Guides Attractions Events in Victoria

The small scenic town of Alexandra is a major farming and service centre and has become a popular base for holidays in the Eildon region. The town's natural beauty and old-world charm, its proximity to nearby national parks, free-flowing rivers and the majestic Lake Eildon offers numerous recreation opportunities.
Stroll along the wide tree-lined streets past historic buildings, including the National Trust-classified Post Office, National Bank and the law courts, and discover arts and crafts, such as pottery and glassware, in quality gift shops and galleries. Discover local history at the Timber Tramway and Museum that displays artifacts from the timber industry of the last century. You can take a ride on a locomotive or join in the fun of the local community market nearby.
If you're looking for activities in the great outdoors, the choices range from relaxing houseboat cruises around Lake Eildon to more strenuous pastimes like waterskiing, kayaking and wakeboarding. You'll also find some of the best trout fishing in Victoria in the nearby waterways, especially the Goulburn River and Eildon Pondage.
Lake Eildon National Park is a haven for nature-lovers with its tranquil bushland, abundant native wildlife and panoramic views of the lake and mountains. The dramatic Cathedral Range offers invigorating hikes to the rugged peaks for magnificent views over the valleys and farmland, as well as rock climbing for the more adventurous. Birdwatching enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to McKenzies Reserve, which is home to many species of native birds.
Garden-lovers make a beeline for Alexandra in October and November for the Open Gardens and Rose Festivals. The town also holds an annual Easter Fair.
Alexandra is 130 kilometres from Melbourne along the Maroondah Highway.

Located at the foothills of the Otways and in the heart of the Great Ocean Road region, Apollo Bay has been called "Paradise by the Sea". Discover the town's wide, crescent-shaped sandy swimming beach, backdrop of rolling green Otway hills, relaxed lifestyle, waterfalls, and national and state parks.

Like many places along the Great Ocean Road, the beach is a focus for activity all year round. Swim in the clear water, sea kayak with local seals, indulge in some deep-sea fishing, learn to surf, or horse ride along the beach at sunset.

Head to Marriners Lookout Road for panoramic views over the town and coast. Another favourite lookout is Cape Patton, east of Apollo Bay near Wye River. Or take to the air for spectacular views of the nearby Twelve Apostles on one of many charter flights available from the local airport.

Fishing is an important local industry and seafood is always on the menu at the local cafés and restaurants. For great views try Chris's at Beacon Point high in the hills overlooking the sea. Shop for art and curios in the many gift shops, galleries and tea houses and peruse the regular Saturday foreshore market for local crafts and produce.

Head into the Otways to find mainland Australia's oldest lighthouse. Explore nearby forest and waterfall walks or enjoy an exhilarating ride through the ranges on a mountain bike. Take a treetop walk along the Otway Fly and enjoy a bird's eye view of the spectacular Otways rainforest.

Apollo Bay is located 195 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, a scenic 3.5 hour drive by car via the Great Ocean Road. A shorter alternative route is via Forrest and Birregurra, which takes just under three hours. Daily coach services are available from Melbourne or rail/coach services via Geelong.

Ararat is the only Australian town to have been founded by the Chinese who flocked to Victoria during the gold rush, and it retains the impressive architecture of the era. Known as "The Orchid City", leave time to view the beautiful orchids and taste fine wines from local vineyards.

Explore Ararat's gold heritage with a stroll through the town, past impressive gold rush era buildings, some of which have been recognised by the National Trust. You can find out more about Ararat's unique past with a visit to the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre and the Langi Morgala Museum.

There's plenty to occupy you in town: Wander through the beautiful Alexandra Gardens, which feature the famous orchid glasshouse, or view unusual exhibits of fibre and textile art at the Ararat Regional Art Gallery. For something unusual, Inspect J Ward, formerly Victoria's asylum for the criminally insane.

Ararat is also a good base from which to explore the Grampians National Park or the nearby Mount Langi Ghiran, Mt Cole and Mt Buangor. Take a tour of Australia's largest wind farm at Challicum Hills or meet the winemaker at one of the region's wineries. Play a round of golf at the Chalambar Golf Club, rated one of Victoria's top 50 golf courses.

Don't miss the Jailhouse Rock Festival in March, the Cymbidium Orchid Festivals in spring and the Scarecrows in the Vineyard Festival in May.

Ararat is approximately 2.5 hours from Melbourne via the Western or Pyrenees highways. Coach services are available from Melbourne.

Nestled at the eastern base of the Pyrenees Ranges to the north-west of Melbourne, Avoca is known for fine wines and horse races.

Sample the wines in the cool-climate Pyrenees wine region. Noted cellar doors include Blue Pyrenees, Taltarni Vineyard, Dalwhinnie Vineyard and Warrenmang Vineyard and Resort. There are wineries that offer accommodation or restaurants, even a game of petanque. Keep an eye out for winery events.

The Avoca Shire Turf Club hosts fantastic country race meets - often combined with the wines of the region. See the field and have a tipple at the Pink Lamb and Purple Shiraz Race Day in March, the Mount Avoca Anzac Day Races in April and the Taltarni Avoca Cup in October.

Avoca was one of the first goldfields in the north-western area of Victoria. Discover the rich goldfields past by following the Avoca Historic Walk past the historic buildings, including the courthouse (1857) and the Avoca Primary School (built in the 1870s). Pick up a brochure at the Avoca Visitor Information Centre, and look out for plaques at each historic site.

Avoca is 187 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, approximately two hours by car, and is situated at the crossroads of the Pyrenees and Sunraysia highways.

Head to Bairnsdale at any time of year and be rewarded with a busy regional centre from which to explore the vast Gippsland Lakes and spectacular Ninety Mile Beach, or the alpine highlights of Omeo, Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham.

The commercial centre for the local wool, dairy, agricultural and timber industries has plentiful accommodation and a wide range of shops and services. Wander around town on a self-guided heritage walk and explore local art galleries, museums, craft and antique shops. Visit the National Trust classified St Mary's Catholic Church in Main Street with its unique murals and painted ceilings.

Bairnsdale is the best spot to stock up on outdoor, surfing, camping and fishing equipment. When you've got your gear, fish on the Mitchell River or nearby lakes and rivers. Take a walk through the Mitchell River National Park and visit the Den of Nargun. According to Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, the Nargun was a half-stone, half-human female creature with the power to repel and turn back spears and stones. You can also tour the Bataluk Cultural Trail and discover elements of Koorie history and culture or visit the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place to view artefacts and history on the Gunai/Kurnai people of East Gippsland.

Pick up a brochure from the local visitor information centre and drive along the Twin Rivers Food and Wine Trail, or cycle along the East Gippsland Rail Trail from Bairnsdale to Nowa Nowa. Bairnsdale is also a good starting point for the Great Alpine Road.

Popular local events include the Bairnsdale Country Music Festival in March and the Bairnsdale Cup in September.

Bairnsdale is three hours east of Melbourne along the Princes Highway.

Take a trip to Ballarat in Victoria's Goldfields and discover rich history and heritage and a friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Ballarat is Victoria's largest inland city and is famous as the site of the world's largest deposit of alluvial gold. The legacy of the gold rush is evident in the majestic architecture and wide tree-lined streets of the town today. Admire the city's Victorian and Edwardian architecture, parks, gardens, statues and churches by following the visitor information centre's self-guided Heritage Walk.

Pan for gold and watch the hustle and bustle of an 1850s gold mining settlement at Sovereign Hill. The 35-acre site includes shops, hotels, schools, a theatre, crafts, steam-driven machinery and two underground mines. Don't miss the dramatic Blood on the Southern Cross sound and light show, telling the story of the Eureka Rebellion.

Visit the Gold Museum, located across the road from Sovereign Hill, and view the extensive and valuable collection of gold nuggets, alluvial gold deposits, gold ornaments and coins.

Admire the magnificent collection of Australian art and the original Eureka flag at the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. Catch a show at Her Majesty's Theatre which originally opened in 1875.

Wander through the lovely Ballarat Botanical Gardens, on the western side of Lake Wendouree, the oldest inland botanic gardens in regional Victoria. The Ballarat Begonia Festival is held in the gardens each March.

Take the family to meet koalas and kangaroos at the Ballarat Wildlife Park and walk or cycle along the tracks and trails in the region. Tempt your tastebuds with food and wine at laid-back cafés, award-winning restaurants, country pubs, and nearby wineries.

Ballarat is 110 kilometres west of Melbourne, just over an hour by car via the Western Highway. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.

Nestled at the mouth of the Barwon River on Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula, Barwon Heads found fame in the popular Australian television series, SeaChange, which depicted a quiet holiday hamlet. In many ways it lives up to this reputation with quiet river beaches on its doorstep, one main shopping street and a large hotel to provide for locals and the summer influx of visitors.

The wide and picturesque river estuary is used for many water-based activities year-round including swimming and fishing. Enjoy safe swimming along the sandy river foreshore at the river mouth. There is also lively surf action over the Bluff at Thirteenth Beach, and on the ocean beach, high hummocks shelter one of Australia's best links golf courses.

Cross Victoria's longest wooden bridge (built 1927) to reach Ocean Grove, where you'll find one of the most impressive sweeps of beach anywhere in Victoria. From the heads at Point Lonsdale, the unbroken stretch of sand reaches out to the mouth of the Barwon River many kilometres away and it is one of the most popular ocean beaches for surfing and swimming in Victoria.

Barwon Heads is 95 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, or about 90 minutes' drive, on the Princes Highway and Barwon Heads Road.

Beechworth is one of Victoria's best-preserved gold rush towns. One of Australia's richest goldfields, it features the courthouse where Ned Kelly's final trial commenced, and is close to the Rutherglen, Milawa and Beechworth wine regions.

Four million ounces of gold were officially mined in Beechworth in 1852, when thousands of hopefuls rushed to the goldfields in search of their fortunes. The prosperity generated by Beechworth gold has left an admirable legacy for today's visitors and the Beechworth Historic and Cultural Precinct is a fine example.

With over 30 buildings listed by the National Trust, Beechworth has a remarkable architectural heritage, from imposing hotels, churches and government offices to miners' cottages and the gaol where bushranger Ned Kelly was imprisoned. Take the time to explore the 19th century streetscapes, stopping to discover the many fine antique stores, cafés and restaurants, craft shops and tea rooms.

Discover Beechworth after dark on a lantern-lit walking tour and learn about local history. Visit Burke Museum to learn about local Aboriginal heritage, gold fever and see Ned Kelly's death mask. Don't leave without enjoying a meat pie, lamington or pastry at the famous Beechworth Bakery.

Popular local events include the Chinese Lantern Festival in February, Beechworth Harvest Celebration in May, Ned Kelly Weekend in August and Beechworth Celtic Festival in November.

Beechworth is 267 kilometres or approximately three hours from Melbourne via the Hume Freeway, Great Alpine Road and Wangaratta-Beechworth Road. V/Line trains run from Melbourne to Wangaratta, where you can connect with the bus service to Beechworth.

Set on the picturesque banks of Lake Benalla along the Broken River, Benalla is known as "The Rose City on the Lake". The city is renowned for links to infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and its historic botanic and rose gardens are considered to be some of the finest displays of roses in Victoria.

The Benalla Regional Art Gallery in the Botanic Gardens is recognised for its excellent historic and contemporary Australian art collection. Considered one of Victoria's most important regional galleries, it has many fine artworks including a tapestry of Sidney Nolan's Glenrowan, depicting the capture of Ned Kelly. Enjoy a picnic or leisurely stroll through the gardens, or if you're feeling more adventurous, the Gliding Club of Victoria offers joy flights.

Across the lake are the Costume and Pioneer Museum and visitor information centre. The museum displays a collection of exhibits from the region's past, including costumes dating back to 1770. It also houses an extensive collection of Ned Kelly memorabilia. Stand inside the portable cell that once held Ned Kelly and view the blood stained sash he wore under his famous armour at his final capture. Pick up a brochure on Benalla's Ned Kelly Trail from the visitor information centre and visit the legendary sites around Benalla.

Linking Benalla's lakeside attractions and many historic sites is a delightful walking trail around the lake, leading through stands of native flora including magnificent river red gums.

Popular local events include the Benalla Festival in March and the Benalla Agricultural and Pastoral Show in October.

Benalla is 195 kilometres north-east of Melbourne along the Hume Freeway or the Midland Highway.

Bendigo is a charming and elegant regional city in central Victoria and an ideal base to explore Victoria's golden heritage. In the centre of town, gold era architecture nestles among century-old gardens, sidewalk cafés, art galleries and antique stores.

Take a walk and explore the city's heritage buildings and sites, including the Alexandra Fountain, the magnificent former post office that now houses the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre, the law courts, and the ornate Shamrock Hotel. Take a break in Rosalind Park with its open air fernery, cascade waterfall and conservatory.

Head up View Street and discover Bendigo's arts precinct. It's headlined by the Bendigo Art Gallery (1887) containing a collection of Australian art dating back to the 1850s. Also, check out the Performing Arts Centre (1873) and a host of smaller galleries and antique stores.

Go underground at the restored Central Deborah Gold Mine, where visitors descend the equivalent of a thirty-storey building to explore the main vertical shaft. Take a ride on Bendigo's talking tram and explore the Chinese Dragon Museum, home to the world's oldest and longest imperial Chinese dragon, Sun Loong. Attend Bendigo's Easter Festival and see Sun Loong winding down the street as hero of the street parade.

The Bendigo wine region is home to approximately 30 wineries and is known for its tasty reds. Most wineries are small, friendly and family-run, so the people who pour your wine are the people who made it. The region's food and wine is showcased at the Bendigo Wine Festival in April and Bendigo Heritage Uncorked in October.

Bendigo is just under two hours from Melbourne on the Calder Highway. Trains operate daily services to Bendigo.

Each year in autumn, the deciduous trees in the town of Bright and the surrounding countryside put on a breathtaking display of colour. Located on the beautiful Ovens River and nestled in the valley below Mount Buffalo, Bright's avenues of elms, chestnuts, poplars and scarlet oaks are enhanced by the gardens of local residents which contribute to the town's autumn splendour.

Close to the Alpine National Park and within a short drive of the snowfields of Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Buffalo, Bright also offers a range of outdoor activities to entertain visitors all year round. Explore the town's many historic buildings and sites, which pay homage to the region's bustling gold rush beginnings.

The wealth of food and wine in the Alpine Valleys is also fast becoming one of the town's most popular attractions with excellent wineries, stunning produce, award-winning restaurants and a casual café culture to choose from.

Follow the many walking and bicycle paths around the town and view its picturesque natural setting from lookouts over the valley and surrounding mountains. Along the river trails you'll find great fishing spots that are renowned for trout as well as safe swimming holes for a refreshing dip on warm summer days.

Popular local events include the Bright Autumn Festival in April/May and the Bright Spring Festival in November.

Bright is 308 kilometres from Melbourne on the Great Alpine Road. Access is from the Hume Freeway at Wangaratta. You can also reach Bright via the Princes Highway through Bairnsdale and then onto the Omeo Highway and over the High Plains on the Great Alpine Road.

Take a sip of integral Melbourne history in Lygon Street, Carlton. Carlton was the place where the city's famous café culture was born with the arrival of Melbourne's first espresso machine at one of the street's Italian-owned cafes in the 1950s.

Melbourne's own Little Italy is crammed with double-storey Victorian terraces featuring endless cafes and restaurants serving steaming bowls of pasta, espresso and delicious gelati. Charming waiters will try and entice you to step inside or take a seat for sidewalk service. Old favourites like Tiamo and University Café are as warm and welcoming as they are traditionally tasty.

Further down Lygon Street you'll find bookshops, galleries and plenty of shops selling the latest European and Australian fashions. The crowd here is mixed, from students at the nearby university to the literary set buying up big at Readings bookstore and older Italian men just watching the world go by. Don't miss the Lygon Street Festa in October - a celebration of traditional and contemporary Italian culture and one of Australia's largest outdoor street festivals.

For a taste of Melbourne's history, take a walk through Carlton Gardens and the World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building and on into the Melbourne Museum, which houses everything from dinosaur bones and Melbourne Cup hero Phar Lap, to a full set from popular TV soap, Neighbours. It also features touring exhibitions and the spectacular IMAX movie experience.

Take some time to explore the Melbourne General Cemetery, final resting place of some larger than life Australians including Burke and Wills, Eureka Stockade activist Peter Lalor and one-time Prime Minister Robert Menzies.

Head to Carlton on tram number 1 or 22 heading north from Swanston Street or bus numbers 20, 201, 203 or 207 from Melbourne Central.

Paved by gold, Castlemaine's history and heritage is visible in its fine public buildings, wide streets, ornate hotels and century-old shops selling everything from gourmet food to antiques and art.

Castlemaine has a thriving arts and cultural community and has made its mark as a leading regional arts centre. Attend a show at Australia's oldest continually operating theatre, the Theatre Royal. View major Australian artworks of the late 19th and early 20th centuries at the Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum, or visit one of the city's many private galleries.

Whether your love is for formal gardens or natural landscapes, you'll find them in Castlemaine. Take a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the lake in the Botanical Gardens, established in 1856. Visit the Buda Historic Home and Garden with its magnificent nineteenth century gardens, and the Kaweka Wildflower Reserve, vividly coloured in spring.

Follow the Mt Alexander Diggings heritage trail and find out about life on the goldfields. Pick up a brochure from the historic Market Building in Mostyn Street.

Castlemaine is 119 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or just under 90 minutes via the Calder Highway. Alternatively you can travel via the Western Highway to the Midland Highway passing through Daylesford.

Clunes, one of the most original and intact gold towns in Australia, is nestled in a scenic valley 25 minutes north of Ballarat.

The discovery of gold in the area in 1851 signalled the beginning of the gold rush in Victoria, and in its heyday Clunes was the fifth largest town in the colony.

Today, Clunes is an attractive centre for artists, authors, historians and photographers. It's known for an intriguing range of accommodation, cafés, shops, galleries, wineries and old stores offering antiques and collectibles.

Take a walking tour and discover the charming architecture and history of the town. Among the many historical buildings are the 1860s Clunes Museum, the former London Chartered Bank (1871), the grand Town Hall and the former Post Office.

The Clunes Visitor Information Centre, housed in a school dating back to 1881, incorporates the Lee Medlyn Bottle Collection, a collection of more than 3,000 dolls, a display of local mining artefacts, an antique market and a working display of an 1860s soft drink factory.

Clunes has been used as a location for many films, television series and commercials. See if you can figure out where Ned Kelly (2002) and Mad Max were filmed.

Head out of town to Mt Beckworth State Park, a lovely spot year-round for bird watching, bushwalking and picnicking, and particularly beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are out.

Clunes is 148 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 90 minutes by car along the Western Freeway.

Coldstream is a small town 50 kilometres east of Melbourne. It is best known as the place where Australia's most famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba lived. You can still see Coombe Cottage where it stands on the juncture of the Maroondah and Melba highways. Stop at the Museum of Lilydale and learn about Melba's life in a fascinating exhibition. Explore the surrounding country on two wheels - cycle the Warbuton Rail Trail that extends 38 kilometres from Lilydale through grazing land and spring wattle to Warburton. Earn your wings at the Coldstream Airfield where the Royal Victorian Aero Club operates a Flight School. While in Coldstream, stop at a local brewery or winery and taste superb local produce.

Base yourself at Cowes, Phillip Island's main settlement and a great place to enjoy fishing, water sports, and the local wildlife.

Go swimming at sheltered Cowes beach, have a picnic on the foreshore or dine out in one of the restaurants along the esplanade. Take a charter boat out to see the seals at Seal Rocks or visit the koalas on French Island. Watch the Little Penguins in the Penguin Parade come ashore at sunset at nearby Summerland Beach.

Cowes was originally named Mussel Rocks and was the main point of arrival by ferry from the mainland before the bridge linking San Remo and Newhaven was opened. Early visitors arrived by steamboat, stayed in one of the many grand guesthouses along the seafront and travelled around the island on horseback to enjoy the many natural wonders.

A variety of accommodation is available alongside a multitude of restaurants, shops and nearby attractions. The town also has boat-launching facilities, boat hire, cruise vessels and a jetty from which the ferry to Stony Point arrives and departs. Cowes has beautiful beaches with fine sand that face north onto Western Port, and views of French Island and the Mornington Peninsula.

The island changes gear as the action heats up for the World Superbike Championships in April and the Australian Motor Cycle Grand Prix each October. The Churchill Island Working Horse Festival in March is a popular event for families.

With a population of about 4,000, Cowes is 140 kilometres from Melbourne. Travel along the South Gippsland Highway from Melbourne, taking the Bass Highway before turning off to San Remo, where a bridge connects you to Phillip Island. You can also reach Cowes by passenger ferry from Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula.

Creswick is a historic gold rush town set amid tall eucalyptus and pine forests just north of Ballarat in Victoria's Goldfields region.

Creswick's wide main street is dotted with historic buildings including the old Masonic Lodge, State Savings Bank (now an antique and gift shop), Creswick Library, Post Office and the Creswick Historical Museum.

Noted artist Norman Lindsay was born in Creswick. You can see a permanent exhibition of his paintings at the Creswick Historical Museum. The museum also displays paintings from the Lindsay family and historic artworks relating to Creswick's past.

Get outdoors and tour the Creswick Regional Park, which includes a 15-hectare koala park, trails through natural bushland, camp sites and picnic facilities. Follow the track around the shore of scenic St George Lake, home to waterbirds and the elusive platypus. Or, get yourself lost in the Tangled Maze, a garden maze grown from thousands of climbing plants.

Drop in a line at the Tuki Trout farm. You catch the fish and then it is cooked and served to you at this 1850s sheep station turned country retreat.

Take a short drive from Creswick to the mineral springs of Daylesford, the wineries of the Pyrenees, and the historic town of Clunes.

Creswick is 129 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 90 minutes by car on the Midland Highway.

Daylesford is a village in the heart of Victoria's spa country. A stone's throw from Melbourne, it has long been a premier spa and rejuvenation centre.

With a population of just 3000, Daylesford's numbers swell as visitors flock to discover its gourmet local produce, Victorian-era heritage, mineral springs and spas.

Early Swiss-Italian and other immigrants who settled in Daylesford during and after the region's gold rush greatly influenced the gardens and architecture, giving the town a European feel. Today, visitors come to sample the rejuvenating mineral waters, stay in luxury accommodation, explore craft and antique shops, go boating on the lake, or just relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the fine dining.

Daylesford supports a busy community of respected health and wellbeing practitioners who offer an array of natural therapy, holistic health and beauty treatments. Choose your therapy and indulge for an hour, a day or perhaps an entire weekend. Have the treatment come to you or relax in your chosen retreat.

Visit the award-winning Convent Gallery and pick up high quality local art and craft, take the Tipperary Walking Track and explore Hepburn Regional Park. Enjoy fine dining at the famous Lake House Restaurant or one of the other quality restaurants and cafés. Take the whole family and travel through the Wombat State Forest on the vintage railway that operates from Daylesford Station on Sundays.

Time your visit for the Regional Producers' Day in Daylesford each February, which showcases delicious local produce, or lose yourself in the larger-than-life pageant that is Chillout, the largest gay and lesbian event in regional Australia.

Daylesford is 108 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 90 minutes' drive on the Western Freeway or the Calder Freeway. V/Line operates regular, scheduled coach services to Daylesford.

One hour north-west of Melbourne, the rolling hills and farmland of Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are dotted with charming towns offering an array of health and beauty treatments, scenic surrounds and gardens, a thriving arts and crafts community and award winning food and wine.

Home to the greatest concentration of naturally occurring mineral springs in Australia and an array of wonderful spa centres, the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area is noted as a centre for relaxation, health, wellbeing and of course pampering. There are also excellent galleries, antique shops and fine restaurants.

Impressive mansions, striking landscapes and some of Victoria's finest gardens combine to create the old world ambience of the nearby Macedon Ranges. Tour Mount Macedon's heritage gardens, explore the 19th century streetscapes of Woodend and Kyneton lined with galleries, antique shops and craft outlets or visit the legendary Hanging Rock, the haunting backdrop to The Picnic at Hanging Rock book and film.

The Macedon Ranges is also a cool-climate wine region known for producing outstanding sparkling wine, pinot noir and chardonnay. There are more than 40 wineries inviting visitors to sample their product and there's also an abundance of local produce, from tasty meats to wild mushrooms, crisp apples and succulent berries. There are more great cellar doors in and around Sunbury producing excellent shiraz and cabernet.

Be inspired like many early Australian painters by picturesque Dunkeld and the imposing mounts Sturgeon and Abrupt, at the southern entrance to the Grampians. Take long walks through one of Australia's finest national parks and spot wildlife and flora.

Dunkeld was settled after Major Thomas Mitchell issued glowing reports of the region following his 1836 visit. Nostalgic settlers named it after a Scottish town and early impressions can be found in paintings distributed throughout regional Victorian galleries.

Follow one of the walking tracks to Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt to take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside or take the Picaninny Walk for a brisk workout and alternative views of Mount Abrupt.

For even more mountain views and award-winning food to boot, book a table at the Dunkeld Royal Mail Hotel. For more top quality food, stop off at the sheep dairy along the Glenelg Highway near Glenthompson and sample some of the delicious sheep milk yoghurts and cheeses.

Head further into the Grampians National Park with a scenic drive along the Victoria Valley Road through the untouched southern section of the Park. Look out for emus, kangaroos and spring wildflowers.

Dunkeld is 253 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Glenelg Highway. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.

Rich in gold history, Dunolly is situated in stunning bushland in the centre of Victoria's goldfields.

During gold rush times Dunolly and the surrounding district turned up more gold nuggets than any other region in Australia and became known as the "Golden Triangle". Gold found in the area included the then largest gold nugget in the world, the 69 kilogram "Welcome Stranger"', which was found in 1869 in nearby Moliagul. See a replica of the famous nugget at the Goldfields Historical and Arts Museum and then try your luck at prospecting for gold. Hire a metal detector and pick up a map from Dunolly's prospecting store.

Today Dunolly's attractive main street is lined with kurrajongs and gold rush architecture. Take a wander along Broadway, pick up a brochure from the visitor information centre located in the Welcome Stranger Café, and learn about the historic Cobb and Co building and Railway and Royal hotels. Browse through the collectible shops as you explore.

Get on your bike and ride the Dunolly Cycle Tracks, a series of signed forest roads and tracks varying in length between 14 and 47 kilometres. As well as Dunolly, routes pass through the old gold towns of Tarnagulla, Bealiba, Waanyarra, Betley and Goldsborough.

Dunolly is 178 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, just under two hours by car. Take the Castlemaine exit off the Calder Highway and travel via Castlemaine, Maldon and Eddington.

East Melbourne is an inner city suburb of Melbourne, located between the CBD, Jolimont and Richmond. Walk through the quiet residential streets to see some of Melbourne's largest and oldest Victorian homes and terrace houses. Explore the green expanse that is Treasury Gardens. Walk the extensive system of pathways that meander through the park and connect directly to the Fitzroy Gardens, or from the large embankment that runs the length of the gardens and offers extensive views. The garden's fine lawns are a lunchtime retreat for many city workers, as well as being an ideal place for a picnic, barbecue or kick of the football.

While in East Melbourne take a tour of the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). As a super stage of Australian sport, the Melbourne Cricket Ground traditionally has provided the live drama to thrill millions worldwide. But backstage the Melbourne Cricket Ground Tours provide a treasure trove of sporting history and an unforgettable experience. For a quick and cheap authentic Vietnamese meal, head to nearby Victoria Street, and for current season's styles at bargain prices make a beeline to the factory outlets and warehouse shops that line Swan Street and Bridge Road in Richmond.

Located on the Murray River, Echuca-Moama is a heritage river town, home to a fleet of paddle steamers and a great base for waterskiing, swimming, cruising or taking a houseboat holiday.

From the Aboriginal word meaning "meeting of the water", Echuca is one of Victoria's oldest river towns. At one time Echuca was the state's most substantial inland river port. Paddle steamers traded along the Murray and Darling Rivers almost as far as the Queensland border and brought their cargoes of wool to Echuca for transport to the Port of Melbourne.

It is Echuca's rich port history that has drawn visitors to the town since restoration of the old port area began in 1973. The survival of many original buildings allowed the streetscape to be renovated and the wharf now offers visitors an exciting opportunity to experience a working steam port. You can take a relaxing hour-long cruise aboard one of the authentic paddle steamers or a leisurely one hour stroll on a self guided tour of the Echuca Wharf.

The world's biggest fleet of operating paddle steamers is based at Echuca and each has its own history and character. Paddle steamers again travel the local waters, but for purely recreational and nostalgic purposes. Learn about pioneering days from the captain's commentary and enjoy refreshments as you cruise in comfort. Alternatively, hire a houseboat and cruise down the Murray at your own pace.

Echuca is a great family holiday destination with its location right on the Murray River, its warm Mediterranean climate and the myriad of water based activities on offer.

Echuca is just under three hours from Melbourne on the Hume Freeway/Northern Highway.

Inner suburban Fitzroy is Melbourne's bohemian heart. An edgy mix of alternative, artistic and trendy elements, it has a fascinating collection of young designer and retro clothes shops, bookshops, galleries, cafés and restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.

You'll get a feel for the suburb with a short walk along Brunswick Street, Fitzroy's backbone. See quaint and quirky shops and eclectic art on offer in studios and galleries. Pick up bargain recycled fashion, arty homewares, locally made jewellery or just a colourful bunch of flowers.

Brunswick Street's cool cafés, restaurants and boisterous bars offer anything at any time, serving all-day breakfasts and coming alive at night with crowds of locals turning up to eat, drink and enjoy themselves. The area around Brunswick Street is a good place to get a no-nonsense, decent meal with gastro pubs like the Napier, the Rose and the Standard to choose from.

Nearby Smith Street is an interesting multicultural streetscape that's an alternative to the ever-popular Brunswick Street. Known for its vegetarian and whole foods, you'll also find plenty of budget-friendly Asian, Greek, Moroccan and Middle Eastern eateries, as well as an increasing number of stores stocking local designer wares. Gertrude Street is also emerging as an edgy place to explore, with an odd collection of boutiques, cafés, pubs and bars.

Situated between Brunswick and Smith streets, Johnston Street is Melbourne's Spanish quarter and has a range of tapas and flamenco bars. Every year the road is closed to host the two-day Hispanic-Latin-American festival. It's no surprise that bohemian Fitzroy is also the centre of the alternative Melbourne Fringe Festival every September/October.

Take tram 112 from Collins Street or number 86 from Bourke Street and within 15 minutes you'll be deep in Fitzroy.

Geelong is Victoria's second largest city and offers a diverse range of food, wine, cultural and recreation attractions and colonial history. A waterfront city, it is also the major gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road.

Geelong takes full advantage of its unique north-facing bay with fabulous waterfront eateries, landscaped gardens and walking paths set against the backdrop of Corio Bay. Stroll past the sculptured bollards dotted along the foreshore that chronicle characters from the city's past and present, including dapper young ladies in neck-to-knee bathing costumes, 1930s lifesavers, traditional Aussie families, a Geelong footballer, jaunty sailors, fishermen and a town band.

Close by is Eastern Beach, which features an art deco-style pool, promenade complex and the restored pavilion that houses a pleasant restaurant, café and kiosk.

Pakington Street, the wide tree-lined avenue linking the suburbs of Geelong West and Newtown and home to the annual Pako Festa, is only a few minutes from the city. There are many different restaurants and eateries to try as well as delicatessens, wine merchants, a park to relax in and a street ambience to experience.

Explore the city's 100 National Trust listed buildings and delve into the history of wool at the National Wool Museum, housed in an impressive three storey historic bluestone wool store dating back to 1872. Take in the Geelong Art Gallery's outstanding collection of Australian paintings, sculpture and decorative arts.

From horse racing to multicultural festivals, Geelong is a city of major events. Each January Corio Bay is home to Australia's oldest and largest sailing regatta - Skandia Geelong Week. And the Australian International Airshow fills the skies at Geelong's Avalon Airport every two years in March.

Geelong is about one hour from Melbourne via the Princes Highway. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.

Occupying Victoria's eastern corner, Gippsland covers a vast and diverse landscape, from unspoilt beaches to enormous lakes and mountain ranges.

Wilsons Promontory is renowned for its stunning bush and coastal scenery and acclaimed walking trails. Central Gippsland is gourmet country, dotted with wineries, cheesemakers, farmers' markets, and fruit and berry farms. Explore historic gold towns and maritime villages such as Walhalla and Port Albert, or take to the slopes and spend a day skiing at the Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort, the closest downhill ski area to Melbourne.

The Gippsland Lakes are fed by the waters of five major rivers and fringed by Ninety Mile Beach. They provide ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating and sailing. Dine al fresco at a lakeside restaurant or pub, have a family picnic by a river, or take a stroll through the waterfront villages of Paynesville, Metung or Lakes Entrance.

Continue east to Croajingolong National Park, a World Biosphere Reserve. With more than 100 kilometres of pristine coastline and hinterland, it is a great place to go bushwalking, surfing or spotting various species of bird and plant life. Mallacoota is a good base for exploring the park and also offers excellent fishing and boating.

Visit Glenrowan, the site of bushranger Ned Kelly's "last stand". Glenrowan is a small, peaceful town between Benalla and Wangaratta, but it blazed into Australian history in 1880 as the site of the famous siege.

Ned Kelly is undoubtedly Australia's most notorious bushranger and an important part of Australian folklore. Many attractions around the town bring together the various aspects of the enduring legend, making it easy to learn more about the man and his infamous gang. See the six-metre-high statue of Ned Kelly clad in homemade armour and helmet, rifle in hand. Visit Kellyland, an animated theatrical portrayal of the Kelly Gang's final stand that uses original props including an authentic handgun once owned by Kelly.

On Saturday, 27 June 1880, the Kelly Gang took 60 hostages in the Glenrowan Inn. A siege followed and in the ensuing battle with police three gang members were killed. Remarkably, Kelly escaped but was shot in the legs and arrested some hours later. He was tried, convicted of murder and hanged on 11 November 1880 at the Old Melbourne Gaol.

Today there is more to Glenrowan than bushrangers, with opportunities to sample fine regional wines and delicious local produce. Call in at the cellar door of local award-winning wineries or stop in at Buffalo Mountain Wines where you can taste wine from 22 local wineries under one roof. Visit the farm gate of local orchards for your fill of fresh cherries, peaches, apricots and more.

Popular local events include the Ned Kelly Commemorative Dinner in June and Winery Walkabout on the Queen's Birthday weekend in June.

Glenrowan is 220 kilometres or just under 2.5 hours' drive from Melbourne along the Hume Highway.

The discovery of gold in Victoria's central region over 150 years ago has left a rich and lasting legacy in almost every town in the Goldfields. Tour the impressive Victorian streetscapes of Bendigo and Ballarat with their grand hotels and public buildings or explore the quaint shopfronts and miners' cottages in townships such as Maldon, Castlemaine and Dunolly.

Learn about gold rush history at one of the region's historic attractions. Sovereign Hill, The Eureka Centre and the Central Deborah Gold Mine all offer a fascinating insight into life above and below the ground during the 1850s and 1860s. Set on a former gold mining site, Sovereign Hill is an outdoor museum recreating the gold rush era in fascinating detail. Take time to speak to the storekeepers and miners or pan for gold.

Take a break from exploring the goldfields at a stylish local cafe or restaurant. Local restaurants make the most of the fine local produce of the region, and you can also sample the local wines, olives, apples and more, direct from the farm gate or cellar door.

The region also boasts outstanding galleries and gardens. Relax and unwind in one of the elegant parklands and historic botanic gardens or see superb collections of local and European painting at two of Australia's finest regional galleries - the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery and Bendigo Art Gallery.

The rugged mountain ranges of the Grampians National Park mark the centre of this region and rise out of the rural plains of the Wimmera in north-west Victoria. The impressive ranges are renowned for their unspoilt natural beauty and feature lookouts with stunning panoramic views, picturesque waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, colourful wildflower displays and abundant native wildlife.

The region also offers some of the finest walking in Victoria and is one of the main centres for rock climbing and abseiling, offering both challenging and easier climbs on various rock faces, including the famed Mt Arapiles. Other popular activities include fishing and canoeing in the region's system of inland lakes and rivers.

Wine buffs are spoiled for choice on the Great Grape Road, where renowned wineries such as Seppelt, Best's, Mt Langi Ghiran and Montara offer tastings at cellar doors. There's also an abundance of local produce from ewe's milk, cheese and olives to locally sourced beef and lamb which features on menus throughout the region.

The town of Halls Gap is picturesquely situated in the heart of the Grampians National Park with wonderful views of the Wonderland Range and Mt William Range, while other tempting locations are dotted around the edge of the park.

Explore historic gold rush town such as Ararat known for its Gum San Museum that reveals the history of Chinese gold miners, or Stawell, home of the prestigious annual Stawell Gift foot race. The friendly agricultural towns of Horsham and Hamilton are known for their gardens, galleries and museums, and there are many smaller villages to explore including Dunkeld, Pomonal, Wartook Valley and Great Western.

The Great Ocean Road region hugs the contours of Victoria's rugged south west coast and offers visitors one of Australia's greatest and most spectacular coastal drives.

Start your journey in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula and discover beautiful beaches, great eateries, a fascinating heritage and an enormous range of recreational opportunities from fishing and golfing to diving and surfing. Take in the colourful and lively ambience of bayside Geelong, Victoria's second largest city, or visit quaint Queenscliff and discover the town's rich maritime history, excellent restaurants and heritage hotels.

Along the coast, seaside resort towns such as Lorne and Apollo Bay are the perfect base for a seaside escape. They offer stunning beaches and water sports as well as some of Australia's best rainforest scenery in the nearby Otway Ranges.

One of the most visited stretches of the road is Port Campbell. Buffeted by wild seas and fierce winds, the coastline around Port Campbell has been sculpted over millions of years to form a series of striking rock stacks that rise out of the Southern Ocean. Known as the Twelve Apostles, they are one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Victoria.

The Great Ocean Road region also has a rich maritime past. Historic towns such as Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland allow you to enjoy seafaring village life, with their fishing wharves, beautifully preserved colonial buildings and maritime museums recounting the stories of ships that have foundered off the rugged shipwreck coast.

Base yourself at the picturesque town of Halls Gap for your Grampians exploration and be rewarded with a destination that's perfect for both relaxing escapes and wilderness adventures. Stay in a cutting edge eco-hostel, embark on a bushwalk, spot animals or see ancient Aboriginal rock art.

Halls Gap is set at the foot of the Wonderland and Mount William ranges. Visit local village stores, tempting wineries and colourful galleries then try a new adventure activity; bushwalking, abseiling, fishing, canoeing or mountain biking. See the Grampians from a different perspective with a locally operated walking, cycling, canoeing, mountain biking, 4WD, hot-air balloon or aeroplane tour.

The Grampians is regenerating following the January 2006 bushfires and it's a fascinating time to explore the area's unique rock formations, scenic lookouts and waterfalls. Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a good starting point and is also the place to learn about the diverse culture of the local indigenous people. Join a tour of the many ancient Aboriginal rock art sites in the area.

Choose from an extensive network of trails criss-crossing the area. Walks such as Venus Baths, Boronia Peak and Chatauqua start from Halls Gap or you can drive to walks at MacKenzie Falls, Hollow Mountain and Piccaninny.

See Australian native animals in the wild throughout the Grampians National Park or visit the Halls Gap Wildlife Park and Zoo to see kangaroos, koalas, wombats, emus and dingos.

Time your visit to catch the Grampians Jazz Festival in February or the Gourmet Festival in May.

Halls Gap is 262 kilometres north-west of Melbourne on the Western Highway. Driving on Grampians roads at dusk can be hazardous - keep a look out for wildlife on the road.

Discover one of Australia's finest regional art collections in Hamilton, a gracious western district city renowned for its grand buildings, majestic homesteads, manicured gardens and a vast and beautiful landscape.

Hamilton's settlement grew as a result of the area's strong pastoral development. The squatters and their wool were of great economic and social importance to the growth of the town, and this is reflected in its impressive architecture. Many treasures from the homesteads are now part of the rich and diverse collection at the Hamilton Art Gallery, a must-see attraction on any trip through Hamilton.

Take one of the many historic walks through town and don't miss the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Heritage-listed, the gardens include a native animal enclosure, bird aviary, band rotunda and decorative fountains. Learn about the local wool industry at the Big Woolbales and aviation history at the Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum.

Hamilton is surrounded by the Grangeburn River, Lake Hamilton and a vast and beautiful landscape of green rolling hills, ancient red gums, extinct volcanoes and the impressive Wannon and Nigretta waterfalls along the Glenelg Highway. Explore the Volcanic Discovery Trail and the Byaduk lava tube caves for more volcanic activity. You can enjoy fishing and water sports at Lake Hamilton or the nearby Rocklands Reservoir.

Hamilton is 285 kilometres west of Melbourne and is a 3.5 hour drive. Travel by car via the Henty, Glenelg or Hamilton highways. Coach services are available from Melbourne.

Healesville is at the heart of the Yarra Valley wine and food region and is known for its wildlife sanctuary, home to more than 200 species of Australian native animals.

Healesville Sanctuary, where you can see iconic Australian animals like platypus, koalas, Tasmanian devils, lyrebirds, kangaroos, emus, wallabies, dingoes and echidnas, has played a leading role in the long-term care and protection of Australian wildlife. At the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, experience a working animal rescue centre and hospital and follow the journey of an animal, such as an injured or orphaned baby wombat, through the process of rescue, care and rehabilitation.

Healesville is an important food and wine centre and host to the annual Yarra Valley Grape Grazing Festival. Visit local vineyards to sample locally produced wines and talk to their makers at cellar doors. Don't miss renowned local wineries including Rochford's Eyton, Domaine Chandon and Coldstream Hills.

Healesville is surrounded by scenic countryside. Enjoy a picnic at the peaceful Badger Weir Park then take a short stroll through fern gullies and mountain ash.

Learn about local Aboriginal culture and shop for Indigenous artefacts and souvenirs at Bundjel, the Aboriginal Cultural Display and Gallery. Ride in a motorised, open air trolley on the Yarra Valley Tourist Railway. The original trolleys were used by workmen checking the line.

Healesville is 60 kilometres or just under an hour east of Melbourne on the Maroondah Highway. Travel north-east on the Eastern Freeway and Maroondah Highway.

Hepburn Springs is a historic village located in the middle of the largest concentration of mineral springs in Australia. The natural springs are full of health-giving minerals and every spring has a distinctive taste. The village enjoys a reputation as a very cosmopolitan community. Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes and restaurants along Main Road or a beer at the local historic country pub. You can catch some great live music at the Palais or look for gifts, local produce and art and craft in one of the many unique shops and small galleries. Take the Historic Village Walk and discover the splendid architecture of many public buildings.
Hepburn Springs is becoming increasingly well-known for its resident masseurs and holistic therapists. Indulge in hydrotherapy, massage and beauty therapy at one of many day spas and wellness centres or book an in-house massage. The famous Hepburn Bathhouse is a mecca for the health-conscious and those who like to be pampered.
Walk through Hepburn Regional Park in spring and see colourful wildflowers and a wide range of animals and birds that inhabit the area. Serious hikers can take a longer walk, along the 16-kilometre Tipperary Track and explore natural wonders such as Sailors Falls, Mount Franklin, the Blowhole and the Hepburn Pool. You can always spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the Hepburn Springs Mineral Springs Reserve. Sample the mineral waters from the hand pumps and continuous-flow pipes or enjoy a picnic under the trees. You can bottle and drink the water free of charge.
Take in the glorious sights and smells of the historic Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, with lavender fields in bloom from November through to February. Join in the community celebrations during the Lavender Harvest Festival in January. A round of golf on Hepburn Springs' delightful 18-hole golf course is another great way to spend the day.
Hepburn Springs is just over one hour from Melbourne on the Western Freeway and Midland Highway, and three kilometres from Daylesford. V/Line has services from Melbourne via Woodend and Ballan.

Visit Horsham, the capital of the Wimmera district for the regional high life amid botanic gardens, art and cultural treasures, a renowned public golf course and sweeping sunsets.

Horsham has a relaxed, country style atmosphere and pleasing climate and is an excellent base to explore the surrounding natural attractions including Mt Arapiles-Tooan State Park, Little Desert National Park (where you can spot the intriguing Mallee Fowl) and the northern Grampians. Be inspired by the rock climbers, as they test their skills on the world famous Mt Arapiles and capture the sunsets that can be seen on the vast flat plains of the Wimmera and the northern Grampians.

Originally opened up for grazing, the Wimmera lands became better known for wheat production so Horsham quickly developed as a centre of economic activity for the surrounding region. Discover artistic and cultural treasures at the renowned Horsham Regional Art Gallery, tour the Wool Factory which produces some of the finest wool in Australia and relax in the picturesque botanic gardens on the banks of the Wimmera River.

Tee off in style. Horsham is the region's showcase greens course and is recognised as one of the best public courses in Victoria. Come for the Horsham Golf Club Annual Tournament in September or the Racing Cup Carnival in October.

Horsham is 301 kilometres north-west of Melbourne and is a 3.5 hour drive. Travel by car via the Henty, Glenelg or Western Highways. Coach services are available daily from Melbourne.

Pack the sails and hit Inverloch's protected waters and make sure you grab the binoculars for a spot of bird watching in one of Victoria's most popular estuaries.

This pretty seaside town on the spectacular Gippsland coastline offers a convenient array of accommodation and boat launching facilities and is perfect for water-based activities like swimming or surfing. Anderson Inlet is a haven for wind surfers. The shallow estuary is constantly changing and at low tide its sandy bottom is exposed and many species of waterbirds line the shores.

Visit the excellent Bunurong Environment Centre, which interprets the natural surroundings, including the shells and dinosaur diggings of the area.

Various boardwalks and tracks provide tranquil places for shorter and longer strolls or bushwalks and hiking activities. Drive the Bunurong Coastal Drive to Cape Paterson and back for some awe-inspiring coastal photo opportunities.

Look out for Eagles Nest, a large rock structure adjacent to the coastline that resembles the top half of a map of Australia.

The large resident population ensures that most services and facilities are provided in and around the busy retail centre, while accommodation ranges from campsites to cabins, bed and breakfasts and resort style venues.

Inverloch is less than two hours from Melbourne. Travel along the South Gippsland Highway from Melbourne, turning onto the Bass Highway to follow the road through Grantville, Bass, Kilcunda and Wonthaggi before reaching Inverloch.

Kyneton is a historic gold rush town located on the Campaspe River in Victoria's spa region. Visit the town to shop for antiques, taste local wines and drink from the health-giving waters of the Kyneton Mineral Springs.

Base yourself in Kyneton to explore the scenic countryside and discover treasures and historic reminders of the region's past. Explore the town's wide array of antique shops and galleries, as well as its National Trust recognised bluestone museum. Wander through the 19th century granite streets for more examples of preserved bluestone architecture, and head to the historic Piper Street precinct which presents a streetscape of historical significance.

Watch artists produce award-winning fine bone china figurines and porcelain and resin ceramics at Kyneton Fine China and Wattle Ceramics, or visit some of the stunning local private gardens, which are periodically open to the public through the Open Gardens Scheme.

The Kyneton Botanical Gardens were laid out in the late 1860s and early 1870s by Baron Ferdinand von Mueller. He provided a large number of trees and shrubs, most of which are still surviving. The Baron also laid out the Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, Bendigo, Castlemaine and Malmsbury.

Kyneton's racecourse is rated as one of the most picturesque in Victoria. The first record of horse racing held in Kyneton was in 1856. The Kyneton Cup, held on the first Wednesday in November, draws a large crowd. Other events include the Daffodil and Arts Festival in September and the Jazz, Blues and Heritage Festival in October.

Kyneton is 83 kilometres north of Melbourne or about one hour from Melbourne, off the Calder Highway. V/Line trains service Kyneton seven days a week.

The vast Lake Eildon is a favourite destination for water sports enthusiasts. Swimming, canoeing, jet and water skiing, sailboarding and sailing are all popular pastimes on the lake. There are also countless secluded fishing spots where you can catch trout, redfin, golden perch and Murray cod.

Lake Eildon holds up to six times the amount of water of Sydney Harbour. With 515 kilometres of shoreline it is one of the largest artificial lakes in the state. With many picturesque and tranquil inlets to explore, Lake Eildon has also long been a favourite for houseboat holidays.

Much of the lake is surrounded by Lake Eildon National Park, which offers a variety of settings from open bush on the northern side to dense vegetation on the southern and eastern sides. The northern Delatite Arm Reserve and the southern Fraser Camping Grounds have large and very popular campsites with full facilities. The Fraser Camping Grounds are frequented by mobs of kangaroos and tame parrots and there are a number of good walking tracks around the camp sites.

South of the lake near the Jerusalem Inlet there is another, smaller camping ground. This provides a good base from which you can explore the rugged country, which is ideal for the experienced walker and for 4WD touring. In a 4WD vehicle you can drive part of the way up Mount Torbreck and then walk to the summit, where there is often snow in the wintertime.

To the east and south east of the lake is the least developed part of the park. This is popular with anglers, 4WD enthusiasts, kayakers, rafters and walkers, but the dense vegetation, abundant wildlife and steep-sided valleys help maintain its atmosphere of isolation.

Lake Eildon is located a pleasant two hour drive and about 160 kilometres north-east of Melbourne.

A much loved Victorian holiday spot, Lakes Entrance enjoys a spectacular position on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where the Gippsland Lakes meet the Southern Ocean.

Relax in the easy seaside charm of the town or head to the waters for a myriad of activities. You can take it easy and enjoy a boat cruise on the Gippsland Lakes, the largest inland network of waterways in Australia, or get more active and hire a paddleboat or catamaran in the summer months.

Cross the footbridge to the popular Ninety Mile Beach surf beach, which is patrolled by lifesavers in summer, or take a hike to the entrance of the Lakes. Head to Jemmy's Point Lookout for sweeping views of the town, lakes and the entrance.

Spoil yourself with a cruise aboard the Corque winery boat and savour tastings, lunch or dinner at Wyanga Park Winery. You can also catch your own fish or visit fresh seafood shops. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its seafood due to the large number of fishing trawlers operating in the area.

Make Lakes Entrance your base as you explore the historic Nyerimilang Homestead and Park and the beautiful Lake Tyers Township and the Lake Tyers Forest Park.

Play a round of golf at either one of the golf courses or, if 18 holes is not your style, try your hand at one of the mini golf parks.

Lakes Entrance is approximately four hours from Melbourne along the Princes Highway. It is serviced daily by rail to Bairnsdale and then coach to Lakes Entrance from Melbourne. Public transport is available from Bairnsdale to Lakes Entrance.

With its Mediterranean feel and picture-postcard scenery, this beautiful seaside town has been attracting visitors for more than a century. Set between the waters of Loutit Bay and the cool Otway forests, Lorne has a charm that's hard to surpass. The mild weather superb cafes, unique shops, boutiques and galleries make it one of the Great Ocean Road's most popular holiday destinations.
Over 100 years ago the Victorian government declared Lorne an area of 'special significance and natural beauty'. Today visitors still come to enjoy the same natural features. The sheltered 2-kilometre beach is safe and is bordered by lawn, gum trees and picnic and barbecue areas. Discover the Erskine Falls cascading into a beautiful fern gully in the Great Otway National Park. At Cumberland River, a few kilometres south of the town, the scenery is picturesque, with dense bush, a rugged cliff face beside the river, and an idyllic grassed camping and picnicking area.
Sip on a cold beer at the local pub, or on the pier where you can watch the fishing fleet unload its catch. Visit the local fishing co-op where you can buy fresh locally caught seafood.
Fitness fanatics and lovers of the outdoors flock to the many endurance events held in Lorne each year. The Pier to Pub Swim and the Mountain to Surf Run are both held in January and attract large numbers of competitors. The Great Ocean Road Marathon kicks off in May and the Anaconda Adventure Race in December is a popular way to get the blood pumping.
For those who prefer to get their thrills from the raw energy of rock music, The Falls Festival, held every New Year's Eve, is an essential experience.
Lorne is 140 kilometres south of Melbourne, approximately a 2-hour drive. Travel by car via the Great Ocean Road. Daily coach services are available from Melbourne or rail/coach services via Geelong.

Located in Victoria's Goldfields region, Maldon is a quaint goldmining town that looks like it still belongs to the 19th century.

The National Trust declared Maldon Australia's first "notable town" in 1966 because of its well-preserved 19th century buildings. Visitors to the town find broad footpaths shaded by corrugated iron verandahs, buildings and cottages made from local stone, old-fashioned shop fronts and deep stone gutters. High Street is cool and verdant in summer with its swathe of deciduous European trees that strike brilliant colours in autumn.
Located in Victoria's Goldfields region, Maldon is a quaint goldmining town that looks like it still belongs to the 19th century.

Pick up a brochure from the visitor information centre to guide you around the town's historic streetscape and fine old buildings. See the Post Office, Penny School, Battery, churches (Welsh, Anglican and Uniting) and the Court House.

High Street forks into two main streets, both of which offer excellent shopping. Unearth a treasure in one of the many antique and collectibles shops and galleries. Discover homewares, books, both new and second hand, gorgeous chocolates, herbal remedies and beautiful imported lace.

For a taste of gold history visit the recreated 1850s goldmining town at Porcupine Township, wander around the North British Mine, visit the Beehive Mine Chimney and tour Carman's Tunnel.

Take a drive up Mt Tarrangower and get a 360 degree view of Maldon and the surrounding countryside from the lookout tower. Get on board a steam-era train from Maldon to Muckleford and back with the Victorian Goldfields Railway. Alternatively, taste local wines at winery cellar doors, including Nuggetty and Welshman's Reef.

Maldon is 137 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 90 minutes by car via the Calder and Pyrenees highways.

Tucked away on a beautiful inlet in far-east Gippsland is Mallacoota, a popular year-round coastal destination that enjoys Victoria's warmest winter temperatures and cool ocean breezes in summer. Explore the magnificent wilderness of the Croajingolong National Park or watch the sun set over pristine coastline.

This pretty coastal town is a great escape. The best ways to explore the Top Lake, Bottom Lake, the inlets, cliffs and beaches are by water. Take a cruise and see Mallacoota Inlet with a local expert or paddle a canoe up the Genoa or Wallagaraugh rivers to Gipsy Point, a beautiful peninsula jutting into the top lake of the Mallacoota Inlet and home to a large mob of kangaroos. You can even hire a boat and spend a day fishing for bream in the Inlet, a popular local pastime.

Over 500 kilometres east of Melbourne you'll find an unspoilt coast, from the popular and patrolled Betka Beach and the rugged Quarry Beach where you can snorkel among the rocks, to the peaceful Secret Beach.

Don't miss your chance to explore the diverse landscapes in the Croajingolong National Park - from pure white sandy beaches to granite peaks and heathland. Visit Gabo Island Lightstation Reserve, home to a host of seabirds and one of the world's largest colonies of Little Penguins. Access is possible by boat or air and you can even stay overnight in the lighthouse keeper's cottage.

A scenic two-hour drive from Melbourne, the country town of Mansfield seems a million miles from city life. Explore the high country and the walking trails that lead across plains of wildflowers, with views of Lake Eildon, the Howqua Valley, Mount Buller and the peaks of the Alpine National Park.

Mansfield is also a popular winter destination, with nearby Mount Buller boasting a variety of skiing terrains from beginner to some of the more challenging runs in Australia. Mount Buller is Victoria's largest ski resort and is serviced by the State's biggest lift network and the most extensive snow-making system in the southern hemisphere. Nearby Mount Stirling provides excellent cross-country skiing, with many well-marked trails through beautiful, sheltered forests of alpine ash, snow gum woodlands and open plains.

For some adrenalin-pumping summer adventure try mountain biking, abseiling or rock climbing on Mount Buller, and canoeing, kayaking or white water rafting on the Howqua and Delatite Rivers.

Explore the High Country by joining a 4WD tour or go horseback riding in Man from Snowy River country. Alternatively, take to the waters of Lake Eildon or Lake Nillahcootie for some waterskiing, sailing or fishing.

Popular local events include the Mansfield High Country Harvest Festival in March, Mansfield Balloon Festival in April and the Mt Buller World Aerials in September.

Mansfield is 185 kilometres north-east of Melbourne or about two hours from Melbourne, via the Melba, Goulburn Valley and Maroondah highways.

Located in the heart of Victoria's Goldfields region, Maryborough is central to Ballarat and Bendigo.

Maryborough is a progressive town where contemporary architecture is combined with the ornate facades of gold rush buildings of the nineteenth century. In the compact central business district, the Bull and Mouth Hotel and the Old State Bank building stand beside a myriad of craft shops, bakeries and cafés.

Mark Twain once described Maryborough as a "railway station with a town attached". The historic railway station, which has one of the southern hemisphere's longest platforms, still stands and is home to an antique emporium, art gallery, wood-work gallery and café. A quarterly antique market is held under the platform's broad roof, attracting thousands who browse collectables, books and old wares.

Visit the Central Goldfields Regional Art Gallery and its regular changing contemporary exhibitions housed in the old fire station.

Prior to European settlement the area was occupied by the Jajawurrong Aborigines, part of the Djajawurrong clan. Head south out of Maryborough to the rock water wells along Wells Track, regarded as some of Victoria's best examples of Aboriginal rock water wells. Look out for the scarred trunks of "canoe trees" in the area.

Head for the bush and take a walk in the Paddys Ranges State Park, go fossicking for gold or fish for trout in one of the nearby reservoirs.

Dine among the vines at Tipperary Hill Estate, just five kilometres from the town, or explore the nearby wineries of the Pyrenees region.

Maryborough is 165 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or approximately two hours by car via Kyneton and Castlemaine on the Pyrenees Highway or via Ballarat on the Western Freeway.

Nestled in the foothills of Melbourne's closest ski fields, and surrounded by waterfalls, Marysville is well known as a gateway to year-round outdoor activities. Marysville was established in 1863 as a stopover for diggers on the way to nearby goldfields.

Make your way to Lake Mountain for winter cross country skiing or family fun in the snow. In spring and summer wander local walking trails through wildflowers.

Marysville is 96 kilometres east of Melbourne. The two hour drive along the Maroondah Highway winds through Black Spur to the turn off at Narbethong.

Mountain ash forests in the region, and the Marysville community itself, are experiencing a period of regrowth and regeneration, subsequent to the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

Visit the Marysville region and be a positive part of its regeneration. Wrap up and head outdoors for snow play or a scenic walk - or snuggle up indoors for locally-made, winter warming foods.

Many businesses in the Marysville region are open and ready to welcome you.

Melbourne, the capital of the state of Victoria, is set around the shores of Victoria's Port Phillip Bay and boasts a lively and cosmopolitan pulse, with chic boutiques, buzzing cafés and bars, immaculate gardens and festivals and popular sporting events. The city sits on the Yarra River, about five kilometres from the bay.

One glance at a map and it's obvious Melbourne is a planned city: a tidy, balanced grid of neatly angled streets. But beneath this sense of restraint lies a restless creative energy. Discover the work of talented local artists, architects and designers in stylish fashion boutiques, buzzing laneway cafés, hidden galleries and trendy bars.

Melbourne is a city of style and sophistication, with an inviting cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is a melting pot of cultures reflected in its microcosm of restaurants, cafés, bistros and bars. Melbourne's dining offers a dizzying spread of great cuisines, serving meals from the substantial and classic to the truly exotic.

From locally designed originals to the best of international fashion brands you'll be spoilt for choice in Melbourne's shopping precincts. Explore the inner city shopping centres and the city's myriad of arcades and laneways.

The CBD is made up of many precincts - enclaves with their own distinct flavour and charm. Some are just a lane or two, while others cover a suburb or a busy CBD street. Spend time experiencing the richness of Melbourne's different cultures from the Greek Quarter around Lonsdale Street, Italian in Lygon street, Vietnamese in Victoria Street to the Chinese culture in Chinatown and the upmarket Paris End of Collins Street.

Leave time to admire the elegant Victorian-era streetscapes, take in a film or food festival and add a visit to one of the many galleries and opulent theatres.

For a dose of style in the Gippsland Lakes, make your way to Metung. A great base for water sports enthusiasts, this tiny town features fine food and wine and a popular Sculpture Gallery.

The nearby Gippsland Lakes and sandy beaches mean there is over 400 square kilometres of water to explore. The village has a decidedly waterfront air and its compact size means you can enjoy leisurely walks along the water's edge to see docked yachts and cruisers, as well as the many quaint wooden boats.

Fish for flathead, mulloway and bream in Bancroft Bay, off Shaving Point and local jetties. If you'd prefer someone else to catch your meal, head to one of the harbourside restaurants for high quality local food and wine.

Visit the shores of Bancroft Bay, where there is a large rock known to the indigenous population as the Wallung. Part of the Batatuk Cultural Trail, the rock is the subject of a variety of stories that you can discover at the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale.

Metung is about four hours' drive from Melbourne just near Lakes Entrance, off the Princes Highway from Swan Reach. You can explore the Tambo River, the Colquhoun State Forest, the Mitchell River National Park as well as Fairy Dell, Lake Bunga and the Den of Nargen.

On the edge of the Australian outback and an oasis by the Murray River, Mildura offers pretty citrus groves and vineyards, endless sunshine, great food and wine, and abundant water-based activities.

Cruise along the Murray River on a historic paddle steamer, swim, waterski, soak up the sun or spend a few days exploring the river on a houseboat.

Renowned for fine food and wine, Mildura is the home of celebrity restaurateur Stefano de Pieri. Thanks to his Gondola on the Murray TV series and cookbooks, the town has developed a reputation for good food and the quality and diversity of its produce.

The Murray River itself is a major draw and a great destination for a water-based holiday. Captain your own houseboat, enjoy a cruise on a historic old paddle steamer, paddle a canoe, swim, waterski or soak up the sun on a river beach.

Beyond the lush, green countryside of the riverbanks stretches the Australian outback. Explore the sand hills of Mungo National Park, a sublime, ancient environment containing some of Australia's most significant Aboriginal sites. Visit the Mallee with its abundant wildlife, rugged outback scenery and striking sunsets. If you are an adventurous explorer, set out on an expedition to Mungo or Mallee national parks like Hattah-Kulkyne and Murray-Sunset.

Popular events include the Mildura Wentworth Arts Festival in March, Mildura Country Music Festival in September and Mildura Wentworth Music Festival in November.

With a population of 25,000, Mildura is approximately six hours from Melbourne along the Sunraysia, Calder and Murray Valley highways. A number of regional airlines service Mildura from Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney. Flying time is approximately one hour. Coach travel and train links are also available from major cities.

The Mornington Peninsula, on the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay, feels like an island with a vast ocean to the south and bays and sheltered beaches on either side. Fertile hills roll down to pretty beaches or harbours and serene bay views abound.

Some of Australia's best sandy beaches can be found here and every kind of water activity is available, from sailing and surfing to fishing and dolphin swims. There are also majestic coastal walks past dunes, beaches, cliffs and lighthouses. On the bay side of the peninsula, visit stylish Sorrento with its fine 19th century buildings and excellent eateries, boutiques and galleries. Stop off at Mornington and enjoy its cosmopolitan sidewalk cafes and picturesque harbour. On the other side of the peninsula visit the charming fishing hamlet of Flinders and take a trip to nearby Cape Schanck where you can enjoy superb views of Bass Strait.

Alternatively head inland and explore the abundance of vineyards and orchards tucked away among the rolling hills of Red Hill and Main Ridge. Wineries and restaurants overlook the blue waters of Port Phillip Bay to the west and Western Port Bay to the east and the peninsula's orchards sell fresh produce direct from the farmgate.

For anybody who has ever teed up, the Mornington Peninsula is golfing heaven. Take on the daunting Moonah Links, specifically designed for the prestigious Australian Open, or head to The Dunes, a Scottish-style links layout rated as one of the top 15 courses in Australia.
The region is also noted for its historic homes and gardens and has been a retreat for artists for more than a century. Visit some of the excellent galleries and craft markets at towns such as Red Hill and Mornington.

Head to the Murray region to enjoy the great climate, historic towns, superb food and wine and endless opportunities for outdoor activities along one of the world's great rivers.

The Murray River is one of the longest navigable rivers in the world, stretching 2,700 kilometres from the mountains of the Great Dividing Range in north-eastern Victoria to journey's end near Adelaide in South Australia.

The township of Echuca offers a unique insight into the region's rich riverboat history. It is home to the largest paddle steamer fleet in Australia and has an authentic working port where you can see riverboats being restored. Many are still working and run short cruises down the Murray. Alternatively, hire a houseboat and explore the river at your own pace. Navigate the river, stopping along the way to experience the restaurants, wineries and golf courses that line its banks.

Mildura is known for its fresh local produce, an array of wineries and superb culinary offerings served up at popular restaurants like Stefano's. It is also a good base for exploring the Australian outback and the World Heritage listed Mungo National Park with its spectacular sculpted sandhills and ancient Aboriginal history.

While Echuca and Mildura are among the most popular destinations on the Murray, there are many other towns worth visiting while you travel throughout the region.

Nagambie sits among some of Victoria's leading wineries and award-winning restaurants on the shores of Lake Nagambie.

Lake Nagambie is a national standard rowing and canoeing course that is reputably Victoria's premier inland waterway. The township also has the Goulburn River on its doorstep and is prime thoroughbred horse country, with many leading stables based in the area.

Enjoy water sports like power boating, jet skis, sailing, fishing, rowing and canoeing. Many visitors also enjoy bird watching and photography on the Goulburn River, one of Victoria's largest inland river systems. The river passes through Lake Nagambie and on to the historic Goulburn Weir, seven kilometres north of Nagambie.

Sample fine local wines and gourmet produce at cellar doors and eateries in the Nagambie region. Look back in time at the historic Balaclava Gold Mine at Whroo, between Nagambie and Rushworth.

Sky dive, glide or hot air balloon for a different perspective of the Nagambie area. Take in the spectacular views of the magnificent Strathbogie Ranges and surrounding plains, which are just 15 minutes from Nagambie.

Get lost in the Avenel Maze, which is based on Ned Kelly themes, play a game of tennis or tee-off at Nagambie's new golf course.

Popular local events include the National Rowing and Canoeing Championships in February and March, After Vintage Celebrations in May, Great Australian Shiraz Challenge and Jazz and Wine Festival in November.

Nagambie is 122 kilometres or just over an hour north of Melbourne travelling along the Hume Freeway to Seymour, then taking the Shepparton turn-off onto the Goulburn Valley Highway. A daily train and bus service is available.

One of the highest villages in the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda's gardens and scenery reflect its pronounced seasons, with spring blooms, autumn colours, crisp summer days and occasional light snowfalls. Spend a relaxing afternoon browsing through the many art, antique and handicraft galleries and sampling a delicious Devonshire tea.

Explore some of Australia's most beautiful public and private gardens, including the National Rhododendron Gardens and the mystical sculptures hidden among the ferns at William Ricketts Sanctuary. Go walking among tree ferns and look for lyrebirds in the Dandenong Ranges National Park, wander through the magnificent forest in RJ Hamer Arboretum or trek to Olinda Falls.

Stop at roadside stalls selling home-made preserves, garden produce, flowers, eggs, chestnuts and plants. Look out for wildlife as you tour the area, including emus, wombats, possums, echidna and lyrebirds.

Search for antique treasures in Mt Dandenong and Sassafras villages. Browse the many local galleries and craft shops selling jewellery, glass, pottery, leather and ceramics made by local craftspeople.

Olinda is 44 kilometres east of Melbourne or just over an hour's drive. Travel on the Burwood Highway and then turn off onto the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road. Alternatively, travel along the Monash Freeway, onto Ferntree Gully Road, then along the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road.

Omeo, a pioneering mountain town on the Great Alpine Road is a great base from which to discover more about the history of the high country, gold rush and cattlemen, or to make the most of Victoria's top snow resorts.

Known for its gold mining history, Omeo is also the place to get back to nature. Go white water rafting on the Mitta Mitta River, where you can fish for trout. You can also drop a line in the Cobungra River. Take a walk over the Bogong High Plains and spot majestic spring wildflowers. Just outside the town on the Great Alpine Road you can take in panoramic views of the Victorian alps and surrounding countryside at the Kosciusko Lookout.

In winter, spend a day cross-country skiing at nearby Dinner Plain. Mount Hotham and its magnificent downhill runs is just 40 minutes away, so you can combine world class skiing and snowboarding with your visit to one of Victoria's most well-preserved historic towns.

For a first hand glimpse of the town's renowned historic buildings, visit the A.M. Pearson Historical Park to see the original courthouse (1865), post office (1890s), log gaol (1858), blacksmith shop, stables and waterwheel.

If the 5.5 hour drive from Melbourne along the Princes and Omeo highways isn't enough, you can get closer to nature and go four-wheel driving along the 17-kilometre Knocker Track.

Visit Omeo at Easter time for a weekend of equine activity, with the Omeo Rodeo and the Geebung Polo match both taking place.

Take to the water in Paynesville, a charming village on the Gippsland Lakes interspersed with canals and inlets. Enjoy waterside walks, fishing, waterskiing and yachting on the lakes or coffee and cake by the water.

Paynesville is a popular destination with water sport enthusiasts who ski, sail, surf and fish on waters that are also home to flocks of water birds. Its canals and inlets offer plenty of sheltered moorings for yachts and cruisers that give the town its distinctive maritime feel and boating reputation.

Hit the waterways, hire a boat and explore, or take the free car and passenger ferry to Raymond Island, just a few minutes by ferry across the McMillan Strait. Spot koalas and 60 bird species as well as many ground orchids and wildflowers. For bird watching take a boat over to Rottamah Island Bird Observatory or spot some of the 140 species of native birds in the Lakes National Park.

Explore the Mitchell River silt jetties, second only in size to the immense silt jetties of the Mississippi River. There are good views from Eagle Point Bluff and a vehicle track that provides a closer view and leads to some fine fishing spots. Catch your fill of black bream and mullet or watch for dolphins playing in the water.

Soak up the charm of the village with a walk around the Newlands Arm walking track that follows the lake shore or visit the Paynesville Community Craft Centre, which showcases local artists' work.

Paynesville is approximately three hours from Melbourne via the Princes Highway.

Phillip Island is a great destination for a family getaway. Under two hours drive from Melbourne, it offers diverse accommodation to choose from, wildlife experiences, and plenty of opportunities to get into the water.

San Remo is the last town before leaving the mainland and the gateway to Phillip Island. Drop into the famous local fishing co-op to pick up a fresh lobster and watch the local pelicans descend on the San Remo wharf for their 11.30am daily feed.

The first town on the island is the small fishing village of Newhaven - a popular place for fishing from the pier, surfinf one of the best surf beaches in Victoria, walking along the beautiful Cape Woolamai or exploring nearby historic Churchill Island.

On the south-east tip of the island is the quiet village of Rhyll. Wander through the nearby Koala Conservation Centre and Woodland to see koalas at close range or view birds as you walk through the famous wetlands at Rhyll Inlet.

Cowes, the main commercial centre on Phillip Island, has a wealth of charming cafes and upmarket restaurants for visitors to enjoy. Take a wildlife cruise to the large fur seal colony on Seal Rocks or enjoy watching hundreds of Little Penguins returning to their burrows at the nightly Penguin Parade at nearby Summerland Beach.

This pretty settlement, with a population of 384, is located at the junction of the Ovens and Buckland rivers and along the popular Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail. Porepunkah is the nearest service town to and a great base for exploring Mt Buffalo National Park, and sampling local produce and wine at farm gates and wineries in the surrounding valleys, including Boyton's Winery. Choose from a range of accommodation including bush cabins, camping and caravan sites and B&Bs, many of which are located in peaceful spots with river views. Relax at riverside picnic areas and take a dip at river swimming spots. For something more adventurous, head to the Porepunkah airfield for powered hang-gliding, microlighting, ultralight flying and scenic light aircraft flights.

Retreat to the coastal town of Port Albert, Victoria's first established port and a renowned historic fishing village. Port Albert boasts Georgian and Victorian architecture and offers a variety of new accommodation options.

The quaint village is off the beaten track and more than 40 historic buildings still exist. Recent development in Port Albert has seen the opening of quality bed and breakfast and holiday accommodation.

Don't miss a meal of the famous local fish and chips, perhaps with a drink at the oldest continually licensed hotel in Victoria. Port Albert still operates as a commercial fishing port and has a reputation for recreational fishing, which sees its population swell considerably during summer.

Port Albert is the original gateway to Gippsland. It was the supply port for Gippsland's pioneers until the completion of the Melbourne-Sale railway in the late 1800s. It has berthed ships from Europe and America and welcomed thousands of Chinese on their way to the goldfields. Visit the Port Albert Maritime Museum to see artefacts like the cannon from the wreck of the Clonmell, navigational aids, charts and equipment, an extensive shell collection and a heritage exhibit portraying Port Albert's role in the Gippsland goldfields.

Find out more about Port Albert by following the Old Port Walking Trail, or soak up the fresh air with scenic boat tours, fishing trips and bird watching.

Port Albert is just over three hours from Melbourne along the South Gippsland Highway, via Korumburra, Leongatha, Foster and Welshpool.

Towards the western end of the Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell is nestled among some of Victoria's most spectacular coastline scenery, including Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles. Sheltered by cliffs and Norfolk pines, it has the atmosphere of a haven on the edge of wild nature.

A colourful and lively seaside village, Port Campbell is home to restaurants and cafés with views of the beach, bakeries selling homemade goodies and vibrant shops and galleries to explore.

Port Campbell is a great base for seeing the Twelve Apostles, the dramatic rock stacks that have made this coastline famous. Take to the air for a bird's-eye view of the Twelve Apostles, or join a boat tour around them to experience their immense size. Other stunning coastal features include Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps and the Bay of Islands.

Creeks and the harbour offer excellent fishing and Two Mile Bay is revered by surfers as one of the best big-wave breaks in Australia. Join a dive tour and visit large canyons and gorges on the sea floor or a boat tour taking anglers and passengers close to the stacks, caves and arches in the area.

Port Campbell is 283 kilometres south-west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Great Ocean Road.

Discover history in every corner of this charming old fishing village on Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Port Fairy's wide streets are lined by nineteenth century cottages, great Norfolk pines, old stone churches, boarding houses and inns. Many fine examples of the architecture of the 1800s remain intact, and more than 50 buildings are classified by the National Trust.

Follow one of the town's historic walking trails and discover charming, fully restored white washed cottages built by whalers and seamen beside Georgian-style merchants' homes and grand public buildings.

The world-famous Port Fairy Folk Festival takes over the town over the Labour Day weekend each March, drawing thousands of people from all parts of the globe.

At the local port, one of the busiest fishing ports in Victoria, fishermen unload their catch of crayfish and abalone at the dockside, cruising boats and racing yachts dock and anglers try their luck.

From the wharf you can head out to sea on a guided fishing trip or a whale watching tour in winter. Another option is to sit back and enjoy a four-hour cruise to Lady Julia Percy Island, home to one of the largest seal colonies in southern Australia. It is estimated that there are four different breeds and between 15,000 and 20,000 seals on the small island.

There's also a range of boutique, antique, art and craft shops to peruse, local artists to see at work and museums to explore. Or you can relax and enjoy the fine food and wine on offer at one of the many great pubs, cafés and restaurants in town.

Port Fairy is 290 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Princes Highway, or take the scenic route via the Great Ocean Road. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.

Port Melbourne is a stylish blend of Melbourne's old and new, and a long-time arrival point for ships from across the Strait and around the world.

Once a concentration of transport and manufacturing industry, today it is a buzzing bayside suburb featuring striking residential developments alongside restored public buildings and workers' cottages.

Since the 1830s, Port Melbourne has been the arrival point for millions of shipping passengers. Station Pier is the docking point for the Spirit of Tasmania ferry service from Devonport, Tasmania, and for international cruise ships, which are in port between November and March each year. Head to the pier on a warm summer evening, pick up some fish and chips and sit by the water imagining life on an enormous ocean liner in days gone by.

Tree-lined Bay Street has a fascinating collection of old fashioned pubs, hotels and historic buildings housing specialist retailers, boutiques and contemporary eateries. You'll also find a large number of film and recording studios, as well as publishers and production houses in the area. Beacon Cove is a new residential development that has given rise to more sophisticated eateries reflecting the bayside way of life.

Year-round, walkers, runners and cyclists pound the palm-lined path that hugs the Port Melbourne foreshore, and continues all the way through St Kilda to Frankston.

Take the number 109 (Port Melbourne) tram from Collins Street and within 20 minutes you'll be sitting by the sea.

Portland, located in south-west Victoria, offers visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore rugged landscapes, discover a colourful history, get back to nature, surf some great waves, hoist a sail in a brisk wind, catch a fish, wander historic streets and dine on great local food and wine.

Portland became Victoria's first permanent European settlement in 1834. Today it boasts more than 200 beautifully maintained heritage buildings and private residences. Take the Portland self-guided Historic Buildings Walk for a closer look at the city's hundreds of heritage buildings. For an insight into Portland's long seafaring history, visit the Maritime Discovery Centre.

Portland's waterfront is alive with activity - see big ships from around the world come in to load up local produce and the local fishing fleet unload its catch. Take a ride on the foreshore cable tram and watch for whales during the winter months.

For those who like fishing, Portland is an angler's paradise. From a boat or the beach the range of fish that can be hooked is extensive, including King George whiting, flathead, snapper, tuna and mulloway.

While locals may want to keep it quiet, Portland also has some of the best surf this side of Bells Beach. The choice spots are Bridgewater Bay, the Watertower, Blacknose, Crumpets, Yellow Rock, Whites Beach and Murrells.

Beginning and ending at the Portland Visitor Information Centre is the 250 kilometre Great South West Walk. Try one section or tackle the entire walk and see stunning forests, river gorges, capes and beaches along the way.

Portland is 362 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Great Ocean Road, Princes or Henty Highways. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne. Daily air flights are available from Melbourne Airport.

Queenscliff is an historic seaside village 100 kilometres from Melbourne on the sandy shores of Port Phillip Bay.

Reminders of Queenscliff's elegant past are everywhere you look - from imposing Victorian-era hotels, a huge military fortress guarding the entrance to Port Phillip, solid old churches and quaint fishermen's cottages. But there's more to Queenscliff than nineteenth century history, including art galleries, shops, great places to dine, safe beaches and a tree-lined foreshore.

Queenscliff attracts visitors from all points of the compass who come to enjoy the beach, a picnic under the giant foreshore pines, the village charm or even a game of golf. Ferries sail regularly between Sorrento and Queenscliff taking around 40 minutes to transport passengers and their cars from one side of Port Phillip Bay to the other.

Port Phillip Bay offers seemingly endless opportunities for water activities. Take a dip or hoist a sail, try water-skiing or simply laze on the shores. The bay's southern reaches offer some of Australia's best diving on reefs and shipwrecks. Fishing from piers, beaches and boats is popular with all ages.

In the last weekend of November musicians and music fans converge on Queenscliff for the annual Queenscliff Music Festival, offering an eclectic mix of Australian artists and international guests.

Queenscliff is 103 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, about 1.5 hours by car on the Princess and Bellarine Highways. A vehicle and passenger ferry operates between Queenscliff and Sorrento taking approximately 40 minutes.

Red Hill is a beautiful area set in the Mornington Peninsula's hinterland. It is characterised by large gum trees, quiet lanes and gentle rolling hills. Tucked away amid the trees and hills are an abundance of vineyards, orchards and galleries. The Red Hill Market on the first Saturday of every month is famous in the region for selling a great range of high quality local produce.
Visit the Red Hill Cool Stores and sample a great range of regional fruit and vegetables and preserves. For the freshest fruit on the Peninsula, head to Ellisfield or Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farms, where you can enjoy picking your own sun-warmed berries. Those who love their wine will love touring the many local vineyards to taste the renowned local specialties, pinot noir, pinot gris and chardonnay. Many of the wineries have established their own restaurants to take advantage of the abundance of local produce on their doorstep. Dine out at Max's at Red Hill Estate, which offers fine food and wine as well as sweeping views of the sea, or the acclaimed Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove.
There are several festivals held throughout the year showcasing the culinary richness of the region. The Fruits of our Labour Festival takes place at harvest time in March, as does the Cool Climate Wine Show. Settle in with a warming glass of red during the Winter Wine Weekend, held every June.
Explore some of the eclectic local galleries scattered among the rolling hills and valleys. Some of the best include Red Hill Gallery 141, The Art Shed, The White Hill Gallery and The Marion Rosetzky Gallery where you'll find impressive collections and regular exhibitions.
Red Hill is approximately 1.5 hours from Melbourne. Take the Nepean Highway and then the Mornington Peninsula Freeway onto the Peninsula and then turn left onto the Arthurs Seat Road, which becomes the Red Hill Road.

Best known for its bargain designer and seconds shopping along Bridge Road and Swan Street, vibrant Richmond is also the place to go for Greek or Vietnamese food, languid all-day breakfasts and great live music.

Richmond is one of the Melbourne's earliest settlements and these days is where many of Australia's finest fashion designers have their factory outlets and seconds stores - pick up bargains at Mimco, Country Road and Atelier. Stop on Swan Street or Bridge Road for lunch in a restaurant or café, many of which offer a genuine taste of Greece. Church Street is the place to go for designer furniture and objets d'art. Try for a booking and savour the tastes at stylish mod-Oz restaurant, Pearl.

Nearby Victoria Street, or Little Saigon, is the heart of Melbourne's Vietnamese community. Wander among the long stretch of eateries, bakeries, butchers, fishmongers and grocers and grab a bite along the way. Don't expect white linen tablecloths and hovering waiters - Victoria Street is about the hustle and bustle of fast, fresh and exceptional Asian food at a bargain price.

Bars and live music thrive in Richmond, the Corner Hotel being one of Melbourne's most famous intimate live-music venues, hosting big-name bands alongside obscure newcomers. Just across Swan Street, Dizzy's Jazz Club is known for its quality acts. Sip a cocktail in refined surrounds at Der Raum, or celebrate the hops and tour the Carlton&United Breweries' brewhouse in Abbotsford.

From the city, you're just 10 minutes from Richmond. Take the number 70 tram from Flinders Street to Swan Street or number 109 from Bourke Street to Victoria Street, number 48 or 75 from Flinders Street to Bridge Road. Alternatively, jump on the train and travel just one stop from Flinders Street Station.

Rushworth is an old goldmining town in central Victoria that still displays its original character in its many historic buildings.

Now a service centre for the surrounding farming community, Rushworth still retains its golden past and High Street and its adjacent streets are a National Trust Urban Conservation Area. Take the High Street Heritage Walk and explore the town's history through its impressive, restored architecture and historical landmarks.

Enjoy a scenic view of the town, the Waranga Reservoir, the Rushworth Forest and the Goulburn Valley from the fire lookout tower at Growlers Hill.

Head south out of town and discover the remains of a thriving gold rush township at the Whroo Historic Reserve, including a 25 metre open-cut mine on the hill.

The Rushworth State Forest, to the south of town via Whroo Road, consists of red ironbark, yellow gum and grey box eucalypts. Take a walk in autumn and spring and see a profusion of wildflowers and orchids amid the towering eucalypts. Keep an eye out for the kangaroos, wallabies, possums, wallaroos and the 100 bird species that call the forest home.

Rushworth is located 166 kilometres north of Melbourne via Murchison, just under two hours along the Goulburn Valley Highway.

Located in one of the oldest wine-growing areas in Australia, Rutherglen is renowned for its fortified wines. Once a major gold mining town, Rutherglen's heritage is reflected in the historic buildings now housing antique and bric-a-brac shops, tea rooms and restaurants.

Enterprising winemakers have been taking advantage of the fertile land and mild climate around Rutherglen since the early 1800s. Rutherglen wineries produce robust red wines that cellar well for many years, as well as crisp, modern style whites. However, the region is best known for its superb fortified wines, especially muscats.

At the visitor information centre, find out all you need to know about the 20 magnificent wineries that make up the Winemakers of Rutherglen, as well as accommodation, dining and regional highlights.

Hire a limousine or join a tour to explore the scenic winery circuit. Cycle along the Muscat Trail past stands of river red gum and secluded billabongs along the Murray River to 10 of the local wineries. The trail starts at the Rutherglen Wine Experience and Visitor Information Centre, where bikes are available for hire.

Enjoy great dining matched with some of Victoria's best wines. Sample delicious local produce such as honey, trout, Murray cod, cherries, berries, nuts, chutneys and preserves. Pick up a picnic hamper or stock up on supplies to take home with you.

Popular local events include the Tastes of Rutherglen in March, Tour de Muscat (cycling) in November and Winemakers of Rutherglen Legends Weekend in November.

Rutherglen is 275 kilometres north-east of Melbourne or about three hours from Melbourne via the Hume Highway, in the eastern corner of the Murray River valley plains.

An hour from Melbourne, the coastal resorts of Dromana, Rosebud and Rye are renowned for their safe bay beaches, ocean surf beaches, and great golf courses.
Travelling to Dromana, Rosebud and Rye, on the southern end of the Mornington Peninsula, is a tradition for many Melbourne families each summer. With their carnival atmosphere and safe bay swimming, they provide the perfect opportunity to relax by the sea. There is a wide range of accommodation to suit every holidaymaker, from simply camping on the beach to cosy self-contained cottages, luxury abodes and friendly B&Bs.
Sandbars extending up to 200 metres from the shore create ideal conditions for safe bathing, making Rye a great place to bring the whole family. The beautiful bayside beaches offer clear calm water perfect for exploring The Octopus's Garden underwater marine trail underneath Rye pier. The more adventurous can hire a charter boat or a catamaran and set out into the depths of the bay. If you need to get your surfing fix, head straight to Gunnamatta Ocean Beach for some of the best waves in Victoria. For a great community experience make your way to the Rosebud Family Festival, which is held on the last weekend in November.
Point Nepean Road has a plentiful array of shops, including a large shopping mall, providing everything you'll need for your stay. There are some great wine bars and cafes that reflect the growing vibrant, cosmopolitan vibe in Rye. This area is also home to some of the region's best golf courses, with major resort-style courses such as Moonah Links, home of the Australian Open tournament, on the Dunes Golf course only minutes away.
Gardening enthusiasts will find the area has much to offer. Stroll around the magnificent grounds of Heronswood with its sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay. The Heronswood Garden Festival is held in March and November. You could also tour McCrae Homestead, one of Victoria's oldest country homes.
Rye is approximately one hour from Melbourne via the Nepean Highway and then the Mornington Peninsula Freeway.

Set sail from Sale to explore the entire Gippsland Lakes and get your fill of fresh air and outdoor activities before heading back to the Port of Sale for the café culture of a major regional hub.

The westernmost port in the Gippsland Lakes is central to Gippsland's countryside and beaches and offers many accommodation options. The traditionally prosperous city continues to flourish thanks to the offshore oil and gas fields of Bass Strait. The newly redeveloped Port of Sale precinct features a myriad of cafes and restaurants. The renowned Gippsland Art Gallery is also based in Sale.

From Sale you can explore the breathtaking high country areas of Dargo and Licola and the spectacular ocean wilderness of Ninety Mile Beach Coastal Park and Marine National Park.

Discover the bird life at the Sale Common, a Ramsar Convention internationally accredited wetland. Journey on to historic Port Albert, Victoria's oldest port, or the numerous villages and towns of the area including Yarram, with its historic buildings. Don't miss a chance to see the lush rainforests of nearby Tarra Bulga National Park.

Head to Sale from Melbourne on the Princes Highway (2.5 hours) or take the scenic route via the South Gippsland Highway (A440). Daily rail and coach services run from Melbourne.

San Remo is the gateway to Phillip Island on the eastern entrance of Western Port. It is a significant ocean and bay fishing port and a popular feeding spot for flocks of friendly pelicans.

San Remo was settled in 1840 when the deep water port at Griffiths Point was used to export local products such as wattlebark, farm produce and cattle. The township that grew up along the port became a popular tourist spot and in 1888 was renamed San Remo after the town on the Italian Riviera. Visitors these days can enjoy ocean fishing and boat charters that leave from the jetty. The San Remo Fisherman's Cooperative is the leading supplier of fresh fish for the region.

San Remo offers diverse accommodation options, from caravan parks to motels. Tennis, squash and bowling greens are available and there is a safe sheltered beach and an excellent surf beach in town. Pelicans congregate around the barbecues and playgrounds on the foreshore daily at 11.30am for the feeding frenzy.

Take in San Remo's scenery and historic landmarks on foot. The George Bass Coastal Walk begins at the southern end of Punchbowl Road and is a scenic six kilometre walk (one way) to Kilcunda. Wander along the foreshore ramble to Bore Beach where the historic coal bore can be seen and on to Shelly Beach, Griffiths Point and Quarry Rocks, where stone was quarried around 1870 to build business chambers in Melbourne.

San Remo is located 125 kilometres south-east of Melbourne or about 90 minutes' drive. Travel along the South Gippsland Highway from Melbourne, taking the Bass Highway before turning off to San Remo.

Seymour is situated on the banks of the Goulburn River and has attractions ranging from military and railway sites, to parks, art galleries and wineries. Declared a town in 1863, Seymour is also a service centre for the nearby Puckapunyal army training grounds. In the 1940s Seymour's Royal Hotel, then called Moody's Hotel, came to prominence with its depiction in artist Russell Drysdale's painting The Cricketers.

Shepparton lies in the Goulburn Valley, a major agricultural and food processing region termed the "food bowl of Australia". On the banks of the Goulburn River, Shepparton offers great weather, gourmet food and wine, superb shopping and many recreational and entertainment facilities.

Shepparton is a fantastic place to explore as a family. Run wild at the SPC Ardmona KidsTown Adventure Playground that features a miniature railway, giant slides, tree houses, a fruit bin maze, flying fox, swings and monkey bars. Enjoy a picnic by Victoria Park Lake, a community hub in the town's heart that attracts groups year-round. Visit the Aquamoves complex on the western edge of the lake, offering a state-of-the-art aquatic centre with pools, a waterslide, spas and sauna.

Visit the ceramics collection at the Shepparton Art Gallery or try milking a cow at the Emerald Bank Heritage Farm. Keep an eye out for the life-size fibreglass cows, tucked in strange places around town as part of the MooovingArt initiative. Learn about Aboriginal culture and history at the Bangerang Keeping Place. Local factory sales outlets are good places to grab bargains.

Local events include International Dairy Week in January, The SheppARTon Festival in March and the World Cup Show Jumping in November.

Shepparton is 179 kilometres or about two hours north of Melbourne on the Goulburn Valley Highway. Daily rail or coach services are available from Melbourne.

The seaside village of Sorrento is one of the most popular and pretty holiday escapes on the Mornington Peninsula. Sorrento's position at the southern extremity of the peninsula at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay provides a sweeping outlook. The town is known for its historic buildings, cafés, shopping and resident population of Bottlenose Dolphins.

Sorrento's gentle front beach is an ideal place to while away some time. Have a picnic, go for a stroll, take a cooling swim or keep watch for wild dolphins that play in the clean bay waters. For some surf-pounding action, the back beach on the Bass Strait side of the peninsula is close by. Sorrento offers a long list of other recreational opportunities including golf, bushwalking, sailing, scuba diving, fishing and boating.

In the 1870s, entrepreneur and parliamentarian George Coppin, dubbed "the Father of Sorrento", realised the holiday potential. He encouraged Melburnians to seek respite from the city's scorching summer in an idyllic seaside setting and Sorrento's popularity blossomed.

Most of Sorrento's attractions are within walking distance. The town features historic limestone buildings that contribute to its distinct character. Impressive hotels, excellent eateries, sidewalk cafés, boutiques, galleries and specialist shops add extra appeal to the Sorrento experience.

Popular local events include the Sorrento Art Festival in January and the Salt and Seaweed Sorrento Festival in March which showcases the region's food, wine and arts.

Sorrento is located 112 kilometres south of Melbourne. A year-round car and passenger ferry service connects Sorrento with Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula, across the bay.

Visit South Melbourne, one of Melbourne's oldest suburbs and its beautifully restored public buildings, terrace houses and stately mansions to see how Melbourne's grand past embraces the present. Nearby Albert Park is a contained area worth a visit for its cafés, delis and scenic outdoor activities. Time your visit for mild March, when the area gets into gear for the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix.

Running through the heart of South Melbourne is cosmopolitan Clarendon Street, featuring restored Victorian shopfronts housing fashion, food and coffee outlets. An eclectic range of independent retailers stretches toward the bay along Coventry, Dorcas, Bank and Park streets - you'll be rewarded for your time with items to covet. Stop for a refreshing drink at one of South Melbourne's impressive pubs.

The lynchpin of South Melbourne is the South Melbourne Market, a fixture of the area since 1867. You'll find characters, charm and fresh produce galore at the market, as well as unusual homewares to take home.

Sandwiched between South Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay is Albert Park, popular year-round for its cafés and delis and swag of leisure facilities along Bridport Street. Most popular is Albert Park Lake. Embark on the circuit around the lake and surrounding parklands and join Melbourne's inner city dwellers jogging, sailing, cycling or rowing. Stop for a dip at Albert Park beach if the temperature heats up. Also in the neighbourhood are the Albert Park Golf Course and the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, as well as the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix racetrack.

Jump on tram 12 from Collins Street or number 1 from Swanston Street to get to South Melbourne and Albert Park.

Strut your stuff along Chapel Street and after arming yourself with internationally renowned designer labels from the vast array of fashion boutiques in Prahran and South Yarra, seat yourself at a chic café or bar and get ready to see and be seen.

Chapel Street is the backbone of Prahran and South Yarra and is lined with trendy shops selling all things groovy and hip from cutting edge fashion to funky homewares and inspiring gifts. Browse Australian designers like Scanlan & Theodore, Colette Dinnigan and Bettina Liano.

Nearby Toorak Road and High Street are also well-known shopping strips, offering understated sophistication with exclusive shops and boutiques.

Detour to Greville Street (just off Chapel Street in Prahran) for offbeat retro clothing and eclectic gifts, jewellery and record stores. If you're in the area on a Sunday afternoon, wander through Greville Street Market. For fantastic fresh food and discount shopping don't miss the Prahran Market on Commercial Road.

Cool bars and cafés like Caffé e Cucina, Café Domo, Pieroni and Chinois are as much about fresh food and cocktails as providing great scope for people-watching, a common pastime in this part of town. Fashion devotees, art students, 30-something professionals, models, techno kids and skaters are all part of the landscape here.

Drag yourself away from the shops and head north for a walk along the banks of the Yarra or take in the precinct's high society history at the beautiful Como House, where you can wander around the manicured gardens and peek inside the 1850s Victorian-era mansion.

Catch trams 72, 8 or 6 from Swanston Street or take the train from Flinders Street Station to either Prahran or South Yarra stations.

The Southbank promenade along the Yarra River is one of Melbourne's most popular dining precincts, with its riverside setting and fantastic views of the city skyline. The promenade has a broad range of cafes and restaurants, all the way from the Southgate complex to the Crown Casino, many with outdoor terraces and balconies where you can dine alfresco and watch street performers and passing pedestrians while taking in the stunning views of the cityscape as it lights up at night.
The Southgate complex and Crown Casino are widely known for their stylish boutiques and eclectic galleries. Shop for luxury lingerie, seductive perfumes and fabulous designer pieces from Versace, Burberry, La Perla, Mont Blanc and Prada.
Head up to St Kilda Road on the south bank of the Yarra River and explore Melbourne's vibrant arts precinct, incorporating the Australian Ballet, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, The National Gallery of Victoria, the Victorian Arts Centre, Playbox Theatre and The Malthouse. On Sundays, the Arts Centre Market spreads out along the eastern end of the riverbank with a colourful range of local arts and crafts.
For a different perspective, jump onboard a scenic cruise, water taxi or gondola outside the Southgate complex and float along the Yarra River.
Southbank is easily accessible by foot, car, tram or train.

Cycle or skate along St Kilda's palm-lined foreshore then make a dash for an alfresco dining table on Fitzroy or Acland streets against the panoramic backdrop of Port Phillip Bay.

St Kilda, Melbourne's favourite playground, was once a seaside resort for genteel Melburnians to take the sea air. In the 1960s and 1970s it took on a seedier edge, but today its racy atmosphere has largely been replaced by a heady dose of cosmopolitan cool.

Any tram with St Kilda beach displayed from Bourke, Swanston or Collins streets will get you here to join the Melburnians who flock to walk, cycle and skate along the foreshore. Take advantage of a windy day and dive into the water to sail, windsurf or kitesurf. Release your inner child amid the amusements and rides at iconic Luna Park. When its time to rest, sit in an outdoor café with a coffee - or something a little stronger.

Away from the foreshore, you'll find much of St Kilda's activity concentrated in Fitzroy and Acland streets. Fitzroy Street is renowned for its cool cafés, restaurants and bars, with tables spilling onto the footpath. It is one of Melbourne's most attractive eating and drinking streets. Nearby Acland Street is a bustling, vibrant street with an eclectic mix of restaurants, wine bars and continental cake shops. During the day the streets are lined with people drinking lattes; at night they're buzzing with clubbers and night owls making the most of the pubs, bars and clubs often featuring international bands or DJs.

St Kilda has long been treasured for its independent vibe. Don't miss the selection of independent music and book stores, as well as second-hand furniture and a growing collection of fashion boutiques.

Time your visit to Stawell at Easter to see the running of the annual Stawell Gift, one of the world's richest footraces. The thriving city is the service centre for the Grampians and features fascinating cultural and heritage walking and driving tours, museums, wineries and golf.

Gold was discovered nearby in 1853. Stawell continues to produce the precious commodity in Victoria's largest operating mine and there are a number of gold-themed attractions. View 1860s photographs, nineteenth century costumes, gold rush artefacts and historical documents at the Pleasant Creek Courthouse Museum and visit the Pioneer Memorial and lookout in the Big Hill area for views of the town and gold mining heritage.

Stawell's also part of the renowned Great Western wine region. Visit cellar doors to meet the winemaker and enjoy tastings at vineyards as you make your way around. The surrounding landscape is so alluring you may want to board a scenic flight or a hot air balloon for views of the town and the magnificent Grampians. Tee off for a round of golf on magnificent local fairways.

Visit Bunjil's Shelter - a huge rock overhang with rock art depicting Bunjil, an Aboriginal spirit figure, in the nearby Black Ranges. There's also a Stawell Gift Hall of Fame Museum, dedicated to the famous 120-metre dash.

Stawell is approximately 2.5 hours from Melbourne via the Western Highway. Daily coach and rail services are available from Melbourne.

Nestled on the banks of the Murray River at the heart of a fertile agricultural region, Swan Hill is a great destination for outdoor activities, good food and wine.

Swan Hill was named by European explorer Major Thomas Mitchell, who visited in 1836. Since then, fortunes have been made here; first by the early squatters and later by the farmers whose crops thrived thanks to irrigation from the river. Today you can explore original residences or Australia's first open-air museum. The Pioneer Settlement Museum near the centre of town is famous as a recreated port town of the paddle steamer era.

Swan Hill is also the perfect place to experience some of the most unspoilt and rugged sections of the Murray River as it winds its way through a 10 kilometre section of state park land. Explore the river on the 105-year-old Paddle Steamer Pyap, or board the MV Kookaburra to cruise to the gracious Murray Downs Homestead. Alternatively you can take an overnight trip on a houseboat and explore the river at your own pace. Nearby Lake Boga is a delightful spot to enjoy a range of water sports from parasailing and waterskiing to sailing and swimming.

The Swan Hill region is also becoming known for its wines and fine quality produce so it's definitely worth visiting some of the local cellar doors and farm gates to sample some of the distinctive flavours of the region.

Popular local events include The Big Note Festival in March, Italian Festa in July, and the Australian Inland Wine Show in October.

Swan Hill is 344 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 3.5 hours from Melbourne on the Murray Valley Highway.

Torquay is Victoria's surfing capital, attracting beach lovers from far and wide to its fabulous beaches and the Great Ocean Road beyond. Torquay has protected family beaches, and wilder, more invigorating surf beaches like Jan Juc. Bells Beach, where the big swells are definitely for experienced surfers, is the next stop along the coast. This world famous beach is the venue for the Rip Curl Pro, one of the most sought after surfing titles on the World Championship Tour, which is held every Easter.

There are plenty of opportunities for novices to learn to surf all year round, or you can just sit and watch the waves roll in. Just a short drive away, Point Addis provides breathtaking views out to sea and back to the gently arching bay.

Torquay is a popular destination at any time of year. There are great walks, shops, eateries and excellent accommodation. Check out the colourful Cowrie Community Market on the third Sunday of every month.

A hike around the Surf Coast is spectacular in any weather. The Surf Coast Walk is a well established trail stretching more than 35 kilometres from Jan Juc, near Torquay, to Moggs Creek and past Anglesea. Explore thick verdant forest and colourful heathland. You are bound to see many rare and endangered native birds and other wildlife, such as and kangaroos and wallabies. The more adventurous sightseer can take to the air in a chartered vintage Tiger Moth for spectacular Great Ocean Road views.

Some of the biggest names in surf wear and accessories have their headquarters in Torquay, with huge retail outlets at Surf City Plaza selling everything connected with the sport. The Surfworld Museum captures the spirit of surfing in a vibrant range of exhibits that will absorb the interest of anyone who has ever jumped into a wetsuit and onto a board.

Torquay is located 95 kilometres south west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Surf Coast Highway. Daily rail services are available from Melbourne to Geelong. Local bus services are available from Geelong.

Whether it’s a thriving regional centre you are seeking or a base for a whole host of nature based activities, Traralgon has plenty to offer.

The Gippsland town was a resting place for drovers during the gold rush, and today has grown to service the surrounding energy, agricultural, pastoral, papermaking and timber industries. Visitors now find it the perfect base for exploring the nearby Strzelecki Ranges and cool temperate rainforests of the Tarra Bulga National Park.

Another boon for visitors is Traralgon's standing as the entertainment capital of the Latrobe Valley. Enjoy alfresco dining and great shopping by day and excellent pubs and clubs by night. Sidewalk cafes, restaurants and shopping arcades mark the commercial centre of Traralgon and there is also a string of bars, pubs and clubs in the town hosting an array of live bands and entertainment. You can even take in a musical or comedy act at the Latrobe Performing Arts Centre.

A favourite destination for picnickers is Victory Park with its marble sculpture Lars Compatalis, historic band rotunda and beautiful gardens. A stroll over the creek along the footbridge leads to Newman Park featuring a huge adventure playground including miniature train rides operating on the fourth Sunday of every month.

Try your hand at a round of golf at Traralgon Golf Club or visit the Zanella Estate winery. For the more adventurous, visit the Latrobe Regional Airport to experience the thrill of sky diving and gliding or a scenic flight over the Gippsland region. Take a guided tour of the Loy Yang Open Cut Mine and Power Station south-east of Traralgon, one of Australia’s largest engineering projects.

Traralgon is approximately two hours' drive from Melbourne on the Princes Highway.

The High Country in north-east Victoria is a special place with scenic alpine landscapes, a host of outdoor activities, gourmet food and wine and a fascinating heritage of bushrangers, horsemen and gold.

During the winter, the region is home to Victoria's best and most accessible snowfields, such as Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. And when the snow disappears the area is popular for a host of outdoor activities, from four-wheel driving, mountain biking and horse riding to hiking on the high plains.

After a day of altitude, head to the valleys and sample the delicious local produce. Enjoy the majestic tree-lined streets, riverside walks and cafe culture of Bright, visit one of the highly acclaimed wineries in Rutherglen or tour the famous cheese factory in Milawa.

Discover the fascinating heritage of the region in historic towns and villages such as Beechworth where you can wander among the grand nineteenth century buildings that are a legacy of the heady gold rush days. Visit historical sites and attractions in Glenrowan where Australia's most famous bushranger, Ned Kelly, made his last stand, or discover the proud and enduring spirit of the cattlemen and rugged adventurers in Mansfield.

The Great Alpine Road, one of Australia's great touring routes, winds through the region showcasing stunning alpine landscapes, heritage towns, and local food and wine between Wangaratta, Bairnsdale and the Gippsland Lakes.

Travel just 2.5 hours from Melbourne and step back into another time. Discover a tiny township that was once one of Australia's richest towns and is now home to around 20 residents who enjoy a lovingly restored historic centre near alpine wilderness.

Following the discovery of one of the largest gold reefs ever found in Australia in 1863, Walhalla experienced a typical gold rush boom. The profitable Long Tunnel Mine operated between 1865 and 1914. Today you can explore the mine and even pan for gold. Find out more about Walhalla's golden years with a ride on the restored Walhalla Goldfields Railway, the Walhalla Transport Co horse and carriage, or the exciting Copper Mine Adventure four-wheel drive tour.

During most of the 20th century Walhalla was virtually frozen in time; electricity was only connected in 1998. After nearly becoming a ghost town, many of its buildings and services have been restored to offer historic attractions and a range of accommodation, tours, shops and eateries.

Follow the historic town walk signs to discover the history of Walhalla. See the Corner Store and Museum, the Old Fire Station, the Mountaineer Brass Band Rotunda, the Mechanics Institute, the Bank Vault, the local Post and Telegraph Office, St Johns Church and the hillside cemetery with its vertical graves.

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and go horse riding, climbing or hiking in nearby national parks. Drop a line in a clear mountain stream or explore the scenic trails along the Thomson River. Hit the slopes at nearby Mt St Gwinear or Mt Baw Baw for some cross-country or downhill skiing in serene surrounds.

Walhalla is 182 kilometres east of Melbourne and is 45 kilometres north of Traralgon and Moe via a sealed road.

With its broad main street, historic buildings and riverside parklands, Wangaratta offers all the services of a bustling rural city and the warm welcome of a traditional country town.

Its country-style hospitality, range of events and attractions makes Wangaratta a popular touring hub for those exploring the region. A short drive in any direction will lead you to great wineries, gourmet food, spectacular scenery and historic towns.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the city's many memorable festivals and events. The three-day multi award winning Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, held annually in hotels, concert venues and nearby wineries, is one of the biggest jazz events in Australia.

Wangaratta is also the starting point for two distinct touring routes. Cycle or walk a section of the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, or take a scenic tour along the Great Alpine Road, which extends from Wangaratta across the alps all the way to Bairnsdale and the Gippsland Lakes.

Delve deeper into Wangaratta's bushranger and gold history. Visit the grave of the infamous bushranger, Mad Dog Morgan, at the Wangaratta Cemetery or head to Power's Lookout off the Whitfield-Mansfield Road, where bushranger Harry Power kept watch for approaching troopers. Stop at the nearby town of Eldorado where you'll find Cock's Eldorado Dredge which was built in 1936 for deep mining gold and tin. Follow the Dredge Walk and see the restoration of this gold mining relic.

Wangaratta is 235 kilometres or just over 2.5 hours' drive north of Melbourne along the Hume Highway.

Leafy Warburton is a place of wellbeing, as well as a base to sample the best of Yarra Valley food and wine. A charming town surrounded by tall forests, Warburton offers alternative medicines and therapies and an escape from the bustle of everyday life.

Located on the upper reaches of the Yarra River, prior to European settlement the area was occupied by the Woiworung Aboriginal people.

Cycle or walk the wonderfully scenic Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail. The 38 kilometre trail follows an old railway line built in 1901 to transport local produce and timber to Melbourne.

Embark on one of the many outstanding forest walks which radiate outwards from the town into the forests of mountain ash. Stroll through myrtle beech rainforest to the Ada Tree. More than 300 years old, this mountain ash is thought to be one of the largest known flowering trees in the world.

Stride out into the canopies of giant eucalyptus trees along the treetop skywalk at Mt Donna Buang Rainforest Gallery, a great way to see beautiful heritage rainforest. During the winter months play in the snow at Mt Donna Buang.

Swim and fish in local rivers, explore the area on foot, or watch for local and rare birds in summer.

Popular local events include the Warburton Film Festival and Warburton Winterfest in June.

Warburton is approximately 1.5 hours from Melbourne. Travel north-east along the Eastern Freeway, then the Maroondah Highway and turn right at Lilydale onto the Warburton Highway.

Warrnambool is nestled into the rising contour of Victoria's south-west coast amid green dairying country and overlooking the deep blue of the Southern Ocean.

The only city on the rugged Shipwreck Coast, Warrnambool has had a long and colourful history linked with the sea. Today much of this history is on show at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum. With original buildings, a lighthouse and recreated port complete with ships, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the nineteenth century life of the city.

Warrnambool is known as Victoria's Southern Right Whale nursery. These giants return to Logan's Beach every May to October and can often be seen just 100 metres off the shore.

Located on the wide sweep of Lady Bay, the city has marvellous beaches that attract crowds during warmer months. In the cooler parts of the year, the beach is a great place to stroll with interesting coastal features, including Pickering Point, Thunder Point and Point Ritchie around the mouths of the Merri and Hopkins rivers. Explore numerous coastal reserves and walking tracks with secluded beaches and rocky points, penguin colonies, and some good places for fishing and bird watching.

The city has a thriving arts and events scene, excellent restaurants serving the best and freshest local produce and a relaxed café scene, most evident at the bottom end of Liebig Street.

A few kilometres west of town is Tower Hill State Game Reserve, home to an ancient volcanic crater complete with lake and lava tongue. Discover a unique microcosm of botany and wildlife along the walking tracks here.

Warrnambool is located 270 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Princes Highway or Great Ocean Road. Daily rail or coach services are available from Melbourne.

Werribee and the greater region of Werribee Park offers visitors a wealth of activities and attractions that are easily accessible from Melbourne, including Victoria's Open Range Zoo, Werribee Park Mansion, Shadowfax Winery and the State Rose Garden.
The Chirnside family originally owned much of the Werribee Plains and built Werribee Park Mansion, the largest private residence in Victoria, in the late 1870s. Today the mansion has become one of Victoria's major tourist attractions after being bought by the State Government and restored to its original splendour. The 12 hectares of park include beautifully kept gardens and a farmyard area complete with authentic blacksmith facilities.
Garden-lovers will be in heaven as they take in the sights and smells of the State Rose Garden, which boasts more than 4,500 plants in its collection. The best time to view the roses is between November and May, and the Garden Party held every March is not to be missed.
Follow one of the many scenic trails winding their way through the You Yangs Regional Park through beautiful terrain. Watch migratory wading birds at the Point Cook Coastal Park during the summer months. For a truly wild experience, come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, meerkats, wallabies, emus and other grassland animals from around the globe at Victoria's Open Range Zoo.
The Werribee Park Precinct is approximately 30 minutes from Melbourne via the Princes Highway.

Jump on a ferry and cross to Williamstown, a quiet waterfront suburb that offers a relaxing alternative to the bustle of city life. Enjoy a sumptuous meal by the water at Nelson Place and stunning views of Melbourne's city skyline through the masts of moored boats.

It's hard to pull yourself away from Nelson Place, with its range of arts, crafts and other speciality shops in historic buildings. You'll find everything from galleries to classic vinyl and CD shops and don't miss the craft market on the third Sunday of each month.

Discover the history of Williamstown, which was established in 1837 as Melbourne's first port. Explore the interior of the replica of the Enterprize, which was the first vessel to carry European settlers up the Yarra and into Melbourne. You can even charter the vessel on weekends.

For another touch of history, stop off at Gem Pier and take a look at the HMAS Castlemaine, a World War II minesweeper converted into a maritime museum. Pause at the Time Ball Tower on Point Gellibrand, built by convicts in the mid-1800s to tell ships the time. It's still in use today.

There are activities for the whole family in Williamstown. Scienceworks offers an exciting, interactive science experience for the whole family. Grab your bucket, pack a picnic and paddle in the shallows at the lovely Williamstown bay beach. Take a ferry ride across the bay to St Kilda or down the Yarra River to Southbank.

Williamstown is approximately 15 minutes from Melbourne via the West Gate Freeway. Ferries from Southgate run every two hours from 11am daily and take about an hour, or take the half hour ferry ride from St Kilda Pier weekends. Williamstown is a 30-minute train journey from Flinders Street Station.

A thriving modern city with a leisurely country style, Albury-Wodonga offers a charming mix of stately heritage buildings, established parks and gardens and tree-lined streets.

The Murray River flows between the twin cities, winding through a magnificent unspoiled landscape of rolling valleys, hills and lush farmlands. Once a busy trade route for paddle steamers, the river is now very much a part of Albury-Wodonga's relaxed and attractive lifestyle.

Albury-Wodonga is a place to discover museums and art galleries, fine food and wine, great sporting facilities and excellent freshwater fishing.

The city's rich history and pioneer heritage is reflected in the grand architecture of its buildings, most notably the restored Albury Railway Station. Originally completed in 1882, it remains one of the most imposing and significant country stations in Australia.

Travel the Murray River by paddle steamer or canoe. Explore local museums and discover the region's pioneering past and indigenous cultures. Visit the Albury Regional Art Gallery, home to an impressive permanent collection of works by Australian landscape painter Sir Russell Drysdale.

Popular local events include the Festival of Sport from January to March, Long Lunch on the Murray in March and the Albury Wodonga Region Food and Wine Festival in October.

Albury-Wodonga is located on Australia's busiest inland corridor between Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne, at the junction of the Hume Freeway (National Highway One), Olympic, Murray Valley, Riverina and Kiewa Valley highways. It lies 300 kilometres north of Melbourne and has a population of 100,000.

All major car rental companies are represented as well as coach lines and rail links. Albury Airport operates multiple daily flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and regional centres.

Step back to Victoria's mining past at Wonthaggi, home to Victoria's only winnable underground black coal, and soak up the great outdoors and sweeping coastal views.

A town built on black coal reserves, Wonthaggi was used by the Victorian Government in response to the disastrous New South Wales coal strikes at the turn of the century. Discover more about the tough nature of mining history by following the heritage walk around the mine site, exploring historic buildings housing photographs from the past and mining remnants. Tours and interpretation points show a town that was controlled by the mine whistle, which is still heard at noon every day.

Wonthaggi is also the starting point for the amazing 16 kilometre Bass Coast Rail Trail, Victoria's only coastal rail trail. This trail is best known for the trestle bridge at Kilcunda, which has a surf beach as its backdrop.

Keep your walking shoes on and explore the Wonthaggi Wetlands, the North School Wild Flowers Reserve, the Old Rescue Station and the State Coal Mine Above Ground Walk - all easy short walks with wheelchair access.

Discover the trails of Cape Paterson and the boardwalks and at nearby Kilcunda, home to the Old Kilcunda Rail Bridge, take in the spectacular views with a walk along the cliff tops on the George Bass Coastal Walk to San Remo.

Wonthaggi is less than two hours' drive from Melbourne. Travel along the South Gippsland Highway from Melbourne, turning onto the Bass Highway. Then follow the road through Grantville, Bass and Kilcunda before reaching Wonthaggi.

The township of Woodend, north of Melbourne, has all the character and charm of country Victoria and offers locally produced arts and crafts.

Woodend has long been a popular rest stop for travellers. After the gold rush in the 1850s and 1860s, Woodend became a resort town with many guesthouses, large private gardens, a racecourse, golf club and hotels. Today visitors wander the antique stores, galleries, boutique gift shops or weekend markets. You can also explore the scenic bushland of Macedon Regional Park, visit local cellar doors and meet the winemakers, or play the cliff-top golf course with its panoramic views from the 10th hole.

Hanging Rock, located about seven kilometres east of Woodend, was reputedly a hideout for bushrangers like Mad Dog Morgan during the heady gold rush days. However, since the popularity of Peter Weir's film (1975) of Joan Lindsay's novel (1967) Picnic at Hanging Rock, mystery and intrigue have surrounded the rock.

The rock itself rises 105 metres from the plain and is a small steep-sided volcano. The lava has created unusual rock formations such as the Black Hole of Calcutta and the Cathedral. You can take a stroll or a challenging climb on the rock - scaling pinnacles and squeezing through crevices.

The Hanging Rock Picnic Races are held every Australia Day (January 26) and New Year's Day, a tradition lasting more than 80 years. In late February, enjoy a celebration of local food and wine at the annual Harvest Picnic at Hanging Rock.

Woodend is 67 kilometres north of Melbourne or just under an hour on the Calder Highway. V/Line trains service Woodend seven days a week.

Yarra Glen is an agricultural and dairy town in the heart of the Yarra Valley wine and food region and is an ideal base for enjoying cellar door tastings and sampling local produce.

Just a short distance from Melbourne, Yarra Glen is a popular weekend getaway. Meet the winemaker and sample wines at the cellar doors of some the state's best known and award-winning wineries, like Yering Station, De Bortoli and TarraWarra Estate.

Dine on regional produce or visit the Yarra Valley Dairy for lunch and enjoy handmade cheeses, local wines, coffee, desserts and excellent views. Taste and purchase locally grown produce at the Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Farmers' Market on the third Sunday of each month.

Take a sunrise balloon flight over the picturesque valley. Later, take a picnic or walk the 18 kilometre trail in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park.

One of Yarra Glen's most impressive historic buildings is the Grand Hotel in Bell Street. Built in the late 1880s, this beautiful two-storey stuccoed hotel has a tower, parapet and cast-iron verandah. It also operates as the cellar door of the Yarra Glen Vineyard.

In addition to the monthly farmers' market, popular local events include the Yarra Glen Agricultural Show in March, and the Yarra Valley Expo held at the Yarra Glen Racecourse in April.

Yarra Glen is 51 kilometres north-east of Melbourne, or just under an hour on the Melba Highway. Travel north-east on the Eastern Freeway and Maroondah Highway.

Immerse yourself in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges region, an hour's drive east of Melbourne, where tall trees and ancient mountain ranges meet vineyards and world class wineries.

The Yarra Valley is recognised as one of the world's great wine growing regions. Numerous wineries offer cellar door tastings and sales. They also have restaurants serving gourmet food and fine local produce accompanied by their wine. The Yarra Valley has some of the most beautiful countryside in Victoria. Rolling hills strung with vines around Healesville and Yarra Glen meet towering trees, green valleys and pristine rivers around Marysville and Warburton.

For a different view of the countryside, take to the skies in a hot-air balloon before gently descending into a vineyard to enjoy a breakfast of local produce and sparkling wine.

You can also get close to Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, home to dingoes, kangaroos, wombats and the elusive platypus.

Parks, gardens, native fern forests and nature trails define the Dandenong Ranges. Climb aboard Australia's oldest steam train, Puffing Billy, and travel through thick forests and lush fern gullies. Dotted throughout the Dandenong Ranges are quaint villages such as Olinda, Gembrook, Belgrave, Emerald and Sassafras, home to some of Victoria's best gardens, and famous for craft shops and Devonshire teas.

Nestled in the foothills of the Strzelecki Ranges and with views of green rolling hills, Yarragon is a charming country town with an abundance of shops, antiques and accommodation options.

Yarragon boasts one of Gippsland's leading antique stores and a fascinating gallery renowned for its quality original artwork, exquisite jewellery, beautiful hand blown glass and much more. Forage through the antique shops for old china or furnishings and be rewarded. Browse through the many gift shops in town that feature everything from soaps, candles, linen and lace to clothing, paint brushes and easels.

Local wines and produce are mouth-wateringly. Sample award winning cheeses from Tarago River and Jindi Cheese, or if you have more of a sweet tooth, visit the lolly shop to buy delicious sweets. Spend some time over Devonshire teas in a quaint tea room or enjoy a coffee in one of the local cafés.

Make the most of the nearby Strzelecki Ranges and take walks through dense mountain ash and wattle, and take a rest beside a bubbling stream. Head to the local trout farm to catch a delicious dinner.

Accommodation in and around Yarragon, just 80 minutes' drive east of Melbourne, is plentiful and ranges from motels to B&Bs, self-contained cottages, and country retreats.