Beechworth is famous for being the town infamous bushranger and thief Ned Kelly went to prison, and just down the road is where where Kelly Gang’s Last Stand took place.

While many people flock to the town to visit the many attractions around Australia’s Gold Rush years, there’s an even more pressing reason to visit – the Bridge Road Brewers.

This microbrewery is a hidden gem in Beechworth, and we thought it was so good, that we put it on our Australia Bucket List – you know, the highlights of the biggest island in the world.

We visit a lot of pubs and breweries on our trip around Australia, but it’s rare we find one we love so much.

In this guide, we share our reasons to visit Bridge Road Brewery and why we loved it so much…

About Bridge Road Brewery

• Location: Old Coach House Brewers Lane, 50 Ford Street Beechworth, Victoria
• Website: http://bridgeroadbrewers.com.au/
• Opening hours: Kitchen opens lunch 7 Days a week, 12 – 3pm and Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from 6pm. 

But first, a little story behind Bridge Road Brewers. It all started back in 2005 when a passionate beer lover turned his family shed into a brewery.

Yep, you heard that right – a shed! The founder had a deep love for brewing beer and decided to share his creations with the world.

Bridge Road Brewery quickly became a pioneer in the Australian craft beer scene, gaining a well-deserved reputation for their exceptional brews.

From their humble beginnings, they’ve grown into an iconic brewery, offering visitors a unique experience in the picturesque town of Beechworth.

As of 2023, their Bridge Road HQ in Beechworth features a pizzeria, a 340 seater taproom, and a 25HL brewhouse. 

They also have another brewery in East Brunswick, in the inner north of Melbourne.

Drinks at Bridge Road Brewers

They have a wide range of styles of beer to cater to every taste. Their core range favourites include the Beechworth Pale Ale, which is an Aussie craft classic loved by many, to the Gladfield Ale. They’ve got it all on tap!

They also have a Chevalier range, which features beers made using their own Saison yeast strain, which brings out their unique hop aromas and citrus character. These beers are also a light straw colour and has a dry, acidic profile. Similar to a Classic Belgian style brew.

Beer enthusiasts will be able to smell the esters and phenolic characters.

Each beer has a lower bitterness that ensures a perfect balance and a clean finish.

They also have a curated selection of wine, gin and whisky for those who are not into beer.

So, whether you’re a beer lover or looking for a refreshing beverage, this place has something for everyone.

Plus, their taproom showcases great food to pair with your favorite brews, whether you’re looking to taste one of their iconic pizzas or tuck into some seafood.

Reasons to Visit Bridge Road Brewers

We enjoyed Bridge Road Brewery so much, I even pushed aside my gluten intolerance to have a beer. Yes, I willingly accepting a couple of days of discomfort just to have a cold Hefeweizen.

Here are some of the main reasons why we loved this brewery so much…

1. It’s Kid Friendly

You know a place is good when you can sit there all day and your kids are happy and entertained.

They LOVED the small kiddies playgrounds, which we were lucky to have a seat next to. The whole place had a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere and we immediately felt at ease.

They went down the slide, played on the swings and made lots of new friends. They were almost as disappointed as us when it came time to leave.

2. Delicious Pizza

They have gluten free bases!! My Pizza Funghi was sensational: Tomato, taleggio cheese, thyme, mushrooms and capers, topped with baby rocket and almond salad. It was one of the best pizzas I’ve had in a long while.

The rocket and almond salad on top sounds weird, but it really boosted the flavours to make it pop with fantastic pizza power.

Craig really enjoyed his Prawn Pizza: tomato, bocconcini, fresh tomato, chilli, garlic, prawns and Meredith goats feta.

And the kids, well they were kept happy with a classic cheese pizza.

Last, but not least, the sticky date pudding was to die for.

You can order other beer-friendly plates such as nachos, ribs, pie or a lighter soup or salad.

They also do takeout pizzas if you want to take one away with you.

3. Great Craft Beers

We’ll let you in our little secret. We don’t like Australian beer much, that is the commercial stuff. Yuck. That’s why we fall all over ourselves when we find a craft brewery that brews beer with depth and flavour. No watery headaches-tomorrow beer here.

Ben, the founder, creates his beer from scratch, using their own production equipment on site. The beers are brewed naturally, without pasteurization, or preservatives and of course with a lot of passion.

You can buy beer to take home with you from the Brewery, or purchase them online.

4. An Experience in An Old Historic Building

Bridge Road Brewery is located in a 150-year-old coach house. I love a bit of history with my beer, and you can really appreciate the architecture behind this 1850s Victorian Gold Rush era coach house.

The beer hall is spacious and filled with beer-making paraphernalia, decor and furniture as well as a cosy wood fire (not in summer of course).

We preferred looking at the beautiful building from the beer garden. Soaking up the high country sun.

Bridge Road Brewery is building an experience around what they do which is evident in their branded merchandise and attention to detail in the interior decoration of the venue.

5. Young, Modern Thinking Owners With a Great Success Story

I get so excited to hear stories of people growing a business from their own backyard based on passion. Only this time it was Ben’s father’s back yard shed.

Ben Kraus went to Italy to learn how to make wine, he got side-tracked in Innsbruck, Austria, and learned how to make great beer and pretzels instead.

Ben came home, experimented in the shed and 8 years later has a thriving business that sees over 400 posse members (beer membership program) around the country, and a constant stream of people walking down the brewery lane to sample his beers and pizza.

COOL story. See what you can create with passion and a step forward.

6. Social Media Savvy

This may sound like a weird criteria for making a brewery great. But, it shows me that the owners are up with current trends and tapped into what their clients really want.

It’s fresh modern thinking – I like businesses that are stepping up and ahead with our world. It’s rare to come across a business in Australia with a great website and tapped in on social media. Big props for modern, forward thinking.

And yep you guessed it, the Bridge Road Brewery is all about Ned Kelly! He’s in the logo and on the merchandise. Keeping the tradition for wanting the people to come to the high country.

There’s no way Ned would have tried to break out of this place.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, those are the reasons why we love Bridge Road Brewers and why you will too! Their commitment to their craft and ability to produce exceptional beers will no doubt stand the test of time and be popular for generations to come.

We highly recommend you make reservations if you want to order food, as it’s a popular dining spot, especially in summer months.

Cheers to good times and incredible drinks at Bridge Road Brewers!

While in this region, do not miss exploring these things to do in Bright (one of our favorite Australian towns), and the Feathertop Winery.

It’s amazing what you can discover when you spend a bit of time in the city and you decide it’s time to get out and explore some more. We were also lucky to have consistently good weather, which is asking a lot for Melbourne.

The words Melbourne and beaches never came into my mind before our month long visit. However, as it turns out, the city has some of the most beautiful beaches in the south of Australia.

So if you’re blessed with some blue sky and warmth weather, here are the Melbourne beaches you must visit if you want to escape the city.

The Best Beaches in Melbourne

Now I’m not saying they come close to rivaling the beaches of Sydney, or Perth, but the following beaches can be a good outlet to getaway from the downtown hustle and temptations of yet more coffee and cake!

Here are some unmissable Melbourne beaches to visit on your trip.

1. St Kilda Beach

If you’re only in Melbourne for a short stay but you crave some beach action, then St Kilda is your best option. It’s the closest and easiest beach to get to from Melbourne CBD, just 6km away, and it’s Melbourne’s most famous beach.

On a sunny day, St Kilda is the place to be seen and has an interesting mix of visitors. It’s generally a safe beach to swim at because it has low tide and lifeguards on patrol, but besides the swimming it’s the most happening of Melbourne Beaches.

There are plenty of people sunbathing on St Kilda Beach and having a picnic on the grassy area adjacent to it plus windsurfing, sailing, kite surfing, rollerblading, beach volleyball, jet skiing and water skiing.

Our favourite thing to do there as a family was the walking track along the beach and then cycling all the way to Brighton Beach.

Sunsets at St Kilda are pretty impressive, and we suggest grabbing a takeaway pizza from Mr Natural Pizza place and a bottle of wine and sitting on the beach whilst the sun goes down.

Our other food hangout was Beachcomber Cafe at the sea baths where we could watch the kids play on the sand just metres away.

St Kilda is also the place to experience the rides at Luna Park, and for the famous cake shops on lively Acland Street. To get to St Kilda jump on a tram near Flinders Street Station in the city.

2. Elwood Beach

Elwood is another popular Melbourne bayside beach during sunny days and a great family beach. It’s not as accessible from the city as St Kilda as it’s not exactly on the tram or train line, but still only 8km’s away if you have a car, or jump in a cab.

The crystal-clear waters were clean and calm for swimming and our kids had a great time playing on the sand and the rocks. It’s another fairly active beach and you’ll see people windsurfing, cycling, playing cricket and walking.

Once your day at Elwood Beach is over, we suggest hitting up Jimmi Jamz Bar on Ormond Road in the town centre which has great AND cheap pizza.

Plus there is a little playground in the back courtyard area – bonus for us parents in getting 5 minutes down time after eating dinner.

3. Parkdale Beach

Parkdale Beach was a great find for us, thanks to our friend who lives in a nearby suburb. It’s a bit of a drive from the city centre, 23 km south-east, but if you’re looking to get away from the crowds of St Kilda it’s a great place to relax and swim with the kids.

The water was again clean and calm and with the shallow bars you could walk quite a ways out. It’s best to stay on the shallower bars and clear of the rocks and reefs area.

Whilst there don’t miss having breakfast or brunch at Parkdale Beach Cafe + Kiosk which is right on the beach. With its outdoor deck you can watch the kids play on the grass, and the food and coffee was really good.

4. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is famous for the 82 colourful bathing boxes, or beach huts, that call the beach home and are one of the tourist icons of Melbourne. They are located on the southern end of the beach on Dendy Street Beach.

Brighton also houses some of the wealthiest citizens in Melbourne with grand homes, and the coastline cycling and walking tracks are a popular route for exercise and leisure.

Brighton is easily accessed via the Sandringham train line.

5. Sandringham Beach

Sandringham is another local tip from our friend who lives in the area and is one of Melbourne’s bayside suburbs popular for living and for beachgoers, walkers, and cyclists.

It’s quiet, it’s calm and it’s accessible by train. Just jump on the Sandringham line, or it’s a relatively easy drive from the city.

6. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a bay located in the suburb of Black Rock. It’s famous for its shipwreck of HMVS Cerberus which creates a breakwater in the bay.

It’s wonderfully isolated with a nice atmosphere for relaxing and gentle waves for swimming. Half Moon Bay also has aquatic life which makes for good snorkeling plus a nice place to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Grab yourself some calamari and chips at the local chippa and enjoy the beach views.

7. Sorrento Beach

Nestled in the Port Phillip Bay, is Sorrento Beach, which looks as though it could have been picked up from the coast of Italy and dropped on the foreshore of Melbourne.

With its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear azure waters, this coastal gem promises a rejuvenating experience.

You can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, soaking up the breathtaking views and invigorating sea breeze.

If you enjoy water activities like swimming, surfing, and snorkeling, this is a great beach to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

Sorrento Beach also boasts excellent facilities, including clean amenities, barbecue facilities, and charming cafes, making it the perfect destination for a delightful day out with family and friends.

8. Eastern Beach Reserve, Geelong

Eastern Beach Reserve, located in Geelong near Melbourne, is a paradise for beach lovers. This picturesque regional community park offers a charmingly cosmopolitan atmosphere.

With its stunning waterfront location and renowned Bay Walk Bollards, Eastern Beach Reserve provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s city life.

You can swim in the cool waters of Corio Bay, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shoreline, or simply relaxing on the beach with a good book.

The reserve also features a massive double-platform wooden swimming enclosure, complete with a shark gate, so you can swim with ease of mind.

Eastern Beach Reserve also has well-maintained picnic areas, playgrounds for children, and clean public restrooms.

9. Williamstown Beach

Williamstown Beach, located just 15 minutes from central Melbourne, has a gorgeous lime-stoney beach. While different from the sandy beaches of Western Australia, it possesses its own charm and allure.

Enjoy stunning views across Port Phillip Bay whilst you swim with a relaxed state of mind with the presence of lifeguards patrolling regularly.

The beach is easily accessible from Melbourne, being just a short train ride away. The town itself is also worth checking out, particularly Williamstown Botanic Gardens which sits behind the beach.

It’s the ideal beach destination for those seeking a trendy coastal suburb with a rural touch.

10. Altona Beach

Altona Beach, located on the western outskirts of Melbourne, is another hidden gem that boasts a long stretch of golden sand with breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline in the distance.

Altona Beach is a great spot for swimming or paddleboarding. It has clean public toilets, ample parking spaces, and nearby cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.

11. Mordialloc Beach

Mordialloc Beach, located just 15 miles southeast of Melbourne, is another picturesque beach near Melbourne with a long stretch of golden sand.

The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and and the famous Mordialloc Pier is the perfect backdrop for stunning photos of the surrounding area.

The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including showers, washrooms, and picnic tables for a relaxing day out.

12. Mentone Beach

Just 21 kilometers south of Melbourne lies Mentone Beach, a peaceful beach with pristine shores and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.

Mentone Beach also provides an excellent opportunity for swimming and sunbathing, and has plenty of amenities that make a visit more comfortable, such as clean public restrooms and parking.

Be sure to explore the nearby red cliffs and soak in the beauty of the coastline.

13. Port Melbourne Beach

Port Melbourne Beach is a beautiful, long stretch of sandy beach that’s located within the Southern side of the city of Melbourne.

This is a family-friendly beach that boasts a play park for kids and is also dog friendly. There are also many sea shells on the beach that kids will love looking at.

Be sure to visit both Station and Princes Pier nearby for wonderful coastal views.

14. Edithvale Beach

Just 28 kilometers southeast of Melbourne is Edithvale Beach.

This picturesque beach offers a wide sandy foreshore, and also has a designated off-leash dog area, making it an an ideal beach for dog owners.

The historic beach huts add a touch of nostalgia to the stunning coastal scenery.

15. Bushrangers Bay Beach

Located on the Mornington Peninsula coastline is Bushrangers Bay Beach, which is embraced by dramatic basalt cliffs, creating a picturesque setting.

While swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents, the serene nature can still be admired from the shoreline.

Facilities may be limited, but that’s what gives it its charm. Come prepared with your own snacks and drinks and enjoy the ambiance.

Map of Melbourne Beaches

To help you with planning your Melbourne trip, we’ve created a map of the beaches. Click on this link to save a copy and edit to fit your itinerary.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! We told you there were plenty of beautiful beaches near Melbourne.

Melbourne beaches aren’t too shabby given the right conditions. Next time you pack for a visit throw your beach wear in just in case!

More Melbourne Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to Melbourne? Check out these other guides…

• Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne
• A guide to the unmissable Wilsons Promontory National Park
• 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive in Australia
• 17+ Places to Eat in Melbourne
• Things to do in Marysville, Victoria
• What to do in Melbourne with kids
• Visit Hosier Lane in Melbourne for graffiti art
• Why Federation Square is a worthy stop on your Melbourne trip
• What to do in Melbourne – local tips
• Where to stay in Melbourne

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Needless to say, if you’re a nature lover, you’ll find there are plenty of things to do in Marysville.

We had spent 8 days running around in Melbourne and felt we really needed some space, some time in nature, and to avoid the honking sounds. We had never visited this town before, but after visiting, we are sure to go back again!

Located just 1 hour 45 minutes drive from Melbourne, it could be done as a day trip, but we urge you to stay 2-3 days to soak it all in.

If you’re wondering what to do in Marysville and why you should be adding it to your Australia road trip itinerary, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting this charming rural town.

I mean, just look at the road to Marysville…

What happened to Marysville?

But first, we need to tell you a little bit of history about Marysville so you can understand more about the heart and soul of this town.

The reason you may have heard of Marysville before is, unfortunately, because of some sad news attached.

On Black Saturday in 2009, almost the entire town burned to the ground with a vicious bushfire that swept in leaving little room for escape or to save anything.

Sadly, 45 people died and the town was destroyed. It was declared a crime scene and closed off while Victorian and Federal police conducted their investigations.

It was reopened to the public months later.

The strength of the local people after the Black Saturday Bushfire is admirable. Their spirit shows with the way they have created a new town from the ashes that is brimming with beauty and many wonderful things to do.

It’s only an hour north east of Melbourne, and a popular place for a little Melbourne getaway.

We enjoyed the serenity of Marysville’s overhanging tree lined streets and the surrounding forested mountains of the Great Dividing Range.

Things to Do in Marysville, Victoria

So now you know what happened to Marysville, let’s dive into the top attractions!

1. Hike and picnic at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

One of the best things to do in Marysville is to grab a picnic and enjoy the drive up to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort.

Admire the cyclists peddling up the steep climb to come racing down again, and enjoy the comfortable feel of your leather car seats! It’s not a feat I think I’d ever enjoy or attempt.

Once you arrive at the Alpine Resort, a place for cross country skiing in the winter, hike to the summit for spectacular views of the surrounding Marysville area.

It’s only a 20 minute walk and a worthy picnic area for your picnic.

There are also two iconic waterfalls in the park, Phantom Falls and Keppel Falls, which are accessible via the Keppel Lookout Trail.

If you’re visiting in the winter, it’s a great place to bring your toboggans and slide down the trails.

2. Visit Steavenson Falls

Located only a 5 minute drive from town is the very pretty Steavenson Falls, one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls, which earned its name from John Steavenson, who built the roads to Marysville.

It’s lit up at night from dusk to 11pm. We attempted to go at night, but the girls fell asleep in the car on the way, and we don’t wake sleeping babies (not our nightmare sleepers who take 2 hours to go to sleep!).

But even in broad daylight, it’s a lovely site.

3. Enjoy wine tasting at Buxton Ridge Winery

We loved visiting the small family owned, Buxton Ridge winery. We’re becoming big fans of boutique wines – the wines usually surprise and delight and you get more of a personal experience with the owners and their story.

We stayed longer than we should have as the owner, Michael, had lots of great tips and stories to share. We loved the wine so much, we bought 2 bottles to have for Christmas and a jar of the local chilli jam, which is divine with Camembert cheese. Don’t miss the sparkling wine and the rose, real standouts.

4. Play at Gallipoli Park

All family travelers with young kids need to know where the good playgrounds are.

Gallipoli Park is a winner for the kids: water pumping stations, spider webs, swings, and a very cool flying fox.

And it’s right beside the pretty little river that runs through town.

5. Marvel at Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden

Yet another activity I wasn’t initially that enthusiastic about. It was awesome and the kids loved it- checking off the art curriculum for school.

It’s amazing how the painter and sculptor, Bruno Torf, has lovingly restored his art gallery and most of the pieces that were destroyed in the fire. The remains of some are now featured in the gallery.

Bruno was in the gallery and greeted all visitors spending time to tell his story and share the stories behind the pieces. Many of which have been inspired by his intrepid journeys to some the worlds most intriguing and remote regions

The real treat is of course the garden full of sculptures. It was a magical land filled with life sized terracotta goddesses and goblins, warriors and wizards appearing from deep within the rainforest setting.

The pieces were exquisite, so carefully detailed which brought them to life.

I highly recommend a visit to Bruno’s Sculpture Garden.

6. Go trout fishing at Buxton Trout Farm

I wasn’t that excited about visiting a trout farm, but I really enjoyed Buxton Trout Farm, as did the kids.

It’s Australia’s first trout farm where trout have been bred for over 50 years.

One of the workers Stuart, took us on a short tour of the farm to learn the inner workings and feed the fish. It was fascinating to hear the process behind the harvesting of trout – a huge industry in Victoria.

It is a self sufficient farm – they do all of their own breeding, hatching, growing, processing and value adding and distribute through wholesale fish markets throughout the country. Over 1 million trout are hatched each year and they grow about 80 tonnes a year. Crazy!

For only $25 for the whole family, you can grab a rod and fish for your own dinner. You have to pay for the fish you catch, but it’s a cheap, local way to eat. The kids will love it.

We didn’t only because we had dinner plans and were leaving the next day so couldn’t store the fish. But we did have some of their trout pate and smoked trout with crackers and it was delish!

There is another trout farm you can go to, Marysville Trout and Salmon Farm, but we didn’t go there so can’t comment on it.

7. Walk around the town in Marysville

Marysville is a small town and easily walkable, so why not spend some time walking around and taking it all in.

Despite being small, there is quite a cafe scene, with lots of boutique coffee shops to dip into. If you’re working remotely or need to catch up on emails, then you will find plenty of laptop friendly cafes in Marysville.

There’s also a bunch of art galleries and boutique stores to window shop in. You could also have a picnic in the local park by the river.

8. Hike to Taggerty Cascades Marysville

Another option is to pack a picnic lunch and take a drive along the stunning Lady Talbot Drive to Taggerty Cascades.

Taggerty Cascades is a beautiful short walk (approx 15-20 minutes) through the lush forests and bushlands with impressive waterfalls and photography opportunities along the way. Lyrebirds frequent the area.

The falls is not clearly signposted with a map (or we could be just complete idiots) so we didn’t make the falls. We gave up pretty easily because Savannah woke up from a nap and was very grumpy. Sometimes you just have to pack it in.

9. Visit Cathedral Ranges State Park

Located just a 20 minute drive from Marysville is the gorgeous Cathedral Ranges State Park.

It’s famous for its strenuous hikes, so not the best place to visit with young kids, but if you love to challenge yourself and see incredible mountain views, then this is the place to go.

Famous for its jagged ridges with spectacular views, you can hike the Razorback Trail for a truly thrilling experience. For boulderers, check out Sugarloaf Saddle or North Jawbone.

Families with young kids can explore the gentle Friends Nature Trail which also has lovely views.

Another popular thing to do here is camp by the ruins of Cooks Mill, where friendly kangaroos are known to keep campers company.

10. Admire Kinglake National Park

Nestled in the Great Dividing Range, Kinglake National Park is known for its hiking trails and mountain biking trails, with views over Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.

If you’re into bird watching, pack your binoculars as the park is home to Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, King Parriots, lyrebirds, and colourful rosellas.

Bike the dirt tracks at Bowden Spur, drive up Mount Sugarloaf, walk to Masons Falls, known for its fossilised sea beds, or go camping at The Gums Camping area.

11. Admire Lake Eildon

Lake Eildon is a man-made lake under the Eildon Dam, and is a controlled spillway across the Goulburn River.

If you want to get a beautiful view of the lake, drive over to Eildon (about 30 minutes from Marysville) to Foggs Lookout. It’s one of the closest lookouts of the lake and has incredible views.

Where to Eat in Marysville

Knowing where to eat is always difficult for travelers, so below we have listed some of the places we enjoyed eating at when we visited…

Fragas Cafe

Fragas Cafe quickly became our local. I suggest taking a look at the photo book while there which documents the journey of this cafe. There’s a lot of love and passion here.

While we were there, Masterchef judge, Gary Beaton, walked in with motorcycle helmet in hand.

You know a place is good if celebrity chefs ride in from Melbourne for breakfast. The coffee was to die for and the breaky gets a big thumbs up.

Black Spur Inn

It’s well worth enjoying a meal at the historic Black Spur Inn situated in Narbethong, about 15 minutes (12 km) from Marysville.

It’s in a very pretty setting with views of the garden and forest and the food on the menu is delicious.

Elevation 423 Bar and Cafe

If it’s pizza and beer you’re after, Elevation 423 Bar and Cafe is the place to go. They renovated bar and cafe a few years ago, and now it has a cosy feel with bi-fold windows giving you great views of the main street.

Where to stay in Marysville: Amelina Cottages

When it comes to where to stay, we highly recommend Amelina Cottages, which is where we stayed.

Comfortable, clean, modern, well-equipped and ideally located. We enjoyed the Amelina Cottages, especially curled up on the couch in Craig’s arms with a glass of red wine, a roaring fire, a crooning Michael Buble Christmas special. Swoon.

It was an easy stroll to the main street of town, and the kids were kept happy with a bright bedroom filled with toys and a yard to run around in.

Final Thoughts

So if you’re looking for a getaway from Melbourne, this is a lovely little town with enough to do to occupy a few days.

The people are engaging, quick to offer a suggestion, and have moved on with their lives and businesses in a positive way.

It’s the ideal destination to visit if you need to soak up some nature, get away from the hustle and bustle, and just relax.

There REALLY IS something about Marysville.

Located on the southernmost tip of Victoria, occupying a peninsula made of rugged, granite mountains and craggy cliffs, it’s a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

The national park is not the most famous national park in Australia, but it’s certainly gaining in popularity, not just for international visitors looking to meet Aussie’s native kangaroos and wombats, but amongst locals as well.

Wilsons Prom is not just a blip on the map. It’s a 50,000 hectare coastal wilderness area in Victoria and so popular that they have a ballet system to stay in the accommodation. Popular like Super Bowl popular.

The park boasts an abundance of stunning hiking trails, as well as nature sites that will leave you in awe.

If you’re planning a visit to Wilsons Promontory National Park, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting…

What is so special about Wilsons Prom?

The natural wonderland of Wilsons Prom is most famous for its plethora of unique natural sites that make it a truly remarkable and unforgettable destination to visit.

The park sits on the custodial land of the Gunaikurnai, Bunurong and Boonwurrung People, and is home to their spiritual ancestor, Loo-errn, which the highest mountain in the park is named after.

It was then discovered by George Bass in 1798, and was named Wilsons Promontory, after a merchant trader named Thomas Wilson. It became a national park in 1880, which was then reversed in 1898, before being reinstated as a national park in 1905.

One of the things that sets Wilsons Prom apart from other national parks in Australia is its extraordinary biodiversity. The park is home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.

Not only is the plant life thriving, but it’s also home to elusive wombats and playful dolphins, making every corner of the park teeming with life.

Wilsons Prom also has some awe-inspiring landscapes, from towering granite peaks of Mount Oberon to secluded coves with crystal-clear waters, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery.

Its most iconic landmarks are the iconic Tidal River, with its golden sands and turquoise waves, as well as Squeaky Beach, which has quartz white sand so white it squeaks when you walk across it.

Beyond its natural beauty, Wilsons Prom has miles of hiking trails, including the famous 36.5km Eastern Circuit, which winds through ancient rainforests and woodland, over rugged cliffs, and along picturesque coastal paths.

Wilsons Prom is a special place because its teaming with wildlife, natural beauty, and unique natural phenomenons. It’s where time stands still, worries fade away, and where the tranquility and soothing powers of nature can recharge your soul.

How Many Days Do You Need To See Wilsons Promontory National Park?

While many people visit as a day trip from Melbourne, Wilsons Prom has so much to offer you could easily spend 2-3 fulls days there, hiking in the forests and relaxing on its beaches.

After spending just three days there at the beginning of the year, I must have said a hundred times, “I can’t believe I’ve only just recently heard of this place.”

It’s one of those places you can easily stop and spend a few days just doing nothing and letting the tranquility of nature wash over you.

How to Get to Wilsons Promontory National Park

To reach Wilsons Prom, you must first get to Melbourne, which is located 197 km away. From Melbourne, hire a car to drive for 2.5 hours southeast to the Wilsons Prom peninsula.

The route is quite straightforward, you simply drive along the M1 highway before turning onto the A440.

At the town of Meeniyan, turn onto the C444 which takes you all the way to the park.

The park entrance is 30km north of the Tidal River Visitor Centre, and be mindful there is no gas station in the park so you will need to fill up before you enter.

The closest petrol station is at Yanakie.

When you first drive in to Prom Country you see this:

Things to Do at Wilsons Promontory National Park

Stunning vistas of pink granite boulder mountains, turquoise water, and squeaky-white sand opened up before us as we drove into the park.

Before long, we were exploring the iconic attractions of Wilsons Promontory National Park…

1. Check out Squeaky Beach

Squeaky Beach is just as good as the other Australian beaches and iconic highlights often spoken about; yes, it’s up there with places like Wineglass Bay and Whitehaven Beach.

It is pristine, mind blowing goodness.

The only downer was stupidly not charging the battery in my camera the night before, so was left taking photos on my Samsung Galaxy4. Argh!

I could have sat on these rocks all day and just watched the waves roll in.

2. Camp at Tidal River Campground

We were super-annoyed that we didn’t plan better and book ahead for accommodation. We just turned up expecting to get a camp site and pitch our tent.

But with Wilsons Prom being popular with Victorians, we had no chance of getting a powered tent site. With our business being online – and its daily deadlines – we need power!

We managed to find a solution and stayed in a cute little hut at Tidal River Campground for 3 nights.

There had been a mistake with the booking system and someone changed cabins, allowing a vacancy to suddenly appear.

Considering our only other option was to stay one hour outside the park, we jumped on it.

The campsite was very comfortable, and has hot showers and parking. They also have group lodges, self-contained cabins, and huts you can rent at various prices.

3. Look for Wombats

I was sitting on the little deck at the campsite, having a beer whilst the kids played, and then this wombat just leisurely walked by.

The kids were beside themselves.

Wilsons Prom is a great place to see wombats in the wild, and you don’t have to look too hard to find them!

You can also find emus and wallabies roaming around freely.

3. Hit the Hiking Trails

After 3 days of soaking up the magical scenery of Squeaky Beach and Norman Beach (just a 300m walk from our cabin), we dragged ourselves out to do some hiking.

Wilsons Prom offers many great walks, for all different fitness levels.

We enjoyed a walk around to the point from the campsite, with views over Norman and Squeaky Beach.

There are plenty of hikes to beautiful beaches to choose from – many with waves, and picnic spots for a little relaxation.

For the adventurous, there are all-day or overnight hikes to beaches on the east coast of the peninsula – said to be where the true magic lies.

Some popular day walks are:

• The walk to Sealers Cove – a 10km each way and is considered a Grade 4 trail, with some steep sections.
• Mt Oberon Summit Walk – a steep, 6.8 km walk up a Grade 4 hiking trail.
• Hike to Norman Point Viewpoint: a 7.4km walk that takes you to a viewpoint that looks over Little Oberon Bay and the Bass Strait.
• Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk – an easy, Grade 2 5.2km return walk, one that the kids can do.
• Darby Saddle to Tongue Point – a strenuous, 10.4 km hike to the Darby River
• Millers Landing to Vereker Outlook – a 5.8km Grade 2-3 hiking trail to Corner Inlet.

4. Look Out For Humpback Whales on a Cruise

Wilsons Prom was once only accessible by boat, and so one of the best ways to experience it is by sea.

As you cruise along the turquoise waves, the fresh sea breeze hits your face and the majestic cliffs dazzle your eyes.

If you’re lucky, you may even spot some playful dolphins, seals, or humpback whales swimming in the waters.

See the hidden coves, secluded beaches, and iconic Skull Rock and Picnic Bay from a unique perspective.

5. Explore Big Drift Sand Dunes

Another unique landscape in the national park is the Big Drift Sand Dunes – a mass of towering mountains of golden sand that stretch as far as the eye can see.

The best way to see the dunes is to walk. There is a 4.5km Grade 3 hike that takes you across the sand dunes, which takes roughly 2 hours to do.

With each footstep, the dunes seem to come alive, and transform into a new landscape.

Be sure to visit around sunset, when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the dunes.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes I wondered why I hadn’t heard of Wilsons Prom before I visited. Almost everyone else I’ve spoken to from NSW and other states out of Victoria had been there and heard of it.

We only planned on being in Victoria for one month because we thought the state would be boring besides Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road, and possibly Phillip Island.

And then we thought Phillip Island was all about the fairy penguins. After 8 days there, we were still there enjoying the island vibe.

Turns out Victoria is friggin AWESOME and we ended up being there for 3 months! (our apologies to Victoria for having the wrong impression!)

I think the Victorians are also purposely trying to keep it a secret?! What do you think?

More Victoria Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to Victoria, Australia? Check out these other guides…

• Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive
• Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne
• 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive in Australia
• Beaches in Melbourne to Visit Once You’re Done with the City
• There’s Something About Marysville, Victoria
• Best things to do in Melbourne with kids
• Relaxing things to do in Bright, Victoria (one of our fave places in Australia)
• Don’t miss the Bridge Road Brewery in Beechworth, Victoria

Would you like to visit Wilsons Promontory now? Let us know in the comments.

There is so much to see and do, that you need to spend at least five days to visit the main attractions and landmarks, such as the iconic Twelve Apostles and Port Campbell National Park.

But most people know that already, and have allocated such time to do a road trip. What’s not always clear though, is which towns on the Great Ocean Road you should visit.

Whether you’re looking for places to stay on The Great Ocean Road or you need somewhere with more civilization for a lunch spot, be sure to check out these five towns on the GOR.

How Many Days Do You Need on the Great Ocean Road?

The Great Ocean Road can be completed in one day but it deserves more. You deserve more.

It’s one of Australia’s best road trips for a reason.

Everyone has different time constraints, but you should give yourself at least three days to drive the Great Ocean Road, but five would be more ideal.

We took two weeks for our Great Ocean Road trip, but we are blessed with time.

The tour buses that routinely drive the Great Ocean Road in one day and get to the 12 Apostles limestone stacks at lunchtime (the best time is sunrise or sunset) and will also bypass many of the highlights.

For that reason, we always recommend you hire a car if you don’t have your own and do it yourself.

This 243 km road needs to be experienced from behind the wheel and having your own vehicle allows you the flexibility to stop at viewpoints when and where you like.

The Best Towns on The Great Ocean Road

Besides the stunning beaches, waterfalls, walks, and forests, there are some great towns dotted along the Great Ocean Road worthy of your time.

Here are five towns we recommend you not only visit, but stay at and enjoy what they have to offer.

1. Torquay, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road officially starts in the town of Torquay, and we recommend you stay here for one night before you start the drive, so you can have a full day on the road.

We recommend starting the Great Ocean Road drive from this direction and driving towards Adelaide, so you’ll be on the lane closest to the ocean which makes for easier stops at the view points.

The township of Torquay is famous for its surfing culture, which you can learn more about at the surfing museum Surf World. Even surf brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver were founded in Torquay.

Nearby is one of Australia’s best surfing beaches, Bells Beach, home to the annual Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition (made infamous by the movie Point Break).

Bells has an impressive cliff-face and the ocean views are spectacular. You can see surfers catching waves here all year round, even in the winter when the waves reach up to 20 feet!

Torquay also offers popular activities such as nature walks, fishing, sailboarding, surfing and mountain bike riding. You can enjoy a two hour surf lesson at Torquay Beach – the surfing capital of Victoria.

Just down the road is Jan Juc a neighboring suburb known for its hills and native tea tree. There’s a trail running along the coast between Torquay and Jan Juc for walkers and bike riders that offer excellent views.

Leaving Torquay and continuing west, check out the townships of Anglesea and Aireys Inlet which are beautiful, and if you’re into golfing, pack your clubs and head over to Anglesea Golf Club.

You’ll definitely notice the change in the scenery.

2. Lorne, Victoria

Lorne was our favorite town along the Great Ocean Road drive and we spent three relaxing days here. It’s picturesque and situated right on the Southern ocean with a charm that’s hard to resist.

Lorne has some great cafes to keep your coffee and cake addiction well satisfied. There are several unique shops, boutiques, and galleries to keep the shoppers happy.

The beach is lovely for a walk either early morning or late afternoon and stop at the Lorne Beach Pavilion for a coffee, or beer, with uninterrupted views of the water.

For lunch, eat at The Bottle of Milk, famous for their burgers, or grab some takeaway and sit on the grass at the excellent playground by the beach and let the kids run around.

Just behind Lorne, take a short drive to Teddy’s Lookout for spectacular views of the Great Ocean Road. There’s also a 45-minute walk you can do here.

Another great viewpoint spit is Split Point Lighthouse, which is on the way to Lorne in a small town called Fairhaven. This is a great place to do some whale watching from the shore.

The best time to see whales is from June to September, and they frequently swim in the waters along the GOR so always keep your eyes open for them if you visit during this time.

Lorne also plays host to The Falls Music & Arts Festival at the end of December which is very popular.

3. Kennett River, GOR

With a population of only 50, Kennett River is a quiet and laid-back town between Lorne and Apollo Bay.

Flanked by the Great Otway National Park this town is probably best known for the place to see koalas in the wild along the Grey River Road in the middle of town, just look for the crowds of people and follow their gazes up for quick koala spotting.

There’s also the glowworms at night in Melba Gully, a tropical rainforest neaby, and you can buy bird feed from the store here and feed wild king parrots and Rosellas.

It can be very popular here with many tourist buses lined up. But it’s a lot safer, and easier, to view the koalas here compared to driving Otway Lighthouse Road.

If seeing koalas and glow worms isn’t enough, there are excellent fishing and surfing beaches for beginners. There’s a caravan park at Kennet River should you wish to stay longer with Australia’s favourite furry friends.

Don’t miss the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, a fun and thrilling activity that allows you to climb obstacle courses in the tree canipes, walk the treetop walk, and zip along ziplines. The surrounding forest as many walking trails to enjoy.

4. Apollo Bay, Great Ocean Road

Half-way along the Great Ocean Road is our second favourite town, Apollo Bay, often described as the place where the hill meets the sea.

Panoramic views over the harbour and the coastline from the Mariners Lookout will give you the best perspective of this. The lookout is located at the northern end of town off Mariners Lookout Road.

Apollo Bay was once a sleepy fishing village but is now a modest seaside town of 2,000 people with plenty of cafes, restaurants and a community market each Saturday. In April it hosts one of the best three-day music festivals in Victoria, the Apollo Bay Music Festival.

Just down the road at Cape Otway are some of the best walks in the country and the town makes for a great base to explore the Otway region of lighthouses, rainforests, waterfalls, and farmland.

Maits Rest is an easy 800m self-guided circuit walk through ancient, cool temperate rainforest and the walk to Triplet Falls, a one-hour return loop, is a highlight.

The Cape Otway Lighthouse is Australia’s oldest lighthouse still in operation today, you can take a tour and climb to the top 90 meters high with breathtaking views of Bass Straight.

Just up the road from Apollo Bay is one of those “best-kept secrets” of the Great Ocean Road, the Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary, a rocky beach with a seal colony.

Apollo Bay Surf & Kayak run 2-hour tours to view the seals.

5. Port Campbell, Victoria

Another one of the most popular towns on the Great Ocean Road to stay in is Port Campbell. Though some people opt to stay in Port Fairy, which is smaller and quieter, or Warrnambool, for proximity to Logan’s Beach.

For travelers who prefer a more livelier atmosphere, Port Campbell is the better choice. What makes it appealing for travellers is its close proximity to Port Campbell National Park, home to the Twelve Apostles and many other famous Great Ocean Road landmarks.

It’s still a nice enough town with a few cafes, shops and a bay area in a natural setting, but we mainly used it as a base to explore the surrounding area.

We spent the whole day in the National Park, starting with sunrise over the 12 Apostles and finishing with a sunset picnic.

During the day we walked down Gibson’s Steps and then visited Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, The Grotto, The Arch, and the Bay of Islands with a handy lunch break back in Port Campbell.

Final Thoughts

The Great Ocean Road continues on and finishes at Port Fairy. We didn’t really explore the last section too much but did stop at Port Fairy for lunch.

It was pouring with rain so could not explore more. Through the drizzle, it looked like a lovely historical fishing village.

There are many towns on the GOR in Australia, but we hope this guide gave you some inspiration for some towns to visit on your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

These towns are the perfect pitstop for a night and the ideal destinations to help you break up your road trip.

If you’re looking for more road trip ideas for Australia, then check out these other guides:

• The Great Beach Drive in Queensland
• 14 best Australia road trips
• Our podcast that shares details on our 18 month Australia road trip.

The Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island Tour

The Great Ocean Road and Kangaroo Island Tour may be the best way for you to explore this area. Cosmos Tours are part of the Globus family of brands who we love! Be sure to use our exclusive discount below.

Food, native wildlife (obviously kangaroos) and heritage; this 8-day tour through Victoria and South Australia comes filled with awe-inspiring scenery, heritage sites, top-notch cuisine and endless fun experiences along the way.

Beginning in Melbourne and ending in Adelaide, you’ll travel west along the Great Ocean Road towards Adelaide, with overnight stops in Warrnambool, Mt Gambier, Tailem Bend and Kangaroo Island.

Tours to the Great Ocean Road

While we recommend road tripping the Great Ocean Road in your own vehicle, we understand this is not always possible. We recommend these tour options through our tour booking partner, Get Your Guide.

More Travel Tips for Victoria, Australia

Planning to visit other places in Victoria, Australia? Here are some other useful travel tips…

• The best things to do on the Great Ocean Road Australia
• 8 Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne
• A guide to Wilsons Promontory National Park?
• Don’t miss these Beaches in Melbourne
• What to do in Marysville, Victoria
• 11 things to do in Melbourne with kids
• Victoria travel tips
• Relaxing things to do in Bright, Victoria (one of our fave places in Australia)
• Don’t miss the Bridge Road Brewery in Beechworth, Victoria

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Being right in the heart of the Great Ocean Road, it was our favorite town to stay in along the scenic road trip.

It has a unique environment where the beach meets the rainforest, with the Otway Mountains surrounding the town and forming a distinctive micro-climate which brings unique flora and fauna to the region.

I was surprised at how pretty it was and I knew it was a place to return one day for a much longer stay.

But when it comes to where to stay in Lorne, there can be no doubt about where you should rest your head. The Mantra Lorne Hotel is a modern, apartment rental in the heart of this town.

We stayed for three nights, but it just wasn’t enough to enjoy the chill factor.

In this guide, we share what it’s like to stay at The Mantra in Lorne as well as share some of our favorite things to do in the town.

About The Mantra Lorne Hotel

The Mantra Hotel in Lorne is a four-star hotel with a prime beachfront location on the famous Great Ocean Road. You can soak up the stunning views and enjoy the relaxed coastal vibe.

Nestled in a renovated mansion, it boast the title as the oldest guesthouse in Victoria, but the interiors are anything but old.

It sits on 12 acres of landscaped gardens which make for the ideal backdrop for weddings and big events. Although offering apartment rentals, it has resort-like facilities, such as tennis courts, croquet lawns, and an indoor heated mineral pool.

If you need pampering, head to one of the the steam rooms or indulge at the onsite restaurant.

With comfortable guest rooms and apartments available, Manta is a cozy home away from home.

Our Experience Staying at Mantra Lorne Hotel

We stayed at the Mantra in Lorne for three nights, and were impressed with its location and immaculate facilities.

It felt like we were tucked away in a tropical resort, but only a 5 minute walk to town.

The Mantra Lorne sits across from the beach with an access track running straight from the beautifully landscaped garden and main restaurant area. It’s the only hotel in Lorne with beachfront access.

Not only is it on the beach, but a short walk to all the cafes and restaurants on the main street.

Our room overlooked the gardens and tennis court area and was a comfortable 2 bedroom apartment with a balcony.

Facilities at Mantra Lorne Hotel

There are a range of facilities at Mantra Lorne Hotel, including a croquet pitch, share laundry facilities, and a friendly brasserie.

Here are some of the top facilities we enjoyed at Mantra on Lorne…

Endota Day Spa

For those who need a little pampering and rejuvination, the Endota Day Spa at the Mantra Hotel offers a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.

Whether you’re in the mood for a facial, massage, body treatment, or beauty therapy, they’ve got you covered.

Gymnasium

There is a fully equipped fitness center that’s open from 7.00am until 10.00pm daily, so you can get your work out in on your holiday.

And of course, there are tennis courts and croquet courts that you can use as well.

Lawn and Garden

Although there are no uninterrupted views of the ocean due to the dune forest separating it from the beach, the lawn and garden area is a lovely place to sit for happy hour with a cold bevy.

A Happy Hour happens every afternoon between 5-7pm at the Lounge Bar. You can linger longer if you wish and enjoy a meal from the restaurant – they do great wood fired pizzas and a two-course meal deal.

Resort Rooms at Mantra Lorne Hotel

There are also a range of accommodation options at Mantra Lorne, including hotel rooms and complete apartments with fully equipped kitchens.

The accommodation options at Lorne are as follows:

• Heritage Hotel Rooms
• Resort Rooms with Garden Views
• Resort Rooms with Ocean Views
• One Bedroom Apartments with Garden Views
• One Bedroom Apartments with Ocean Views
• Two Bedroom Heritage Apartment
• Two Bedroom Dual Key Apartment (two adjoining rooms) with Garden or Sea Views

We stayed in a Two Bedroom Heritage Apartment which had a private balcony, garden view, fully equipped kitchen, reverse cycle air conditioning, private bathroom with a tub, free wi-fi and two separate bedrooms.

All hotel rooms come with a king bed, whereas apartments come with a queen bed.

The Mantra Lorne accommodation have all been set around one of the oldest permanently operating guesthouse in Victoria making Mantra Lorne a part of Lorne’s rich cultural history. Check rates and availability here

Things to Do in Lorne, Victoria

While the Mantra Hotel is the perfect place to stay in Lorne, you may be wondering what else you can do in the town besides enjoy the resort facilities.

Here are some popular local attractions you can do which are within easy reach of the resort.

Walk or bike from Erskine River to Lorne Pier

There’s a lovely walk along the beach and cliffs from the Erskine River to Lorne Pier. The fisherman’s co-op sells fresh seafood from the morning’s catch here.

We were in town in March during the Lorne Sculpture Biennale, similar to the Sculpture by the Sea in Sydney, and along the walk were over 40 pieces of sculptured art to marvel at.

Teddy’s Lookout

A short drive up the hill behind Lorne is Teddy’s Lookout. Drive up to the picnic area at the end of George Street and walk a short distance to enjoy the spectacular views of the Great Ocean Road from the lookout.

Explore the Great Ocean Road

Of course, the joy of Lorne’s location is that it makes for a great base to explore one of the best regions in Australia. And the drive from Lorne to Apollo Bay is said to be the most spectacular.

Visit Lorne Country Club

Golfing enthusiasts will want to pack their clubs and head to Lorne Country Club.

It’s a secret oasis nestled in the lush green hills of Lorne, with breathtaking views of rolling fairways and majestic trees.

The club has everything from a challenging golf course, to top-notch tennis courts, and when hunger strikes, the club’s restaurant serves up mouthwatering dishes.

Visit Split Point Lighthouse

The Split Point Lighthouse is an incredible lighthouse perched on the Shipwreck Coast, and it’s like stepping into a history book.

You can climb to the top for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the coastline.

Those 90’s babies will remember this lighthouse from the CBBC hit show, Round the Twist. Today, it’s more a popular spot for whale watching from the shore.

Walk in Angahook State Forest

Angahook State Forest is a massive 22,000-hectare forest that stretches from Aireys Inlet to Kennett River.

You can go on epic hikes, explore hidden trails, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some incredible wildlife.

It also incorporates the Otway Ranges, so you can bet the nature here is stunning.

See the Twelve Apostles

No Great Ocean Road road trip would be complete without seeing the Twelve Apostles.

These iconic rock formations are the biggest attraction on the route, and they are just outside Lorne.

Relax in Lorne Sea Baths

Check out the Lorne Sea Baths if you want an outdoor swimming pool with views of the ocean.

This historic precinct offers all kinds of recreation, wellness, and fitness experiences, from a gym, outdoor pool, hydro spas, and even mini golf!

Plus, they have a cafe where we can grab some delicious treats.

Places to Eat in Lorne

If you want to get out of the resort and sample some more restaurants in Lorne, here are some great places to eat…

The Bottle of Milk

A gourmet burger joint that definitely delivers on taste. The Bottle of Milk is consistently regarded as some of the best in Victoria and I was pretty impressed with my Magic Mushroom burger.

Moons Licensed Espresso Bat

I didn’t think I was going to get a good coffee in Lorne – everything I tried was yuck until the day we left and we grabbed some for the road at Moons Espresso. Ahh at last.

Lorne Surf Life Saving Club

The club itself had a cool, laid-back vibe, with a stunning balcony overlooking the ocean. The restaurant is a great place to chill with friends, enjoying ice-cold drinks and watching the surfers ride the waves.

Final Thoughts

Lorne is a cool coastal town in Australia where you can relax on stunning beaches, catch some killer waves, and even go hiking in the lush rainforests nearby.

Plus, there are tons of trendy cafes and shops to explore.

When it comes to finding a place to stay, you won’t find much better than Mantra on Lorne.

• For more tips on this region read 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road
• 5 Towns to Visit Along the Great Ocean Road in Australia

Those visiting in the winter can hit the ski slopes, while in the summer, the cross country skiing routes turn into excellent mountain biking tracks.

Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors or not, you’ll find there are plenty of things to do in Bright, Victoria.

It’s also a top wine growing region with several vineyards and cellar doors. to explore, and foodies can relish in the fresh produce sourced from it’s many surrounding farms.

Whether you’re passing through on the Great Alpine Road or you’re looking for a small town to relax in for a while, here are all the best attractions in Bright, Victoria, to make sure you don’t miss out on.

Is Bright Worth Visiting?

The town of Bright in Victoria checks off most of our criteria for making a place liveable; it’s safe, it’s relaxing, it has a community spirit, and it has plenty of things to do, especially if you love the outdoors.

Because of it’s rural location on the Ovens River in Victoria’s High Country, Bright is all about nature.

It’s surrounded by mountains, quiet rolling countryside hills, and because of its cool climate, it has some incredible wine producers operating here.

The only downside is it’s a little too far from a major city (3 hours drive). I can’t shake Craig off this point to consider it as a place to eventually live.

But for those looking for a peaceful small town in Australia to visit on their next vacation, it’s perfect.

I LOVE beautiful Bright. Kalyra is also a major fan and has emphatically declared that she will live there one day for 10 years. I hope she invites her Mamma to visit often.

How to Get to Bright, Victoria

Bright is approximately a 3-hour drive from Melbourne. To get there, you will need a car (and to get around all the Bright attractions too).

Head north east up the M31 towards Wangaratta then turn off and take the B500.

Things to Do in Bright

If you’re thinking of making your way to Bright for a weekend getaway or as a stop over on a great Australia road trip, then be sure to add the following attractions to your to do list…

1. Bike The Rail Trail

Our favourite way to get into town from Kim’s place was along an overhanging, tree-lined section of the 94km Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail (cycle way).

The bitumen sealed track is well suited to both cycling and walking and links the townships of Wangaratta, Beechworth, Myrtleford, Porepunkah and Bright.

We also cycled the 6km track to Porepunkah to have lunch at the Rail Trail Cafe, which is where you’ll find some of the best Mexican food in Australia – for real.

We recommend going a little further if you can to Feathertop Winery (10km one way trip from Bright.)

2. Grab a Pint at Bright Brewery

You know that rail trail into town? It took us right to the Bright Brewery and a pint of some of the nicest cider you’ll ever try. They also have pretty good beer.

And get this parents of small children – the beer garden looks straight out over the kids playground.

Perfect for parents and kids.

Craig and I enjoyed a rare moment of time out and adult conversation. No wonder we became frequent visitors.

3. For For An Ovens River Swim

During the summer, the Ovens River is dammed up in the main part of town to create a deep swimming hole area.

There are springboards, slides, and water slides into the river making it fun and refreshing for those hot alpine summer days. It’s also a great place for a picnic.

The Make. Bake. Grow markets are held every 3rd Saturday alongside the river.

5. Take the Kids to Bright playground

Right beside the Ovens River, the before mentioned playground is one of the best we’ve come across and is part of the reason Kalyra would like to live in Bright for 10 years. We visited daily.

6. Admire the Views at Huggins Lookout

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Bright, then consider walking up to Huggins Lookout.

The walk is a 1.5km out and back walk from Deacon Avenue and Zivan Court up the steep side of the valley, which then ends at the Huggins Lookout post.

The hike is quite steep with some obstacles and steps, but it will be worth it for the views.

Formed track, some obstacles, very steep with occasional steps. Sign posted.

7. Go Skiing, Tobogganing, Sledging

If you’re looking for things to do in Bright in the winter, then be sure to hit The High Country Alps for a bit of skiing action.

There are many resorts near Mount Hotham, Falls Creek and Mount Buffalo National Park, which are all within easy access from Bright.

Whether you’re a complex beginner or an expert, Bright puts you in a central location to some of the best runs in Australia.

8. Go Mountain Biking in Mystic Mountain Bike Park

Mystic Park is what Bright is all about. It’s a community-run bike park, set in the midst of an active plantation.

It’s considered to have some of the best mountain biking runs in Australia.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are trails designed for all skill levels. There is over 50km of trail to explore, some dropping from 800 meters!

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Bright, don’t miss this attraction.

9. Get Wet at Bright Splash Park

For those visiting Bright in the summer, you’ll want to cool your jets at the Bright Splash Park, especially if you’re travelling with kids.

The park is a playground with pipes and old gold dredge buckets dumping water on those waiting below. Surrounding the area are a few water cannons to really up the fun.

There are slides, bridges, and a creek with a river where you can swim in the shallow pools.

And do you know what the best thing about this park is? It’s free! It is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Bright with kids.

10. Walk the Bright Canyon Walk

The Bright Canyon Walk is a 3km loop hike that takes you along the Ovens River and through a scenic gorge, known as Bright Canyon.

The walk is stunning all year round. Plus, it’s an easy walk that’s ideal for families to do.

11. Visit the Wineries and Distilleries

I mentioned earlier that Bright was set in a wine region, so you cannot make a trip here without visiting a winery. The Ringers Reef Winery is one of the best places to sample local wines.

It was founded in the late 1800s by a gold specimen. Today, the area is less about mining gold and more about producing wine.

In 1998, Annie and Bruce Holm established the Ringer Reef vineyard on the mining area, where they produce handmade wines.

You can take guided winery tours here or grab a picnic basket with cheeses and local produce and sit out on their lawn.

If you’re more into spirits, head over to Reed & Co Distillery, which is another family-run business in Bright. They are famous for producing alternative Gins such as Yuzu gin and Koji spirits.

Day Trips from Bright

WE recommend staying in Bright and using it as a base to explore the beauty of the surrounding High Country.

There is so much to see and do in this area, and I recommend it as a fantastic alternative to the traditional Australian beach summer holiday.

12. Explore the Town of Mount Beauty

Just a 30-minute drive from Bright is the small town of Mount Beauty, which sits at the base of Mount Bogong and Falls Creek.

It’s a quaint and relaxed town with a stunning lake at its center. It also has a skiing and mountain biking culture.

If you’re visiting with your mountain bikes, head to the Big Mountain Bike Park, or if you’d prefer a game of golf, head over to the Mount Beauty Golf Club for a game or two.

13. Go Hiking in Alpine National Park

Alpine National Park is one of the best parks in Australia for hiking. You can hike up some of Victoria’s highest mountain ranges, such as the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing trail which takes you over the craggy ridges.

You can also hike along The Razorback, a ridge that leads to Mount Feathertop, Victoria’s second highest peak.

You can also find some world-class mountain bike trails and white water rafting experiences in the park. If you want to up the adventure, consider a four-wheel drive tour along the Wonnangatta Four-wheel Drive.

In the winter, it makes for the perfect spot for cross-country skiing.

14. Visit Mount Buffalo

Only a short 40 minute drive from Bright is Mt Buffalo, a beautiful place to explore for the day. It’s perfect in the summer as it’s usually much cooler than down in the valley.

We spent the morning kayaking at Lake Catani, and enjoying a picnic at The Horn, the highest point of Mt Buffalo.

You can walk up the top for 360 degree views of the plateau and Australian Alps, where you will find picnic tables for visitors to use.

On the way back down stop at Ladies Bath Falls for a dip in the refreshingly clear waters.

Our divine picnic was supplied by Food Wine Friends and kayak trip was with Adventure Guides Australia.

15. Wander Around Dinner Plain

Dinner Plain is about a 10 minute drive from Mt Hotham, right at the peak. It’s a modern town and is a fantastic alternative to the Mt Hotham ski town, especially in the summer.

There are plenty of walking trails—don’t forget your picnic lunch to enjoy the views with. The drive itself is stunning.

It’s popular to cycle from the Valley floor up to Mt Hotham. I’d much rather the gentler trails around the Dinner Plain area. Plenty of great views and opportunity for exercise.

16. Wander Around Beechworth

Beechworth has legendary status for its Ned Kelly history and bakery. Only in Australia can bakeries have such a cult following—the queue resembled that of an Offspring mosh pit.

Craig and I reckon the town’s best feature is the Bridge Road Brewers.

There is plenty of history, nature and boutique shopping in the area too.

17. Visit Feathertop Winery

Feathertop Winery is located 10km from Bright, just past Porepunkah.

You can make your entrance to Feathertop an experience in itself by cycling the stunning Rail Trail from Bright.

We didn’t feel Kalyra would cope with the 10km one way cycle, so we drove. Since I love wine more than Craig he nominated himself as the DD.

18. Go Berry Picking at Mount Stanley

Just up the road from Beechworth at Mt Stanley is one of the best berry picking experiences you’ll ever have.

We had so much fun at High Grove Berry And Cherry Farm, running from rows of blueberries, boysenberries, raspberries and berries we’d never heard of like Loganberries.

The best thing about this farm is that for $3 you can eat all you like while you pick.

The girls learned how to find and pick a ripe berry and how to taste one like a connoisseur of wine, we shared our thoughts on each one and whether it was worthy to make the bucket.

Only blueberries, boysenberries and raspberries made ours. These berries are also super cheap to buy.

Though you should note, this is only available when berries are in season – usually from mid December until the end of January.

Places to Eat in Bright

Bright is the place to cafe and restaurant hop. There is an amazing number of choices and so many of them are family friendly.

Here are a few of our fave places to eat in Bright:

Blackbird Cafe

Free Wi-Fi, children’s play section, comfy couches and great food and coffee. Blackbird Cafe quickly became our local.

Tell me that you don’t spend the rest of the day singing The Beatles song: Blackbird singing in the dead of night!

Coral Lee

Coral Lee is a quirky and cozy cafe. Said to have some of the best coffee in Bright. Our pick is the the pesto toast for breakfast.

Food Wine Friends

We love this small cafe and providore. The food is fresh and made from local produce and the coffee is excellent.

Treat yourself with a gourmet picnic hamper to take up to Mt Buffalo. We loved what Luke prepared for us and I loved not having a hand in the making and gathering of it. For time strapped parents like us it’s such a great idea.

Want to hear a funny, ghostly tale about Food Wine Friends? Read about it here.

Riverdeck Kitchen

A pleasant spot to sit with a cuppa in the sun is the Riverdeck Kitchen overlooking the Ovens River and play area.

Ginger Baker

Ginger Baker has a lovely outside eating area, overlooking the Ovens River. There is plenty of space here for the kids to feel comfortable.

Where to stay in Bright

Accommodation in Bright is mostly focused on holiday rentals or caravan parks. We have experienced both and can highly recommend. Book as far in advance as possible. You can also use the map below to help you find the right accommodation for you!

• The Bright Colonial Hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the shops, restaurants and cafes of Bright. See rates and availability here.
• Campers will love the riverside location of Bright Riverside Holiday Park and access to nearby trails and the town. They also have fantastic villas. See rates and availability here.
• Aalborg Bright offers a Scandinavian-inspired adults only accommodation in Bright with stunning mountain views!. See rates and availability.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Bright

We spent two weeks over Christmas in Bright, staying at a lovely home with a magical view of Mount Hotham and kangaroos visiting of an evening and early morning.

Who wouldn’t want that, right?

As you can see from this guide, there are so many amazing attractions in Bright, you can find an adventure here no matter what time you visit.

We’ve been three times and wouldn’t hesitate to return!

More Bright Travel Guides

Need more inspiration for your trip to Bright? Then check out these other guides…

• Seeing Ghosts in the Bathroom at Food Wine Friends Cafe, Bright
• Who Said Wineries Aren’t for Children? Introducing Feathertop Winery in Bright, Victoria

More Victoria Travel Tips

Are you planning to visit other parts of Victoria? Then these resources may be useful to you…

• 8 Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne (Less than three hours away)
• Why have we not heard of Wilsons Promontory National Park?
• 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive in Australia
• 6 Beaches in Melbourne to Visit Once You’re Done with the City
• There’s Something About Marysville, Victoria
• 11 things to do in Melbourne with kids
• Where to stay in the Grampians
• Victoria Travel Tips

As it turns out, there are many incredible places to visit near Melbourne that are less than three hour’s drive away. Perfect for weekend getaways.

As much as it pains me to say it is a New South Welshman, Victoria was the biggest surprise from our 18-month road trip around Australia.

The state packs a punch, even though it’s a small state there’s still plenty to do, from seeing world-famous scenery to mysterious wildlife and historical landmarks. It’s no surprise our one-month trip quickly turned into three!

Even our kids loved Melbourne and its surrounding tourist attractions, and Kalyra still talks fondly of the place nearly two years later.

If you’re looking for places to visit outside Melbourne that are either a day trip or weekend getaway from Melbourne, then keep reading, as we’ll be listing our favourite spots below.

Places to Visit Near Melbourne for a Weekend Getaway

Once you’re done exploring the city, it’s time to consider one (or more) of the below getaways from Melbourne. These nearby places to visit in Melbourne will have you singing Victoria’s praises in no time too!

1. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Surprisingly we knew almost nothing about Wilsons Promontory National Park before our road trip around Australia and had never heard of Squeaky Beach, which we now put up there with the best beaches in Australia. 

It wasn’t until we arrived in Victoria and started talking with the locals, and a well-travelled friend from Melbourne who raved about the Prom being his favourite place in the country, that we paid it much attention.

Having been, we can confirm that Wilsons Prom is Victoria’s best-kept-secret and at just a 3-hour drive from Melbourne, a great getaway!

Be warned though this coastal wilderness area has limited accommodation and is so popular with Victorians that they have a ballot system to stay during peak season! We spent three nights in a little cabin at Tidal River Campground when we visited. 

While we recommend spending a few days in Wilson’s Prom, if you don’t have time or your own vehicle, you can join this full day tour from Melbourne. 

2. Bright

The charming town of Bright is our favourite town in Victoria and one of our top three towns in Australia, period. We tell everyone we meet who is visiting Victoria, you MUST visit Bright!

lt‘s one of those places that gets under your skin and we’ll return there over and over again.

With the Owens River running through town and the alpine scenery, it reminds us of Colorado and the cafe scene is top notch too – we’re partial to the Blackbird Cafe, Food Wine Friends, and the Rail Trail Cafe.

We LOVE the Bright Brewery by the river which produces excellent craft beer, the best cider I have ever tasted, and delicious pizzas. And your kids will love the big playground just across from the beer garden, win-win!

Besides the food and drink, if you love exploring the great outdoors by foot or bicycle, Bright is your town too. Just a three-hour drive from Melbourne makes it one of the best places to visit near Melbourne.

Oh, and whilst you’re in Bright, take a detour to Beechworth and have lunch at Bridge Road Brewers, one of our faves in Oz!

3. Marysville

There’s something about Marysville!

This town was devastated by bushfires on what became known as Black Saturday back in 2009. Almost the entire town burned to the ground with many locals losing their lives.

But the way the town has recovered is remarkable. The spirit of the people is truly something to be admired!

It’s only an hour northeast of Melbourne and the drive into Marysville is beautiful in itself. It makes for a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Once there enjoy the serenity and the natural setting.

Go hiking at Lake Mountain, take in Steavenson Falls, marvel at Bruno’s Sculpture Garden, go trout fishing at Buxton Trout Farm, taste wines at Buxton Ridge Winery and so much more.

For foodies, you’ll love all the homemade cooking you can get here. You can have breakfast at Fraggas Cafe, dinner at the Black Spur Inn, and let your kids burn off some energy playing at Gallipoli Park.

We stayed at the charming Amelina Cottage which were an easy stroll into town.

4. The Great Ocean Road

You can’t visit Melbourne and Victoria without jumping behind the wheel of your car, or hiring a car and driving one of the best road trips in the world.

This has to be the number one place to visit near Melbourne for a weekend getaway, period.

Beginning 90 minutes outside of Melbourne in Torquay, the Great Ocean Road stretches over 250 kilometres to Warrnambool and attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.

Explore seaside towns, walk through rainforests to waterfalls, spot koalas, swim at scenic beaches, and stand in awe as you take in the famous Twelve Apostles.

Whatever you do, don’t do this drive in one day, slow down and appreciate all it has to offer. There are many towns along the Great Ocean Road to stop at, we recommend staying the night in Lorne, which makes for a great central base.

We stayed at the Mantra Hotel right on the beach.

5. The Mornington Peninsula

We camped for a week on the Mornington Peninsula and whilst it’s only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, we felt like we were a million miles away from the city.

I vividly remember the sunset on Dromana Beach being as impressive as anywhere in Victoria, and our pub lunch at the Portsea Hotel had as good a view as anywhere for a beer garden.

Other things we recommend include the coastal headland walk around Sorrento (Millionaire’s row), enjoy takeaway fish & chips on the waterfront of Sorrento, and take the kids to the community playground on the Rye Foreshore.

Another place we loved was the Peninsula Hot Springs, which quickly replaced the High Tea at the Langham Hotel in Melbourne as being the best mummy/daughter date ever.

6. Phillip Island

We thought Phillip Island was all about penguins and motorcycle racing, but after spending a relaxing eight days on the island we can assure you it offers so much more.

Phillip Island is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Melbourne for one thing; the penguin parade. Though it sounds like some sort of carnival, it’s really just a name given to the time of day when the little penguins come up to the shore at sunset in their numbers – waddling in a sort of parade fashion.

When you take in the penguin parade experience get there early and explore The Nobbies which has spectacular views over the Bass Strait – it will be windy though!

The parade is a ticketed event, but it’s still amazing to see them in their natural environment.

The main town of Cowes Beach is a good place to base yourself and has a decent cafe and restaurant scene. The beach here is family-friendly as is scenic Smiths Beach.

Other things I recommend to do on Phillips Island are a visit to The Koala Conservation Centre, the Chocolate Factory, Amaz’N Things, and the Grand Prix circuit.

7. The Bellarine Peninsula

Another place to visit near Melbourne we’d never heard of is the Bellarine Peninsula. Again surprising, considering it’s only one hour south of Melbourne and close to the starting line for the Great Ocean Road.

Thanks to a recommendation from another Melbourne friend we jumped on the car ferry from Sorrento and headed for Queenscliff.

The town of Queenscliff is a historic seaside village with a good cafe scene – I had the best-ever chai latte at Raw Ingredients. We also loved the slow pace of life in Barwon Heads and exploring the cafe and restaurant scene there, check out At the Heads and the Star Fish Bakery.

Other nice towns on the Bellarine include Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove – the largest town on the Bellarine and the closest surfing beach to Melbourne!

If you find yourself heading south from Melbourne towards Geelong and Great Ocean Road, consider exploring the Bellarine Peninsula.

We stayed at the Big 4 Beacon Resort Campground for three weeks, and it had become one of our favourite caravan parks and base for exploring the Bellarine.

It’s a great addition to our best places near Melbourne list.

8. The Grampians

One of the best walking and hiking destinations in Victoria is merely three hours from Melbourne.

The Grampians National Park is a rugged mountain range and is renowned for its breathtaking rocky views, rich culture and stunning wildflower displays.

The first we’d heard of the Grampians was from a Swedish backpacker in Thailand who said it was his favourite place in the world to rock climb. Just another beautiful place in Victoria that rarely gets talked about.

We conquered the summit of the 4km Pinnacle’s Walk with our girls, aged 6 and 2 at the time, and it was one of my favourite days of our Australia trip.

Halls Gap is a great town to base yourself in the heart of the Grampians, we stayed at the Grampians Eco YHA which was family-friendly and an eco-retreat.

9. Canberra

Canberra is the capital of Australia and chances are, you’ve probably never heard of it! Though it’s the capital city, it doesn’t get the same marketing that big cities like Sydney or Melbourne do.

I mean, how can Canberra compete with top attractions in Melbourne like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or Melbourne Zoo?

But Canberra has some attractions of its own that are well worth taking a day trip to see. For one thing, it has some remarkable, world-class museums. The National Gallery of Australia is one of the best art galleries in the country to see aboriginal and Australian art in its permanent collection.

It has two buildings, the NGV Australia and NGV International – one displays international artwork and the other, local. Both buildings are a marvel of modern architecture.

Canberra is easily accessible by high-speed train, which departs from Melbourne’s central business district at Flinders Street Station. Or, you can drive and it will take around 7 hours.

Since Canberra is in the New South Wales state, you’ll need to plan ahead to include this in your weekend getaway from Melbourne.

10. Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is a region just outside the city of Melbourne that surrounds the Yarra River. It’s known for its wine cultivation and hiking trails.

If you’re looking for relaxing places to visit near Melbourne, you can’t go wrong with a visit to wine country in Yarra Valley. There are 90 vineyards and 35 wineries here, so you could easily spend a day or weekend hopping between them.

Another unique thing to do in Yarra Valley is take a sunrise hot air balloon ride. There is something so magical about watching the sunrise from the air and seeing its rays glisten over the vineyards below.

Of course, you can also find river cruises that take you into the Yarra Valley region if you’re not looking to spend much time here.

11. Healesville

Located just outside Melbourne is the town of Healesville. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature, parks and hiking trails. The number one reason to visit Healesville though is for the Healesville Sanctuary.

This is a zoo dedicated to Australian wildlife. It’s a small zoo and will only take 2-3 hours to see it all, but it’s the best place to see native species to Aus such as Koalas, Kangaroos, Wombats, Wallabees, Dingos and Platypuses.

The zoo is dedicated to animal conservation and helping animals who face extinction.

12. St Kilda Beach

Okay, so St Kilda isn’t exactly outside Melbourne, but we understand that some people don’t like to spend all their time travelling, so if you want to be within a reasonable distance of Melbourne CBD, then we recommend spending some time at St Kilda Beach.

This is Melbourne’s seaside resort area and is famous for its cafes and restaurants along St Kilda road and the stunning St Kilda Pier.

It’s also where you’ll find Luna Park, the number one theme park in Melbourne with rollercoasters and fairground rides.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without escaping the city, this is a great place to visit near Melbourne CBD.

Getting Around Melbourne and Victoria

If you’re not sure how to get to all these amazing places to visit near Melbourne then the best way is by car. Since a lot of these attractions are national parks or located in the wilderness, you’ll need to drive to them either way.

If you’re arriving internationally and don’t have a car, then you can find great deals using RentalCars.com. It’s the world’s biggest car rental booking service and it compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar.

Another way to get to some of these locations is to fly. Places like Canberra can be driven to but it takes a day or so to drive. Use Skyscanner to compare flights and find yourself a deal.

Within Melbourne itself, it’s really easy to get around. Melbourne has a tram service that connects most of the top tourist attractions.

It even has the City Circle Tram, which is a free tram service that connects the top attractions. Here are all the attractions you can access by taking this line:

• Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building
• Melbourne Aquarium
• Docklands
• Parliament House
• St Paul’s Cathedrale
• Flinders Street Station

You can either change to a paid tram service to get to other attractions (or walk). It’s not far from the City Circle Tram to attractions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, the National Gallery of Victoria, Queen Victoria Market or any of the parks such as Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Melbourne is very walkable and you don’t really need to pay for public transport.

Before You Go

So there you have it, those are the top places to visit near Melbourne for a weekend getaway. As you can see, there’s a lot of variety to choose from.

From seeing penguins in their natural habitat to exploring small, quaint towns, to basking in the wine country – you’ll find something for everyone on this list.

Before you go, make sure to check out our other guides on Melbourne below. The city is one of our favourites in Australia and shouldn’t be skipped, so do make sure you plan some time exploring the inner city, too.

Other Melbourne Tips

Do you need more inspiration to help you plan your next trip to Melbourne? Take a look at these other resources:

• 6 Beaches in Melbourne to Visit Once You’re Done with the City
• Best Melbourne accommodation from budget to luxury
• 17 Places to eat in Melbourne
• What to do in Melbourne – tips from a local
• 11 things to do in Melbourne with kids
• Don’t miss Hosier Lane in Melbourne
• Loving Federation Square in Melbourne

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For anyone who has never visited the city before, it can be hard figuring out what to do in Melbourne. It has some world-class museums and galleries, and unrivaled entertainment, as well as being home to a massive foodie and sports culture.

With so much to see and do, it’s not easy putting together an itinerary for Melbourne. 

So to help you out, we interviewed Steve Davidson who has lived in Melbourne for almost 12 years. As a local, he knows all the top things to do in Melbourne and has even shared with us his favorite hidden gems.

If you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time and don’t know where to start, keep reading for Steve’s suggestions for the best places to eat, sleep, drink, shop, and explore.

What is Melbourne well known for?

There really is something for everyone in Melbourne, no matter what your budget or tastes are. Melbourne is known for being one of the most livable cities in the world, with a vibrant music, arts, and theatre scene.

Compared to other cities in Australia, it’s known for being really easy to get around; especially on the Melbourne tramway system. The streets are very easy to navigate.

It’s also famous for its abundance of shopping and dining experiences that are like no other city in Australia.

Shopping strips like Chapel and Fitzroy Streets and Sydney and Bridge Roads have attracted many visitors to the city wanting to part ways with their dollars.

What to Do in Melbourne

If you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne, then below are Steve’s top suggestions for attractions and places to visit.

1. Visit St Kilda Pier at Dusk

A personal favourite thing to do in Melbourne is to visit St Kilda Pier at dusk, when the fairy penguins come in and bring smiles to everyone who sees them. The little penguins are so cute!

Why go to Phillip Island for the penguin parade when there is a free one right in the city?

I also like St Kilda for the outdoor dining and bars, many with bay views.

2. Shop Until You Drop

It’s not secret that Melbourne is a great destination for shopping fans to part ways with their coin. There are all kinds of shopping in the city, from vintage thrift stores, to boutique stores, to high-end luxury.

For shopping, I love the city laneways, especially between Flinders, Elizabeth, Bourke and Swanston Streets. Little Collins Street is also very good for relieving you of some of your cash.

The city center is actually pretty good for shopping.

Brunswick is a great area if you want to experience a bit of the Middle East, with small markets, and affordable restaurants with delicious food.

I like Fitzroy for the cafes and restaurants, not to mention all of the boutique shops, many catering for a hip crowd. Richmond and Prahran are also alright areas to shop, but a little more expensive than the others. They are quite popular with the locals though.

3. Marvel at the Views from Eureka Tower

Eureka Tower is a must see for anyone looking for things to do in Melbourne. It offers stunning views from the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere, at 297 metres/88 floors.

There is no better place to see the magnitude of the city and all its incredible beauty.

4. See An AFL Game at Melbourne Cricket Ground

If you’re here during the AFL (Australian Football League) season, you must check out a game. The atmosphere in the massive MCG is unlike anything else in this country.

If you’re not able to catch a game, then be sure to visit the stadium on a behind the scenes tour. The grounds are not just a sporting venue, but also a museum.

You can visit the famous MCC Long Room, the players’ changing rooms and the cricketers’ viewing room. Visitors can also see the Ron Casey Media Centre.

Head over to the Cricket Victoria Bill Lawry Centre and Australian Sports Museum to learn more about Australia’s sporting history.

5. Get Into Melbourne’s Delicious Foodie Scene

Melburnians love food and drink, so it would be wrong to visit without trying some of the best restaurants and places to eat in the city. For budget, I would recommend any beer garden on a Sunday afternoon offering a free BBQ – these are quite widespread over the summer months.

Lucky Coq (Chapel Street, Prahran) offers very cheap pizzas, and I am a huge fan.

Don Dons on Swanston Street, near Melbourne Central, offers very affordable and tasty Japanese fare – and lightning fast service.

For stylish eats, I’d recommend Eureka 89 and Vue De Monde – mainly because I love a good view from high above the city.

For stylish yet casual, I’d recommend anywhere on Little Collins Street from Swanston Street, up to Spring Street. Terra Rosa is a personal favourite of mine along this strip.

6. Visit a Local Tavern or Bar

Melbourne is also well known for its bars and pubs, so if you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne at night, then be sure to hit the bars!

In the city, you’ve got many places to get a cool, refreshing cocktail such as The Workshop, Rooftop Bar, Cookie and many others. These are some trendy and hip places to drink in the evening.

There are also many along the river in Southbank – walk along and pick one – they are all great, though if you like cocktails, Left Bank (next to Freshwater Place) has the best espresso martinis I’ve ever had…

For pubs, my personal favorites are along Sydney Road – The Penny Black, The Retreat Hotel and the Cornish Arms Hotel.

7. Take a Day Trip Along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the main reasons why people visit Melbourne. This 250 km scenic drive starts just one hour outside of Melbourne in Torquay, and continues on to Warrnambool.

Along the way, you’ll pass incredible vistas, scenic viewpoints, impressive rock formations such as the iconic Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps and London Arch (London Bridge).

The drive is so scenic, that even though it can be completed in about 9 hours from one side to the other, many people choose to take the drive over a couple of days so they can stop and see all the amazing attractions along the way.

8. Explore Melbourne’s Gardens and Parks

Despite being a big city, Melbourne is pretty green. There are many parks and gardens where you can escape the high-rise buildings and experience being in nature.

Pack a picnic and head off to the Royal Botanic Gardens or Carlton Gardens.

The Royal Botanic Gardens actually covers two sites in Melbourne and Cranbourne. The Melbourne Gardens were founded in 1846 and connect to the south side of the Yarra Valley It spans 38 hectares and offers a quiet place to relax among the trees, garden beds, lakes, and rivers.

Carlton Gardens is a World Heritage Site that sits on the northeastern edge of the Melbourne CBD. It’s most popular for its picnic and BBQ area, and even has its own wildlife such as the brushtail possum.

9. Check out the Markets in Melbourne

The Queen Victoria Markets despite its reputation, does not really offer anything for the average tourist, in my opinion (other than to say you’ve been there). I do my meat and fruit shopping there though, so it may be handy if you’re staying in a serviced apartment and wanting to save a lot of money on the essentials.

Rose Street Markets, in Fitzroy, are known as The Artist’s Market. It is small compared to other markets, but I really like the range of clothing, accessories and art available there. They also sell some pretty nice coffee!

As above, there are many shopping areas to choose from – this really is the shopping capital of Australia, with something for everyone.

There are also other markets at St Kilda on a Sunday, as well as the ones at the Arts Centre. Chadstone in the suburbs is worth a visit if you like massive shopping centres. It may be a little tricky to get to via public transport though.

10. Go to A Festival in Melbourne

There are heaps of festivals in Melbourne. The Comedy Festival runs through April and is fantastic for seeing world famous (and up and coming) comedians live.

The Moomba Festival (on the Labour Day long weekend in March) offers a carnival experience right in the city, with a highlight for me being the annual parade down Swanston Street, and the Birdman Rally. The latter just has to be seen to be believed.

Spring Horse Racing Carnival in early November is what I consider to be the unofficial start of summer, with a whole week of horse racing at Flemington, the highlight being the Melbourne Cup. I highly recommend everyone to go and experience this once in their lives.

We also have the Grand Prix and the Australian Tennis Open…there is something big on pretty much all year round.

11. Take a Day Trip to Daylesford

Daylesford to the north is a beautiful country town, just over an hours drive away. There is great food and the Sunday markets are also worth the trip, along with the nearby Chocolate Mill.

This is an excellent place to visit any time of the year, though it is generally a little colder than Melbourne most of the time.

12. Enjoy a Sunday Session

Definitely any of the suburban bars and pubs mentioned above are great to visit on Sundays, but I personally love The Penny Black because they also offer a Sunday roast for those wishing to enjoy a nice, traditional Sunday meal.

I’ve never been disappointed with the food, drink, or atmosphere there on a Sunday. And, it’s good all year round, with outdoor heating and protection from the elements in winter.

I also like checking out the bars along Chapel Street – many offer discounted meals with each drinks purchase. The people are relaxed and happy on a Sunday. I’ve only good things to say about my Sunday sessions.

13. Dance the Night Away at Bimbo Deluxe

Bimbo Deluxe was a place where I had many great nights – with an outdoor beer garden on the rooftop, dance floor, dining area and plenty of comfy couches.

This one is for the younger people who like to dance to music other than what’s on the radio. Bimbo Deluxe revamped and rebarnded itself after a fire in 2018. It’s now known as Kewpie Bar and is just as popular!

If you like hip-hop, another great club is Bond Lounge. There are also many great options in St Kilda, the city, Fitzroy and along Chapel Street. There truly is something for everyone.

14. Visit the Museums and Galleries

Melbourne is a cultural city with a lot of world-class museums and galleries. Some of the most popular museums to check out are the Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.

Get cultural and learn about Australian history and see some of the most impressive artwork in the city.

15. Take the Kids to the Zoos

If you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne with kids and they love wildlife, there are some fantastic zoos they will love.

The Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a safari-like adventure. It is home to several African animals such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. Because these animals need a lot of space to roam, the park offers them just that, and visitors get the wild safari adventure.

Another popular zoo is Melbourne Zoo, which is the primary zoo in Melbourne. It’s located within Royal Park in Parkville, and is considered a world-leading zoo.

Melbourne Zoo actually owns Werribee Open Range Zoo, as well as Kyabram Fauna Park, and Healesville Sanctuary.

16. Watch the Sunset Over the Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is one of the most important monuments in Melbourne. The shrine was unveiled in 1934 as a memorial to those who have been lost in the first World War.

It is located in the Kings Domain Gardens shortly after the war ended, and is widely visited each year on 25th of April for Anzac Day, and on Remembrance Day on the 11th of November.

The monument looks beautiful and peaceful at sunset, which is the best time for reflection.

17. Catch a Show at Arts Centre Melbourne

If you love watching musicals and performing arts, then be sure to visit the Arts Centre, Melbourne, the best venue in the city to watch a play or musical.

The Arts Centre is an arcade of performing arts venues. The State Theatre is the most popular theatre, and has over 2,000 seats. Here you can see some of the biggest names, acts, and performances in the city.

Unlike most theatres, the State Theatre is underground and has one of the largest stages in the world.

Getting To and Around Melbourne

The city is laid out on a very easy-to-navigate grid. The public transport system will get you to anywhere you may need to go, despite the odd cancellation.

The most common way to get around is by the tram network, which runs through the entire city. There’s even a free tram service, known as The City Circle Tram, which is a zero-fare service just for tourists – it connects to all the major attractions in Melbourne such as the parliament house, old treasury building, and Docklands waterfront.

If you don’t use the tram, there is a bus and metro network, which uses the same ticket as the tram.

If you’re heading to St Kilda, get the 96 tram – it runs express along an old train line, and will save you quite a bit of time.

Getting to CBD from the Airport

The Sky-Bus offers a regular shuttle service 24/7 direct to Southern Cross Station in the city. They also offer a hotel drop off and pick up service – ask for details at the counter.

A taxi to the city costs around $50-$60, depending on what time of day you’re travelling. I am generally very happy to stick with the Sky-Bus, unless I have returned from a long day at work interstate.

Best Time of Year to Visit Melbourne

Autumn (march – May) to early winter (June – July) is the best time to visit Melbourne. The weather is at its sunniest at this time of year, and there is generally a lack of weather extremes that occasionally hit in summer and winter.

Having said that, the weather is nowhere near as bad as other Australians would have you believe. Melbourne has a reputation for being a rainy city, but it’s usually a light rain or drizzle, so don’t let that put you off.

I love this city all year round.

Before You Go

So there you have it, those are the top things to do in Melbourne. As you can see there’s a lot to see and explore.

Before you go, I have a few words of advice from Steve; definitely check out the city’s laneways for some shopping bargains, along with Smith Street, Collingwood for some decent factory outlets.

Avoid the DFO outlets and Docklands’ Harbour Town. In my observation, the items on “sale” there are more expensive than the major city department stores, although the rare occasional bargain may be found.

And don’t forget to get yourself a map. There are several “City Ambassadors” – wearing their distinctive red outfits, on many of the main intersections in the city.

The locals are also only too happy to recommend things to do in Melbourne, and give you directions on how to get there. This city is very easy to navigate.

More Melbourne Travel Tips

Looking for more inspiration about Melbourne? Check out these other posts:

• 8 Exciting Places to visit near Melbourne (Less than three hours away)
• Why have we not heard of Wilsons Promontory National Park?
• 16 Highlights of the Great Ocean Road Drive in Australia
• 6 Beaches in Melbourne to Visit Once You’re Done with the City
• There’s Something About Marysville, Victoria
• 11 things to do in Melbourne with kids
• 17+ Places to eat in Melbourne
• Visit Hosier Lane for Grafitti Art
• Best accommodation in Melbourne – budget to luxury
• A stay at Mantra Southbank – family friendly accommodation

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