After you’ve explored Melbourne’s laneways and characterful suburbs, take a trip out of town to these stunning destinations in regional Victoria.

Memorial Arch on the Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles

Head west from Melbourne to travel along this scenic drive that hugs the Victorian coast from Torquay to Warrnambool. There is a myriad of places to stop along the way, from quaint coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, to spectacular ocean lookouts and the lush Otway Rainforest. At the far end of the drive stand the iconic 12 Apostles, impressive limestone stacks jutting out of the water and withstanding the constant battering of the Southern Ocean.

Phillip Island

A short two-hour drive from Melbourne sits Phillip Island, a picturesque day trip perfect for nature and wildlife lovers. Exploring the island, you can observe koalas lazing in tall eucalypts at the Koala Conservation Centre, taste the delicious local produce at farm gates, wineries and breweries, and admire stunning coastal scenery at lookouts like The Nobbies. But the main drawcard of the island is the Penguin Parade, where you observe the colony of Little Penguins make their way ashore after a day of feeding at sea.

Yarra Valley

Wine and food lovers won’t want to miss a day out in the Yarra Valley, where some of Victoria’s best wineries, breweries and distilleries are nestled between rolling hills and towering eucalypt forests. Taste your way around well-known cellar doors including Domaine Chandon and lesser known boutique wineries such as Killara Estate. If you like things a little stronger, make a stop at the Four Pillars Distillery to sample their delicious specialty gins.

Mornington Peninsula

Another day trip for the foodies is the Mornington Peninsula, where you can pair your local pinot noir with stunning seaside views. The area is chockers full of celebrated wineries, famed for crisp chardonnays and fruity pinot noirs, and restaurants that utilise fresh local ingredients. Top local picks include T’Gallant Vineyard and Peringa Estate.

The Grampians

For travellers who enjoy hiking and nature trails, the Grampians offers a perfect day trip opportunity to explore Australian bushland. With plenty of walk trails snaking through the region, trekkers can appreciate the peaceful scenery and amazing lookouts the area is famed for. You have a good chance of spotting some of Australia’s beloved wildlife here, especially kangaroos and wallabies. Be sure to make a stop at MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls that flows all year round.

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This post was originally posted on https://lastminutedaytoursaustralia.wordpress.com/2020/04/03/best-day-trips-from-melbourne/

Tahlia Goulding

Tahlia Goulding

Tahlia Goulding is an experienced travel blogger based in Sydney. Tahlia is the owner at Hobart Cabins & Cottages.