From alpine peaks to long stretches of rugged coastline, to a culture-packed city that never stops. No trip to Victoria is complete without these bucket list destinations!
Melbourne
Melbourne is your ultimate city fix in Victoria. The arty Victorian capital is richly packed with culture, and you certainly won’t be short on things to do here.
Its varying weather seems to swing through hues of cloudy grey with the occasional sunny spell; Melbournians have adopted the slogan that the city has ‘four seasons in a day.’ (everyone swears by layering up). But where the skies might be slate grey, Melbourne’s character is nothing short of colourful and vibrant.
Heaven for foodies and caffeine enthusiasts alike, no two eateries are made the same in Melbourne.
With hipster cafes, cool laneways splattered with trendy street art, and breathable green spaces, Melbourne grasps the concept of ‘cool’.
It’s a city that has many faces, and it is undoubtedly a conveyor belt of culture. You could be sipping on a flat white in the hipster suburb of Fitzroy, or you could be clinking a spritz on a South Yarra rooftop bar. It’s a well-rounded city that has something for everyone. Integrated with sporting events, Melbourne is also a hub for sport. It’s the home of cricket, Formula One, tennis and footy.
The city embraces art and events with open arms, putting on a show or exhibition any night of the week. There’s no room to get bored in Melbourne.
Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles
The Great Ocean Road is another must-do! Starting from Melbourne or Torquay and ending in Warrnambool or Apollo Bay, take a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road for a good look at Southwest Victoria’s windswept coastline.
Key stops include Bells Beach, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay, 12 Apostles, Cape Otway, Loch Ard Gorge and Warrnambool.
Start in the surfy town of Torquay, and check out Bells Beach. Head to Aireys Inlet for some lighthouse-infused views, and scan the Southern Ocean for dolphins or whales.
Lorne is a relaxed beach town, and Victorians often label it as the Byron Bay of Melbourne. And only a 15-minute drive inland, you’ll get to Erskine Falls. Break up the travels with a sweet stop-off, and check out the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery!
Then head to Apollo Bay and Cape Otway. Make sure you check out the koalas near Cape Otway Lighthouse for a dose of Aussie wildlife in their natural habitat.
Then head from Cape Otway to Port Campbell and take a look at the Twelve Apostles.
Wilson’s Prom
A three-hour drive from Melbourne, Wilson’s prom is worth the visit. It’s without a doubt one of the most scenic hiking spots in Victoria – and you’ll feel like you’re at the end of the world.
It’s the Southernmost tip of Victoria, but the land originally formed a sand bridging path to Tasmania. People were once able to trek the whole stretch to Tasmania!
The Brataulaung clan of the Gunai and Kurnai nations are the traditional custodians of this area.
Known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches and untouched landscapes, Wilson’s Prom offers a slice of the peaceful blended with adventure. With over 80km of walking tracks in the area, there’s plenty of room for your legs to wander. With lots of adventure potential around the area, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Hike up to Mt Oberon for some gorgeous views of the changing, cabbage-shaped landscape that offers views of secluded inlets. Drink in the tidal river views from the top of Oberon and scale the pretty array of islands scattered around the vista. Dress for windy weather!
For a nice easy walk, check out the Lilly Pilly circuit nature walk through the rainforest.
Mt Buller
Whether you’re a skier or snowboarder, or you just fancy a good hike in the crisp alpine conditions, head to Mount Buller.
Visit Mt Buller in the snowier months if you’re after some white wintery views.
There are lots of pretty restaurants and cabins in the area which offer a cosy refuge after a cold hike. July to August is going to be cold, so the snowfall is guaranteed! Pretty snowcapped mountains in the area offer slopes for all abilities – or simply wander out for a winter hike along the ridges. Or if you’re more keen to relax, check out a cosy mountain lodge and sip on something warm.