Cultural Melbourne
The capital of Victoria and Australia’s second-largest metropolis is a city of style, of Victorian architecture, trams, fashion, food, theatres, art galleries, and leafy gardens. The city offers easy access to the Victorian Alps and the Grampians, and fabulous coastal scenery. It’s not far either to desert plateaus, fertile river valleys, vineyards, historic goldfield country, and untouched rain forests.
Great Ocean Road
One of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road winds along beside quiet bays, pounding surf beaches, tranquil rain forests, caves, gorges and blowholes, and starkly beautiful columns of rock set in the ocean. Stretching for some 106 kilometres, the route also takes in historic shipwreck sites and plenty of wildlife.
Phillip Island and Gippsland
Fairy penguins, koalas, Australian fur seals, migrating birds, diving, and spectacular coastal cliffs are just some of the reasons to visit Phillip Island, an easy day trip from Melbourne. The Gippsland region is a natural wonderland of lakes, forest, dramatic coastline, historic townships and gourmet food.
Yarra Valley & The Dandenongs
Just under an hour from Melbourne are the rolling hills and vineyards of the Yarra Valley, popular for cellar-door tastings, good food and peaceful scenery. Visit the Dandenong Ranges for a steam-train ride through forests and fern gullies, or browse antique shops, cool-climate gardens, craft shops and tea houses.
For further information visit www.visitvictoria.com