Looking for an excuse to escape the grey of the city? Refill your batteries and reconnect with nature by taking a day trip from Melbourne. In just a few hours, you could be exploring Victoria’s most beautiful national parks in all their glory. Drive along the stunning coast or enjoy new flavours at one of the state’s charming small-town restaurants.
Here are 6 Melbourne day trips we’re sure you’ll absolutely love.
Mornington Peninsula
The beautiful Mornington Peninsula is only a 90-minute drive south of the CBD. With its fair share of local wineries, busy bayside villages and numerous walks along the coastline, it’s a favourite day trip among Melburnians.
The region is home to countless wineries and cellar doors, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to experience some of the region’s specialties up close. Spend the day touring the vineyards. Then, head to the golden shores of Port Phillip Bay to watch the sun come down.
If you’re more of the adventurous type, you’ll definitely enjoy the location. Offering breathtaking coastal views and wildlife spotting by walking through the Mornington Peninsula National Park. For a journey through history, take the short Bushrangers Bay Trail from Cape Schanck Lighthouse. If you’re up for the challenge, you may want to give the 100-kilometre Mornington Peninsula Walk a try.
Add a little bit of luxury to your visit by heading over to the Peninsular Hot Springs and rejuvenate your soul in natural, pure thermal waters. Spend an afternoon warming tired muscles and aching joints in private baths and pools of warm, mineral-rich H20 in truly idyllic settings. This award-winning bath house and spa features a Turkish steam bath, cave pools, mineral showers and a range of indulgent spa treatments to name a few. From social bathing with truly spectacular views to couples treatments and more, it’s the perfect place for enjoying a little ‘me time’ that will leave you glowing from head to toe.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road spans 400 kilometres, taking visitors on a spectacular journey through steep cliffs. Including breathtaking beaches and local wildlife. Make frequent stops to visit the picturesque beachside villages and soak up the stunning clifftop views.
Experience the thundering waterfalls and abundant wildlife at Great Otway National Park. Walk the numerous trails through the thick rainforest. Or, get your adrenaline kick by zipping through the leafy treetops.
But it’s not just about the views. The region is also rich in history. Learn more about Aboriginal history and culture by visiting the Brambuk Centre in Halls Gap. Grampians National Park is home to some of the oldest rock art sites in the country, dating back 22,000 years.
Lorne
If you’re driving the full 400 kilometres from Warrnambool to Torquay, you’ll soon reach the beautiful seaside town of Lorne. Lorne’s fresh air and white beaches have been attracting holidaymakers for the longest time. Stop at the patrolled Lorne surf beach and take a stroll up to Shelly Beach to explore the rock pools.
If you’re big on fishing, you can cast a line for trevally and barracuda at the Lorne Pier. And if you make your way here between May and September, you may want to keep an eye out for migrating whales. Lorne offers some of the best whale-watching spots along the Great Ocean Road.
The town of Lorne is also home to the Lorne Festival of Performing arts and the famous Falls Music and Arts Festival. Pop into Qdos Arts and discover a range of changing exhibits. Or, visit in March for the annual Lorne Sculpture Biennale and admire beautiful works of art exhibited along the foreshore.
Dandenong Ranges
With their lush green forests and fern glades, the Dandenong Ranges is the beating heart of Melbourne. From the city, it only takes about an hour to get here via the M1 freeway.
If you’re travelling in autumn, you would definitely want to stop by one of the cool climate gardens along the way. Wander amid azaleas, camellias and daffodils in the National Rhododendron Gardens. Also, take in stunning lake views at the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens.
The region is also home to the famous Puffing Billy steam train. Billy travels through thick ash forests and beautiful farmland, stopping at historic railway stations in between. There’s plenty of fun to be had, especially if you book first-class. Enjoy sumptuous lunch/dinner in one of the train’s fully-enclosed carriages.
During fruit-picking season, you can also bring your own basket and collect fruit from the local farms and orchards.
Phillip Island
Who doesn’t love penguins? Phillip Island is where incredible Australian wildlife and stunning landscapes meet. Only a 90-minute drive from the city. Watch the famous Penguin Parade and see koalas up close in their natural habitat by visiting the Koala Conservation Centre.
With over 32,000 cute penguins living on the island, you’re bound to spot a few, even if you don’t attend the Penguin Parade. And, although the adorable penguins and koalas are what the island’s known for, its waters are also home to many whales, seal and dolphin species. Explore the area’s marine wildlife by boarding a cruise ship for an unforgettable trip around the island.
If you’re interested in Aboriginal history, you wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the Phillip Island Historical Society Museum. While you’re at it, why not drive to see the historical buildings and gardens at Churchill Island Heritage Farm?
Yarra Valley
It’s hard to believe that the stunning Yarra Valley is only an hour from the city. Home to some of the state’s most famous vineyards and restaurants, the Yarra Valley is Victoria’s oldest wine region, dating all the way back to 1838.
Taste the region’s world-renowned chardonnay and pinot noir and learn all about the process of winemaking by booking a full-day winery tour. Soar to the skies on a hot air balloon and watch the valley from above, across rolling hills and corridors of vines.
Explore Victoria at Your Own Pace
There are so many things to see and do around Melbourne. The best way to experience Victoria is to find accommodation at the centre of it all. Crowne Plaza Melbourne is conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne city. Its central location positions it near the city sights while also providing visitors with easy access to the best day trips.
Visit more places at your own pace by making a weekend out of it. Experience ultimate comfort and convenience with premium accommodation in Melbourne CBD. Book your private luxury hotel room today!
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