Road trips in Victoria, Australia, are a fun way to discover the cultural state’s lesser-known sights and experiences. Whether you plan a trip with friends, family, or solo, a road trip through Victoria is an easy and flexible way to travel.
Victoria is only 227,000 km in dimension, which is quite small compared to the other Australian states. What Victoria lacks in size, it makes up for with arts and music culture, incredible coffee, beautiful coastlines, and diverse seasons.
From the surf culture in Torquay to the Yarra Valley wineries, there is something for everyone in Victoria. The diversity of this southern part of Australia is evident when travelling through the country areas, seaside towns, suburban sprawl, and city laneways.
Here are my top five Victoria road trip options to assist you in planning the best road trip yet!
1) Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous road trips in Australia due to the scenic, cliff-edge road that follows alongside the beautiful, rugged beaches.
It takes less than 1.5 hours from Melbourne to reach the beginning of the Great Ocean Road at Torquay, the surf capital of Victoria.
The Great Ocean Road is 243 km long and spans from Torquay to Allansford, which is 1.5 km from the large coastal town of Warrnambool.
The gorgeous scenery and many hotspots make the Great Ocean Road popular with road trippers. The main towns are surprisingly undeveloped, with no high-rise buildings taking up space. The larger towns of Lorne, Apollo Bay, sought-after camping spots like Johanna, Wye River, and Kennet River, and popular holiday towns of Aireys Inlet and Port Campbell all have beachside appeal, mostly good surf conditions, and great food and drink options.
You can drive the Great Ocean Road in a single day, taking up to 4 hours without stops. Alternatively, you can stay at as many locations as you like. If you are interested in the scenery, swimming, or surfing, there are countless beaches to choose from, including busy bays and wide-open stretches of empty beach.
If you prefer waterfalls and forests or are keen to visit the small towns and enjoy the food and drinks along the way, there are also plenty of hiking opportunities or places to take in the stunning view.
Whatever your preference, there is something for every road trip along the Great Ocean Road. There are countless places to discover on the Great Ocean Road, from viewing points to camping grounds.
Recommended Stops On The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
- Torquay – Begin in Torquay to learn the history of surf culture by visiting the famous Bells Beach or one of the surf exhibitions and outlet stores, including Rip Curl and Billabong. There are plenty of places to grab a coffee or meal in Torquay. On a recent visit, I chose Doc Hughes, halfway along the Torquay esplanade – a busy brunch restaurant with good coffee and beautiful scenery.
- Anglesea – A sweet fishing town with swimming beaches and local shops. It is an ideal stop for forgotten groceries, coffee, or fuel and the beginning of your road trip.
- Aireys Inlet – A great place for a family holiday. Still not too far from Melbourne (1 hour, 40 minutes) and a long stretch of beach to wander along or have some quiet time, even in peak seasons. The Aireys Pub offers great food and a spectacular view. It is popular during summer but is always worth a food or drink stop.
- Lorne – A popular town with affluent and sought-after housing and land. The pretty bay is easy to access and busy with families and surfers. The nearby waterfalls are also well known in this area, drawing tourists to the rainforest at the back of Lorne. There are plenty of accommodation options in Lorne from hotels, Airbnb, and camping.
- Wye River – A lovely small town. A great place to stay overnight or for a few days on a road trip. The campgrounds here are popular in peak seasons. The Wye River Beachfront Campground is a beautiful place to camp, right on the river, as it meets the sea. Please note that this park gets booked out early in peak seasons.
- Apollo Bay – Located halfway along the Great Ocean Road, close to the Otway ranges. The beachside town is also popular with families on summer holidays, with plenty of accommodation and dining options. In the Otway ranges, there are also waterfalls, including the well-known Triplet Falls.
- Gibson Steps – With a stunning view from the top of the 86 steps down to the beach. Take the steps down from the high cliffs (70 Meters), wander the beautiful bay and take in the view of the huge rock formations.
- 12 Apostles – The most well-known limestone rock stack along the Great Ocean Road, jutting into the sky at 45 meters high. This spot is very popular with tourists and road-trippers. It is free to visit the 12 Apostles, and it is well worth the visit.
- Loch Arch Gorge – Located in a beautiful small bay and is another stop worth taking on the Great Ocean Road road trip. It is only a few minutes farther along from the 12 Apostles, another famous rock formation in this area.
- Port Campbell – A small, interesting beachside town, perfect for staying overnight or longer. With the nearby attractions of the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge, as well as the picturesque bay and shopping strip, you will have plenty to do in Port Campbell, as well as soaking up the local atmosphere and rugged cliff-lined ocean. There is a selection of accommodation options, from hotels to camping or Airbnb. The Port Campbell Hotel is modern with a historic feel, with well-priced rooms available.
- London Bridge – A bridge-shaped Limestone rock formation not far past Port Campbell. Another famous and picturesque tourist spot, which is also one to add to your list if you plan on spending some time along this part of the Great Ocean Road.
- The Grotto – The last main attraction on The Great Ocean Road in this section of stunning coastline. It is a sinkhole rock formation with winding steps down to the beach for the best viewing. The Great Ocean Road ends just before Warrnambool in a town called Allansford. This very small town has a pub, milk bar, and bakery. Warrnambool is 1.5km farther along and is a large town known for its main shops, accommodation, dining options and whale watching.
Best Places To Stay On The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
- Torquay Hotel Motel – Located on the Strip in Torquay, this hotel is conveniently close to the beach, Point Addis Marine National Park, and Coogoorah Park.
- Great Ocean Road Resort – This beach aparthotel has a full-service spa, a conference centre and a tennis court. The hotel has rooms which can accommodate between one and four people.
- Aireys Inlet Getaway Resort – Located in Aireys Inlet, this resort is within walking distance of the Split Point Lighthouse. The resort offers a variety of accommodation types, including three-bedroom villas, studios, and two-bedroom villas that can sleep up to seven people.
- Apollo Bay Motel and Apartments – This upscale hotel is located in Apollo Bay, close to the Great Ocean Road Waterfront, Apollo Bay Golf Club and Apollo Bay Harbour.
- Anchors Port Campbell – This luxury hotel in Port Campbell is close to the beach, the Twelve Apostles and Port Campbell National Park.
2) Daylesford And Macedon Ranges
Daylesford and Macedon Ranges are only a one to two-hour drive from Melbourne, depending on how much of these areas you wish to discover. These towns can be visited in a day or via a longer road trip, visiting natural springs, heritage buildings, and art galleries.
The whole area consists of the main towns of Macedon, Mount Macedon, Woodend, Kyneton, Hepburn, and Daylesford.
This natural springs hub is popular among daytrippers and road trippers. Mount Macedon is a beautiful place to visit, especially in Autumn and Spring, with affluent mansions, gardens, and afternoon specialty tea stops.
Recommended Stops In The Daylesford And Macedon Ranges
- Macedon – A small town at the bottom of the Macedon Ranges. It has a few shops and dining options. Similar to the surrounding areas of Mount Macedon and Woodend, Macedon has some beautiful heritage houses and gardens.
- Mount Macedon – A mountain also known for its affluent properties and beautiful gardens. The famous Hanging Rock is located at Mount Macedon. Hanging Rock has an interesting history and is now a place for outdoor music concerts and events.
- Woodend – At the base of Mount Macedon and is the perfect place for a fuel stop or visit to the local bakery. There are plenty of coffee shops, gift stores and places for lunch at Woodend.
- Kyneton – Located not far from Mount Macedon and is also known for its heritage buildings and arts community. The food and wine here are a drawcard and there are plenty of hikes to take or art exhibitions to visit to discover this small town.
- Hepburn – Known for the famous Hepburn Springs, the natural water springs. You can visit the Hepburn bath house to fully immerse yourself in the springs or hike past the mineral springs and fill up your water bottles. Stay in Hepburn to experience the arts community or rejuvenating past times like massages, hydrotherapy, or wellness retreats.
- Daylesford – Located next to Hepburn, is also known for its art community and health and wellness focus. Daylesford also has natural springs and opportunities for massages and health and wellness. Visit one of the art galleries or dine at one of the top-quality lunch spots.
Best Places To Stay In The Daylesford And Macedon Ranges
- Hotel Frangos – This luxury Daylesford hotel has individually furnished rooms with premium comforts and and on-site local cuisine café.
- Hepburn Springs Motor Inn – Located in Hepburn Springs, this hotel is located close to the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve and Lake Daylesford.
- Hotel Bellinzona Daylesford – This luxury spa hotel has a choice of rooms with one or two king beds sleeping between one and four people.
- Macedon Ranges Hotel and Spa – Close to Mount Macedon, the Hanging Rock Reserve, and the Mount Macedon Winery, this hotel provides an excellent starting point for exploring the local area and nearby attractions.
3) Wilsons Promontory
Wilsons Promontory National Park is at the southern tip of Victoria, the most southerly place on mainland Australia. The breathtaking views and pristine beaches draw road trippers to this area in increasing numbers each year.
A road trip to this part of South Gippsland takes 3 hours from Melbourne CBD.
On your way to Wilsons Promontory, you can stop in South Gippsland at the popular towns Meeniyan, Foster, Fish Creek, Waratah Bay, Sandy Point, and Walkerville. This area has some great food and wine options, as well as arts and music events in the area.
Once you reach the main camping ground at Tidal River, Wilson’s Promontory, you can choose from stunning beaches and nature walks.
Recommended Stops In The Wilsons Promontory National Park
- Meeniyan – A fun little town with an arts focus and renowned dining options, like Trulli Restaurant.
- Fish Creek – A small town with a close-knit community and is known for the Alison Lester Book Shop and iconic Fish Creek Hotel an Art Deco-designed pub with delicious meals.
- Walkerville – A small beachside town with beautiful beaches and large holiday homes to rent. Walkerville is a quieter option for group or family travel.
Best Places To Stay Near Wilsons Promontory National Park
- Forest Nook Tiny House – Located in Buffalo, Victoria, this unique tiny house can accommodate two people in one bedroom. The house also features one bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen.
- Sandy Point Beach Escape – Located in Sandy Point, this hotel offers several apartment options, including one and two-bedroom apartments.
- Wamoon Estate – This one-bedroom home features a spacious outdoor area and boasts stunning views. It is conveniently located within walking distance of the Yanakie Flora Reserve and just a ten-minute drive from Wilsons Promontory National Park and Shallow Inlet.
- Luxe Studio – This one-bedroom home is just a two-minute walk from the Inverloch Coastal Reserve and comfortably sleeps two people.
4) Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is Victoria’s well-known wine region, perfect for a day trip or a longer road trip.
The Yarra Valley begins a 30-minute drive from Melbourne, consisting of over eighty vineyards in Yarra Glen, Coldstream, Seville, Healesville, and Lilydale.
This area is famous for its cool-climate wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, and many Sparkling wines.
Begin at one of the main wineries, like Rochford Wines or my personal favourite, Domaine Chandon, and build your own road trip from there. There are accommodation options through Booking.com if you wish to stay in the Yarra Valley area.
Recommended Stops In Yarra Valley, Victoria
- Yarra Valley Dairy – Perfect for a brunch or coffee stop or to stock up on cheese. Taste their delicious selection and collect some for your journey.
- Rochford Wines – Taste cool-climate wines at this large winery, which hosts large music events, wine tastings, and lunch.
- Domaine Chandon – Located in the Yarra Valley, is my personal favourite. The stunning views, sparkling wines, and outstanding restaurants should not be missed on a road trip in the Yarra Valley.
- Yering Station – A family-owned cool-climate winery and another top-rated vineyard to visit in the Yarra Valley. It offers delicious food and wine tasting in a grand historic building.
Best Places To Stay In Yarra Valley
- Chateau Yering Hotel – Located in Yering, this hotel is a short walk from a local winery, the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Alowyn Gardens.
- RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort – This luxury hotel offers guests the use of an 18-hole golf course and an onsite spa. There are also two restaurants on the property and an indoor swimming pool.
- Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley – A luxury spa hotel situated just a short stroll from Yarrawood Winery. The hotel offers a range of accommodations, including one-bedroom suites, two-bedroom suites, and studios.
- Yering Gorge Cottages – Located near The Eastern Golf Club and Yering Station Winery in Yering, the hotel offers a variety of cottages, including four-bedroom cottages for eight guests, as well as one-bedroom and two-bedroom cottages.
5) Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula begins at Mount Eliza, a 45-minute drive southeast on the bay side from Melbourne.
Stretching down to Portsea and covering the beachside towns of Dromana, Rosebud, Rye, and Sorrento, among others, this road trip could also be done in a day or over a longer period of time.
The Mornington Peninsula is particularly known for its beaches and bayside charm. While it’s busy in the summer, the cooler days also draw visitors to the wineries, breweries, walks, shopping, and beautiful scenery.
Recommended Stops In Mornington Peninsula
- Mornington – A busy town with a beach atmosphere. It is perfect for last-minute snacks or fuel before driving down the peninsula.
- Mount Martha – A safe and relatively quiet beachside town at the beginning of the Mornington Peninsula.
- Rosebud – Rosebud is busy during the summer and has a popular campground along the beach. The calm bay is ideal for young families, and nearby shopping options are also available.
- Rye – A popular with holidayers as well as surfers to Rye Back Beach, which has some of the biggest waves in the area.
- Blairgowrie – Located just past Rye and has a great campground: Camerons Bight Campground with well maintained campsites close to the beach as well as shops and nearby hotspot towns.
- Sorrento – Home to some of the wealthy holidayers, with a premium shopping strip and dining options.
- Portsea – Like Sorrento, Portsea is a wealthy Mornington Peninsula area. The Portsea Hotel is popular with the well-dressed. It offers delicious food and drink options and stunning sunset views.
Best Places To Stay In Mornington Peninsula
- Sorrento Beach Motel – Located in Sorrento, this hotel is within walking distance of Sorrento Front Beach and close to Blairgowrie Beach.
- Norwood House Motel and Reception Centre – Located just off the highway in Mount Eliza, this hotel is a great place to stay for a night or two. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a bar, and free self-parking.
- Hotel Sorrento – This hotel has 50 rooms, including poolside rooms, balcony rooms and ocean-view rooms.
- Mornington Hotel – This high-end hotel offers complimentary parking and a prime location adjacent to the Mornington Racecourse and the Mornington Country Golf Course.
Victoria Road Trips Wrap Up
A road trip through Victoria, Australia, can be as long or short as you like or as diverse. It may also depend on the season you are travelling to decide whether to visit the many beach towns, take a wellness trip to the natural springs, discover the rugged wilderness, or drink and eat your way through the wine regions.
The Great Ocean Road is the most obvious choice for a longer road trip and the experience is famous and highly rated for a reason. If you are planning a shorter road trip, many areas in Victoria provide quiet tranquillity and stunning beauty while still being accessible for camping or discovering great food and wine.
Another thing to consider is the events or festivals held in each region. Victoria has some impressive festivals and cultural events in all seasons, which could be a factor in planning your road trip.
We hope that this article has inspired you to go on a road trip in Victoria! If you have questions about Victoria or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.
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We Are Travel Girls Contributor Kate Rae of SheTravelsAustralia.com
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