Joanna James
From lush valleys and misted rainforest peaks to windswept beaches and art-spattered laneways, Victoria's diverse marvels serenade all those bitten by the wanderlust bug. Here are some idyllic adventuring getaways that will sweep you off your feet.
Once you've explored the contemporary and heritage wonders of culture-rich Melbourne, following its enticing maze of vibrant backstreets, brunching at quirky artisan eateries, and signing up for its immersive walking tours to learn the atmospheric city's best-kept secrets, venture out into its nature-kissed precincts. Just a blissful hour's drive away from the vivacious cosmopolis is the luxuriant home of fragrant cherry orchards, verdant olive groves, and a herbaceous patchwork of farmland following the ribbon of the Yarra River. While the Yarra Valley is most commonly associated with the birth of Victoria's wineries, there's so much more to explore in this bountiful terrain, from slipping into the fairytale towering Redwood Forest and hiking up to picturesque Stevenson's Falls to the stunningly serene Blue Lotus Water Garden. If you're with kids, the Healesville animal sanctuary and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery are must-stops.
For an unforgettable weekend getaway, you can't do better than the historic Hinterland gardens, jaw-dropping art galleries, and bushland beach trails of Mornington. From surfing over treetops and wading through gorgeous cottage gardens to gawking through eccentric sculpture parks and eclectic art spaces, there is plenty for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and contemporary creatives to admire in this coastal pastureland. Don't forget to stock up on vintage and artisan knickknacks at the charming boutiques and markets scattered about the scenic town, selling everything from customisable candles and eco-friendly designer wear to sea pearl jewellery and enchanting home décor pieces.
Strikingly rugged mountains swathed in the delicious mystery of towering gum forest and proudly vast valleys shifting with the sky's colours, the Grampian National Park will make you feel part of a surrealist painting. From the 22,000-year-old rock art of the indigenous keepers of the land and the idyllic Mackenzie Falls with its springtime clusters of wildflowers to the Halls Gap Zoo hosting exotic tenants including meerkats, red pandas, and giraffes, there's plenty of intimate sensory stimulation to immerse in. While there is a myriad of spectacular Grampian vantage points, the Boroka Lookout offers an unparalleled 180-degree glimpse of Lake Bellfield and mist-coated sandstone formations.
One of the world's most dramatically beautiful coastlines hosting a plethora of breathtaking landscapes, from secret jewel-toned coves and iconic limestone architecture to rainforest-clad inlets and cleansing hot spring sanctuaries, this bucket-list road trip destination is perfect for every brand of traveller. If you're looking for sophisticated Southbank hotels proffering prime access to regional allurements, venture no further than Oaks Melbourne Southbank Suites.
In this storybook region of pioneer settlements and antique port towns rich in romantic heritage, you can glide through the Murray River in a paddle steamer, kayak through the hushed archways of red river gums, and hop on a 4WD bus for an exhilarating offroad adventure to witness the nearby wonders of pink salt lakes, wetland dunes, and lush Australian Bush.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
