trips north east victoria

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

Tourism North East

Media resources, industry resources, strategy + insights.

Welcome to the site of Tourism North East, the Regional Tourism Board for Victoria’s High Country.

This site was created to serve as a useful tool for our region's tourism industry partners where you can find all the information you need about the High Country's visitor economy and working with us.

For the latest information, opportunities and what’s on, sign up to our fortnightly industry newsletter.

Victoria's High Country

Located in the north-east of the state, Victoria’s High Country forms a significant part of Australia’s Great Dividing Range. From Kinglake to Corryong, from Mansfield to Rutherglen, this region is unlike any other in Victoria.

Renowned for its physical beauty as well as a rich diversity of visitor experiences, the High Country boasts beautiful landscapes, big blue skies, clear starry nights and clean, fresh air.

To find out more, check out our visitor website for more information .

Tourism North East (TNE) is the Regional Tourism Board for Victoria’s High Country, which encompasses the Shires of Alpine, Murrindindi, Benalla, Indigo, Mansfield, Towong and Wangaratta, and the three major alpine resorts of Falls Creek, Mt Buller and Mt Hotham.

Charged with developing the strategic tourism direction for the High Country, Tourism North East focuses on uniting its diverse stakeholder base in a common development path to optimise visitor economy outcomes. 

These efforts are focused on the High Country’s five recognised product strengths in cycle, snow, nature-based tourism, food/drinks and arts/cultural heritage.

We are a passionate , curious and creative group of people who love what we do.  

If you have a question about working with us or just want to know more, get in touch.

Tourism North East is governed by a Board of Directors. 

The Board is composed of seven Local Government and three Alpine Resort member representatives, two independent Directors, a State Government observer and an independent Chair.

Our Partners

In addition to local tourism business partners and associations, Tourism North East works closely with the Victorian State Government and agencies, Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), Visit Victoria and Tourism Australia.

Work With Us

If you love art, events, good food, drinks, snow sports and cycling… dream jobs are posted here.

Murray to Mountains

The Enhancements Project (The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) will see the introduction of a series of world-class installations, experiences and infrastructure improvements designed to increase visitation by offering one of a kind, “must-see” moments that are engaging, shareable and repeatable.

• Skip to content

High Country

Where the tall mountains meet the cold rivers.

Visit north-east Victoria and explore the High Country's magnificent mountains, deep valleys and flowing rivers. Take your pick and camp, walk, ride, climb, canoe or swim – or do it all! Make take time to learn about this region’s rich Aboriginal history and continued connections to Country.

Adventure through tall ash forests and scramble over rocky outcrops. Follow walking tracks through carpets of wildflowers or weave your way through red gum and stringybark forests. Keep an eye out for unique wildlife like black wallabies, blotched blue tongue lizards and the curious lyrebird. Make sure you visit one of the iconic and historic High Country huts and experience their rustic charm.

Find your next adventure below or see what else is on offer in this region at Alpine National Park , Mount Buffalo National Park or Lake Eildon National Park .

• Before you go
• Taking your dog on outdoor trips

Popular attractions in High Country

Ah Youngs Campground

This grassy clearing near the Buckland River is surrounded by native forest and a great spot for camping and fishing.

Kendalls Campground

Enjoy camping with family and friends by the Rubicon River and exploring the fascinating Rubicon Valley Historic Area.

Blue Gum Flat

A popular canoeing and camping spot on the banks of Lake Eildon.

Reform Hill

Enjoy views over the Ovens Valley and beyond from this lookout walk and picnic area in Myrtleford.

Doctors Creek Reserve Campground

A family-friendly campground on the banks of the Goulburn River.

Bracks Bridge

A picturesque reserve next to the Delatite River, with shady trees and plenty of room to run around.

Set yourself up at this small, secluded campground with Lake Eildon access for a canoeing adventure.

• See our Video
• Subscribe to our Newsletter

All-inclusive guided walking holidays in Europe and Australia

• Italian Tours
• European Tours
• Australian Hikes

Exploring the High Country

Although perhaps best known for its winter and ski activities, the High Country in the summer months offers a wealth of things to do and see, and there are many reasons to visit and stay for a few extra days.  It's about a three and a half hour drive from the centre of Melbourne and a 90 minute drive from Albury airport just across the border in southern NSW.  Our Hiking the Victorian Alps tour, Alpine Walking Weekend ,  Sunset Dinners , and Hiking around Beechworth tours are all great reasons to lure you to this part of Victoria!

Outdoor Activities

Mountain Biking For cyclists with a taste for more extreme activity there is the Mystic Mountain Bike Park in Bright and there are also great trails in the Falls Creek area too.

Paragliding Based in Bright is a company offering tandem flights with an instructor or two-day full courses. This offers unrivalled views of the spectacular High Country mountains and valleys.

Camping If you really want to disappear into the wildnerness then there are myriad camping opportunities from the luxurious to the very basic. Mount Buffalo National Park and the Alpine National Park both have many options - see Parks Victoria for details.  We spent Christmas 2012 camping close to Lake Cobbler - the Blog tells more!

Yoga and Pilates In Bright you can arrange for private yoga sessions in your accommodation at a time to suit yourself by contacting Kylie  www.brightyogaspace.com .  Similarly you can enjoy a Pilates session at Mountain Pilates in Bright.  Bookings and payments are organised directly with the teacher of your choice. 

Food & Drink

Restaurants There are many great restaurants in this part of North East Victoria and here are some of our personal favourites:

Elm Dining in Bright .  A new management team took over in Sept 2021 and we've heard great reviews. The only fine dining restaurant in Bright.

Tomahawks  and Hometown in Bright. Great favourites of ours.  No booking policy but worth trying, the first for a bar and eatery and the second for pizza! 

Templar Lodge in Tawonga.  Excellent local, contemporary cuisine in the comfortable surrounds of an old Masonic lodge. Worth the drive or a taxi fare!

Sixpence Coffee, Bright.     Great for coffee, pastries, egg and bacon rolls and freshly baked bread

Reed & Co Distillery, Bright .   Head here for cocktails, gin and relaxed dining on fresh local produce

Provenance, Beechworth. In an elegant 1856 Bank building, this renowned restaurant offers innovative contemporary cooking.

Bridge Road Brewers, Beechworth . As well as a huge selection of beers from this micro-brewery they also serve great pizzas at lunchtimes from Wednesday to Sundays.

The Epicurean Centre, Milawa .  Part of Brown Brother's famous winery, this restaurant has been awarded one star in the Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards.

Dal Zotto, King Valley . The Dal Zotto’s Trattoria features an Italian-inspired menu of local seasonal produce, and you can taste and buy Prosecco and wine at the same time.

Christmont, King Valley.  The Chrismont Restaurant is a dining destination blending contemporary King Valley winemaking with family hospitality, authenticity and flavour.

Mansfield Regional Produce Store, Mansfield . This rustic venue offers a great range of local produce and is a wonderful stop for breakfast, coffee or a light lunch of soups, baguettes and salads.

Another key draw to this part of North East Victoria in general is the great variety of farms offering fine quality produce, often on a small scale, but with delicious results.  The Ovens Valley alone has a berry farm, an olive oil producer, a chestnut farm and a venison farm. Beechworth boasts its renowned Honey Experience with its store and tour of the beehives and factory.

Local Markets

Bright: Make It, Bake It, Grow It - 3rd Saturday in month Myrtleford Farmers' Market - 4th Saturday in month

The whole of Victoria in fact is bursting with wineries, breweries, gourmet food and fresh farm produce and you don't need to be in Melbourne to dine in some of the very best restaurants.

Further afield ...

For more information about a few days in Melbourne and Victoria visit the official regional tourism website.

Is it time you spent some time in the High Country?

• Meet the Team
• Covid-19 Your Health and Safety
• Our Travel Accreditation
• Our Eco Policy
• Our Privacy Policy
• Preferred Agents
• Testimonials
• All-inclusive
• Grading of Hikes
• Kit List & Packing Tips
• Be Fit to Hike
• European City Guides
• Italy's Regions and beyond
• PDF Brochure
• Terms & Conditions
• Visit our Youtube Channel
• Australian Reading List
• Italian Reading List
• Recipe Page
• Rogues' Gallery
• Travel by Train

Copyright 2024. Hedonistic Hiking

• Science & Environment
• History & Culture
• Opinion & Analysis
• Destinations
• Activity Central
• Creature Features
• Earth Heroes
• Survival Guides
• Travel with AG
• Travel Articles
• About the Australian Geographic Society
• AG Society News
• Sponsorship
• Fundraising
• Australian Geographic Society Expeditions
• Sponsorship news
• Our Country Immersive Experience
• AG Nature Photographer of the Year
• Web Stories
• Adventure Instagram

Australian Geographic Adventure

Outdoor adventures in Victoria’s High Country

The ski fields of Victoria’s North East have a secret passion: summer. When the snow melts and the mountains materialise, the fun is only beginning around the High Country. It’s a time for alpine hikes and trail runs, mountain bike rides, and lake and river paddles. In summer, these mountains – the highest in Victoria – truly shine.

Walk this way

Mountain hikes reach their literal pinnacle in the High Country . The Razorback Walk, stretching north from Mt Hotham to Mt Feathertop – Victoria’s second-highest but arguably most spectacular mountain – is one of Australia’s finest alpine hikes. The 22km return route sets out from Diamantina Hut, 2.5km before Hotham Village, and follows a narrow, craggy ridge to the lofty vantage point of 1922m Mt Feathertop.

Mt Hotham is also the finish post for the three-day, 37km Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing . A true exploration of the mountains, this hike combines high alpine ridges up to 2000m above sea level, snow gum stands, historic High Country huts and the namesake ski resorts at its either end. It’s unceasingly spectacular, with two campsites 14km apart along the route.

Mt Buller is also strung with walking trails, from a fun ‘Gnome Roam’ in which the kids can hunt out the mountain’s resident garden gnomes, to a two-hour Summit Nature Walk. Download the Mt Buller Walks app for ideas and interpretation along the trails.

Prefer a faster pace? The High Country peaks provide the sort of expansive views and cool climate that make them prime trail-running territory. On Mt Buller, step it out among the snow gums on the four-kilometre Gang Gangs Lazy Loop, or descend into sky-scraping mountain ash as you cross the Delatite River on log bridges on the 14-kilometre Delatite Drop from Mt Buller Village to Mirimbah.

Mt Hotham presents runners with the Cobungra Ditch, a near-level track beside an abandoned gold-mining water race, built in the 1880s, more than 1500 metres above sea level. If its 12.5 kilometres aren’t enough for your legs, branch away onto the Brabralung Trail, which connects Mt Hotham Village to Dinner Plain, to access a range of other tracks.

The High Country is The Man from Snowy River country, with much of the classic 1982 movie filmed on location, a cinematic connection that has helped make these mountains one of Australia’s top horse-riding destinations. Set out onto the slopes of Mt Stirling with McCormack’s Mountain Valley Trail Rides for a ride to Craig’s Hut, one of the most famous of the High Country’s many mountain huts. It was built as a set for The Man from Snowy River movie, and quickly acquired its own legendary status – it was even rebuilt in its classic style after being destroyed in a 2006 bushfire.

There’s fun on two wheels for everyone in the Victorian High Country

Victoria’s North East is Australia’s cycling heartland, and nowhere more so than around the mountains. Like big-name international ski resorts such as Whistler and Les Gets, the slopes of Mt Buller and Falls Creek transform into mountain bike trail networks in summer.

Mt Buller is Australia’s only accredited International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Ride Centre, recognising the appeal of its 100 kilometres of trails to cyclists of all abilities. Rides range from fast and flowy sprints through the snow gums on Gang Gang, to the headlining Alpine Epic, which begins at the edge of Mt Buller Village, crosses to the slopes of Mt Stirling and makes one of Australia’s best descents to the foot of the mountain in Mirimbah. It’s 46km of bike brilliance along the only trail in the country to have been bestowed ‘Epic’ status by the IMBA.

Head to Falls Creek and you’ll find another 50km of mountain bike trails, including the well-named Flowtown, which links in with two other trails (High Voltage and Wishing Well) to form a fun and approachable 10km gravity ride that descends more than 500 metres. And when you’re done on the mountain tops, there are more mountain bike parks awaiting at Bright, Beechworth, Dinner Plain, Mt Beauty and Mansfield, with trails suited to all rider skill levels, from kids and beginners, through to expert.

Road cyclists have just as much to love in the High Country, with roads over the region’s mountains providing challenge and beauty in one. Pedal to the summit of Mt Buller or Mt Hotham, encouraged on by dedicated cycling road signs noting distances and gradients, or take on the mission of the 7 Peaks. This alpine challenge involves cycling to the tops of seven mountain roads – Mt Buller, Mt Buffalo, Mt Hotham, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Lake Mountain and the revered Mt Baw Baw with its 11.4 per cent average gradient. Do it over a week or across the course of several summers.

Flatter and gentler are the region’s collection of traffic-free rail trails : graze your way through the gourmet pickings of the Ovens Valley on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail; cruise with the family towards the foot of Mt Buller on Victoria’s longest rail trail, the Great Victorian Rail Trail; or hug the shores of Lake Hume on the High Country Rail Trail.

Where the rivers run

Head to the valleys to take to the streams. Flowing through Bright , the Ovens River is a favourite swim spot for visitors and residents, but it’s also a versatile kayaking waterway, offering flat-water paddling and stretches of white-water. Bright Adventure Company paddling trips hit the waters in summer, when flows are low and the river slows into mellow pools and gentle rapids. There’s even the chance of a platypus sighting. There are other kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities in alpine lakes such as Rocky Valley Lake at Falls Creek and Lake Catani on Mt Buffalo.

Mt Buffalo also has some of Australia’s highest and most imposing cliffs framing The Gorge and providing a range of adventure activities. Take a step into the unknown on an abseiling trip, with options ranging from family adventures on cliffs up to 25m in height, to a day-long 300m ‘mega abseil’ on The Gorge’s North Wall.

Why not stay hanging off The Gorge’s cliffs with a picnic suspended in a porta-ledge with Bright Adventure Company, or even sleep out for a night in a porta-ledge hanging from the cliffs with Unleashed-Unlimited – it’s the world’s highest cliff camping experience.

For more information all things Victoria’s North East, see Victoria’s High Country

The best family bike rides in Tasmania

The Apple Isle is a brilliant family bike ride destination. Here are five very good reasons why you need to load up your clan’s pushys and head south.

Natural-born killers

Take a deep dive into the wondrous world of whales – orca, humpback, pilot, blue – with Naturaliste Charters in south-west WA.

The best family bike rides in the Northern Territory

Outback sunsets, wildly rugged landscapes, and the chance to cycle around an Aussie icon. Family bike rides in the Northern Territory are unique, and in the best possible way.

Watch Latest Web Stories

Birds of Stewart Island / Rakiura

Endangered fairy-wrens survive Kimberley floods

Australia’s sleepiest species

Ultimate guide to the Silo Art Trail in Victoria (with map)

Silo art has really taken off in Australia. The original Silo Art Trail in Victoria is now one of the most popular road trips in the state. Read on to find out more about this trail, and the vibrant murals breathing life back into tiny regional towns.

While Melbourne is well-known for its street art , many people don’t realise there is equally great art to be found in regional Victoria.

The Silo Art Trail in particular is extraordinary and well worth checking out on any visit to the state.

They’re a melding of history and art, devised to bring tourism to small, regional towns in the area.

And they’ve done just that – international acclaim has brought thousands of travellers flocking to this region of the state, spreading the tourist dollar where it’s most needed.

You can now find these painted silos in several states across Australia – Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales have all jumped on board.

The original Silo Art Trail of Victoria

Like Australia’s ‘Big Thing’ statues , these painted silos can brighten up any road trip.

They provide sights to see along the way, as well as a cause to stop in small country towns that you may otherwise miss.

While the online images of the silos are impressive in themselves, they are something that are worth experiencing in the flesh. Like most art, of course!

This guide covers the original silo art trail in the state’s north-west, located in Wimmera Mallee.

There’s now also a second silo trail in Victoria’s north-east .

This Silo Art Trail road trip itinerary contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may make small commission, at no extra cost to you.

You’ll need a car to get out to see the Silo Art Trail. Renting a car is very straightforward in Australia – I’ve done it more times than I can count.

History of the original Silo Art Trail

There are hundreds of silos littered across regional Australia, some which were built in the 1930s.

Originally used to store grain, abandoned train lines and changes in agricultural practices have forced some to close.

The question then arises – what can then be done with these structures?

Some have been sold to private companies for storage. Others have been turned into telecommunication towers, providing mobile phone reception.

In what may be the most genius idea yet, the town of Mirrool in southern inland NSW has held an annual event since 1992, where there is a competition to boot a footy over the local silo .

Whoever kicks the highest, wins!

And of course, they’ve become blank canvas for artists all over the world to paint large-scale works on their surface.

Where it all began

The silo art trail started in the small town of Brim, in Victoria’s north-west.

GrainCorp, who owns most of the silos in Australia, agreed to allow Brisbane artist Guido van Helten to paint a mural on the 30 metre high decommissioned silos in Brim.

The idea was originally intended to be a small community project, dreamt up by Brim Active Community Group, street art agency Juddy Roller and van Helten.

The mural, depicting four locals (three men and a woman) of unknown identities, were an instant sensation.

While the paintings are impressive and van Helten is beyond talented, it is the melding of everything – the space, the canvas, the backdrop and the sheer size of the artwork that makes them what they are.

As a consequence, in 2016, it was agreed that more silos would be donated by GrainCorp and the trail was born.

The Silo Art Trail today

There are now fourteen scattered across the Wimmera-Mallee region. Alongside Brim, you’ll find them in Patchewollock, Lascelles, Rosebery, Sheep Hills, Rupanyup, Nullawil, Sea Lake, Goroke, Kaniva, Walpeup, Horsham, Arkona and Albacutya.

Two more officially trail murals are planned for Rainbow and Serviceton on the SA/VIC border.

There are also silos in nearby St Arnaud, Avoca and Murtoa, which for some reason aren’t officially part of the trail, but can still be seen as part of this road trip.

Something to note. The silos aren’t a mere hop, skip and a jump from Melbourne.

They’re spaced hours apart and the northernmost painted silo in Patchewollock is about a five hour drive from the city.

The trail being as large as it is now, there’s no way you could see them all in a day trip. However, it does make for an excellent weekend getaway from Melbourne – or a long weekend, if you can wangle it.

Luckily, there’s plenty else to see in this underrated part of Victoria.

Originally 200 kilometres, the trail just keeps growing!

If you want to do the trail justice, consider dedicating three or four days to the trip. Stay in the small towns and spread your tourist dollars where they’re most needed.

When I originally saw the silos, I did it over two days, leaving Melbourne at 10am on a Monday and getting back in around 430pm on a Tuesday.

This was when there were only six on the original trail.

It was a very leisurely journey. With two of us driving, we were able to stop whenever we wished, to grab a pie on the road or have a quick poke through any country town that looked interesting.

Consult this map in plotting out your journey along the trail:

This post forms part of my guide to the best places to visit in Victoria . For more, check out this Melbourne itinerary (written by a local) and other unique things to do in the city . Plus here’s my top tips for road tripping in Australia .

Where does the Silo Art Trail start?

Well, it depends where you’re heading from.

The Victorian Silo Art can be started from Melbourne, Horsham, Ballarat or Bendigo .

Alternatively, you can approach the trail from Mildura, starting in Walpeup and working your way down to Horsham.

If you’re coming over the border from South Australia, you’ll hit either Kaniva or Goroke first.

Here are all the silos on the trail, if you were to navigate along the trail from Melbourne.

Horsham Silo Art

With a shiny new piece of art, Horsham is the best place to start your journey along Victoria’s Silo Art Trail.

In the town’s north you’ll find a work by Smug aka Sam Bates, featuring Wotjobaluk Country man Yanggendyinanyuk, alongside his totem, a Gamaty (Black Cockatoo).

The work is called The Yangga Dyata which means ‘Walking on Country’ and is intended as a legacy to Yanggendyinanyuk.

Location: Hazel Street & Wawunna Road, Horsham

Rupanyup Silo Art

Artist: Julia Volchkova

Rupanyup’s mural is painted by Russian artist Julia Volchkova, who chose two young sports stars as her models.

Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann play netball and AFL respectively and are featured here in their sporting attire.

Unlike the rest of the silos on the trail, Volchkova’s work is painted on two large steel grain silos – however, it doesn’t make it any less impressive than the other taller works.

If you’re keen to stretch your legs, walk through town, following the Chainsaw Art Trail. These are a series of works by artist John Brady, intricately carved by I would guess, chainsaw.

Previously, you could also view a work by Volchkova’s assistant Georgia Goodie on the main strip, but when I was last in town (November 2023) it had been removed.

📌 Location: 1 Gibson Street, Rupanyup

Sheep Hills Silo Art

Artist: Adnate

Adnate is a Melbourne-based artist who is known for his work with Aboriginal communities across Australia. His paintings regularly feature members of the Indigenous community and his mural at Sheep Hills is no exception.

It features four Indigenous people (Wergaia Elder, Uncle Ron Marks, and Wotjobaluk Elder, Aunty Regina Hood, Savannah Marks and Curtly McDonald) and the starry sky, which is significant within the local community.

📌 Location: 445 Sheep Hills-Minyip Road, Sheep Hills

Arkona Silo Art

Artist: Sam Bates aka Smug

Head to this small town to see the latest in the Silo Art Trail project.

Smug has painted a fitting and somewhat kooky tribute to local Roley Klinge, which also highlights the importance of tennis in regional communities.

Klinge, a local legend, passed away in 1991. As Smug, who works with photorealism, was unable to photograph him, he came up with another ingenious solution of rendering Klinge onto the tiny town’s grain silo.

Which kinda looks like the cover of a Goosebumps book. I dig it.

📌 Location: 835 Dimboola-Rainbow Rd, Arkona

20+ fun facts about Melbourne

What NOT to do when visiting Australia

These are the most haunted places in Melbourne

Kaniva Silo Art

Artists: David Lee Pereira and Jason Parker

This work joined the trail in 2020.

In it, the two artists have painted a vibrant mural based on nearby Little Desert and its diverse flora and fauna.

The image is of an Australian Hobby (a type of falcon), flying between two colourful orchids.

📌 Location: 31 Progress Street, Kaniva

Goroke Silo Art

Artist: Geoffrey Carran

Birds are a popular theme along the trail.

Artist Geoffrey Carran has painted a mural featuring a kookaburra, galah and magpie, paying tribute to local birdlife.

Quite fitting as the name of this town is the local Aboriginal word for magpie.

📌 Location: Railway St, Goroke

Brim Silo Art

Artist: Guido van Helten

Van Helten’s work is the first of the Silo Art Trail murals, completed back in 2015.

It depicts four members of the local community, although van Helten has kept silent on his model’s identities.

He has stated that he wants the spotlight to stay on the resilience of all members of the small town, who face ongoing hardships such as economic pressure and the devastating effects of climate change.

This mural went on to inspire the original trail (and now other silo art trails) and has become a regional landmark in itself.

📌 Location: 1986 Henty Highway, Brim

Rosebery Silo Art

Artist: Kaff-eine

Kaff-eine completed her mural in late 2017, after assisting Rone with his.

Knowing that her work would be nestled between the monochromatic silos of Brim and Lascelles, Kaff-eine purposefully added colour to her mural, which features a young female farmer on one side and a man in an Akubra having a quiet moment with his horse on the other.

📌 Location: Henty Highway, Rosebery

Albacutya Silo Art

Artist: Kitt Bennett

The brightest silo on the trail is a 2021 addition.

Melbourne artist Kitt Bennett was inspired to create a mural that tells the story of growing up in the country.

The resulting artwork is bright, surreal and somewhat distorted from reality.

📌 Location: Albacutya Road, Rainbow

Walpeup Silo Art

This silo commemorates a 16 year old boy from the town, Harold Thomas Bell (Wickham). Unbeknown to his parents, he lied about his age to sign up for the Light Horse Regiment and was sent overseas to fight in WWI.

The teenager was critically injured in battle and died the next day.

The former town local is commemorated in this vibrant work by artists Julian Clavijo and Camilo Delgado. It features a portrait of the boy, a horse and a galah, set against the backdrop of a brilliant sunset.

📌 Location: 31 Cregan Street, Walpeup

Patchewollock Silo Art

Artist: Fintan Magee

The Patchewollock silo was completed in late 2016 and features local sheep and grain farmer, Nick “Noodle” Hulland.

Magee believed the then 42 year old embodied the typical look of a farmer and so used him as his muse.

Patchewollock has a population of 250 and is 420km north-west of Melbourne, in the Mallee district.

It’s hoped the mural will help slow and perhaps even prevent the decline of the town.

📌 Location: 88 Cummings Road, Patchewollock

Sea Lake Silo Art

Artists: Drapl & The Zookeeper

One of the newer pieces of silo art along the trail can be found in the small town of Sea Lake.

The work of street artists Drapl & The Zookeeper, this vibrantly coloured silo features nearby Lake Tyrrell as its centrepiece. Lake Tyrrell is one of Victoria’s pink salt lakes and its gorgeous.

A young girl swings from the branches of a Mallee Eucalyptus, looking over the lake. A Wedge-tailed eagles soars above her, and nearby, three emus run across the land.

The Boorong People of this area were known to have a strong knowledge of astronomy and a deep connection with the giant salt lake that so beautiful reflects the night sky.

📌 Location: Railway Ave, Sea Lake

Lascelles Silo Art

Artist: Rone

The mural at Lascelles (or “Leigh Sales” as I kept calling it, Australians will get the terrible joke) features Geoff and Merrilyn Horman, whose family has farmed in the area for four generations. A staggering amount of time, one would agree.

I have to say that of all the murals, this one seems to blend in best with its environment.

Lascelles is truly a tiny town, with a population of just 48.

📌 Location: Lascelles Silo Road, Lascelles

Nullawil Silo Art

Artist: Sam Bates aka “Smug”

This addition to the original Silo Art Trail resides in the small town of Nullawil.

This work is by Australian street-artist Smug or Smug One. Smug specialises in photorealism graffiti and is internationally renowned, living in Glasgow, Scotland and working across the world.

This was his second silo art mural (his first is in the town of Wirrabara in SA) and it shows a farmer and his Kelpie. He has now painted several around the country.

The emphasis in this work is on the dog, highlighting the importance of working animals to local farming communities.

This work was completed in July 2019 and I don’t have pictures of it yet, but have plans to get back out there to snap some. Watch this space!

📌 Location: 26 Calder Hwy, Nullawil

Other silos near the trail

Here are a couple of silos in the area you can throw into the mix, which aren’t officially part of the Silo Art Trail.

Artist: Torney

Although not technically part of the trail, this silo art can be seen on the same trip, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious.

Entitled ‘Hope’ the mural is representative of the town’s gold rush history. The local community helped select the design.

A local artist, Torney has several other works located around this town.

📌 Location: 3 McMahon St, St Arnaud

Artist: Smug

The silo art in Murtoa is probably one of my favourites to date.

Smug was apparently inspired by the James Hill taxidermy collection found in the Murtoa Museum.

There are 30 birds can be found on the silo, The unique glowing bird represents the 1 in 30 Australians who suffer from mental health illness.

📌 Location: Soldiers Ave, Murtoa

Depending on your route home, you may be able to glimpse this work by Warrnambool-based artist Jimmi Buscombe.

It’s of the endangered Barking Owl. And it is unique, in that it glows in the dark.

So, visit after sunset to enjoy it in its full glory.

📌 Location: 2 Station St, Avoca

Planned works for the future

There are plans to incorporate two more silos into the OG Silo Art Trail in Victoria.

One will be located in Serviceton, right near the South Australian/Victorian border. It was initially planned for completion in 2022, but has been delayed.

The town of Rainbow will also feature on the trail, eventually, with its very own silo mural. Likewise, this is still in the works.

Please feel free to bookmark or pin this page, as I regularly update it.

Best day hikes near Melbourne

20 routes for your next Australian road trip

Small towns in Victoria worth visiting

Other places of interest nearby

Country Victoria is full of all sorts of interesting things, both natural and man-made.

If you want to make a real trip out of your journey to see the painted silos of Victoria, there are plenty of other sights you can visit along the way.

Little Desert National Park

This park is popular for birdwatching, hiking and four-wheel driving.

Visit in late winter or early spring to see its blossoms and wildflowers.

With accommodation being slim pickings out here, you could choose to camp beside the Barringgi Gadyin, before continuing your journey along the Silo Art Trail.

It’s worth noting the nearby town of Beulah was the setting for Australian movie ‘The Dry’ starring Eric Bana and based on the book by Jane Harper.

Lake Tyrrell

Lake Tyrrell, also known as the “Mirror Lake” is in the state’s north-west, not at all far from the Patchewollock silo. There’s a salty formation on the lake bed, which gives it a reflective surface.

The lake is around 120,000 years old and is part of the Indigenous Boorong clan’s land. It features heavily in their stories and astronomy.

Tyrrell’s name derives from the Aboriginal word Tyrille, which means “space” or “sky”. Very fitting.

It’s pretty amazing to see, to be honest and there was no one around when we visited in the late afternoon, apart from one couple and about ten billion bloody flies.

You can jump on a tour with a local expert , who can lead you to the best places for photographs at sunrise, sunset and for stargazing at night.

Pink Lake Dimboola

You can also knock off yet another pink lake during your road trip along the Silo Art Trail.

Dimboola’s Pink Lake (Loch Iel Reserve) is right off the highway, an easy side trip to make after seeing the Arkona silo art, on your way to Kaniva.

Discover other pink lakes in Victoria .

Australian Pinball Museum

The Australian Pinball Museum has got to be one of the coolest hidden gems in Victoria.

It’s located in the town of Nhill and as the name suggests, contains a collection of pinball machines and pinball art.

The museum holds the largest collection of pinball machines in Australia, with games dating back to 1932.

Definitely a place worth dropping into during your road trip.

Murtoa Stick Shed

This heritage-listed shed is the first of its kind to be erected in Victoria.

It was built in the early 1940s for emergency grain store during WWII.

It’s now the last grain stick shed in the country. Very much a unique sight to see while travelling along the Silo Art Trail.

Entry is $10 for adults and it’s open daily from 10am-3pm.

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Ballarat is one of the state’s best known towns from the Gold rush era and packs a whole lotta history.

Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum, paying homage to this era of Victoria’s history. It features a replica of a gold mining town, filled with costumed actors and visitors can go panning for gold.

Here are some other things you can get up to in Ballarat .

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

The Grampians as they’re known (Gariwerd is their Indigenous name), are mountains with waterfalls and hiking trails. They’re a great destination to head to if you fancy a day out in nature.

Victoria’s Silo Art Trail is not far from the Grampians at all. If you were heading out there for more than a weekend, you could easily tack on a day spent tramping along trails and taking in the splendour around you (and bird watching too!).

For more, check out my guide to the best waterfalls in Victoria .

Kryal Castle

Kryal Castle is on the way back from the Silo Art Trail, if you’re heading home via Ballarat.

It’s a replica of a medieval castle. There’s a maze, jousting, a wizard’s workroom, archery, pony rides… enough to keep you busy for at least an afternoon.

You can even spend the night there and I can’t even begin to tell you how much I wish to do this.

↠ Book a ticket in advance to Kyral Castle. Or reserve a room , to spend the night in this medieval museum.

Hepburn Bathhouse

This area is known for its mineral spring water, which you can experience at Hepburn Bathhouse .

The spa consists of two sections. General bathing is available in the two mineral pools within The Bathhouse, which can be accessed for between $37-$47 dollars (for an adult), depending on the time and day.

For an upgraded luxury experience, you can book into The Sanctuary, for $79-$99 per adult.

A great place to soak your muscles after all that time spend in the car!

Here are more things to do in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs .

Where to stay on the Silo Art Trail

Most of the towns that feature silo art are tiny, so they don’t have many accommodation options, if any in most cases.

Sea Lake is an exception, with accommodation springing up thanks to interest in the trail and Lake Tyrrell.

Stay the night at the Royal Hotel Sea Lake (where you can also grab dinner) or Skymirror Villa , a guest house in town.

When I drove the trail, I stayed in Horsham, which is about halfway back to Melbourne from Patchewollock. Check in to Comfort Inn Capital Horsham or Golden Grain Motor Inn .

For something completely different, I recommend spending a night at Yarriambiance . There’s a guest house, two tiny houses and a campsite, located about 25 minutes drive from Horsham.

Should you drive the Silo Art Trail?

In short, (although it’s a long trip) the Silo Art Trail in Victoria is a truly unique thing to do.

Even if you can only squeeze in a handful of silos, it’s well worth the trip.

Have you driven the Silo Art Trail? Would you like to?

Need to hire a car for your Silo Art Trail road trip?

Sort your hire car with Rentalcars.com. It’s simple to use and there’s a large selection of cars and providers to choose from.

For more like this, check out my guides to the street art in Adelaide and Perth .

Keen to do this road trip yourself one day? Stick a pin in this post for future reference 📌

This Victoria Silo Art Trail guide contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may make small commission, at no extra cost to you. This goes towards the cost of running this blog. I only recommend goods and services I think are helpful and use myself. Thank you – I absolutely appreciate the support!

NEVER MISS A POST! SIGN UP FOR THE BIRDGEHLS NEWSLETTER , WHICH WILL HIT YOUR INBOX ONCE A MONTH.

Similar Posts

21 best small towns in Australia to visit

There are so many lovely small towns in Australia. If you’re planning on making a trip Down Under, know this – you’ll only be rewarded if you get off the beaten path and spend time in some our most charming small towns. Read on to find out more. While places like Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns and…

Meet the quokkas: the perfect day trip to Rottnest Island

Planning a day trip to Rottnest Island? There’s beautiful, peaceful beaches to explore and of course, the chance to see the world’s happiest marsupial up close.

A Museum, or a House?! The Lyon Housemuseum in Melbourne

Melbourne is the destination in Australia to head to if you love art. There’s wonderful world-class galleries and smaller equally-delightful spaces. The city itself is a canvas for street artists around the world. Here’s one contemporary gallery that doubles as a private residence – the Lyon Housemuseum in Kew. Melbourne has a few hidden gems…

7 days in Melbourne itinerary: complete guide for 2024

Find out exactly how you can spend 7 days in Melbourne with this Melbourne itinerary – written from a local’s perspective.

Australia travel essentials: what to pack for Australia

Heading to Australia and not sure what to bring? This list of Australia travel essentials will help guide you.

The ultimate Ireland road trip itinerary: 10-14 days

Heading to Ireland? You’re in for a wonderful time. Follow this 14 day Ireland road trip itinerary, which includes places to stay, things to see and an ideal route to take.

14 Comments

Hi…just to let you know there are two other silo artworks around Devenish / Goorambat – at Tungamah and St James. Coming from Albury/Wodonga, I did all four in a day trip: Tungamah, to St James to Devenish to Goorambat.

Thanks Joanna! Great timing, I actually saw them a week ago, just haven’t got around to updating this post yet. They’re amazing – I think I like the Tungamah one best, but do have a soft spot for kookaburras.

These silos are amazing! I love the art and scale (plus the blue skies!) I need to add this to the bucket list.

We got very lucky with the weather on both occasions. The sheer scale of them is mind boggling! Hope you get to see them soon.

Great post! Silo art has really taken off to showcase our regional areas. Have you been to Maldon, designated First Notable Town in 1966? Most well-preserved 19th Century Streetscape award. Now a thriving rural farming community and tourist town, close to Castlemaine. Worth checking out!

Thanks Marie! I haven’t, will have to make a visit. I have been to Clunes however and fell in love with its streetscape. So many lovely places to explore in VIC!

Did the Silo Art Trail top to bottom 12th July 2019. On our way up to Sea Lake there was a new one been painted at Nullawill(day 6). It was finished on 19th July

Oooh how exciting! Thanks for the heads up Trev. Will have to get back up there and snap some pics.

Beautiful silos at Rochester just north of Bendigo.

Oh I’ve seen pictures! Need to get up there and see it properly.

Thank you Joanna for making the effort of this post. very informative and helpful.

I am working up a trip for my Probus Club in Ballarat and will include your North east silo trail.

Colbinabbin also have added their silo to the artists brush.

Thanks for the tip, Russell. Just looked it up – what a beauty. Hope to see it in the flesh one day.

can also recommend the Spanner Man , Piccoli’s Spanner Sculptures in Boort if you have the time

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Free Australian Shipping on orders over $99*

• 03 9670 1412

Your Cart is Empty

• $0.00 AUD Subtotal

Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

• Snowboard Boots
• Snowboard Bindings
• Snowboard Jackets
• Snowboard Pants
• Thermal Layers
• Snowboard Gloves
• Accessories
• Facemasks & Neckwarmers
• Glove Liners
• Extra Warmth
• Tuning & Tools
• Gift Vouchers
• Clothing Care
• Wheel Chains
• Backcountry
• Ski Bindings
• Ski Jackets
• Après/Casual Clothing
• Après/Walking Boots
• Slalom Ski Packages
• Slalom Skis
• Water Ski Bindings
• Double Skis
• Water Ski Gloves
• Wakeboard Packages
• Wakeboard Boots
• Wakesurfs & Skates
• Life Jackets
• Ropes & Handles
• Wake Bags & Covers
• Ballast Bags & Pumps
• Water Accessories
• Jumpers & Hoodies
• Wallets & Bags
• Socks & Belts
• Water Bottles
• Bags & Luggage
• Ski & Snowboard Bags
• Travel Luggage
• Travel Accessories
• Complete Skateboards
• Skateboard Decks
• Skateboard Wheels
• Skateboard Trucks
• Protective Gear
• Snowboarding
• Snowboard Clothing
• Ski Clothing
• All Clearance
• Waterski Bindings
• Wakesurfers
• Sweaters & Jackets

18 Best Scenic Drives & Road Trips in Victoria

August 04, 2022 22 min read

Prepare For Your Next Adventure Now - Fast & Free Shipping Available 🙌

18 Best Scenic Drives & Road Trips in Victoria

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.

1. North East & Western Victoria Silo Art Trail Scenic Drives

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.

Image: Instagram/ini_niki_b

Image: Instagram/seekdiscoverevolve

2. Great Ocean Road & Otways Road Trip

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.

3. Phillip Island to French Island Scenic Drive

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.

Image: Instagram/tommywilliams.photography

4. Historic Goldfields Road Trip & Scenic Drive

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 D o 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.

5. The Great Alpine Road Trip

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.

6. The Bellarine Taste Trail

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.

7. Grampians Road Trip

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.

Image: Instagram/thegrampians

Image: Instagram/paul_sinclair_photography

8. The Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive

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.

9. Lake Mountain Road Trip

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.

Image: Instagram/innglyss

Image: Instagram/wanderingwally_

10. Lake Eildon and Mt Buller Road Trip

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.

11. Budj Bim National Park Road Trip

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.

12. Port Phillip Bay Loop Scenic Drive

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.

13. Mornington Peninsula & Arthurs Seat Road Trip

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.

Image: Instagram/@lisamilne

14. Pink Lakes & Murray Sunset National Park Road Trip

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 D o. 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.

15. Macedon Ranges Road Trip

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.

Image: Instagram/visitmacedonranges

Image: Instagram/discoverdindi

16. Black Spur Drive

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!

17. High Country Victoria Scenic Drive

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 .

Image: Instagram/seehighcountry

Image: Instagram/the_happycampers

18. Wilsons Prom Road Trip

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 !

MOST POPULAR

The Top 10 Dog-Friendly Campsites in Victoria

RISING POST

The 7 Best Last Minute Getaways in Victoria

Leave a comment.

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Also in Blogs

The best weekend getaways from brisbane.

April 17, 2024 16 min read

Choosing Snowboard Length: What Snowboard Size is Right for Me?

April 03, 2024 17 min read

A Local's Guide to Skiing in Niseko

March 27, 2024 14 min read

• Retail stores
• Fuel prices
• Help & support

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.  

Being road trip happy is the best. Sign up to RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance before you leave →

More local guides

The best day trips from Melbourne

Ultimate Great Ocean Road itinerary: Torquay to Warrnambool

The ultimate Murray River road trip guide

This site will not function correctly without JavaScript enabled. Please enable JavaScript in your browser.

We use cookies and other technologies to understand and improve your browsing experience. By using our site, you agree to us collecting this information and to our  Privacy Charter .

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.

LEAVE YOUR COMMENT

Cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

You might also like

The best short break stays in Victoria

From urban digs to heritage hotels and sweet retreats in covetable locales, hole yourself up in some of Victoria’s best. Drift House, Port Fairy T...

Ultimate weekends away in Victoria

A weekend in Victoria offers the chance to indulge in the state’s best bits including fresh country air and heritage charm. Here, the best weekends ...

A photo essay of an iconic Victorian summer

Annette O’Brien showcases the Victorian summer at it's best. Summer in Victoria to me means road trips. I just love a good road trip or a country...

It’s time to return to Mallacoota this summer

There’s never been a better time to escape to East Gippsland’s favourite holiday spot. Sir Isaac Newton may have discovered the fundamental laws ...

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

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.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

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 ($$), Bellbird – Free wi-fi plus breakfast first morning ($$)

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

• 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 ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

• 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

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Traveling BC

Discover the beauty of BC

Disclaimer – This post may contain ads and affiliate links that help keep Travelling BC running. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support! Learn more.

One Day in Victoria, BC: Itinerary & Where to Go in 24 Hours

Spending a day in Victoria, BC, and don’t know what to do? If you only have 24 hours to spend in Victoria and need an itinerary of things to do, we’re here to help!

From its historical buildings and scenic ocean views to the expansive selection of tourist activities and great restaurants, there’s more than enough to do in the beautiful city of Victoria. With so much to see and do in one day, knowing where to start for your Victoria day trip can be a challenge.

Victoria is one of those places that has so much to offer that you can’t fit it all in one day. We’ve been living here for years and still haven’t seen and done everything!

Even so, you’ll be able to see some of the best tourist attractions that Victoria has to offer if you know where to go and what to do. So, what should first-time visitors do when they have limited time in this incredible city?

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Victoria, British Columbia, here’s a suggested itinerary for spending one day in the city. This comprehensive itinerary covers things to do, see, and eat in Victoria – all in the span of one day. You won’t be bored for a minute with this 24-hour Victoria travel guide!

One Day Itinerary for Victoria, BC

There is a lot to see in Victoria and doing it all in one day isn’t always the easiest option. But, this Victoria travel guide will give you an itinerary and the basics on what to do so that you can make the most of your 24 hours.

Our day trip itinerary for Victoria covers the best things to see and do, must-see attractions, places to eat, and where to stay around this beautiful city. We also discuss how to get around Victoria, as well as other travel tips and advice.

This itinerary assumes you’re starting in the morning and have the entire day free. You may have to modify the itinerary if you don’t have a full 24-hours in Victoria. Also, you may need to modify the itinerary depending on your travel style. If you like to take your time sightseeing, you may need to drop an activity or two!

At the end of the article, we’ve also provided a list of alternative things to do and see around Victoria if you don’t like the activities listed in the itinerary. We tried to provide a variety of options so there’s something for everyone.

Now, on to the suggested itinerary for how to spend your time in Victoria!

Eat Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at one of Victoria’s many cafes. You don’t want to be exploring the city hungry!

Victoria has many amazing cafes that are worth checking out. Some of the best breakfast food we’ve ever eaten has been at these Victoria restaurants.

One of the most popular spots in the city for all-day breakfast food is the Blue Fox Cafe . This funky restaurant serves some of the best brunch food in Victoria, from stacks of fluffy pancakes to ten different kinds of eggs benny. There’s usually a line of waiting patrons out the door, so get there early!

Jam Cafe is a breakfast experience that’s worth the wait as well. This all-day breakfast cafe is popular for a reason – you won’t be disappointed with the food here! Choose from egg bennies, veggie bowls, waffles, french toast, pancakes, and more. One of their best dishes is the Charlie Bowl – you should definitely give it a try!

If you want lots of breakfast choices, head over to John’s Place Restaurant on Pandora Avenue. They have a massive menu with all kinds of different breakfast food options, including Belgian waffles, delicious customizable omelettes, and so much more.

For vegans or vegetarians, check out the Fern Cafe and Bakery . It’s a bit outside of downtown Victoria, but they are 100% vegan with plenty of delicious brunch foods and baked goods to try. And, if you need a gluten-friendly spot, try Nourish Kitchen & Cafe near the Inner Harbour.

Tour the Butchart Gardens

Once you’re fueled up and ready to go, it’s time to explore some of Victoria’s top attractions. The first stop is the world-renowned Butchart Gardens near Brentwood Bay. These famous gardens are one of the highlights of Victoria and definitely a must-see spot in southern Vancouver Island.

If you don’t have a vehicle, a Butchart Gardens tour is the best way to get to this must-see attraction. The tour shuttles you from downtown Victoria straight to the gardens and brings you back later in the day. The fee includes entry to the gardens and round-trip bus transportation.

Once you’re there, you can explore the different gardens and admire all of the beautiful flowers and plants. Our favorite spot in this botanical oasis is the Sunken Garden, followed by the incredible Ross Fountain. There are also Rose, Italian, Mediterranean, and Japanese Gardens to explore.

Expect the Butchart Gardens tour to take about 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. You don’t want to rush through because there are lots of things to see!

The amount of time you should budget for this activity will also vary depending on whether you’re driving or taking the Butchart Gardens tour bus . The gardens will take up more time in your day if you’re taking the bus. However, the Butchart Gardens is one of the must-see destinations around Victoria and it’s worth the effort to get there!

Eat Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

When you return to downtown Victoria, you’ll probably be ready for lunch. If you haven’t eaten already, it’s time to head to the colorful Fisherman’s Wharf for a bite to eat. Or, save some time by grabbing food at Butchart Gardens from The Blue Poppy Restaurant , The Dining Room , or their coffee shop.

From downtown Victoria, you can walk or drive to Fisherman’s Wharf. But, if you want to get the most out of your Victoria experience, we recommend taking one of the Victoria Harbour Ferries to the wharf.

These charming water taxis cruise all around the harbor waters. The small ferries link tourist destinations like the Fairmont Empress, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and Old Town.

Jump on one of the harbour ferries near the Empress and enjoy scenic views of Victoria’s Inner Harbour from a unique perspective. The water taxis are pretty cheap so they’re a great way to get around and sight-see!

Fisherman’s Wharf is only a 15-minute walk from downtown Victoria. If you don’t feel like walking, you can drive, cab, or bus. Alternatively, you could use a hop-on hop-off tour bus to get around between tourist destinations.

Once you’re at Fisherman’s Wharf, you have plenty of food kiosk options to choose from. These kiosks aren’t really sit-down restaurants, although there is outdoor seating available.

Barb’s Fish and Chips is a world-famous restaurant serving some of the best fish & chips in Victoria (and probably all of Canada). We definitely recommend giving them a try.

Or, try some of the local fresh seafood at The Fish Store , like salmon, mussels, oysters, and Dungeness crab. You won’t get much fresher seafood than this!

Fisherman’s Wharf is a marine tourist destination that’s worth a visit, but we wouldn’t budget too much time at this spot. In our opinion, Fisherman’s Wharf is only really worth a visit to grab a bite to eat, see the colorful houseboats, or join an eco-tour. Most of the houseboat areas are private access only so be respectful to the homeowners!

Walk along the Breakwater

After lunch, head to the Ogden Point Breakwater for some of the best views of Victoria’s harbor area. Not too far from Fisherman’s Wharf, this short, easy walk is a great way to get some incredible ocean views!

One of the stops on the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing buses in Victoria, the breakwater is a popular tourist destination in James Bay. This 762-meter long walkway takes you far out into the water from Dallas Road. For this reason, we recommend only visiting the Breakwater on calm days, unless you’re ready to be splashed by waves!

Look for seals and river otters swimming beside the Breakwater as you walk. Massive cruise ships dock near the Breakwater at the cruise ship terminal. Floatplanes take off near the end of the walkway and you can also watch boats zooming around the waters. And, if you’re really lucky, you might spot some whales!

The Ogden Point Breakwater is the perfect place for a stroll to help you digest lunch. If you need a pick-me-up, grab a coffee for your walk at the Breakwater Bistro & Bar at the start of the pathway.

Beacon Hill Park

A visit to Victoria isn’t complete without wandering through Beacon Hill Park. This beautiful, 200-acre parkland treasure is located just outside of downtown and is one of the best parks in Victoria.

Beacon Hill Park is brimming with stunning flowers, serene ponds, unique wildlife, and fun events. Best of all, it costs nothing to visit this park!

There are many pathways that wind their way through the gorgeous parkland. You could walk around the park for hours!

Don’t feel like walking? Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of Beacon Hill Park instead! These carriage tours are an excellent way to see the beautiful park. It’s also a lot of fun getting towed around by the horses.

At the top of Beacon Hill, enjoy views of brilliant purple camas flower meadows in the spring. Check out the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole near Dallas Road, then wander through the parkland finding fountains, animals, and abundant flowers.

The beautiful Goodacre Lake is full of ducks and turtles sunning themselves on logs. Search for the nearby Moss Lady , hidden among the trees. Admire the stunning, colorful flowers near Chestnut Row. And for children, there’s even a petting zoo!

In summer, there are weekend events at the Cameron Bandshell in the park. Sit and enjoy free concerts, from jazz to folk music.

After exploring Beacon Hill Park, head back downtown to enjoy Victoria’s core. Depending on what time it is, you can spend some time exploring downtown Victoria or head for dinner.

Check out Thunderbird Park

From Beacon Hill Park, head north along Douglas Street. You’ll pass by the Royal BC Museum on your way. This museum is home to over 200,000 artifacts and specimens, making it one of the largest museums in Canada.

Outside of the Royal BC Museum, you’ll find Thunderbird Park, featuring a collection of impressive totem poles. A walk through Thunderbird Park only takes a few minutes but it is definitely worth stopping for!

Take some time to admire the striking carvings and longhouse of the west coast First Nations peoples. Many of these poles are replicas carved by master carver Mungo Martin, with the originals stored inside the museum.

Victoria is located on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen people, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations. These Coast Salish people have an intimate, long-lasting relationship with the land of southern Vancouver Island.

View the BC Parliament Buildings

Next, head towards the Inner Harbour to get a good look at the BC Parliament Buildings, home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. With 5-acres of waterfront land and historic buildings constructed in 1893, the Parliament Buildings are an impressive sight.

There are self-guided or public tours of the Parliament Buildings if you’re interested. But, you probably won’t have time for one on a day trip.

Instead, enjoy the building’s Romanesque architecture, manicured waterfront grounds, beautiful water fountains, Premier’s rose garden, and statues of founding BC figures.

On the top of the central dome of the Parliament Buildings, you’ll spot Captain George Vancouver, known for exploring the Pacific coast of North America. Both Vancouver and Vancouver Island take their name from this British Royal Navy officer.

Other notable monuments include the Cenotaph memorial to the unknown soldier, Queen Victoria’s statue, the Speaker’s chair, and the Knowledge Totem Pole.

A walk through the BC Parliament grounds won’t take too long. Even if you don’t want to explore the property, it’s worth taking a look at the impressive buildings.

Walk the Harbour Causeway and Government Street

For amazing views of the harbour, cross the street to the Inner Harbour Causeway. This is the pathway that runs alongside the ocean beside Belleville and Government Streets. You can access the causeway via the stairs or ramp near the Bateman Gallery.

Here, you’ll get excellent views of the ocean, marina, and harbour traffic. The causeway is a great place to sit and watch the boats cruise by.

The Inner Harbour Causeway features a “Welcome to Victoria” sign made out of flowers. There are also food kiosks, local vendors, and a lemonade stand.

At the north end of the causeway, you’ll have an excellent spot to watch floatplanes take off from the Victoria Harbour Airport. If you’re interested in experiencing a seaplane flight, book one of the scenic floatplane tours of Victoria that will depart from this marine airport!

If you have time, you can also explore Government Street, the main shopping street in Victoria. This popular road is perfect for browsing unique stores and picking up souvenirs. You’ll find everything from bookstores to art galleries to clothing stores.

Dinner in Downtown Victoria

By now, you’re probably getting hungry again so it’s time for dinner!

Downtown Victoria has plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. Some of the best foods we’ve tasted in BC have come from restaurants in Victoria. There’s a variety of cuisines and restaurants that fit any dietary needs.

One of our favorite places to eat in downtown Victoria is Finn’s Seafood Restaurant . This is one of the best restaurants in Victoria, in our opinion. This brick restaurant sits right beside the water, offering incredible ocean views from the outdoor patios.

Red Fish Blue Fish is a casual seafood restaurant located on the waterfront. The dockside restaurant is known for its tacos, fish and chips, and fish sandwiches. Order your food to go and eat it at one of the bars overlooking the harbour.

Pagliacci’s is a local favorite for Italian food and isn’t too far from Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The eatery has a great selection of pasta dishes, as well as delicious seafood and grilled meats. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal after a busy day of sightseeing.

Lastly, if you want something quick to eat, try ordering something from Tacofino . We think that Tacofino is the best taco restaurant in Victoria. Usually, we order their fish or steak tacos.

The last activity of the day will be whale-watching by boat. If you get seasick easily, you may prefer to eat dinner afterward. Also, try to pick a restaurant that’s near the harbour because it’ll make it easier to get to your wildlife viewing tour.

Sunset Whale Watching Tour

One of our favorite things to do in Victoria is a sunset whale-watching tour . Explore Victoria’s coastline on a luxurious catamaran while searching for whales and enjoying the gorgeous colors of the setting sun. With opportunities to spot orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, and so much more, you won’t be disappointed on these wildlife viewing tours!

The sunset whale watching tour departs from Wharf Street in downtown Victoria and lasts three to four hours. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see whales – they have a 95% success rate! If you don’t spot whales, they’ll send you on a second tour, free of charge.

Perfect for photographers, this wildlife viewing adventure leads to some excellent photo opportunities. There is spectacular lighting for whale photos, no matter what species you see. Also, the beautiful sunset colors look incredible over the islands and serene ocean water.

Overall, this sunset experience is unforgettable and the perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring!

Keep the Night Going?

When you get back from the sunset whale watching tour, you’ll have the choice to head back to the hotel or keep the night going. If you choose the latter option, there are a few things you can do to enjoy Victoria’s nightlife.

• Head to a local pub – Fancy a drink to end the night? There are plenty of pubs and bars that are local favorites near Victoria’s Inner Harbor that you can head to for a nightcap. Try the Bard & Banker with its Scottish style and historic charm. Or, Whistle Buoy Brewing Company is another popular watering hole in downtown Victoria.
• Catch a show – Victoria has plenty of late-night shows. You just have to find them! The Friends of Dorothy Lounge often offers late-night drag shows, karaoke, and other events. The Mint regularly hosts evening variety shows and comedy nights. And, the Irish Times Pub usually has live music in the evenings.
• Stargazing at Cattle Point – One of the most peaceful ways to end a day of exploring in Victoria is to go stargazing. Cattle Point in Uplands Park is a dark sky preserve with incredible starry views over the ocean. Sit outside under the stars or in the warmth of your car, enjoying the beautiful night sky.

Other Things to Do in Victoria in 24 Hours

Looking for something else to do in Victoria other than the activities listed on the one day itinerary? Here are some ideas for other things to do during your day trip to Victoria.

Scenic Floatplane Tour

A breathtaking way to experience all that Victoria has to offer is with a scenic floatplane tour . If you’ve never flown in a seaplane before, it’s a great time to try it!

Harbour Air seaplane tours depart from the Victoria Harbour Airport in the Inner Harbour. You’ll spot the floatplanes all docked at the marina, looking out of place among the boats.

The scenic seaplane tours are spectacular and unforgettable. You take off from the ocean, speeding along the water until the plane picks up enough speed to take flight. Then, soar over the beautiful city, enjoying views of Victoria and southern Vancouver Island.

Guided Food and History Tour

A great way to see and taste all that Victoria has to offer is with a guided food and history tour . You won’t miss any attractions with a local guide showing you around!

This awesome culinary tour takes you to must-see attractions around downtown Victoria. It’s a great way to see some of Victoria’s hidden gems.

On this guided walking tour, you’ll see the impressive Parliament Buildings, walk along the Inner Harbour Causeway, and visit Trounce Alley. You’ll also visit Chinatown to see the famous Fan Tan Alley and the Harmonious Gates of Interest. There are also stops in Bastion and Market Squares, as well as the Victoria Public Market.

Along the way, you’ll get to taste multiple different local foods, while learning about the history of the city. Make sure you’re hungry before you go on this tour!

Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest one in Canada and also the second oldest in all of North America! The neighborhood features brilliant red and gold colors, unique architecture, and an ornate archway marking the entrance.

Here, you’ll also find the hidden gem of Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada. Within the alley, there are a bunch of hidden shops that are fun to browse. This small alley is easy to walk by, so don’t miss it on your adventures!

Government House Gardens

The Government House Gardens are one of the best gardens in Victoria but they aren’t as well known as the famous Butchart Gardens. Even so, these gardens are breathtakingly beautiful.

Overflowing with plant life, the Government House gardens feature a variety of unique gardens and plants. The best part is that entry into the gardens is free!

Head to the Beach

The beaches in Victoria are some of the best in Canada. So, if it’s a nice day, you should head to the beach to get some sun and enjoy the sand!

Many of the beaches in Victoria are rocky and rugged. However, there are a few excellent sandy beaches that are perfect for laying out your beach towel and sunbathing. Willows Beach and Gonzales Beach are two of Victoria’s best sandy beaches .

Unfortunately, the water around Vancouver Island is pretty chilly. While you can brave the cold, most people find the temperature too cold for much more than wading.

Tour Craigdarroch Castle

This Victorian-era castle is a must-see for history buffs. Located not too far from downtown Victoria, Craigdarroch Castle is a magnificent Victorian-era mansion and national historic site.

The extravagant castle was built for Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish-Canadian coal baron, to reflect his wealth and importance. He is recognized as a National Historic Person and his family plays an important role in British Columbia’s history.

Craigdarroch Castle is open for tours from Thursday through Sunday. The tour takes about an hour. You’ll learn all about the castle’s history as well as get to see some of the beautiful rooms and views.

Want to see Craigdarroch Castle but don’t feel like touring it? Try this Castle Bike Tour which takes you from the Inner Harbour to Craigdarroch Castle, with a stop at Beacon Hill Park and the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole.

Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress

After a busy day of sightseeing, relax with afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress . This iconic hotel is located right on Victoria’s Inner Harbour and is known for its afternoon tea service.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy some delicious afternoon tea while taking in the views of Victoria’s harbour. The afternoon tea service includes sandwiches, scones, and pastries served with housemade jam and honey. You’ll be served your choice of premium loose-leaf tea, presented in royal china.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Staying overnight in the city? You’ll want the perfect place to stay for your one-day getaway in Victoria.

There are lots of great places to stay in Victoria, depending on your budget and preferences. Check out these articles for some recommendations:

• Top Oceanfront Vacation Homes in Victoria
• Best Oceanfront Hotels in Victoria
• Best Romantic Getaways in Victoria
• Most Unique and Unusual Hotels in Victoria

Here are some of the top hotels in Victoria to help you find the best place to stay.

Luxury Hotels

• The Fairmont Empress is a luxurious, elegant hotel located right in the heart of downtown Victoria. From this hotel, it’s easy to access all of the best attractions. With an oceanfront location, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the water. Plus, as a national historic site, this hotel is pretty much a tourist attraction on its own.
• The Inn at Laurel Point is another excellent luxury hotel with a convenient location. This waterfront hotel is beside the Victoria harbor and offers stunning ocean and downtown views. There are also oceanfront patios and beautiful gardens!

Mid-Range Hotels

• Strathcona Hotel is a mid-range priced hotel located downtown. It has comfortable, modern rooms. Also, the hotel has plenty of fun things to do, including billiards, darts, and a rooftop sand volleyball court!
• Helm’s Inn is right beside Beacon Hill Park and close to the Inner Harbour. It’s easy to walk from this hotel to downtown attractions. Suites at this hotel have a kitchenette, making it a great choice if you don’t plan on dining out.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Ocean Island Inn is a great choice if you don’t mind hostel-style accommodations. This hostel is centrally located and perfect for travelers looking for budget-friendly rooms. Pick from a variety of room types, from private rooms to dorms.
• Hotel Zed Victoria is a good choice if you need affordable accommodations but don’t want a shared dorm room. This colorful hotel has private, spacious rooms at a low affordable price. They pride themselves on providing a fun, funky atmosphere with plenty of unique amenities.

Getting around Victoria

Cars – You don’t need a vehicle to get around downtown Victoria, but it’s handy if you plan on exploring more of the city. If you’re looking to rent a vehicle for your trip, we recommend booking through RentalCars.com . This site allows you to compare prices between companies to find the most inexpensive rental vehicle for your trip.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours – These double-decker buses take you around Victoria to all the must-see destinations. They pass by the Breakwater, Beacon Hill Park, Craigdarroch Castle, Oak Bay Marina, and more. On nice days, you’ll get the best views from the top of the bus!

Bikes – Victoria is a very bike-friendly city. There are plenty of bike lanes and trails, like the Galloping Goose and Lochside Regional Trails. If you don’t have your own bike, there are lots of rental shops with hourly or daily rates. You can even rent e-bicycles if you don’t want to pedal!

Top Travel Tips & Resources for Victoria, BC

• Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
• Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
• Accommodations – We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
• Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
• Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

Related posts:

• 36 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC
• Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for a Seattle to Victoria Trip
• 12 Best Oceanfront Hotels in Victoria, BC
• 8 Beautiful Gardens around Victoria, BC
• 7 Best Romantic Getaways in Victoria, BC
• 15 Top Oceanfront Vacation Homes in Victoria

Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

25 Gifts For Foragers: The Ultimate Foraging Gift Guide

10 best tofino vacation rentals with hot tubs.

North East Victoria's Specialist Transfer Service

Custom transportation for hiking, festivals, and other events in the High Country. 

Your Guide to the High Country

North East Coachlines are your local guide to the Victorian High Country. With an abundance of wineries, hiking, biking, and festival events, you can explore all our region has to offer in relaxing comfort with the knowledge that your wheels are where you need them. 

Flexible As You Need

Got a special request? We can help. No transfer is too difficult, and with our unique 10 and 46 seater bus options, we can adapt to your needs with ease.

More Fun Time

Relax and leave the tedium of driving to us. Read, listen, learn, and unwind as you focus on the High Country scenery, not the road.

Piece of Mind

Our vehicles have more room, more reliability, and more comfort than conventional transport, so there's more reasons to love your transfer!

We're Locals

We're born and raised and know the High Country like the back of our hand. And being an owner-operator, you're dealing direct with a small business.

Our Transfer Services

Getting you from point A to point B in relaxing comfort. Whether it’s a King Valley wine transfer, airport pickup, or transport for a special occasion, we’re there for you.

Hiking Transfers

Explore the sweeping alpine vistas of the High Plains of Victoria without having to retrace your steps. Forget car shuffles and long waits for public busses. A hiking transfer and shuttle with us will save you priceless time and convenience.

Snow Transfers

Get transported to the heart of Australia's winter wonderland with a comfy coach transfer. Forget snow chains and icy roads. Get there in comfort and a state of restfulness as we get you in amongst the thick of fun in the snow.

King Valley Winery Festival Transfers

From October-April every year, the North East comes alive with festivals and events for all ages. Whether it's a couple, family, or a social event for a club or organisation, our busses can cater to your group's need - all in the comfort you'd expect.

Custom Transport Request

Got a special event you need transport for? A wedding, birthday, or maybe something else? Our busses seat 10 and 46 with the ability to do multiple runs. If it's happening in the North East, we can get you there on-time for a good time.

Trusted by adventurers and holiday-makers since 1990.

Kaitlin bakken.

“Fantastic Wine Tour of the King Valley! Our group of 15 had an amazing time touring the King Valley on a self-planned winery tour. I cannot recommend Dale and Nicky highly enough, they are just wonderful. Very flexible and accommodating.”

We would like to acknowledge the Rural City of Wangaratta who provide funds to assist us in the development of this website.

• 7 Most Picturesque Small Towns to Visit in Victoria

Millions of tourists flock to Victoria each year to explore its vibrant cities and stunning coastal landscapes. While Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road often capture the limelight, Victoria's charm extends far beyond these popular destinations. Nestled in its diverse countryside, Victoria is home to numerous picturesque small towns that offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle.

These gems boast a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're looking to delve into the rich heritage of the gold rush era, unwind in serene spa towns, or savor the local arts scene, these small towns in Victoria provide an enchanting experience that stands apart from the typical tourist trail.

Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s spa country, Daylesford is a haven for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. Famous for its mineral springs, the town boasts an array of wellness retreats and spas that draw visitors from all over the world. The Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa is a must-visit, offering a range of therapeutic treatments set against the backdrop of lush forests and tranquil lakes. The town’s history is palpable, with heritage buildings and charming cottages dotting the landscape, each telling a story of the gold rush era that brought prosperity to the region.

Beyond its wellness offerings, Daylesford is a vibrant arts hub. The Convent Gallery, housed in a 19th-century mansion, showcases works from local and international artists, providing a cultural feast for art enthusiasts. The surrounding gardens offer panoramic views of the town and the verdant countryside. For nature lovers, the nearby Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautifully manicured gardens and a picturesque lookout tower. The combination of wellness, art, and nature makes Daylesford a uniquely picturesque destination in Victoria.

Beechworth, a historic gold rush town, is a living museum of 19th-century Australia. The well-preserved streets are lined with honey-colored granite buildings that house boutique shops, cafes, and museums. Walking down Ford Street feels like stepping back in time, with the Beechworth Historic and Cultural Precinct offering an immersive experience into the town’s rich past. Sites like the Beechworth Gaol and the Courthouse are fascinating for history buffs, providing insights into the life and times of infamous figures like Ned Kelly.

The town is also renowned for its culinary delights, with the Beechworth Bakery and the award-winning Beechworth Honey Experience drawing food lovers. The surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards and olive groves, and the local wineries offer tastings that highlight the region's unique terroir. The annual Beechworth Harvest Celebration is a testament to the town’s agricultural heritage, bringing together local producers and visitors in a vibrant festival of food, wine, and music. The blend of history, culture, and gastronomy makes Beechworth a picturesque gem in Victoria.

Bright, located in the alpine region of Victoria, is a town that dazzles with natural beauty in every season. In autumn, the town is ablaze with the vibrant colors of falling leaves, creating a picturesque setting that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike. The Ovens River runs through Bright, offering idyllic spots for picnicking, fishing, and leisurely walks along its banks. The Canyon Walk provides stunning views of the river and its surrounds, with interpretive signs detailing the area's gold mining history.

In winter, Bright serves as a gateway to the ski resorts of Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, making it a perfect base for winter sports enthusiasts. The town itself transforms into a cozy retreat with its boutique accommodations, gourmet restaurants, and charming cafes. Bright Brewery, set on the riverbank, is a popular spot for craft beer lovers, offering locally brewed beers and a relaxed atmosphere. The town’s vibrant community and natural beauty make it a picturesque destination year-round.

Port Fairy, located on the Great Ocean Road, is a coastal gem that blends historic charm with stunning seascapes. The town’s maritime heritage is evident in its well-preserved 19th-century cottages, wharves, and churches. Griffiths Island, connected to the town by a causeway, is home to a historic lighthouse and a colony of shearwaters, offering visitors a scenic walk with spectacular ocean views. The annual Port Fairy Folk Festival draws musicians and visitors from around the world, transforming the town into a lively hub of music and culture.

Port Fairy’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic precincts. The rugged coastline offers pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs, perfect for coastal walks and wildlife spotting. The Moyne River, which flows through the town, is ideal for boating and fishing, with its calm waters reflecting the picturesque surroundings. Local seafood is a highlight, with restaurants serving fresh catches straight from the ocean. The combination of history, natural beauty, and vibrant community events makes Port Fairy a must-visit picturesque town in Victoria.

Maldon, often referred to as Australia’s first notable town, is a beautifully preserved snapshot of the Victorian gold rush era. Declared a 'notable town' by the National Trust in 1966, Maldon’s streets are a living museum, with its historic buildings, shopfronts, and homes meticulously maintained. The Maldon Railway Station is a highlight, offering steam train rides through the scenic countryside, providing a nostalgic experience that attracts visitors of all ages.

The town is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing the works of local artists. The Maldon Folk Festival is a major event, celebrating music, dance, and the arts in a festive atmosphere. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Mount Tarrengower, which offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape. The combination of history, arts, and natural beauty makes Maldon a picturesque and culturally rich destination.

Yackandandah

Yackandandah, affectionately known as ‘Yack,’ is a charming town that captures the essence of rural Victoria. The town’s historic streetscape, with its heritage-listed buildings and tree-lined avenues, creates a picturesque setting that feels both timeless and welcoming. The Yackandandah Museum offers insights into the town’s gold mining history, while the Yackandandah Gold Panning area allows visitors to try their luck at finding a nugget or two.

The town is also a hub for artists and musicians, with regular markets, galleries, and live music events. The Yackandandah Folk Festival is a highlight, bringing together local and international performers in a celebration of music and community spirit. The surrounding hills and forests offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from bushwalking and cycling to birdwatching and picnicking. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Yackandandah a truly picturesque town.

Kyneton, located in the Macedon Ranges, is a town where history and contemporary culture blend seamlessly. Piper Street, the town’s main thoroughfare, is lined with beautifully restored 19th-century buildings housing boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Kyneton Museum, set in a historic bluestone building, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. The nearby Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil retreat with their well-kept lawns, heritage trees, and a charming river walk.

Kyneton is also known for its vibrant food and wine scene. The town’s proximity to the Macedon Ranges wine region means there are plenty of wineries to explore, offering tastings and cellar door experiences. The annual Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival is a major draw, celebrating the arrival of spring with a burst of color, art exhibitions, and community events. The combination of historic charm, natural beauty, and culinary delights makes Kyneton a picturesque destination in Victoria.

The Takeaway

Victoria’s small towns offer a delightful contrast to the bustling city life, each providing a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the therapeutic springs of Daylesford to the alpine allure of Bright, these towns are perfect destinations for those seeking to explore the picturesque heart of Victoria. Whether you’re drawn by the historic charm of Maldon or the coastal beauty of Port Fairy, these seven towns promise unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas that capture the essence of regional Victoria.

More in Places

These 10 Towns in Connecticut Have Beautiful Architecture

7 Towns In New Hampshire With The Best Downtown Areas In 2024

10 Largest Cities In Asia

7 Loveliest Small Towns to Visit in Illinois This Summer

7 Budget-Friendly Towns in Maryland for Retirees

8 Ideal Idaho Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024

12 of the Most Charming Towns in New York

8 Friendliest Towns to Visit in Rhode Island in 2024