Phillip Island

Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations. Not only is it home to the cutest colony of penguins at the Penguin Parade, it also has a Koala Conservation Reserve, A Maze’n Things, amazing beaches and so much more. Under 2 hours from the CBD by car, it is a great destination to holiday with the family or even as a fun day trip with friends.

Wilsons Promontory

Known as one of the most beautiful places in Victoria, if you haven’t seen the magnificent beaches and parkland for yourself, you are missing out. Roughly 2.5 hours’ drive away from Melbourne CBD, the Wilsons Promontory national park is home to the famous Squeaky Beach, Whisky Bay & Norman Beach, Mount Oberon summit, unique wildlife and views for days. You can camp, glamp, caravan and book great accommodation – perfect for all types of travellers.

Bendigo

If you want to experience Victorian heritage, period architecture, gorgeous national parks, museums, art galleries, and even a goldmine in under 2 hours from the CBD, then Bendigo is a great town to visit. You can also indulge in some excellent food and gorgeous boutiques that feature beautiful antiques and unique modern-day treasures. Head to Bendigo Region to learn more about the area and what attractions, restaurants, family activities and parks you can visit.

The Great Ocean Road

Not one destination in itself, but most definitely a trip Victorians must do in their lifetime. There is so much beauty to see driving down this scenic road, and lots of amazing towns and attractions to enjoy along the way. Torquay, Lorne, Cape Otway, Princetown, Port Campbell and other gorgeous suburbs offer great family activities and photo opportunities, ranging from the Great Otway National Park and zip lining, the Twelve Apostles, walking trails and even surfing at the famous Bells Beach.

Yarra Valley

If a winery sounds like heaven, then the Yarra Valley is your haven. An endless array of cellar doors for tastings to visit, delicious produce to tuck into and pick yourself, hot air ballooning, and of course, luxury accommodation. The perfect destination for a romantic getaway, with plenty of activities the whole family would enjoy too, like visiting Healesville Sanctuary or the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Cream.

Grampians National Park

Love camping, hiking, spending time outdoors and enjoy looking at some pretty spectacular scenery? Then the Grampians is the place to go! You can go camping, caravanning or glamping, visit the Halls Gap Zoo, popular waterfalls like Mackenzie Falls, guided tours, cycling shopping, amazing food & wine and so many trails that they have narrowed them down to a top 10. So much adventure to be had!

Mornington Peninsula

There is so much to see and do down in the Mornington Peninsula, just 1 hour away from Melbourne CBD. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the area, including shopping along the beautiful main streets, craft and produce markets, amazing eateries and hotels, golf courses, marine activities, and of course, the luxurious beaches. Drive right down from Mornington through to Rye, Sorrento, Portsea to admire the beach views, gorgeous towns, and popular spa destinations like the Peninsula Hot Springs, or head inland to Red Hill for amazing wineries like Montalto, and Arthurs Seat for kids activities like the Enchanted Adventure Gardens. The perfect destination for everyone to enjoy.

Ballarat

Not only home to our Buxton Ballarat office, but a fantastic spot to enjoy a weekend away roughly 1.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne CBD. You can try your luck at panning for gold at Sovereign Hill – a place that makes the history of the gold rush fun for the whole family, dig into delicious food at the amazing eateries, walk through the gorgeous gardens by Lake Wendouree, or even head down to Kryal Castle, Australia’s only medieval adventure park. 

While you’re in the area, we also recommend you visit Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. Super luxurious destinations to stop at for dinner, indulge in different spa treatments, view beautiful scenery and so much more.

The Murray

Like The Great Ocean Road, The Murray comprises of numerous towns and tourist spots that can be found along the glorious Murry River dividing Victoria and New South Wales. Yarrawonga, Echuca, Swan Hill, and Mildura are all popular destinations you can stop off as you road trip from one end across to the other. Along the river you can participate in water sports like canoeing and kayaking, and you can even hop aboard the historic Murray River paddle steamer. The Murray also features beautiful art galleries, parks, hiking trails and towns to eat, shop and soak up some local heritage. It would be perfect for those who like to camp, caravan or prefer to stop off at charming accommodation sites so you can take your time and soak up as much adventure as possible.

Mallacoota

Cool ocean breezes, strolls on the beach, fishing, camping, canoeing, surfing, scuba diving, golfing – sounds like a dream. Mallacoota may be over 6 hours away from the Melbourne CBD by car, but this pretty costal town is a must-see destination. Known for its unspoilt coasts and national parks, it is recommended you also see Gipsy Point and the Croajingolong National Park during your visit.