And try the great variety of cheese at Apostle Whey, near Princetown. 

Don’t miss:  A unique stand of Californian redwood trees planted near Beech Forest in the 1930s. Their size and colour are remarkable. 

The Great Alpine Road

• Where:  Wangaratta to Bairnsdale
• Distance:  310 kilometres. 
• Time:  Two to four days.
• Because:  It’s Victoria’s highest road. 

For a good part of the year most traffic on the  Great Alpine Road  uses only a fraction of it, the goal being the ski resorts of Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. 

For the rest of the time, it’s the ultimate Victorian road trip that needs several days to taste its variety. 

Leaving the Gippsland Lakes behind, the road north from Bairnsdale is a steady climb, the bubbling Tambo River an almost constant presence on your right. 

Omeo is a well-preserved gold town, and you’ll find other touchpoints of Victoria’s golden heritage as you approach Mount Hotham, from where the trail to Mount Feathertop is a great walk for the well-prepared hiker. 

The descent to the Ovens Valley is short but steep and winding. If it’s autumn, the foliage colour in Bright is the reward. 

Don’t ignore the side trip up Mount Buffalo, with its array of wondrous rock formations, trails and panoramic views. 

The final stretch flows through classic eucalypt country to Wangaratta. 

Don’t miss:  Milawa, the gourmet capital of the north-east, for its wine, cheese, honey and mustards.

South Gippsland Highway

• Where:  Lang Lang to Wilsons Promontory
• Distance:  140 kilometres. 
• Time:  One day.
• Because:  It’s a beautiful route to a beautiful spot. 

Gippsland is rarely less than captivating, and the road to Wilsons Promontory starts off along the prettiest section of national highway in the state. 

At first you roll through gentle green hills dotted with dairy cattle. The major towns of Korumburra and Leongatha are easily negotiated, and if you haven’t brought your picnic lunch , the Koonwarra Store is renowned for food and wine, or sample the lip-smacking Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria’s fare in Meeniyan. 

Turn off the highway here and head south through Fish Creek and Yanakie as the hills gradually give way to low coastal scrub. At every turn you’re anticipating that first view of the haunting peaks of Wilsons Promontory, the southernmost point of the mainland and one of Victoria’s great natural icons. 

Don’t miss:  Fish Creek, for its great array of art and craft outlets.

Calder Highway

• Where:  Bendigo to Mildura
• Distance:  400 kilometres. 
• Time:  One to two days. 
• Because:  A drive just for the sake of driving. 

You don’t need to go to central Australia to see the Outback. The Mallee is wide, flat and open, just not as red. Along the Calder Highway you’ll find unique traits in each community. 

Inglewood has the intriguing eucalyptus museum, with a working still. Wedderburn’s old general store is a step back in time. At 148 metres above sea level (and just 43 metres above the surrounding town), Mount Wycheproof is the lowest official mountain in Australia. 

Whether in daylight or when the stars are out,  Lake Tyrrell , near Sea Lake, produces mesmerising reflections off its salty surface.

In between, count all the grain silos (and go looking for all the huge  Silo Art Trail  murals) and just enjoy the vastness of this fabulous part of Victoria. 

Don’t miss:  The Bridgewater Bakehouse in Bridgewater on Loddon, where you can find an award-winning  vanilla slice .

Mornington Peninsula

• Where:  Mount Martha to Portsea
• Distance:  40 kilometres. 
• Time:  Half day.
• Because:  It’s a beautiful blend of coastal and woodlands 

Setting off from Mount Martha, you are greeted by sweeping views of the azure waters of Port Phillip Bay, framed by rugged cliffs and golden sandy beaches. As the road winds its way along the coastline, each twist and turn reveals new perspectives of the natural beauty that characterises this region. Passing through quaint coastal villages such as Safety Beach and Dromana, you are enticed by inviting cafes, boutique shops, and pristine stretches of shoreline , perfect for a leisurely stop to soak in the coastal ambiance. 

Continuing along the scenic route, the landscape transitions to the rugged splendour of the Mornington Peninsula National Park, where towering cliffs and windswept coastal heathlands offer a dramatic backdrop to the journey. Arriving in Portsea, the drive culminates in the iconic Portsea Pier, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the coastline and watch as boats bob gently in the harbour.

With its blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and scenic vistas, the drive from Mount Martha to Portsea epitomises the quintessential Australian coastal experience, leaving indelible memories of the stunning Mornington Peninsula landscape.

Don’t miss:  Authurs Seat, on a clear day, the view stretches out as far as the Melbourne city skyline, the You Yangs and Mount Macedon.

More: The best free things to do on the Mornington Peninsula

Dandenong Ranges 

• Where:  Dandenong Ranges National Park to Silvan Reservoir
• Distance:  21 kilometres. 
• Because:  It’s filled with moments of serenity and awe-inspiring vistas at every turn.

Embarking on a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges is a journey of discovery, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty, lush forests, and charming hilltop villages.

As you wind your way through the meandering roads of this picturesque region, you are enveloped by the tranquillity of towering mountain ash trees, fern gullies, and cascading waterfalls. The drive presents an ever-changing landscape, with panoramic vistas opening up to reveal sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and distant city skylines.

Along the route, you encounter quaint villages such as Olinda, Sassafras, and Emerald, each boasting unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes serving up delicious treats. A highlight of the journey is the opportunity to explore the enchanting gardens and parks that dot the landscape, including the renowned National Rhododendron Gardens and the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens.

As you traverse the winding roads, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including colourful parrots, lyrebirds, and wallabies, adding to the magic of the experience.

Don’t miss:  Spare some time to take a ride on  Puffing Billy - one of Australia’s oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railways.  

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More local guides

The best day trips from Melbourne

Ultimate Great Ocean Road itinerary: Torquay to Warrnambool

The ultimate Murray River road trip guide

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An easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary

Everyone loves a Victorian road trip! Planning one motivates you, inspires you to discover new places in Victoria and gives you the opportunity to revisit old favourites in the state. In any season there are epic places to visit in Victoria and there are more emerging all the time. With silo art, foodie towns and activities for families in Victoria is there any reason to holiday anywhere else?

In this post we will focus on a North East Victorian road trip with accommodation recommendations, places to visit in North East Victoria and best of all some gorgeous little secrets you can’t miss on your road trip in Victoria.

An added bonus at the Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes – The Goulburn Explorer

Facilities at discovery parks – lake hume, vic, places to visit from lake hume to bright, facilities at discovery parks bright, towns to visit on your north east victorian road trip.

After researching possible destinations in North East Victoria , we decided that the most convenient places to stay with family would be at three Discovery Parks. Not only did Discovery Parks offer a bunch of features you won’t find in hotels, but in many ways they far exceeded what was on offer anywhere else for a Victorian road trip.

We decided that we were going to visit Nagambie, Lake Hume and Bright on our 9-day great Victorian road trip, spending 3 nights in each destination to explore the highlights of each area.

Nagambie Lakes

Our first stop on our Victorian road trip was Nagambie Lakes. This amazing little lakeside village is a mecca for anyone who loves the water. You will find people out in abundance boating, fishing and generally enjoying the gorgeous surroundings. If you love Victorian wine then this is also a brilliant place in Victoria for you to visit.

Things to do at Nagambie Lakes

Here you will find the amazing Tahbilk winery and the highly-rated Mitchelton vineyard. Having teenagers on our Victorian road trip, we were able to incorporate visits to wineries and historic sites and have some fun around the park during our stay. Some of the things we did around the area were:

Goulburn Weir  – this is a great place to have lunch, whether it be a short picnic or a full-on BBQ. The weir wall is an amazing site at one of the oldest dams in Victoria, and there is a huge grassed area perfect for picnics, ball games and general relaxation.

Whroo Cemetery and Balaclava goldmines  – both of these attractions are a look back at the history of the area. As Nagambie was once a mining area, people worked hard and died young here in colonial times.

The mining area is visible from elevated viewing platforms, while a reflective walk around the cemetery brings into focus how hard life was for people living here back then.

Kirwans Bridge  – this can easily be visited as part of the trip to Whroo. Kirwans Bridge Nagambie is 310m long, making it the longest timber bridge in Victoria. Built-in 1890, it’s remarkable that it’s still standing. Our children found it excellent, as they’ve rarely been over a bridge quite like it, especially in Australia.

Besides the above things to do in Nagambie, we also recommend a trip to The Black Caviar statue in Nagambie town, The Avenal cemetery, where you will find Ned Kelly’s father’s grave, and the Victoria Cross memorial at nearby Euroa. There are some fantastic Nagambie wineries nearby including Mitchelton, Fowles and Tahbilk for wine tasting and food.

Where did we stay at Nagambie Lakes?

We had 3 nights planned at our Nagambie accommodation in a deluxe cabin right on the water’s edge. Nagambie Lakes is 138 kilometres north of Melbourne, an ideal place to start any Victorian road trip adventure on a Friday night after work.

Our deluxe cabin on the waterfront had 3 bedrooms, which was just right, so our teenage daughters could have a room each and one for us parents. Separate bedrooms allowed all of us to have our own space, and anyone who travels with teenagers will know that is important to them.

The cabins actually felt like home with couches, flatscreens TVs, a kitchen and air conditioning. After settling in for the first night we were up early the next morning, cooked some egg and bacon toasties and planned our day out exploring the Nagambie region.

Facilities at Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes

We wanted to spend some time in the park because as we said the park had some great facilities on offer. The first thing that impressed us about Nagambie Lakes Discovery Park was the onsite Cafe and being able to grab a coffee there each morning.

For anyone on their Victorian road trip using a tent or caravan, there are some great facilities for you to use at the Nagambie Lakes Discovery Parks.

• Cabins, caravan and tent sites
• Swimming pool
• Tennis court
• Boat storage
• Bike pump track

One of the best attractions at Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes is the Goulburn Explorer. The Goulburn Explorer is a riverboat with inside seating and a rooftop deck where people staying at the park can book a 2-hour cruise on the Goulburn River.

The friendly staff will keep you informed on all the wildlife that calls the area home, while you can also enjoy a drink from the onboard bar and there are some light snacks on offer.

In the future, there will be full catering available for your cruise on the Goulburn Explorer. The Explorer is owned and operated by Discovery Parks and can be booked from the park office.

Read more: Want a full honest review of Discovery Holiday Parks Nagambie Lakes? Read our review here

Nagambie to Wodonga road trip

The trip from Nagambie to Wodonga is around 2 hours if you travel directly, but because we were on our Victorian road trip there were a few special sites we wanted to explore along the way.

The  Northeast Silo art trail  is easily accessible between Nagambie and Lake Hume Discovery Parks. The towns of Goorambat, Devenish, St James and Tungamah make up the trail featuring some mesmerizing artworks on Grain Corp Silos. This is not to be missed on any great Victorian road trip.

Goorambat:   There are 2 silo artworks for you to see at Goorambat as well as a mural in the local Uniting Church. There are public toilets located at the side of the Diggers Wife Cafe. Drop into the cafe for a coffee and a slice.

Devenish:  Located on the main street this Victorian silo artwork is unmissable. Toilets are located to the left of the silo art. Drop into the pub for a cold drink and check out the old petrol bowsers for seriously low petrol prices!

St James:  Parking is a little tricky here and if it is busy you need to be careful of people walking on the side of the road to the silos. There is a little pub right over the road with great views where you can sit on the verandah and watch the commotion the silo artworks can create.

Tungamah:  The silo here is off the main street. Public toilets are located there as well as a little milk bar that sells food too. Check out the roses that are everywhere if you visit in spring on your Victorian road trip!

Expert advice: Silo artwork in Victoria is bringing back regional towns. Find some silo art here

Lake Hume, Victoria

Heading towards the border on our Victorian road trip we decided to stay in the border town of Wodonga. Visiting Wodonga, with the amazing weather, we again found accommodation on a lake, Lake Hume.

Again this area located just out of Wodonga is a mecca for people who love water sports. Any given time there will be people fishing, boating and skiing on Lake Hume and in the summer months it is packed with people wanting to cool off.

Things to see near Lake Hume, VIC

You will find plenty of things to do near Lake Hume. We concentrated our road trip in Victoria activities on the Victorian side of the border. Wodonga also has a great shopping area with supermarkets and department stores for those looking for some retail therapy while staying in Lake Hume.

Lake Hume Weir  – Only a 5-minute drive from the park is the massive Lake Hume dam wall. You can walk across the wall and admire the views of the Murray River, which flows downstream from here. There is a day picnic area, public toilets, and a few heritage items on display.

Rutherglen  – Rutherglen is another town in the middle of the Victorian goldfields and wine region. The town has some outstanding colonial-style buildings still standing.

Visit De Bortoli cellar door, buy a pie from the award-winning Parkers pies and pick up some meat for a BBQ dinner at Rutherglen Butchery. Our kids loved the Rutherglen lolly shop

Wymah Ferry  – This is what I would call a niche attraction in Wodonga and one that is not well known except among locals. One of the helpful staff at Lake Hume told us about the last operating ferry in this region of the Murray River called the Wymah Ferry.

It is free, you can drive your car onto it, cross the river into New South Wales and drive up the road a bit and then come back onto the ferry and back into Victoria.

Besides the above attractions in the Lake Hume area, make sure you see the Bonegilla Migrant Experience. If you want a Lake Hume bike ride the High Country Rail Trail starts nearby.

For kids, the nearby Hunchback Mountain bike park provides fun and adventure. The Huon Hill Lookout is on your way to the park and provides breathtaking views of this North East Victoria location.

Explore Victoria:   13 amazing places to experience autumn in Victoria

Where did we stay in Wodonga?

Arriving at Discovery Parks Lake Hume in Victoria (there is also a Discovery Park – Lake Hume on the New South Wales side of the lake), you get the feeling that you have arrived in the tropics with palm trees growing everywhere.

We easily checked in and headed to our superior 2-bedroom poolside cabin that included a deck overlooking the lake and pool area.

Once again, the cabin had all the facilities you would expect at Discovery Parks Lake Hume Tourist Park such as a microwave, couches, dining table, dishwashing liquid and more. You really only have to bring yourselves and your food when you stay in this type of accommodation because everything else is waiting for you. 

Discovery Holiday Parks Lake Hume, VIC is like the Rolls-Royce of holiday parks in Victoria with so much to do onsite we could have stayed there for 3 days and never left! The sun was out, so we were able to use the pool area which also features a spa that can fit up to 8 people.

• 3 and 2 bedroom cabins
• Camp kitchens
• Caravan and tent sites
• Dog washing area
• Jumping pillow

This Lake Hume accommodation hires out bikes and kayaks, so  we grabbed 2 kayaks  and hit Lake Hume for a paddle around. With the banks of the Hume Weir so close to your accommodation, Lake Hume fishing is popular for people staying at the park.

One of our favourite features was the communal rotunda on the shores of Lake Hume just near our cabin. It was a mix of a camp kitchen and a social area featuring inside couches, a fireplace, an oven, and dishwashing facilities, while just outside our door were BBQs and picnic tables.

One thing that makes holiday parks easy is washing facilities. Unlike hotels where you pay a fortune for clothes to be laundered, Discovery Parks makes it easy with washing machines and dryers that can be used for a few dollars.  Anyone with teenagers  knows that they go through clothes pretty quickly!

Lake Hume to Bright road trip

Lake Hume and Bright Discovery Parks are only around 100 kilometers apart. Explorers like us wanted to see more places in Victoria along the way, so our first stop was at Yackandandah, another beautiful heritage town in the northeast of Victoria.

There are a few amazing little and big towns to visit on your way to Bright. You will find that they are stops in themselves and you can find some brilliant things to do in these towns in Victoria.

Yackandandah: There are plenty of things to do in Yackandandah if you love food! There is a brilliant pub, a magnificent bakery and a couple of specialty shops on the main street where you can stock up on some amazing local food for your Victorian road trip.

Read more: Want a full honest review of Discovery Holiday Parks Bright? Read our review here

Woolshed Waterfalls: When headed towards Beechworth stop at Woolshed Waterfalls, it is a must before entering the town.

Beechworth: Beechworth has a long history of association with Ned Kelly and gold. The main street is lined with heritage buildings and museums, while the popular  Billson’s brewery  is a must-stop for its tasty cordials, pre-mixed vodkas and more. Billson’s was a great stop for our teenagers as you could try any of their famous cordials at the tasting bar, then wander the cellar cave before watching them make and package the products.

From here we headed for Bright and our last 3 nights with Discovery Parks.

Bright, Victoria

Arriving at Discovery Parks Bright you are immediately surrounded by trees in an amazing valley about 10 kilometres from Bright town center. The sound of the nearby Ovens River was both relaxing and welcoming as we pulled up to our 3-bedroom cabin.

The area of the park is so peaceful, with loads of birds and shady trees shedding their flowers for Summer when we were there. Just like Nagambie and Lake Hume, our cabin in Bright had all the essentials like milk and coffee for your first cuppa of the morning and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.  

Much like most hotels, it included soap, shampoo & conditioner, and body wash which we used during ou r stay in Bright . One modern convenience that the Bright cabin had over the rest was USB sockets on some power points, which were handy for charging our gear.

  All the top things to see near Bright

For anyone who loves nature, relaxation and the sounds of nature then there are so many things to do in Bright . If you have not visited Bright then this should be on your Victorian road trip itinerary.

Mount Buffalo National Park  – You can get to this popular Victorian National Park via a windy scenic road that has waterfalls and lookouts over the mountains and valleys of the area. The  Mount Buffalo Chalet  from 1910 is worth checking out and still draws visitors who appreciate the grandeur of this old building. The car park has some amazing lookouts with picnic facilities and walking trails that lead off to Alpine lakes and more

Bogong Village  – is another 50 kilometres from the park via the town of Mount Beauty and is on the way to Falls Creek. Bogong Village is owned by the electrical company AGL which operates a hydroelectric power station nearby. Outside of the snow season, the town appears deserted except for day-trippers and bushwalkers enjoying the scenic alpine lake and Alpine National Park

Bright Brewery  – Not far from Discovery Parks Bright is the beer capital of the Victorian Northeast! This big shiny new establishment brews traditional and seasonal beers to suit most tastes. There’s everything from Draught beers to concoctions like a Mandarin Milkshake beer! With seating both indoors and out, this is a popular destination for a bite to eat and drink. We recommend getting a tasting paddle that gives you a small sample of a range of their more interesting beers!

Bike Trails  – Bright has become the biking capital of Victoria with its Mystic Mountain bike park and the Murray to Mountains rail trail. Some popular trails are the Bright to Wandiligong and the Bright to Porpunkah. These are pretty good family-friendly rides of around 6 kilometres each way.

Plan your trip to Bright with ease: All the best things to do in Bright

Where did we stay in Bright

In addition, you can find a small water park in Bright to keep cool during the warmer weather. Nearby rivers are also popular for people who like panning for gold or metal detectors. The surrounding towns of Harrietville and Myrtleford are worth visiting, and a trip to the top of Mount Hotham is certainly an experience.

Wineries like Ringer Reef serve a mean cheese platter and Nightingale Brothers Alpine Produce sell all kinds of jams, spreads, apple juices, ciders, and local artisanal produce. Yum!

Discovery Parks Bright located on the Great Alpine Road has several cool features, such as a purpose-built ramp that leads down into the Ovens River for swimming on a hot day.

• 2 and 3-bedroom cabins
• Herb garden
• Communal kitchens
• River access
• Bike trails
• Guest laundry

The largest common area in the middle of the park has a herb garden, fire pit, stove, tv, and a communal fridge for campers. The fridge came in handy for keeping drinks cold while cooking and eating in the area. The park often brings in bands on the weekends to perform in this area of the park, which was something we had never seen before at any holiday park.

On the weekend at Bright, they open the Coffee Burgh. This is their own coffee stand with a quality barista to make your coffee dreams come true, and kickstart your day with everything from a latte to fancy chai! For anyone who loves travelling with dogs, the park has a dog washing facility which shows the length Discovery Parks goes to cater for its guests.

More Victorian road trip inspiration: Discover amazing towns on the Great Alpine Road

Want to add another Victorian destination to your Victorian road trip itinerary?

If you are looking to add another North East Victorian town to your Victorian road trip itinerary Echuca is another wonderful place to add to your Victorian staycation.

Our 9 days came and went so fast that we left each location wishing for more time! An extended Victorian staycation with Discovery Holiday Parks could also include  stops at the Melbourne , Geelong and Warrnambool Parks. A road trip between these locations would include Torquay, The Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, The Surf Coast, Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell and Port Fairy.

Seeing the sites and relaxing at each Discovery Park location was a Victorian road trip we’ll never forget. Staying with Discovery Parks made our great Victorian road trip easier and less expensive because of their facilities and the activities available to us as a family with teenagers!

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More travel inspiration for your Victorian road trip

21 best places to visit in Victoria

11 fun filled day trips from Melbourne for families

Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

Bec Wyld is the creative force behind the words, blending Explore Victora with a touch of wanderlust. With an innate ability to tell a story that resonates, Bec invites readers on a journey through her home of Victoria Australia. Beyond the keyboard, Bec works in Aged Care helping people to live a better life. With a pen in one hand and on the road in front Bec is on a quest to inspire those looking to explore Victoria through words, images and lifestyle

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8D Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary — The Ultimate Road Trip Around Victoria’s Best Adventures

Indulge in Melbourne’s array of cuisines, mingle with the adorable animals of Phillip Island and hike up the impressive mountains and waterfalls in the Grampians with this Melbourne road trip itinerary.

First published: 19 April 2018

Pick up your rental car and hit the road on this eight-day adventure. Beginning from Melbourne, we head to Yarra Valley for wine tasting, Phillip Island to watch the Little Penguins return to their burrows, Otway and Grampians for some of the most epic waterfall hikes — all while taking in the gorgeous coastal scenery along the Great Ocean Road.

If you’re planning to explore Victoria on a road trip, here’s our eight-day self drive itinerary from Melbourne!

Melbourne Road Trip Overview

Pre-trip Essentials | Check Flights to Melbourne | Road Trip Planning Tips Day 1: Melbourne City Day 2: Yarra Valley Day 3: Phillip Island Day 4-5: Great Otway National Park Day 6: Great Ocean Road Day 7-8: Grampians Click to jump to each section.

Pre-trip Essentials

Car Rental: We rented a compact SUV for our group of four. Prices start from ~S$60/day , including zero-excess Collision Damage Waiver.

*Pro-tip: Use code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klo ok to get 5% off car rental and activities * with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15) at checkout. One-time use only! (* – list of excluded activities )

SIM Card:  Plans from  Optus  (right outside the airport arrival gates) start from AU$12 with a minimum of 5GB and unlimited local calls. Alternatively, get an eSIM (S$18.90 for 500MB/day for 10 days) to avoid the hassle of switching physical cards around. Do check your phone compatibility beforehand!

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend this in case of unforeseen mishaps! Look for policies that include coverage for Covid-19. Some insurance providers also offer coverage for outdoor activities such as hiking (a highlight of this itinerary).

Airport to Melbourne CBD:  Taxis are expensive. A ride to town will cost between AU$65-80 . If you’re travelling solo or in twos, book the Skybus at ~S$19/pax (one-way) that drops you off at Southern Cross station.

Check Flights to Melbourne

If you can’t see the widget above, click here to check flight prices from Singapore to Melbourne !

Day 1: Explore Melbourne City

Highlights:  Victoria State Library – Hosier Lane – Eureka Skydeck – Queen Victoria Market

Getting around Melbourne: You can purchase a rechargeable myki card for AU$6 (excluding credits) which covers all the trains, buses and trams in Victoria. However, if you’re staying within the CBD area, there’s no need for one to travel on trams within the Free Tram Zone .

Victoria State Library

First stop, check out the iconic Victoria State Library — the oldest free public library in Victoria with a collection of over two million books. The library’s domed ceiling also makes the place a good photo spot.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  10AM – 6PM Address: 328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Hosier Lane

Start your day exploring the scenic streets of Melbourne. If you’re into street art, one of the most famous is probably Hosier Lane — decked in ever-changing graffiti, created by both international and local artists. Drop by for a quick photo stop or have a meal at the cafes and restaurants in the area.

Eureka Skydeck

For a 360° view of the city, get on the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere, the Eureka Skydeck .

Photo credit: A Brit & A Southerner

Explore Melbourne city through the telescopes on the observation decks, and check out the world’s only Edge Experience that suspends visitors 300m above the city in a glass cube!

The Eureka Skydeck is also a great place for catching the sunset over the city. Make sure to arrive at least 1 hour before sunset to secure a good spot on the west side overlooking the Yarra River. Cost:   ~S$27/adult via Klook for Skydeck entry only, AU$43/adult for the Edge Experience incl. Skydeck entry Opening hours:  12PM – 10PM (Last entry 9:30PM)

Have dinner at the Queen Victoria Night Market

The Queen Victoria Night Market only comes alive every Wednesday in the summer months (22 Nov 2023 to 13 Mar 2024) so try to plan to be in the city on this day! Lined with food stalls and shops selling trinkets and clothing, this is a great place to hang out while enjoying live entertainment; or you could also play a game of chess on the life-size chess boards on the ground.

Satisfy your Korean Cravings (Joomak)

If you’ll miss the night market, a good alternative favoured by locals is  Joomak  — a Korean-style pub that serves authentic Korean food in Melbourne CBD. The free-flow kimchi here is to die for and the food comes in generous portions. We ordered a kimchi pancake, sundubu jji-gae (tofu stew) and a small portion of bulgogi (BBQ marinated beef), along with a bowl of rice — which had the four of us stuffed.

Located in the basement with no signs on street level, it may be quite hard to locate Joomak. Just walk along Swanston Street until you see unit 407/409:

Turn in, and head down the stairs to the basement where the restaurant is located.

Cost: ~AU$13/pax Opening hours: 5PM – 1AM (Mon – Thu), 5PM – 3AM (Fri – Sat), Closed on Sun Address:  Basement, 407/409 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Accommodation

To save on transport, pick an accommodation within or on the outskirts of the CBD. We found options on Airbnb that cost ~AU$50/pax. There’s also hostels within the same area for ~AU$30/pax.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Yarra Valley

Highlights : Yarra Valley Gourmet Food Tour

For the wine lovers, the Yarra Valley is just 1 hour from Melbourne city and home to over 50 wineries and farms. Apart from wine, you’ll also get to try locally grown fruits and a wide array of freshly made cheese.

We visited  De Bortoli and Yering Station for wine tasting (AU$10 – 25), made a quick stop at Yarra Valley Dairy for cheese tasting, before having lunch at Rochford .

Have a sweet ending at the  Yarra Valley Chocolaterie , where you can taste a wide variety of chocolate and a generous serving of gelato at the gelato shop.

For those who don’t drive, there’s also an all inclusive Yarra Valley tour (~S$162)  which includes doorstep pick up from your accommodation and all the delicious wine and food you’ll get to experience at Yarra.

Have Mexican Food for dinner back in Melbourne CBD (Mamasita)

If you love Mexican food, Mamasita is the place to be! This popular restaurant in the CBD serves delicious tacos and a killer Margarita (~AU$23). It’s a tad pricey but the quality is well worth it. We ordered corn chips with guacamole and salsa (AU$16), some tacos (~AU$17 – 21 for two), quesadillas (AU$18) and we enjoyed every single dish.

*Pro-tip:  Avoid peak hours or make a booking beforehand as it gets very crowded during dinner time.

Cost: ~AU$40/pax Opening hours: 12PM – 10:30PM (Sun – Thu), 12PM – 11:30PM (Fri – Sat) Address:  11 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Day 3: Day Trip to Phillip Island

Highlights:  Brighton Beach – Churchill Island – Koala Conservation Reserve – Seal Watching Cruise – The Nobbies – Penguin Parade

Famous for the adorable penguin parade that happens every night, Phillip Island is a must-visit when you’re in Melbourne! It’s a 2-hour drive south-east of Melbourne with lots to check out along the way!

Brighton Beach

These colourful bathing boxes on Brighton Beach are a well-known icon of Melbourne. Snap pictures with them along the beach while enjoying the sea breeze, and watch many dog owners play with their fur babies.

The beach is a quick stop en route to Phillip Island. You can watch the sunrise at the beach while having breakfast before heading out to Phillip Island.

Parking:  AU$5.70/hour (8AM – 8PM) at Green Point Car Park — Remember to pay for parking at the machine (credit card only) or with the EasyPark app . You WILL get fined if you do not pay for parking.

*Pro-tip: Arrive early as parking fees are only required between 8AM – 8PM.

Full Day Out at Phillip Island

Read also:   The Complete Phillip Island Guide

Check out farming activities at Churchill Island such as cow milking and sheep shearing, which will definitely be a hit with the young ones. Enjoy a quick cuppa at the cafe before heading off to the next stop!

Entrance fee: AU$15 Opening hours:  10AM – 4:30PM

Seal Watching Cruise:  Sign up for this 2-hour high speed boat tour that will bring you up close to one of the largest fur seal colonies in Australia.

Cost:  AU$98 (~S$85 on Klook) Departure time:  Tours run at 2PM daily, with additional slots at 11AM or 4:30PM on select days in summer. Check the schedule before booking!

Located just 10 minutes from Cowes jetty, Tides of Rhyll is a perfect spot to have a meal before or after the Seal Watching Cruise (though you might want to have your meal after the tour in case the boat ride is rocky).

Cost:  From AU$15 for battered fish and a side of chips Opening hours:  12PM – 7PM (Mon), 12PM – 8PM (Fri to Sun), closed on Tue – Thu Address:  11 Beach Rd, Rhyll VIC 3923, Australia

Get up close to koalas in this Eucalyptus tree-filled woodland. The Koala Conservation Reserve plays host to a conservation programme that helps save these important animals. Visitors will get an opportunity to go on a ranger-led tour for insights into these Australian icons.

Entrance fee: AU$15 Opening hours: 10AM – 5:30PM (Last entry at 5PM)

Take a walk down the boardwalk at the Nobbies to see the beautifully rugged coastline and if you’re lucky, you might spot some penguins beneath the boardwalks!

Head into the Antarctic Journey for an interactive lesson on the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. This is a great place for children and they will love it. Stop by the cafe for a quick refreshment before heading out to the penguin parade which is just a 5-minute drive away.

Entrance fee: AU$15 Opening hours:  10AM – 6PM

End your day watching the little Penguins waddle back into their burrows after a long day of fishing. The main viewing area has elevated seating that gives a 180º view of the Beach.

Entrance fee: AU$30 (~S$26 via Klook)

*Pro-tip: Get a 4 Parks Pass for discounted admission to the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island, Koala Conservation Reserve and the Antarctic Journey!

For a full-day itinerary on Phillip Island, check out our complete Phillip Island Guide .

You can opt to stay slightly outside of Melbourne city as it would be cheaper. We stayed in the Chadstone area.

Day 4 & 5: Great Otway National Park

Highlights : Zipline and Treetop walk at Otway Fly – California Redwoods – Hopetoun Falls – Apollo Bay Drive time: ~ 3hrs 30mins

Photo credit: Visit Victoria

Head out in the morning and drive towards Otway National Park. There are two routes — coastal and inland — that you can take. The drive times for both route vary so be sure to check out Google Maps for drive time estimates. I strongly recommend taking the coastal route as the views are pretty insane! 😉

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Photo credit: Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

For zipline adventures, head to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures for a 2.5-hour tour zipping through the leafy treetops of Otway. Although the tour opens regardless of rain or shine, it does not operate in severe weather conditions such as lightning, storms and high winds. Allocate at least two days in Otway so you’ll be able to reschedule the tour should such conditions occur!

Alternatively, there’s a 25m-high tree-top walk where you can get a bird’s eye view of the region’s flora and fauna. The walk takes about 1 hour to complete, and just like the zipline tour, does not operate in severe weather conditions.

Cost: From AU$99 for the Zipline Tour incl. TreeTop walk admission ( bookings are essential!) Opening hours:  10AM – 5PM (Last admission at 3:30PM)

California Redwoods

Filled with Sequoia trees, the California Redwoods is a unique stop on this road trip. True to its name, the trunks and branches of the trees have a reddish hue to them. Stop by for a morning stroll into the woods and be sure to snap some pictures of this magical place! Be careful of falling branches, especially when it’s windy.

There’s also picnic tables outside the forest, so it’s a great place to stop for lunch!

Time:  10mins return Difficulty: Easy

Hopetoun Falls

You can see the waterfalls from a viewing platform just 20m from the carpark but if you’re extra adventurous, it’s a 30-minute return route to the base of the waterfall.

Time:  30mins return Difficulty:  Moderate

If time and weather permit, you could also check out  Beauchamp Falls and Triplet Falls .

For this day, you can either stay in Otway National Park for two days or stay in Otway for one night and move on to Port Campbell/Apollo Bay for the second.

Pros of staying near Otway Fly Treetop Adventure is that you’ll have an additional day to check in on the zipline and treetop walk if the weather’s against your favour on the first night. Of course, the con is that you’ll have to drive about an hour to get to the Twelve Apostles the next morning so we’ve provided two other options which are nearer to the Twelve Apostles.

Near Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

1) Otways Tourist Park : Located just 20 minutes from the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures activity centre , the various en-suite cabins at Otways Tourist Park can accommodate 2 to 8 people.

Near the Twelve Apostles

2) Pebble Point: For nature lovers, a night at this glamping spot in Pebble Point is an experience you might want to check out! Each cosy tent sleeps 2 (max 3) and comes with an attached bathroom. The heated bed was so comfortable we had major problems getting up the next morning! There is a common kitchen stocked with common condiments to prepare dinner.

The downside is that the nearest town of civilisation is in Port Campbell which is a 20-minute drive should you need any supplies. Connectivity is also barely existent so get your maps pre-loaded and let your loved ones know you haven’t fallen off the face of the earth!

3) Sow and Piglets Guest House (formerly Port Campbell Hostel):  Lastly, there’s a  hostel located in Port Campbell — a small town just 10 minutes from the Twelve Apostles. Here there are private en-suite rooms for up to 4 pax and mixed-gender dorm rooms with 4, 6 and 8 bed configurations.

Of course the downside for options 2 & 3 is that you’d need to drive 1 hour to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures should you decide to shift your zipline activity booking.

Day 6: Great Ocean Road

Highlights:  Gibson Steps – 12 Apostles – Loch Ard Gorge – The Arch – London Bridge – The Grotto Drive time:  ~3hrs (if staying at Port Campbell/Pebble Point), add 1.5hrs if driving from Apollo Bay

Gibson Steps

Get up close with Gog and Magog — the two huge limestone stacks that rise up from the sea, here at the base of Gibson Steps . They are not considered part of the 12 Apostles but are still a sight to behold. You can view them from the viewing platform or make your way down the 86 steps to the beach for a closer look. Be prepared to get a little wet as the waves are unpredictable!

Head down this flight of stairs to the beach 🙂

There is a designated carpark just a short distance of 30m away from the viewing platform.

Trekking time:  15mins return Difficulty:  Easy Parking:  Free — but lots are limited and gets crowded after 9AM

12 Apostles Lookout Point

Possibly the most iconic attraction of the Great Ocean Road, the 12 Apostles are made up of rock stacks created by the erosion of limestone cliffs from the mainland. You may want to use the toilets here as there will not be another one at the other lookout points!

Trekking time:  15mins return Difficulty:  Easy Parking:  Free

Loch Ard Gorge

Named after the famous 1878 shipwreck on nearby Muttonbird Island, there are numerous limestone structures here to be marvelled at. Explore the numerous trails while learning the rich history of various rock stacks like the Razorback .

Trekking time:  Allow up to 2 – 3hrs if you want to explore all the trails Difficulty:  Easy Parking:  Free

The Arch is best viewed from the platform during rougher tides. Watch the waves crash in and around the area, creating a mini waterfall underneath The Arch!

Trekking time:  20mins return Difficulty: Easy Parking:  Free (Carpark is unsuitable for caravans)

London Bridge (aka London Arch)

As its name suggests, London Bridge used to be a bridge connecting the archway to the mainland but collapsed unexpectedly in 1990, leaving two in need of a helicopter rescue. Visitors used to be able to walk across the eastern span before the collapse but now, you can still witness its beauty from the two viewing platforms.

Trekking time: 20mins return Difficulty:  Easy Parking:  Free

Perhaps the best spot along the Great Ocean Road is  the Grotto . This geological formation is easily accessible down a small flight of stairs. Feel the calmness brought about by the archway of the Grotto, in contrast to the crashing waves at the other end of the tunnel.

Food in Port Campbell

Frying nemo.

An all-in-one store, Frying Nemo is a small section of the Port Campbell Fuel/Fish and Chips shop. The servings are huge and well worth your money! We got two portions of chips (at AU$4 per portion) and it was way too much for the four of us. As they only do takeout, get your favourite fish to go, and have your meal by the Port Campbell Beach like we did!

Photo credit: Nada D

Cost: AU$15 for a Fish & Chips pack Opening hours:  12PM – 9PM

Drive 2 hours up to Halls Gap since you’ll be exploring the sights here the next morning. Stay here for two nights.

There are many accommodation options at Halls Gap but one of the most unique ones we found in this area was the A-Frame  house. It had one bedroom below (en suite with a Jacuzzi!), two single and a double bed up on the loft, a fully stocked kitchen as well as a spacious living area. Wild kangaroos are also known to hang out in the backyard so if you’re lucky, they may come say hi!

At night, don’t forget to check out the view outside. If the skies are clear, you might even catch a shooting star or two!

Day 7 & 8: Grampians

Highlights:  MacKenzie Falls – The Balconies – Reeds Lookout – The Pinnacle via Grand Canyon Drive time:  ~ 1hr 16mins (within Halls Gap), ~3hrs (to Melbourne Airport)

MacKenzie Falls

One of the largest falls in Victoria, MacKenzie Falls flows all year round down a steep cliff. Take an easy 1km walk to Bluff Lookout, or down a steep trail down to the base of the waterfall. The steps can be quite steep but we promise, the view is worth it!

Be careful while going down the steps as some of them are narrow and might be slippery.

Trekking time:  1hr return (to the base of the falls) Difficulty:  Easy – Moderate Parking:  Free parking at the MacKenzie Falls Carpark

*Note: When planning hikes into your itinerary, remember to get travel insurance that covers this activity! Seedly is one such provider that covers hiking without add-on fees. From now till 31 Dec 2023, get 50% off all plans and other perks — more info at the end!

The Balconies (aka Jaws of Death)

Also known as the Jaws of Death because the structure resembles the jaws of a T-rex, The Balconies offer a panoramic view of the lush mountains. Take an easy 2km stroll along the path leading towards the lookout, and be awed by the stunning rock formations at the end.

Trekking time:  1hr return Difficulty: Easy Parking:  Free

Reeds Lookout (alternatively spelled as Reed Lookout) 

From the same car park as The Balconies, follow the path up the sealed road to the summit of Reeds Lookout and enjoy the scenic views of Victoria Valley. Reeds Lookout is a fantastic spot for catching the sunset and it was truly one of the best sunsets I have seen in my life!

Do leave before the sun completely sets as it gets very dark, and can be quite a challenge to drive out.

Trekking time: 10mins return Difficulty:  Easy Parking:  Free

The Pinnacle

There are a few paths one can take to reach the peak of The Pinnacle. We chose to hike up The Pinnacle via The Grand Canyon, starting at the Wonderland Carpark. The Grand Canyon is a trail within a picturesque valley that would have you stopping for pictures almost every minute. Although the trail was pretty rocky, it was still a pretty well-paved walkway.

*Pro-tip:  Wear shoes with better grip. Even though there are man-made pathways, there are still areas that are rocky and not flat.

If you prefer an easier hike, start off at the Sundial car park, especially if you have young children, or ancient knees (like myself).

Bring some food along as there are many opportunities during the hike for a pit stop to recharge!

Follow these yellow arrows to find your way to the peak. These are especially helpful if you want to climb in the dark, to catch the sunrise or after sunset.

Have Dinner at Spirit of Punjab (Indian Food)

Photo credit: VisitLanarkShire

We were pretty lucky this place was open till pretty late since all the other restaurants tend to close around 5 – 6PM. If you’re craving for spicy food, check out this gem of a place at  Spirit of Punjab .

We had the Vindaloo (AU$23.99) which was a chef-recommended dish, Butter Chicken (AUS$23.99) and Sag Aloo (AU$23.50), which is a rich paste of spinach and potatoes. If you love spicy food, we challenge you to have a go at the Volcano Hot level. We ended up with the medium hot which was barely spicy 😉

Cost: AU$17.90/pax  Opening hours: 5PM – 9PM (Mon – Thu), 12PM – 9PM (Fri – Sun)

Drive to Melbourne Airport

If you have an evening flight on this day, make sure to buffer a 2.5-hour drive time back to the city. For those returning the car straight at the airport, you can return it at any time. However, if you’re planning to return the car back in the city, most car rental companies have a strict 6PM cut-off (not even a 5-minute grace). Try to avoid driving back at peak hour between 5 – 7PM as the jam can cause up to an hour of delay.

Road Trip Planning Tips

1) Groceries: Not only is eating out more expensive, many of the shops outside Melbourne close pretty early and you might find yourself stranded without any dinner. Make sure to find out where the major supermarkets are and schedule pit stops to stock up on food you can cook for dinner and breakfast the next morning. Sometimes, we’d even prepare a packable lunch.

*Note: You might want to keep dairy products off your shopping list unless they can be consumed on the same night. These will most definitely spoil when left in the car for an entire day #truestory.

2) Accommodation: If you’re travelling in a group, apartments are not too pricey and usually come with a fully stocked kitchen so that you can cook your own meals.

3) Connectivity:  Connectivity along The Great Ocean Road and in the Grampians can be spotty. Preload your Google Maps at major cities in case you find yourself out of service.

4) Flexibility:  Do not pack your road trip schedule too tightly as plans might change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

5) Pack lightly: Since you’ll be changing accommodations almost every day, try not to pack too much for the road!

Get Affordable Travel Insurance with Seedly

Victoria has a great mix of urban and natural landscapes that we enjoyed thoroughly on this eight-day self-drive. To take your mind off niggling what-ifs like flight delays or falling sick during the trip, remember to purchase travel insurance before you fly!

Seedly recently launched their own travel insurance for individuals and families, with two tiers to choose from — Seedly Travel Safe and Seedly Travel Secure.

To keep things affordable, both options automatically include coverage for Covid-19, unlike some other policies that require top-ups for this benefit. Activities like hiking are also covered — perfect for the Grampians leg of this itinerary 🥾

And if you’re planning for a family road trip with kids in tow, opt for the Family Plan to enjoy cost savings while staying protected. There’s complimentary coverage for up to four children between the ages of 3 months and 18 years (or till 25 years of age if studying full-time in a recognised institution of higher learning)! Additional items like Child Companion Benefit and Child Support Grant are also covered in the event that something unfortunate happens. Check the full policy details for more.

Now for the more light-hearted bit —

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Hope you found this Melbourne road trip itinerary useful! Leave a comment below if you have other recommendations.

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22 comments.

Nice road trip Around Victoria.

Love the itinerary so much! I’ll be going there this coming november with some friends and family members. It’s really helpful as i get more ideas to manage our trip there. Wish me luck..

Hi JC! Glad you found the itinerary useful! Good luck & have a great time in Melbourne! 🙂

I love Melbourne city because it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I also suggest other people to visit this city I assure you will never disappoint.

Totally agree!

Hi Jia Xuan, on Day 4 & 5: You mentioned: “The coastal route takes 30 minutes longer but the views will be worth it!”

I check on the GoogleMap, it seems like the inland route is longer than the coastal route ??

Hi! The coastal route was longer when we were in Melbourne. It could have changed due to new roads or road works (which we encountered a few of during our trip). 🙂

Very useful information! Do you think Grampians suitable if I bring my 8 month old baby?

There were a few parents carrying their kids on their backs/shoulders so if you’re comfortable carrying your baby, why not! 🙂

Hi! Thank you so much for all the information! Did you guys pre-book any of the accommodations or did you guys walk in? I am planning a road trip in September and I am a little concerned with being tied down by pre-book lodging.

Hi LX, we pre-booked all our accommodations beforehand. For Australia, it’s also advisable to pre-book accomm too! 🙂 Thanks!

Thanks Edelyn!

Thanks for the useful info, we are going to Melbourne soon. Will use yours as our guide.

Hi Jia Xuan I would like to ask, from Melbourne CBD to The Twelves Apostles Visitors Facility. Which route should I go? Will there be any toll charges? Thinking to leave early at 8am from CBD, stay a night there and leave the next day at 8am. Thanks!

Hi JF, From Melbourne, you’ll want to get to the town of Geelong on the M1 and then proceed onto route B100. There are no physical toll booths, just electronic ones, and any charges will be charged to the credit card you used for your car rental.

Thanks Edelyn.

useful advice

When last in Melbourn I did a day trip to the 12 apostles along the great ocean road and it was an unforgettable experience. You really can’t appreciate it until you see it in person.

Hi Jia Xuan,

Great sharing.. mind to share name of all the accommodations you stayed from day 1 to 8? Thinking of following your carbon foot-print 😉

Hey James, the team used Airbnb for most of it unless when stated so the listings have changed wildly since the original post. Might be better to do a search yourself!

hi may i know which month of the year was this trip made in? thanks!

we went in March!

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10 of the best road trips to take in victoria.

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We’ve partnered up with Battery World to inspire you to take on some quintessential Aussie road trips.

Australia is made for road trips, right? With our vast land that has something different around every corner, there is something for everyone that is reachable just by driving.

We’ve put together 10 totally different Victorian road trips to suit whichever mood you’re in, but just be sure to visit one of Battery World’s Victorian stores — from Mildura to Pakenham and many places in between — to ensure your car’s battery is good to go. You can get yourself a battery health check, and even get a new one fitted and have your old one recycled.

Buckle up and get ready for an adventure.

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Black Spur Drive 

The Black Spur is the 20km drive between Healesville and Narbethong, and although it doesn’t take long to do, you’ll want to set a half-day aside to absorb the beauty. You’ll be surrounded by mountain ash forest and fern gullies. These trees are among the highest flowering plants on Earth, and are so tightly wound together that the sun barely squeezes through the cracks. It’s cool, it’s calm, it’s totally absorbing.

The stretch of road itself doesn’t have many places to pull in and admire your surroundings, so make sure you keep going to Marysville, loop back via the Acheron Way to Mount Donna Buang (a sealed ut narrow road), or go back to Healesville and up into the Toolangi State Forest. Both have absolutely incredible views. Marysville is particularly emotive, having regrown since the devastation of Black Saturday.

Lang Lang to Wilson’s Prom

This drive from Lang Lang to Wilson’s Prom is the prettiest section of the national highway in Victoria. It’s a whole journey. Starting off with rolling hills dotted with dairy cattle, to Koonwarra Store for some local food and wine or Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria in Meeniyan. Then, you can stop off to explore the beautiful towns of Korumburra and Leongatha, followed by Fish Creek and Yanakie as the hills slowly dissolve into coastal scrub.

At every turn, you’ll begin anticipating the peaks of Wilsons’s Prom, followed by the startling blue coastline; one of the most beautiful areas of the southern ocean. You actually feel like you’re somewhere else entirely, the vistas transport you to a dream-like state. If you’re feeling adventurous or you’d like to extend your drive to a few days, the campsites down at Wilson’s Prom are seriously stunning, with countless secret beaches and coves to explore.

Great Alpine Road

This drive is 310km between Wangaratta and Bairnsdale, and usually takes around 2 – 4 days. Most people know the Great Alpine Road to travel to ski resorts at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. But at its most beautiful in Autumn, it’s the ultimate multiple-day road trip, packed full of variety in flavours, climates and views. The drive starts with a steady climb, with the Tambo River constantly providing bubbling views to your right.

From Omeo to Bright, or Bright to Omeo, prepare yourself for some pristine snow-capped mountains, and beautiful Autumn foliage in Bright, that you simply must stop to explore. If you have time, indulge in a side trip to Mount Buffalo with its wondrous rock formations, trails and panoramic views and be sure to stop at Kosciuszko Lookout. The drive winds up with classic Australian eucalyptus country. Be mindful of motion sickness, as this drive is packed full of sharp twists and turns. Pack some natural ginger tablets and you’re set. Don’t miss Milawa, the gourmet capital of the north-east, for its wine, cheese, honey and mustards.

Great Ocean Road

This is a great two-day trip to showcase Victoria to interstate visitors, or if you want to get more in touch with where you live. The Great Ocean Road is so popular, and shouldn’t be overlooked. The journey itself is the destination. On one side, you have the spectacular south coast and on the other, you go through cliffs, round a promontory and into the havens of Lorne and Apollo Bay.

There are countless places to stop off. Beaches such as Wye River, Skenes Creek or Princetown all own their own piece of history and unique charm, and then there’s Port Campbell with its rock formations and gorgeous coves. Off the main road, you’ll find hidden treasures like the waterfalls at Beauchamp, Triplet and Hopetoun Falls. With beautiful produce, views and some serious history all around you, it can be overwhelming. We recommend that you take a few days to really enjoy it, and stop off for some cute stays or step up a few campsites along the way. We’d also recommend the undeniable cheese variety at Apostle Whey .

Yarra Valley in a day

Less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, you can sample Australia’s best pinot noir and sparkling wines in the Yarra Valley, a picturesque, world-renowned wine region. There are over 70 wineries in the region, with most offering wine tastings and boutique cellar doors. If you’re lucky, you’ll be served by the wine maker and get a cheeky free wine appreciation lesson. Cellar doors we love are the Mac Forbes’s Graceburn Wine Room , Giant Steps , Domain Chandon and Dominique Portet .

With only a five-minute drive between each winery, your senses will constantly be indulged with beautiful vineyard views and all the grape juice. There are plenty of places to stop for lunch, with major wineries hosting some of Victoria’s best restaurants, as well as many cheese platters and local produce in the form of street-side stalls and local farms.

Turton’s Track

A 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne, you might stumble one Turton’s Track accidentally when you’ve – inevitably – found yourselves lost driving out of the Otways. Turton’s Track is a sealed and winding road that runs through between Beech Forest and Tanybryn. Turton’s is a classic Otways track—with tonnes of shady fern glades, giant messmate and beech trees all over the place.

Technically it’s the last part of the rainforest loop, which runs out of Apollo Bay. If you’re keen to do a longer loop, head straight through the Otways and switch back on the c155 out of Lavers Hill, which will take you onto Beech Forest. Whichever route you choose, make sure you save time to go and check out the famous California Redwoods.

Dandenongs Day Trip

The Dandenong Ranges and surrounding suburbs are at their most glorious in Autumn, with the orange leaves falling and the not-too-cool but extremely fresh air. This drive goes from Melbourne to Olinda, covering 95 kilometres and takes about 2 hours. As you follow the winding road out of the city, you’ll start to feel the chaos melt away as your surroundings are replaced with thick, tall forests and the cool fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges. Explore the towering forests of mountain ash trees in Sherbrooke Forest, and visit the area’s most famous sites, according to the season.

The huge ancient trees of the Alfred Nicholas Gardens look like a painting in their Autumn colours, perfect for this time of year, while the George Tindale Gardens are at their best in Summer. You can discover the partially-hidden clay sculptures of Aboriginal figures among rocks and ferns at William Ricketts Sanctuary, stop for a spot of antique shopping and a cup of famous Devonshire tea, and climb on board Australia’s oldest steam train, Puffing Billy .

Geelong and the Bellarine

This is a one-day round trip, from Melbourne to Geelong, Geelong to Queenscliff, Queenscliff to Point Lonsdale, and Point Lonsdale to Barwon Heads. Expect beaches, wine, excellent restaurants, lots of wildlife, art galleries and vintage markets. It’s difficult to wrap up all the activities that can be found among this drive into just a day, so it’s totally up to you and what kind of road trip you’re after. In the first leg of the drive, you have options such as Werribee Zoo, a fancy trip to The Mansion at Werribee Park , a hike or picnic at Brisbane Ranges National Park, a vintage market at North Geelong and many cute waterfront cafes at Corio Bay.

Then, you drive into wine country towards Queenscliff, with excellent cellar doors at both Scotchmans Hill and Bellarine Estate , and a beautiful bay view at Jack Rabbit Vineyard . When you reach Point Lonsdale, you’ll be overlooking The Rip—the notorious entrance to Port Phillip Bay, and you can watch the boats come in from the Rip View Lookout. Finally, you can settle in for a meal in At The Heads restaurant, go fishing, play golf or just wander along the kilometres of beautiful beach to round off your trip.

Bendigo to Mildura

A 400km drive, we’d recommend clearing two days to have the true Outback Australia experience in full. This one’s for the drivers that truly just love to drive. The Mallee is wide, flat and open, and along the Calder, you’ll find uniqueness in the people and produce in each community. Inglewood has a eucalyptus museum, Wedderburn’s old general store is a true step back in time, and whether it’s daylight or a starry night, Lake Tyrrell is beautifully reflective and serene.

This drive is a true appreciation of our country’s vastness and is a truly unique part of Victoria. Be sure to stop in Ouyen; the home of the vanilla slice and The Bakehouse near the bridge in Bridgewater, for the best jelly slice in the state.

Melbourne to Red Hill

Melbourne to Red Hill is an hour’s drive and another delicious road trip experience. This is European-esque coastal wine vibe that we all need right now. If you’re into berry picking, wine tastings, hikes up Arthur’s Seat, beaches for days, breweries and science forest-covered switchboards, then this drive is for you.

Things to see: Endeavour Fern Gulley, Arthur’s Seat Lookout, Peninsula Galleries, Ashcombe Maze Places to drink and eat: Red Gum BBQ ,  Tucks , Johnny Ripe , Jetty Rd Brewery , Polperro Wines , Red Hill Bakery and Montalto Vineyard .

With over 100 Battery World stores across Australia, there’s bound to be one near you.  Check out your local Battery World store today .

This article  originally appeared on Thrillist .

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• Travel Guide

Road Trip Through Australia: 10 Memorable Moments In Victoria

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Cordula Ledbetter

• Australia & South Pacific
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations

Introduction

A road trip through Victoria, Australia is an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage. Located in the southeastern part of the country, Victoria offers an incredible mix of natural beauty and urban delights, making it a perfect destination for road trippers seeking diverse experiences.

With its well-maintained roads, picturesque coastal routes, and scenic countryside, Victoria is a road trip paradise. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a longer exploration, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

The state is home to some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, such as the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne, and the stunning Mornington Peninsula. In addition to these popular destinations, Victoria also offers unique experiences like wildlife encounters at Phillip Island, immersing in nature at Wilsons Promontory National Park, and exploring historic gold rush towns like Ballarat and Bendigo.

Throughout your road trip, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in incredible food and wine, discover fascinating historical sites, explore beautiful national parks, and connect with the vibrant local communities.

This article will take you through 10 memorable moments you can experience while road tripping through Victoria. From breathtaking coastal drives to cultural heritage sites, each stop promises a unique and unforgettable experience. So fasten your seatbelts, get ready to hit the road, and let’s embark on an exciting journey through the captivating landscapes of Victoria!

Exploring the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is arguably one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, stretching for approximately 244 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Victoria. This iconic road trip is a must-do for nature lovers and offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and the famous Twelve Apostles.

Starting from Torquay, a popular surfing spot, and ending at the sleepy fishing village of Port Fairy, the Great Ocean Road offers a plethora of attractions along the way. Stop at the seaside town of Lorne and indulge in delicious seafood while taking in panoramic coastal views from Teddy’s Lookout. Witness the majestic beauty of the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean.

Moreover, don’t miss the chance to explore the Great Otway National Park, where you can hike through ancient rainforests, visit cascading waterfalls, and perhaps even spot native wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, and colorful bird species. The Great Ocean Road is a journey that promises awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable moments.

For an extra dose of adventure, consider taking a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles or even booking a scenic helicopter flight along the entire Great Ocean Road. This will give you a bird’s-eye view of this stunning coastal landscape, providing a unique perspective and moments you’ll cherish forever.

As you drive along the Great Ocean Road, make sure to stop at the charming coastal towns along the way. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront cafe, go for a swim at one of the pristine beaches, or simply soak in the relaxed coastal vibes. The Great Ocean Road offers a perfect combination of natural wonders, outdoor activities, and a laid-back beach lifestyle.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful scenic drive, exploring the Great Ocean Road is an experience that should not be missed on your road trip through Victoria.

Discovering the Vibrant City of Melbourne

No road trip through Victoria would be complete without a visit to the cultural and culinary hub of Melbourne. Known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse communities, and world-class dining, Melbourne is a city that offers something for everyone.

Start your exploration of Melbourne by strolling through the famous laneways and arcades in the city center. Discover hidden cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art that give the city its unique character. Take a break at one of the trendy coffee shops and indulge in Melbourne’s renowned coffee culture.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria is a must. With its extensive collection of Australian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Degas, the gallery offers a fascinating cultural experience.

Take a leisurely walk along the revitalized Southbank Promenade, with its stunning river views, restaurants, and entertainment venues. If you’re a sports fan, make sure to catch a game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, known affectionately as the MCG, or visit the National Sports Museum located within the stadium.

Food lovers will be spoiled for choice in Melbourne, which is known as Australia’s culinary capital. From rooftop bars to hidden laneway restaurants, the city boasts a diverse food scene that celebrates flavors from around the world. Be sure to try the famous Melbourne brunch culture, sample local wines, and explore the many different multicultural cuisines available.

For a taste of Melbourne’s history and architecture, visit the iconic Flinders Street Station and Federation Square. Take a tram ride around the city to admire the beautiful Victorian-era buildings and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s rich heritage.

Lastly, don’t forget to experience Melbourne’s famous markets. The Queen Victoria Market, with its bustling atmosphere and wide variety of food and merchandise stalls, is a must-visit. The South Melbourne Market and the Prahran Market are also worth exploring for their fresh produce, gourmet delights, and unique shopping experiences.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant city life, Melbourne has something to offer. Discover the diverse neighborhoods, soak up the creativity, and experience the energy of this dynamic city during your road trip through Victoria.

Relaxing at the Stunning Mornington Peninsula

Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is a picturesque coastal region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and indulgence. With its stunning beaches, rolling hills, and charming seaside villages, the Mornington Peninsula is a haven for beach lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

One of the highlights of the Mornington Peninsula is its pristine beaches. Whether you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or just taking a peaceful stroll along the shore, you’ll find a beach to suit your preferences. Sorrento Beach and Dromana Beach are popular choices, or you can explore the secluded coves and rock pools at Point Nepean National Park. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can relax in natural thermal pools surrounded by stunning gardens.

Aside from its natural beauty, the Mornington Peninsula is also renowned for its world-class wineries. Take a leisurely drive through the region’s rolling vineyards and stop at cellar doors to sample their award-winning wines. The cool maritime climate of the Peninsula produces exceptional cool-climate varietals such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

To immerse yourself in the local culture, head to the charming seaside villages of Sorrento and Portsea. These towns offer boutique shops, galleries, and a range of cafes and restaurants to explore. Take a walk along the Sorrento Pier or enjoy a meal overlooking the picturesque Sorrento Back Beach.

Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse range of activities available on the Mornington Peninsula. Explore the coastal trails of Cape Schanck or embark on the Bushrangers Bay Walk for breathtaking ocean views. You can also visit the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park to get up close with native Australian animals.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Montalto Sculpture Park, where art installations are scattered throughout the vineyard. The park combines natural beauty with artistic imagination, creating an enchanting setting for both art enthusiasts and wine lovers.

Whether you’re looking to relax on stunning beaches, indulge in fine wines and gourmet food, or explore the natural beauty of the region, the Mornington Peninsula offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take your time to soak in the laid-back atmosphere and enjoy the serenity of this stunning coastal region during your road trip through Victoria.

Wildlife Encounters at Phillip Island

If you’re a wildlife lover, then a visit to Phillip Island is a must during your road trip through Victoria. Located just a short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to an array of fascinating wildlife and offers unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions on Phillip Island is the Penguin Parade. Every evening at sunset, hundreds of adorable little penguins return to shore after a day of fishing. Witnessing this magical event, as the penguins waddle their way up the beach to their burrows, is a truly heartwarming experience.

In addition to the Penguin Parade, Phillip Island is also famous for its colony of Australian fur seals. Take a cruise or a kayak tour to Seal Rocks and observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat. You may even have the opportunity to swim alongside them, experiencing a unique connection with these fascinating marine mammals.

For those interested in marine conservation, the Nobbies Centre offers an educational experience about the island’s diverse marine life and the conservation efforts in place to protect it. Take a walk along the boardwalks and lookout points to enjoy stunning coastal views and spot adorable Australian fur seals lounging on the rocks.

Aside from its wildlife, Phillip Island is also a haven for beach lovers. The island boasts several beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing. Ventnor Beach and Cowes Beach are popular choices, offering pristine stretches of sand and clear waters.

For thrill-seekers, a visit to the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is a must. Known as the home of Australian motorcycle racing, you can watch exhilarating events or even take part in a driving experience where you can get behind the wheel of a high-performance vehicle.

Before leaving Phillip Island, make sure to visit the Koala Conservation Centre, where you can spot koalas in their natural habitat and learn about the efforts being made to protect these iconic Australian animals.

Whether you’re captivated by penguins, seals, or koalas, Phillip Island offers incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural scenery. Embrace the opportunity to connect with Australia’s unique wildlife during your road trip through Victoria.

Immersing in Nature at Wilsons Promontory National Park

If you’re seeking a true wilderness experience during your road trip through Victoria, look no further than Wilsons Promontory National Park. Located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, this pristine national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wilsons Promontory, or “The Prom” as it’s affectionately known, offers a diverse range of landscapes, including rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. With over 80 kilometers of hiking trails, it’s the perfect place to explore on foot and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Mount Oberon Summit Walk. This relatively easy trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and islands, making it an excellent spot for sunrise or sunset. For a longer adventure, consider the renowned Wilsons Promontory Circuit Walk, a multi-day trek that takes you through a variety of ecosystems and showcases the rich biodiversity of the region.

Be sure to spend some time relaxing on the pristine beaches of Wilsons Promontory. Squeaky Beach and Whiskey Beach are favorites among visitors, with their clean white sands and crystal-clear waters. Take a dip, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquility of these idyllic coastal spots.

As you explore the park, keep an eye out for a wide range of wildlife that calls Wilsons Promontory home. You may spot kangaroos, wombats, emus, and a variety of bird species. Early morning and dusk are ideal times to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat.

If you’re a fan of snorkeling or diving, dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Wilsons Promontory and discover a vibrant underwater world filled with colorful marine life and beautiful coral formations. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the area’s natural wonders.

Whether you choose to hike, relax on the beaches, or explore the diverse marine life, Wilsons Promontory National Park guarantees a memorable experience in nature. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the serene beauty of the Australian wilderness.

Unwinding in the Charming Coastal Town of Lorne

Tucked along the iconic Great Ocean Road, the charming coastal town of Lorne is a delightful stop during your road trip through Victoria. With its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and relaxed atmosphere, Lorne is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the coastal beauty.

One of the main attractions of Lorne is its stunning beach. With its golden sands, clear waters, and the backdrop of lush hills, Lorne Beach invites visitors to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a range of water activities such as surfing and paddleboarding. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or find a cozy spot to sit and watch the mesmerizing waves rolling in.

For nature lovers, Lorne offers plenty of outdoor adventures. Take a hike along one of the many trails surrounding the town and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the coast and surrounding landscapes. The Teddy’s Lookout provides panoramic vistas of the coastline, while the Erskine Falls offers a captivating sight as water cascades down into a fern-filled gorge.

Lorne is also known for its thriving arts scene. Explore the galleries and boutique shops that line the streets, showcasing the talents of local artists. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Qdos Arts Sculpture Park, a unique outdoor gallery that combines art and nature, featuring an array of sculptures nestled within a beautiful forest setting.

Food lovers will be delighted by the range of dining options available in Lorne. The town is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, offering a variety of cuisines to cater to all tastes. Try fresh seafood, indulge in artisanal ice cream, or sip on a cup of locally roasted coffee while enjoying the laid-back coastal vibes.

If you’re visiting in summer, you may have the chance to experience Lorne’s vibrant festival scene. The annual Lorne Festival of Performing Arts and the Lorne Sculpture Biennale attract artists and performers from around the world, transforming the town into a vibrant hub of creativity.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, Lorne has something to offer. With its natural beauty, welcoming community, and range of attractions, this charming coastal town is sure to leave a lasting impression on your road trip through Victoria.

Exploring the Historic Gold Rush Town of Ballarat

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic gold rush era by visiting the charming town of Ballarat. Located just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Ballarat is renowned for its rich history, preserved heritage architecture, and immersive gold mining experiences.

Begin your exploration of Ballarat with a visit to Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates the atmosphere of a 19th-century gold mining town. Take a walk along the main street and interact with costumed characters, try your hand at gold panning, and delve into the history of the gold rush era through engaging exhibits and demonstrations.

For a deeper understanding of Ballarat’s gold mining heritage, head to the Gold Museum. Discover the stories of those who sought their fortunes during the gold rush, and marvel at the impressive collection of gold nuggets and artifacts on display.

Explore the historic streets of Ballarat and admire the grand Victorian-era architecture. The Ballarat Town Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery are just a few of the notable buildings that showcase the town’s rich heritage. Take a stroll through the picturesque Lake Wendouree and enjoy the tranquility of this stunning man-made lake.

Ballarat is also home to the Eureka Stockade, an event that played a significant role in Australia’s history. Visit the Eureka Centre and immerse yourself in the story of the miners’ rebellion, which ultimately led to important reforms and the development of democracy in Australia.

Indulge in some retail therapy and explore the boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries that line the streets of Ballarat. The Bridge Mall and the Art Gallery of Ballarat are popular destinations for shopping and cultural experiences.

For a taste of local flavors, don’t miss the chance to visit the Ballarat Farmers Market, held on the shores of Lake Wendouree. Here, you can sample fresh produce, artisanal food products, and handmade crafts while supporting local producers.

Whether you’re captivated by history, architecture, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a bygone era, exploring the historic gold rush town of Ballarat is an experience not to be missed. Discover the stories of the past and gain a deeper appreciation for the pioneer spirit that shaped this fascinating town.

Wine Tasting in the Picturesque Yarra Valley

Nestled in the scenic countryside just outside of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. With its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and award-winning wineries, the Yarra Valley offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of the good life.

Embark on a wine tasting journey and explore the diverse range of wineries in the region. From boutique family-run vineyards to renowned wineries, the Yarra Valley boasts a reputation for producing exceptional cool-climate wines. Sample world-class Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines as you savor the flavors and soak in the stunning surroundings.

Some of the most well-known wineries in the Yarra Valley include Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli, and TarraWarra Estate. Take a guided tour, enjoy a seated tasting, or even participate in a winemaking workshop to deepen your knowledge and appreciation for this exquisite beverage.

Aside from wine, the Yarra Valley also offers a range of culinary experiences. Many of the wineries have on-site restaurants or cafes that serve delectable dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in a multi-course meal paired with perfectly matched wines, or enjoy a picnic amidst the vineyards with a bottle of your favorite drop.

In between wine tastings, take the time to explore the natural beauty of the Yarra Valley. Go for a leisurely walk through the vineyards, cycle along scenic trails, or simply relax in a peaceful countryside setting. The region’s lush landscapes, adorned with vineyards, orchards, and stunning views, provide the perfect backdrop for a serene and rejuvenating experience.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley at sunrise. Drift above the vineyards and enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque countryside as you savor the tranquility of this magical experience.

Don’t forget to visit the Yarra Valley Dairy to sample a selection of delicious cheeses made with locally sourced milk. Pair these artisanal cheeses with your favorite wines for a delightful gastronomic experience.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy the finer things in life, a visit to the Yarra Valley is a must-do during your road trip through Victoria. Soak in the beauty, indulge in the flavors, and create lasting memories in this picturesque wine region.

Marveling at the Puffing Billy Steam Train

Step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era as you embark on a journey aboard the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Train. Located in the Dandenong Ranges, this historic narrow-gauge railway is a beloved attraction in Victoria, offering a nostalgic and scenic adventure.

As you board the vintage carriages, the sound of the steam engine and the billowing white clouds transport you to a simpler time. The open-sided carriages allow you to feel the gentle breeze as you traverse through the stunning Dandenong Ranges, passing by lush forests, fern gullies, and picturesque countryside.

The highlight of the Puffing Billy experience is undoubtedly the iconic wooden trestle bridge at Monbulk Creek. As the train chugs along the tracks, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views as the train crosses this historical landmark, providing the perfect opportunity for memorable photographs.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider the “Steam & Cuisine” experience, where you can enjoy a delicious meal on board. Indulge in a high tea or a gourmet lunch as you soak in the picturesque scenery unfolding before your eyes.

For nature lovers, the Puffing Billy Steam Train also offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding region. Disembark at the Emerald or Lakeside stations and take a leisurely bushwalk through the Dandenong Ranges National Park, immersing yourself in the serenity of nature.

Be sure to check the timetable for special events and themed rides throughout the year, such as the “Santa Special” during the festive season or the “Murder Mystery Dinner” for a unique evening of entertainment.

The Puffing Billy Steam Train captures the imagination and provides an authentic experience of yesteryears. As you ride the historic railway, you’ll not only marvel at the engineering marvel but also appreciate the beautiful landscape and the nostalgia that this beloved attraction evokes.

With its charm, scenic vistas, and sense of adventure, the Puffing Billy Steam Train is an essential stop during your road trip through Victoria. Hop aboard, immerse yourself in the magic of steam travel, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoying the Cultural Heritage of Bendigo

Nestled in the heart of the Goldfields region, Bendigo showcases a rich cultural heritage that transports visitors back to the Victorian gold rush era. From grand architecture to fascinating museums and a thriving arts scene, Bendigo offers a captivating blend of history and contemporary creativity.

Start your exploration of Bendigo with a visit to the famous Bendigo Art Gallery. This impressive gallery houses an extensive collection of Australian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd. Immerse yourself in exhibitions that showcase a diverse range of art styles and periods.

Continue your journey into Bendigo’s history with a visit to the Central Deborah Gold Mine. Take a guided tour underground, descending into the depths of the mine to learn about the hardships and triumphs of the gold miners. Explore the mining tunnels and experience firsthand the stories of Bendigo’s golden past.

For a taste of Victorian-era grandeur, visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, a magnificent structure featuring stunning stained glass windows and intricate Gothic architecture. Take a stroll through Rosalind Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, where you can relax and appreciate the elegant Conservatory and the iconic Alexandra Fountain.

Bendigo is also known for its vibrant arts scene. Explore the Bendigo Pottery, where you can witness expert craftsmen at work and purchase unique ceramics. The Ulumbarra Theatre, housed in a former gaol, hosts a variety of performances ranging from theater to music concerts.

No visit to Bendigo would be complete without a ride on the Talking Tram. Hop on the vintage tram and embark on a journey through the city, while listening to entertaining commentary that shares the fascinating stories of Bendigo’s history.

Indulge in delicious cuisine and sample local produce at the Bendigo Artisanal Market, held every month. Experience the eclectic mix of food stalls, vintage fashion, handmade crafts, and live music that make this market a vibrant hub of creativity.

For those interested in Chinese heritage, Bendigo boasts the Golden Dragon Museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the vibrant Chinese culture that played a significant role in the city’s gold rush history. Visit the beautiful gardens and learn about the traditions and customs of the Chinese community.

Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Bendigo and be captivated by its rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving arts scene. This vibrant city offers a perfect blend of the past and the present, creating an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your road trip through Victoria.

A road trip through Victoria, Australia promises an adventure filled with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, charming towns, and a deep cultural heritage. From the breathtaking views along the Great Ocean Road to the bustling streets of Melbourne, the stunning Mornington Peninsula to the historic gold rush towns of Ballarat and Bendigo, there is something to captivate every traveler.

Immerse yourself in nature at Wilsons Promontory National Park, relax in the charming coastal town of Lorne, and marvel at the wildlife encounters on Phillip Island. Indulge in wine tasting in the picturesque Yarra Valley and witness the charm of the Puffing Billy Steam Train as it chugs through the Dandenong Ranges. Finally, explore the cultural heritage of Bendigo and be transported back in time to the gold rush era.

Throughout your journey, embrace the diverse experiences Victoria has to offer. Engage in exhilarating activities, savor the flavors of the local cuisine, and connect with the warmth and hospitality of the communities you encounter along the way.

As you navigate the winding roads and embrace the beauty of Victoria, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural tapestry, Victoria invites you to embark on a road trip that promises adventure, discovery, and an unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, put on your favorite road trip playlist, and let the road lead you to the captivating wonders of Victoria, where every turn offers a new and exciting adventure. Embark on a journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of this remarkable part of Australia’s landscape and culture.

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10 of Australia’s most iconic road trips

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Feel the freedom of the open road with these unmissable road trips.

By Leah Dobihal and Carly Spek

There’s no shortage of adventure on the spectacular Legendary Pacific Coast between Sydney and Brisbane , boasting the wineries of the Hunter Valley , the sparkling beaches of Port Stephens , the hippie-chic scene of Byron Bay and the glitz of the Gold Coast . It’s a wind-the-windows-down kind of road trip that embraces Australia’s coastal beauty and laid-back vibes, even passing one of the most iconic road trip pit stops: the Big Banana .

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

From world-class wine to sparkling beaches and ancient rainforest walks, the New South Wales Legendary Pacific Coast is a drive to be savoured.

Read time • 8min

Coastal drives fit into a road trip category of their own, with the endless ocean on one side and sweeping landscapes on the other. One of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives is New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive . Beginning just south of Sydney , the road clutches the coastline, unfurling onto the Sea Cliff Bridge, which seemingly levitates above crashing waves. Along the way, visit a dramatic blowhole in Kiama, stroll along the bone-white shores of Hyams Beach and witness ancient history .

Sydney to the Sapphire Coast road trip

With pockets of paradise like Eden and Merimbula, the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales is so much more than just a whale-watching mecca.

Read time • 6min

The central Australian outback is a place of transformation. Ancient ochre landscapes, dynamic cultures and starry skies create an energy unique to Australia’s red heart. Driving the Red Centre Way, a loop beginning and ending in the outback town of Alice Springs , means meeting Australian icons at every turn. Ulu r u, Kata Tju t a and Watarrka National Park are the heavy hitters, but don’t overlook the dramatic gorges and cool swimming holes of Tjoritja (the West MacDonnell Ranges).

Alice Springs to Uluru: a 7-day road trip

Tour the ancient landscapes of Central Australia on this iconic Aussie road trip through Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Uluru.

Not all great drives are long drives, even in a place as big as Australia. From the tropical city of Cairns to the wilds of Cape Tribulation, the Great Barrier Reef Drive offers more than its fair share of wonders. Where else can you stand on the border of two World Heritage Listed sites ? Or spot the vibrant colours of both cassowary birds and coral? Amid your travels between the reef and the Daintree Rainforest , you can chill beneath palms, search for tree kangaroos and snorkel over the kaleidoscope of colours and creatures on the reef .

14-day Tropical North Queensland Drive

Drive from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown, through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests to golden outback savannah, taking in tropical Queensland at its finest.

Read time • 11min

Meandering all the way from Adelaide to Darwin , the Explorers Way passes through a tapestry of ancient gorges, weathered peaks and red rock canyons. In South Australia’s outback, you’ll find the natural wonders of the 600-million-year-old Flinders Ranges as well as the underground city of Coober Pedy. After crossing the border into the Northern Territory , you’ll soon see the majestic Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a appear ahead as the earth turns red beneath your tyres.

14 days along the Explorers Way

This 14-day adventure takes you down the centre of Australia, from Darwin to South Australia. Along the way you'll explore striking landscapes from wetlands to deserts, as well as outback towns, world-class wineries and beautiful beaches.

Read time • 10min

From snow-capped mountains to sapphire-blue bays, Tasmania is overflowing with natural beauty. Take in Tassie’s coastal wonders as you follow one of the island’s grandest road trips – the Great Eastern Drive . Head north from Hobart to the Bay of Fires , where the beaches are white, the air is clean and the scenery is magnificent. Wander around the sandstone ruins of the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur convict settlement one day and find yourself admiring the perfect curve of Wineglass Bay the next. 

5 days on Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive

Sample the splendours of Tasmania’s stunning east coast, from seafood and wine to lush rainforest and powder-white beaches.

Read time • 5min

If experiencing Australia’s wide-open spaces is on your wishlist, set your sights on the Nullarbor Plain , located along the Great Australian Bight. There are incredible experiences to be found as you drive along the open road, from wandering the wild coast of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula to hitting the holes on the world’s longest golf course . Add in caves, old gold mining towns, the remains of a space station that crashed to Earth and character-rich roadhouses, and the Nullarbor becomes a bucket list Aussie road trip.

Driving across the Nullarbor Plain

Widen your horizons driving the Eyre Highway across the vast Nullarbor Plain, four times the size of Belgium.

Read time • 9min

The centre of the Kimberley is as vast and majestic as its famous coastline. The Gibb River Road , which stretches from Derby (near Broome ) to almost as far as Kununurra , is a legendary outback route for good reason. Offering secluded gorges, rocky ridges and that indescribable open-road feeling, it’s a drive that will transform you with each passing kilometre. Head off in a 4WD to explore bulbous boab trees, glimpse the rugged Cockburn Range and soak in glassy waterholes.

Gibb River Road: a 12-day adventure

Journey across one of the country’s greatest 4WD adventures through Western Australia’s captivating Kimberley wilderness.

The route between Perth and Esperance truly has it all: blindingly white beaches, strikingly clear water, some of the tallest trees in the world and premium wineries. Lose yourself in the natural beauty, seclusion and tranquillity of the South West Edge road trip. Pay a visit to Lucky Bay’s beach-loving kangaroos, bounce along a walkway suspended in the treetops at the Valley of the Giants and join an expedition to see killer whales (between late January and April). And that’s just the start.

Western Australia's South West: 14 day road trip

Experience the extraordinary landscape of the South West in one great road trip.

Read time • 16min

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most thrilling drives, studded with dramatic views of rugged coastline. Take it slow and enjoy the breathtaking views along this iconic stretch of road before heading inland to discover dense forests and misting waterfalls. Seize the chance to marvel at the famous 12 Apostles’ towering limestone rock formations – stunning at any time of day, but especially as the setting sun turns the cliff face a fiery red.

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Take a road trip along Victoria’s eye-popping southern coastline, through Aboriginal history and into sparkling spa country. It’s nature, nurture and wonder all the way.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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