There’s so much to love about Melbourne. Some of the best coffee in the world, beautiful parks, and nightlife that could give some of the biggest cities in the world a run for their money.
But we all need a break sometimes - even if that does mean venturing away from the best lattes in the world. And now that Victoria is opening up again post-lockdown, we’ve got an excuse to jump in the car and see all that regional Victoria has to offer.
At Dineamic, we’ve sure been missing road trips and new experiences. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the team’s favourite day trips and weekend getaways. Incredible scenery, stunning waterfalls, beautiful beaches and more, all just an hour or two away.
1. Mornington Peninsula
2. Great Ocean Road
It’s a drive that’s on the bucket list of people all over the world. How lucky are we? It's just a stone's throw away. Stop by Torquay, Bells Beach and Lorne. Discover breath-taking rainforest at the Otway Fly Treetops Walk, Erskine Falls, and of course, the piece de resistance: the Twelve Apostles.
3. Daylesford
Known for its natural mineral springs, discover dreamy Daylesford. Visit Trentham Falls, get lost in the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, or spend the day at the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. With plenty of gourmet food, stunning wines to sample and luxurious accommodation, it’s a great getaway.
4. Wilsons Promontory
Known for its rugged granite mountains and abundant wildlife, Wilsons Promontory sits at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Bushwalks and pristine beaches await. Scale the peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views of Bass Strait, or discover hidden beaches like Cotters Beach, Whisky Bay and Fairy Cove. There’s so much to love about ‘The Prom!’
5. Steavenson Falls
Plummeting 84 metres, be in awe of the breath-taking Steavenson Falls. Located 10 minutes from Marysville, the falls feature five cascades and have a number of stunning bush walks you can embark on from the site. Ninety minutes from Melbourne in the foothills of the Yarra Valley, Marysville is a great destination for lovers of the great outdoors.
6. Lakes Entrance
About four hours east of Melbourne, you’ll find Lakes Entrance. Known for the Gippsland Lakes, this town has a vast system of inland waterways, and is home to Ninety Mile Beach. The area has an abundance of wildlife, including kangaroos and pelicans. And if you’re lucky you might spot some dolphins!
7. Inverloch
Inverloch is popular with swimmers, water sports enthusiasts and surfers who flock to its beaches over the summer. Right through the year, Inverloch is popular for its nature walks and local produce. While you’re there, explore the rugged coastlines at Eagles Nest or take in the gorgeous views of Anderson Inlet.
8. Warburton
Warburton is a quiet, picturesque town on the Yarra River. The town has a bunch of cafes and other eateries, many in buildings which date back to Warburton's beginnings as an escape for Melburnians in the 1900s. You can see snow during winter at the nearby Mount Donna Buang, discover the Warburton Rainforest Gallery or snap a few pics in the Instagram-worthy Redwood Forest.
9. Ballarat
With a rich history, Ballarat is about 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne. It’s great for kids, and when you need a change up from coastal getaways. Ballarat is packed full of art, culture, food, wine and attractions set against an iconic heritage backdrop. While there, try your luck at digging up some gold in Sovereign Hill, wander through Kryal Castle or get acquainted with some furry friends at Ballarat Wildlife Park.
10. Bendigo
Last, but not least, is Bendigo. Experience a vibrant regional city reminiscent of the European cities that inspired it. In Bendigo, you’ll find an abundance of great food and drinks, festivals and more. Learn about Chinese culture at the Golden Dragon Museum, go underground at the Central Deborah Gold Mine and admire the latest Bendigo Art Gallery exhibition.
Victoria regional travel vouchers
So that’s just a taste of the diversity and beauty of regional Victoria! If you’re travelling over the 2020/2021 summer, you may be able to take advantage of the Regional Travel Voucher Scheme. More vouchers are set to be released on the 20th January and the 30th March - so you can try your luck!
Lunch, dinner and you taken care of on your getaway
We can all agree the least exciting part of a getaway is prepping meals and doing dishes, there’s so much of the destination to enjoy! But...we can’t eat every meal out. To get all the nutrients you need, pack some of our fresh, delicious meals next time you’re heading away! Shop now.