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Written for Auski by Pink Lemonade Social
Get ready to enjoy some of Victoria's hidden-gem road adventures as we show you to the best and less-travelled routes to explore on your weekends or next vacation! The Great Ocean Road, the Mornington Peninsula, and Grampians National Park are just a few of the popular road journeys in Victoria. There's nothing like getting onto the road and setting off on an adventure. Of course, the drive itself matters more than the final destination. In light of this, we've compiled a list of Victoria's most breathtaking drives, from our well-known, undulating coastal routes to less known routes. Victoria is a small state, yet it's jam-packed with fantastic road trips. There is a road trip in Victoria for everyone, whether you're looking for pristine beaches, ancient villages, scenery and wildlife, or to savour some delectable local food and wine! We're going on a road trip, so call your friends, load the car, and fire it up because here are the 18 best road trips in Victoria for your upcoming driving vacation.
Around Australia, silo art trails have been emerging as the hip new way to take in the scenery and satisfy one's cultural cravings at the same time. One in Victoria's west, is thought to be the biggest outdoor gallery in Australia because it connects six small rural towns across a distance of more than 200 kilometres. Four GrainCorp silos built in 1939 were painted in 2016 by Canberra artist Guido van Helten with an unidentified, multigenerational quartet of men and female farmers. With that move, he changed the atmosphere of the Wimmera Mallee region by connecting Brim with neighbouring towns to create the Silo Art Trail. Nowadays, tourists can drive themselves on the self-guided tour. Stop to savour each region's charms while also marvelling at the area's historic Indigenous roots and its history as one of Australia's most significant grain growing regions.
Victoria's Northeast Art Silo Trail, distance of 132 kilometres. also combines driving and art. The chain of silos and other substantial local structures that make up the Silo Art Trail have been upcycled by street artists into enormous pieces of art. The North East path begins in Benalla, the site of the Wall to Wall street art festival, and travels on to Goorambat, where three grain silos have artwork by Jimmy Dvate. The trail then leads to Devenish, St. James, Tungamah, and the Winton Wetlands while presenting monumental street art.
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Most Victorian road trip lists include The Great Ocean Road at the top, and it should be there for a reason. The Otways, nevertheless, is one of the many regions that line this route that is less well-known. The Cape Otway National Park is a hidden gem among the region's delectable foods, waterfalls, and hinterland. Inside, you'll find Australia's largest remaining marsupial carnivore, the tiger quoll, as well as rocky shoreline, beaches, ferny forests, and rock formations. A pit stop at lake Elizabeth will let you spot sild platypus as well! A must-see in the Otways is Hopetoun Falls plus some of the tallest eucalyptus trees in the world. The 243km Great Ocean Road is so named because it is fantastic, coastal drive. The meandering stretch takes you past high cliffs that look out over an infinite blue sea and through fern-covered eucalypt trees. There are numerous tiny towns along the route where you may stop for coffee and there are also numerous beaches. Take 3 to 7 days to tackle the whole route, with the ideal months being October to April.
From Torquay to Warrnambool, stopping in Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, Timboon, and Colac along the way, this must-do trip offers breathtaking expanses of coastline. You can cross off a lot of items on your bucket list in just three days while also taking in some breathtaking scenery.
Visit the well-known Bells Beach in Torquay and the Australian National Surfing Museum to discover more about the evolution of the sport. Incredible 360-degree views are available at Teddy's Lookout in Lorne, and you can also go along the Surf Coast Walk to get some fresh air. Otway Fly Treetop Walk, a 600-meter walk that takes place 25 metres above the ground, should be added to your list if you're looking for something a little different. You should definitely visit the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell. The sight of the waves cascading against these slowly crumbling limestone formations is breathtaking. Even though there are now just eight of the twelve apostles left, don't forget to take the necessary selfie with these; they are genuinely amazing! You can also visit Loch Ard Gorge, the location of the most well-known shipwreck.
Discover passionate producers, nature-based adventures, and those well-known surf breaks at Phillip Island—could this be the ideal coastal retreat? Yes. especially because it has access to French Island, Victoria's largest coastal island. On this little piece of paradise island, around 100 people reside. About 70% of its 170 square kilometres have been designated as national parks, while the remaining area is privately owned freehold land, including some of Victoria's most upscale real estate. Daily boats from Stony Point connect it to Western Port, which is located just north of Phillip Island. Phillip Island, one of the most well-liked vacation spots, offers a lot to see and do. You can get there in under two hours from Melbourne, so get ready for an exciting road trip. Beautiful beaches spread out along the shoreline, but the primary thing to do in this area is remain until dusk to see the penguins at Phillip Island Nature Park, where they come for their daily stroll from the sea. If possible don’t miss French Island; due to its isolation, French Island has endured the years largely unscathed. The consequence is a flourishing flora and wildlife, including over 100 different varieties of bush orchids, the endangered long-nosed potoroo, and koalas free of the chlamydia disease that decimated the population on the mainland. There are also approximately 300 different bird species.
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The other Goldfields town in Central Victoria and former richest city in the world, Bendigo, has been luring visitors from all over the world since the 1850s gold rush despite not having the same renown as Ballarat. The city today honours wealth of a different type as a centre for culture and cuisine. Bendigo was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2019; it is home to numerous wineries, artisan breweries, and speciality food manufacturers, all of which are surrounded by the city's history of stately structures, ancient gardens, avenues, and attractive homes. You can read our Ultimate Guide to Bendigo + Top 15 Things To Do so you can plan ahead before you head out on your trip.
If you’re after a longer drive, tackle the Historic Goldfields route which runs from Melbourne to Echuca, passing through Daylesford, Heathcote, Bendigo and ending at Echuca. Although Echuca is near the boundary with New South Wales, it is only a short drive from Melbourne. While travelling in the approximate direction of the ancient mining path, the Goldfields Track, you'll pass through some of Victoria's most well-known towns and peaceful rural settings. There is a lot to see, especially if you're prepared to take a somewhat detour to explore what the Victorian countryside has to offer, including vineyards, lookouts, and silo art. Explore the greater Mt. Macedon area beginning in Woodend; there are some beautiful, simple treks that offer views of rural plains. Driving via Maryborough, take the Goldfields Track to Castlemaine, where you can pause at some lookouts along the way, like Lang's Lookout and Shepherd's Flat Lookout. A great place to spend the night is Heathcote, which has a huge selection of vineyards. A few of the noteworthy stops in the area include Pink Cliff Reserve, Mt Ida Lookout and Viewing Rock Lookout. Stop in Bendigo after exploring the area around Heathcote. Drive up to Echuca from Bendigo, stopping at Rochester for a stroll and to see out the silo art. Once in Echuca, take a break along the river or rent a houseboat for yourself. Barmah National Park is nearby and well worth a visit if you have the time.
The Great Ocean Road is a road trip you’ve definitely heard about or undertaken before. Now it’s time to meet its chilly, distant, yet equally lovely sibling; The Great Alpine Road Trip. The 339-kilometere journey up Australia's highest year-round accessible sealed road brings Victoria's varied landscapes to life up close. This road runs through forested highlands and—during the winter—snowy summits as it travels from Wangaratta in the west to Bairnsdale in the east. The B500 offers you the chance to meander off and visit areas like Beechworth while passing through scenic towns like Bright and Omeo. The Great Alpine Road is also your ticket to ski destinations like Mount Hotham and Falls Creek during the winter, as the name implies. This road trip is best tackled in summer and over 2 to 5 days. If you intend to go during the winter, be prepared to share this route with enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders who are visiting the close-by resorts at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek! If you go during the warmer months, it's a whole different (but still fantastic) experience. Beginning in Wangaratta, travel to Milawa, Falls Creek, Omeo, Bairnsdale, and then finish at Gippsland Lakes. Falls Creek gives a very different experience during the summer. You can take a stroll across the Bogong High Plains, see the old cattlemen's cottages, practise fly fishing, or rent a boat and paddle around Rocky Valley Lake. Consider going to Omeo, a well-known historic gold town where you can learn a lot about Victorian history. Add the Mount Feathertop route to your list of things to do and tackle this strenuous hike to experience the breathtaking vistas it offers. Keep a look out for the gurgling Tambo River as you make your journey from Bairnsdale to Gippsland Lakes; it will wind alongside you on the left. Once you get there, the lakes have a lot to offer, including Ninety Mile Beach, the chance to see dolphins, fishing, trips to islands, and much more.
Take a culinary tour of the Bellarine Peninsula. One of the nation's most fruitful food bowls is the expansive, sun-drenched landscape that stretches around the Bellarine Peninsula, where local farmers sell everything from olives to cool-climate wines. If you're hungry, plot a route along the Bellarine Taste Trail to find a hidden treasure of a road trip just waiting to be enjoyed. Within short walking distance of the town's centre are several very opulent restaurants that adhere to the farm-to-fork principle. Fish from Port Phillip Bay is sold by White Fisheries the same day it is harvested. Unassuming country road leads to Lonsdale Tomato Farm and their genuine farmgate store. Igni's fire-driven degustation menu earned it recognition as the 2017 Regional Restaurant of the Year in the Gourmet Traveller's national restaurant awards. From their own beehives, Wattle Grove Honey creates goods using pure Australian honey and beeswax. The route runs from Geelong via Drysdale, Portarlington, St Leonards, Queenscliff, Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, and back to Torquay, with more than 50 food and wine stops along the way. One of Victoria's most picturesque villages, Queenscliff is the ideal beach getaway. Visit the local markets, wineries, galleries, and museums. Even 360-degree views are accessible from the Observation Tower. The Bellarine Taste Trail runs for 113 kilometres and best tackled over a couple of days, with summer being the best time to go.
One of Victoria's best national parks, The Grampians, with imposing sandstone mountains and panoramic views is a must for any road trip enthusiasts. The Grampians Road trip from Horsham to Dunkeld is a fantastic opportunity to see the area if you'd prefer to do so from the luxury of your vehicle. You'll pass by the lovely Lake Bellfield and seemingly infinite rugged plains on the other side, while on one side you'll see mountains. Take a roadie through the Grampians beginning in Horsham; the majority of visitors from Melbourne simply drive directly to Halls Gap, take in a few of the local attractions, and then return to Melbourne but it’s not the best route. From the top of the Grampians, drive from Hollow Mountain, and travel south towards Dunkeld really demonstrates what the region has to offer, even though Halls Gap is an amazing tiny town that is absolutely worth the trip. This Victoria road trip is more of a hike-and-drive itinerary and is great outdoor enthusiasts. Take your time, drive leisurely, camp, and, if you can, take advantage of all the lookouts and hikes the route has to offer. With a wealth of walks and hikes in the Grampians as well as Halls Gap, plan to spend a few days to take in the best of the area. The laid-back town of Dunkeld is the ideal place to wrap up your Grampians road journey. With over 200 kilometres of routes and ways to the see the Grampians, you’re sure to have a memorable trip surrounded by breathtaking nature.
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Spanning over 1000 kilometres beginning in Melbourne and ending in Mallacoota, The Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive passes through beautiful locations including Wilsons Prom, Lakes National Park, Briagolong Blue Pools, Tarra Bulga National Park, and Golden Beach. If you've driven the Great Ocean Road several times but aren't tired of coastal road excursions, try heading to Gippsland on Victoria's eastern side. While you can take the detour to Wilsons Prom, see below and enjoy that region with its own scenic drive. Stop at Tarra Bulga National Park which will give you major Jurassic Park vibes after passing Wilsons Prom. Even though this drive offers many breathtaking coastline vistas, remain inland for a while and visit Channels Walk at Avon-Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve and take a refreshing plunge in the red rock that has been churned by a river. The Blue Pools in Briagolong provide some fantastic rock jumps, free camping, so visit there for another refreshing swim! After that, head to Golden Beach for some serious sand time and plan a stay at Ninety Mile Beach (stopping in Sale if you need supplies). If you have the time, make a side trip to Gippsland Lake Coastal Park and camp there; otherwise, continue travelling in the direction of the Greater Lakes Entrance region. Get a boat to take you to the Lakes National Park if you can, or take the ferry to Raymond Island for limitless koala time — it wouldn't be an Australian road trip without some natural wildlife! Another important stop on the Gippsland road trip is the Snowy River. For a little moment, leave the shore and travel inland via Deddick Valley from the north. For a peaceful place to stay, consider the campground at Little River Junction! Return to the coast through Croajingolong National Park, Gipsy Point, and Mallacoota. You actually get the impression that you are the only person on earth in this location.
The nearest and most reasonably priced Alpine Resort to Melbourne is Lake Mountain, and only 2 hours away. It is the third most popular cross-country site in the world with 30 kilometres of tracks. Most head to Marysville, but there are many reasons to continue driving past Marysville and see the charming alpine region of Lake Mountain, even if the drive to Marysville is a breathtaking road adventure across the Black Spur. One of the closest snow destinations to Melbourne in the winter, Lake Mountain offers many of opportunities for tobogganing, cross-country skiing, and snow play. Other periods of the year, known as the "Green Season," are great for bushwalking, mountain riding, and reconnecting with nature. Lilydale serves as the Yarra Valley's entry point. Travel east on the Maroondah Highway from Lilydale to Healesville, a charming community where you may stop for some wine tasting, a delicious supper, and local shopping before continuing on to Marysville. There are numerous stores and lodging choices, an arts and tourist centre, and the well-known Steavenson Falls to visit. The road to Lake Mountain is clearly marked on the outskirts of town once you've stocked up and relaxed. If you head to Lake Mountain outside of winter you'll find rolling green mountains that are begging to be walked and biked across when the snow melts and the crowds switch from wearing ski boots to board shorts and bikinis. The 20-kilometer descent from Lake Mountain is one of Australia's most gorgeous and adventurous alpine drives, and the area around the town is a haven for hikers, foodies, and market shoppers.
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Beginning and finishing in Melbourne, take a 700km road trip to enjoy the wonders of Lake Eildon, Mount Buller, Cathedral Range State Park, and Howqua. With its forests, mountains, lake, and campsites, this route serves as a good introduction to "getting out to nature." This is a great road trip for vacations and weekends away, allowing you to stop and stay where you like. Take the scenic route to Taggerty by passing through Warburton which is a great site place for a hike in the Cathedral Range State Park; the Farmyard has a free hike-in camping. Travel to Lake Eildon from there for a heap of camping, biking, and hiking opportunities! Although you have a choice of where to base yourself, if time is of the essence stay in the lovely Jerusalem Creek Campground and then travel to Jamieson. If you don't have a deadline, stay at various campgrounds around Lake Eildon, enjoy the landscape, and go on excursions like the one to the lake's vantage point, Blowhard Summit. Lake Eildon is on our list of Top Secret Water Sports Spots to Hang in Summer, as it’s a great place for water skiing and wakeboarding. Make sure you travel through Howqua (where there is a free campground called Sheepyard Flat), Mansfield, and Merrijig to reach Mount Buller for some spectacular mountain views along the way. Either take a rest in one of these places or go on to Mount Buller to take in as much mountain splendour as you can. Try the Mt. Stirling summit walk or ascend to a mountain hut like Craig's Hut.
Most Victorians aren't familiar with Budj Bim National Park, but they should be. Also known as Mount Eccles, a long-dormant volcano that previously spewed lava up to 50 kilometres towards the sea, goes by the Gunditjmara name Budj Bim. The marshes and waterways were significantly changed, yet 30,000 to 39,000 years later, they are still the same. One of the largest and oldest aquaculture systems in the world is found in the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, which is made up of three interconnected parts and is situated in the traditional territory of the Gunditjmara people in south-east Australia. The Budj Bim National Park is around 300 kilometres west of Melbourne. The Visitor Area and Campground are close to Macarthur and the city closest to the park is Hamilton. All the way to the guest picnic area, the road to Budj Bim National Park is sealed.
Lake Surprise, which emerged from Mount Eccles' crater, provides a picturesque setting and a variety of recreational opportunities. There are places to go camping, hiking, mountain biking, and 4WDing, as well as chances to go fishing and see birds. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is the first Australian site on the UNESCO World Heritage List that has been officially recognised for its unique Aboriginal cultural values. With an eel farming tradition that dates back more than 6,000 years, it also has the oldest surviving example of aquaculture in the entire globe. Since 1999, Budj Bim Cultural Tours has been highlighting the significant history of the Gunditjmara people. Visit the ruins of a settled lifestyle, including the first and largest freshwater stone aquaculture system in Australia, as well as circular stone homes.
You can travel a complete 230km loop around Port Phillip Bay thanks to ferries! On a leisurely drive around Port Phillip Bay, take in everything from picturesque beaches and historic communities to the local fauna and breathtaking coastal scenery. Enjoy farm-fresh foods, taste world-class wines, and pass the time in cafes, restaurants, and bars. You can start and end your trip in Melbourne, and you can go in either direction while using the Queenscliff - Sorrento Car and Passenger Ferry to cross Port Phillip Bay. Its recommended to head to Queenscliff, and return to Melbourne from Sorrento. Leave Melbourne in the direction of Geelong and when you arrive in Geelong, stroll around the vibrant waterfront and take a look at the caricature bollards before sitting down for a delectable seafood lunch or dinner. Continue on to Queenscliff to try regional wines at establishments like Jack Rabbit Vineyard, which boasts a renowned restaurant with breathtaking views of the coast, or Scotchmans Hill. Take a trip to Portarlington for lunch at one of the many fantastic cafés there, or purchase fresh mussels right off the pier and cook them on the beach. The lovely ancient beach village of Queenscliff is the next stop. Discover the historic fort as well as the top-notch stores, galleries, and eateries. Choose from a variety of lodging options, including gorgeously renovated hotels from the nineteenth century. The auto and passenger ferry that often crosses the water each day departs from Queenscliff.
Take a detour to adjacent Point Lonsdale to explore the lighthouse, sheltered beach, and choppy Bass Strait seas on foot. Take the ferry across the water to the Mornington Peninsula to begin your second leg of the adventure there. Spend some time in Sorrento, where stunning limestone structures from the nineteenth century hold top-notch restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and speciality stores. Surfing at Sorrento's ocean beaches, swimming with dolphins and seals on a tour or boat ride, or casting a line out on a fishing cruise in the bay are all options. Take a break for a few hours in the nearby town of Portsea and relax with a beverage on the lawn of the renowned Portsea Pub, which offers sweeping views of the bay. Explore the ruins of Victoria's coastal defence at Fort Nepean by taking a stroll out to Point Nepean.
Returning to the north, follow the coast until you reach Rosebud. From there, cross the peninsula to go to Cape Schanck. As you stroll along the boardwalks, you can admire the Bass Strait's ferocious surf in all its glory. Take a tour of the famous Cape Schanck Lighthouse if you have some spare time. Travel inland to Arthurs Seat, which offers breathtaking views of both the bay and the city. Drive through Main Ridge, Merricks, and Red Hill, stopping for lunch and tastings at wineries. Stock up on organic seasonal produce at farm stands across the area, or visit the renowned Red Hill market on the first Saturday of each month (September to May). Return to the beach road after exploring Red Hill, then stroll back to Melbourne while admiring the seaside vistas.
If taking in the coast of Port Phillip Bay sounds enticing, but you’re not up for the full loop, then take the wheel and embark on a self-drive tour of the Mornington Peninsula, which is the size of a postage stamp yet is packed with beautiful coastline scenery, quaint villages, vineyards, and championship golf courses. The Arthurs Seat Eagle, where you can obtain a bird's-eye perspective of the area and beyond, should be your first trip on the Mornington Peninsula. Embark on a cutting-edge gondola ride through the state forest as you ascend to the peninsula's highest point, taking in views of nearby wildlife and metropolitan landmarks. Go to the rocky portion of the peninsula, at Flinders where Bass Strait and Westernport Bay converge. Spend time strolling through the peaceful village, stop by Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie for a sweet treat, and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping at the beach, chow down on a memorable meal or soak it up and relax at the hot springs.
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The Pink Lakes are situated on the edge of Victoria's own outback, Murray Sunset National Park. In a fast-paced world, it offers an opportunity to return to nature because it is immaculate and unspoilt. Because of the high salinity and algae that love salt, the pink colour of the water at Pink Lakes varies hourly depending on the cloud cover above. The pinks are typically most noticeable on cloudy days, and at other times, they have a more fairy-floss-like tint. This unspoilt area, which is referred to as Victoria's own piece of the outback, is the ideal place to immerse yourself in nature and spend a few days doing so. The discharge of a red pigment known as carotene into the water causes Becking, Crosbie, Roulton, and Kenyon Lakes to all turn a vibrant pink in the spring.
The Pink Lakes are home to a wide variety of animals and plants. If you're a bird watcher, pack your guidebook since there are many vibrant and elusive species to find. Keep an eye out for the red kangaroos and the Murray Lily flower. The area has several lovely treks for bushwalkers, especially in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Murray Sunset National Park is regarded as a paradise for astronomy enthusiasts. Make a night of it by reserving a campground to take in the nighttime show.
Your Victorian bucket list should include The Pink Lakes since they are a sight not to be missed. You can start your journey in Melbourne and make a detour in Bendigo en route to Murray Sunset National Park, where you can see this magnificent sight. This 560km road trip is best undertaken over a couple of days, and springtime is the best time to go. You may spend a day or two in the gold rush town of Bendigo and travel back in time. Visit the Golden Dragon Museum, Bendigo Art Gallery, Bendigo Chinese Gardens Reserve, and the Central Deborah Gold Mine for cultural experiences. For more amazing things to do in Bendigo read our Ultimate Guide to Bendigo + Top 15 Things To Do. You can use it as a pit or can contentedly remain there on your own for a few nights before continuing on to Murray Sunset National Park.
The Macedon Ranges offer one strange distinction that cannot be found anywhere else, while not being as well-known as some of the others on our list. The optical illusion landmark known as Straw's Lane, also known as Anti-Gravity Hill, is sporadic throughout the world. The phenomena is the world's most southern Gravity Hill; a location where vehicles seem to defy gravity's laws and roll skyward. When the horizon is either obscured or curved, or when there is a false horizon, it might be challenging to determine the slope's gradient. Your perception of the landscape changes as your eyes adjust. Visit Straw's Lane, which is located just south of the intersection with Romsey Road, to see it for yourself. Plan your route to include a stop in Woodend, which is renowned for the distinctive Hanging Rock.
After Woodend, go to Kyneton in the north, and then stop by a few of the Macedon Ranges' smaller towns. Visit Hanging Rock Winery, Cloud 9 Farm, and the other wineries that can be located along country lanes and highways while passing the Cobaw State Forest and seeing gorgeous wilderness. To see the natural splendour of the Macedon Ranges, start in Woodend and travel to Riddells Creek through Mount Macedon and Gisborne. Drive along charming winding lanes and stroll amid towering mountain trees. Return to Woodend from Riddells Creek by way of Romsey, Lancefield, Newham, and Hanging Rock. As you travel, pick up produce from the villages, and stop for a picnic.
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The Black Spur Drive's eerie, tranquil drive through the tall, lean galleries of Mountain Ash is remarkable. The winding and steep Black Spur drive winds through the rich rainforest sceneries of the Yarra Ranges from Healesville in the south to Narbethong in the north. With its 27-kilometer twists of soaring trees and breathtaking valley views, it connects the Yarra Valley with the mountainous regions around Marysville. This is a popular day trip from Melbourne, and picturesque especially in Spring and Autumn. There is a picnic area with restrooms called Fernshaw at the foot of the Black Spur. Dom Dom in Marysville State Forest is a short distance away and contains a few essential amenities as well. Make a stop to see the local wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary before starting your Spur experience.
The Yarra Valley, which is surrounded by farms and rows of crops, is located in the picturesque Victorian countryside, so avoid being the designated driver and take some pit stops at a few of the wineries on offer!
If you plan to visit Healesville or Black Spur Drive and are after a longer venture, then the 550 kilometre High Country Victoria Scenic Drive is probably for you. Beginning at Healesville and ending at Mt. Hotham, you’ll pass through Bright, Falls Creek, Mt. Hotham, Alpine National Park, and Mount Buffalo. Since there isn't a straight route from the city, getting to Victoria's High Country can be a challenge, but the trip is completely worthwhile. Depending on what you're after, the High Country road trip is fantastic in both the summer and the winter. A good combination of rural and forest landscapes can be found by starting in Healesville and continuing past Toolangi. One benefit of this route is the abundance of charming lookouts that are close by and accessible by car, making them the ideal location for a little halt, rejuvenate, and survive on a Victorian road trip.
Visit the Mount Wombat Lookout before taking a bath at Woolshed Falls. Make the best of all the drive-able lookouts along the way, particularly Murmungee Lookout and Mount Stanley Lookout, as you travel on the lovely alpine road from Woolshed to Mount Buffalo National Park. There are countless outdoor adventures waiting for you once you arrive in Bright or the larger Mount Buffalo area. Mount Bogong, Victoria's tallest mountain, can be climbed, or you can swim at Ladies' Bath Falls. At Mount McLeod, you can even venture off the usual path. In Mount Buffalo and Alpine National Park, there are a tonne of fantastic 4WD trails you can take.
As you continue to enjoy the mountain views, turn towards Falls Creek and Mt. Hotham. You could even hike up to Johnston's Hut, or partake in any of the numerous hikes in the high country. Keppel Lookout, Steavenson Falls (Victoria’s Highest Waterfall), Ned’s Gully Track are just some of the 20 Best Days Hikes from Melbourne. If you’re looking to get the blood pumping, read our guide to Outdoor Activities in the High Country.
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A popular destination for both tourists and locals, Wilsons Promontory (Prom) is a peninsula that makes up the southernmost point of the Australian mainland. Kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and wild wombats are all there in abundance for those who love wildlife spotting. Squeaky Beach is a must-visit if you prefer beaches with only fine white sand! Discover some spectacular boulder-like rock formations near Whiskey Bay as well, and take in the breathtaking surroundings. There are sights to see and stops that are worthwhile on the road to the Wilsons Prom. If you're into the outdoors, you should drive pass through Tooradin, a charming fishing community that's a good place to go fishing in Victoria where you can enjoy the crisp ocean air, and stroll along its tranquil inlets. Once you arrive at Loch, you can walk along the wooden bridge before continuing to drive. Koramburra, a centre for South Gippsland's attractions, is a great next stop and a community that was formerly colonial that has a long coal history. The town is renowned for its beautiful murals as well.
Continue on your way to Meeniyan, a little village with a historic hotel, and then further south to Leongatha. From there, it takes around 60 kilometres to go to Foster, the last township before Wilsons Promontory. Food can be purchased there in stores which is advisable as the Tidal River Visitor Center just has a small grocery store with a limited selection. Follow the route out of Foster to Yanakie, then continue on to Tidal River, where you may park your car and begin your treks or check into your lodging.
People primarily visit Wilsons Prom for the purpose of walking, hiking and animal viewing. No other national park compares to Wilsons Promontory's beauty when it comes to wildlife interactions and walking routes. It's one of those places you can visit repeatedly without growing bored of. There are more than 20 walking trails, ranging from short, easy strolls to lengthy hikes that last many days and nights. The primary camping area at Wilson Promontory is Tidal River.
Start planning your weekends, public holidays and vacations in advance, and tick off the best road trips in Victoria!
If you know another road trip in Victora, get in touch and we can add it to our list, and remember to share your camping photos with us on Facebook & Instagram!
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