•  
  •  
  •  
 
Top 10 Trips
  • Apollo Bay
  • Colac
  • Cowes
  • Euroa
  • Hepburn Springs
  • Maldon
  • Nagambie
  • Portsea
  • Venus Bay
  • Warburton

Top 10 Victorian Destinations 2 Hours from Melbourne

Sick of the city and the suburbs? Many think it will take hours upon hours of travel to reach the perfect get-away destination, without realising that some of the best holiday spots are located within a short drive of the Melbourne CBD.
 
Each of the ‘Top 10’ destinations above provide holidaymakers with the peace and seclusion we all need occasionally, while each offers something a little different to charm visitors and make them stay that extra hour or extra day.
 
The caravan and camping lifestyle is one of discovery, and there is so much to discover in such a short trip out of the city. These ten destinations are some of the best Victoria has to offer, with natural wonders, rich history and heritage, sprawling beaches, fine food and wine and a whole lot more.
 
So whether it’s a day trip, a short break or a weekend getaway, it’s time to get out and discover our great state’s little gems.
 

 

  • Apollo Bay

    Show Directions

    Apollo Bay: Great Ocean Road – Distance from CBD 187km
    Midway along the Great Ocean Road is a fantastic little destination to check out – Apollo Bay. Originally a timber and farming based town, the natural beauty and serenity of the small but stunning coastal area has made it the province of many artists, holiday makers and beach lovers in the present day. A great spot for water-based activities, as well as for bushwalking through vast rainforests with majestic streams and waterfalls, Apollo Bay is the perfect place to stay for a while when travelling the Great Ocean Road.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Apollo Bay
    Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, Weeaproinah - www.otwayfly.com
    Great Ocean Walk, Apollo Bay - www.visitvictoria.com
    Triplet Falls & Heritage Trail, Great Otway National Park
    Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary, Marengo - www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/marengo-reefs-marine-sanctuary
    Cape Otway Lightstation, Cape Otway - www.lightstation.com
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Surf World Museum, Torquay - www.surfworld.org.au
    Go Ride a Wave, Anglesea - www.gorideawave.com.au
    Horse riding on the beach, Aireys Inlet - www.blazingsaddlestrailrides.com
    Lorne Hotel, Lorne - www.lornehotel.com.au

  • Colac

    Show Directions

    Colac: Great Ocean Road – Distance from CBD 152km
    Another destination located along the magnificent Great Ocean Road is Colac, declared a city in 1960 and accommodating over 10,000 residents. Colac’s history lies largely in farming and forestry, but the plains surrounding it are also well known as the world’s third largest volcanic plains. Named after the nearby Lake Colac, the city’s botanical gardens also boast a range of wildlife and natural sights. Also, be sure to set a day aside to check out the Colac commercial district and, if you are able, the monthly community markets.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Colac
    Lake Colac, walking, fishing and water activities
    Beeac Windmill Park, Beeac - www.lismore.vic.au/tourism/beeac-windmill-park
    Pombo Mart Antiques, collectables, gifts, café, Pomborneit - www.pombomart.com.au

    Things to see and do along the way
    Werribee Open Range Zoo, Werribee - www.zoo.org.au/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo
    National Wool Museum, Geelong - www.geelongaustralia.com.au/nwm
    Barwon Park Mansion, Winchelsea - www.nattrust.com.au/places_to_visit/geelong_the_west/barwon_park__1

  • Cowes

    Show Directions

    Cowes – Phillip Island – Distance from CBD 142km
    The town of Cowes is the perfect base for exploring the holiday hotspot that is Phillip Island. Visitors are greeted by pretty Golden Cypress trees which line the main road. The area contains some fine beaches, which face French Island and the Mornington Peninsula. Cowes is Phillip Island’s commercial hub, and comes alive in holiday periods and during the Phillip Island Grand Prix. If you’re not in time for the motorsport action, however, there is still plenty to do on the Island, with an abundance of natural beauty to explore and absorb, including attractions such as the penguin Parade.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Cowes
    Penguin Parade, Phillip Island Nature Park – www.penguins.org.au  
    Churchill Island Heritage Farm - www.penguins.org.au
    Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre - www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au
    Wildlife Coast Cruises, Phillip Island - www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au
    A Maze ‘N Things - www.amazenthings.com.au
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Old Cheese Factory, Berwick - www.oldcheesefactory.net.au
    Gumbuya Leisure Park, Tynong - www.gumbuya.com.au
    Maru Koala & Animal Park, Grantville - www.marukoalapark.com.au

  • Euroa

    Show Directions

    Euroa: High Country – Distance from CBD 164km    
    The name ‘Euroa’ comes from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘joyful’ in the old local dialect, and you are sure to feel just this when you stop in at this beautiful township, located at the foot of the Strathbogie Ranges. Euroa has a history of brushes with fame – Ned Kelly held up the National Bank in town in 1878, and legendary Aussie cricketer Merv Hughes was born there. Euroa is the perfect base from which to explore the natural beauty of the Ranges and for the daredevils among us, is well-known for its skydiving facilities.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Euroa
    Euroa Butter Factory - www.euroabutterfactory.com.au
    Skydive Euroa - www.skydivingassoc.com.au
    Strathbogie Ranges Wine Region - www.strathbogierangeswine.asn.au
     
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Seymour Railway Heritage Centre, Seymour - www.srhc.org.au
    Avenel Maze - www.avenelmaze.com.au
    The Rockery Gemstone Museum, Longwood - www.therockery.com.au
     

  • Hepburn Springs

    Show Directions

    Hepburn Springs: Daylesford & Macedon Ranges – Distance from CBD 116km
    Hepburn Springs and the larger centre of Daylesford are widely known as places of healing, due to a high concentration of mineral springs, spas and therapists. But a trip to the area will not only leave you feeling physically reset and refreshed, with the scenic landscape and thick forests sure to leave you mentally revitalised as well. And while in town, be sure to tingle your taste buds by sampling some of the fine food and wine the region has to offer.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Hepburn Springs
    Hepburn Boathouse and Spa - www.hepburnbathhouse.com
    Daylesford Chocolate Mill Shop, Mount Franklin - www.chocmill.com.au
    Horse riding, Mount Prospect - www.hepburnlagoonrides.com.au
    Old Macaroni Factory, Hepburn Springs - www.macaronifactory.com.au
    Lavandula, Swiss Italian Farm - www.lavandula.com.au
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Trewella Farm, Musk - www.trewhellafarm.com.au
    Tuki Trout Farm, Smeaton - www.tuki.com.au
    Fruit Picking, Paynes Boutique Orchards, Bacchus Marsh - www.paynesorchards.com.au 

     

  • Maldon

    Show Directions

    Maldon: Goldfields – Distance from CBD 140km
    Once one of the richest gold and quartz mining bases in Australia, the small town of Maldon is far quieter now than in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. But while it may not be the industrial and commercial metropolis it once was, the hard work of its residents to preserve its history and infrastructure over generations ensures it maintains its charm in the present day. Declared Australia’s first Notable Town in 1966 by the National Trust, Maldon remains a fantastic destination for the family, with activities and events to keep everyone happy and for food and wine lovers.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Maldon
    Steam trains for kids weekends - www.vgr.com.au
    Mt Tarrangower Hill Climb to Lookout Tower
    Beehive Mine Chimney
    North British Mine
    Air Observation Post
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Macedon Ranges - www.visitmacedonranges.com
    Historic Piper Street, Kyneton
    Taradale Wine & Produce, Tarandale - www.maldoncastlemaine.com.au
    Buda Historic Home and Garden, Castlemaine - www.budacastlemaine.org
     

  • Nagambie

    Show Directions

    Nagambie: High Country – Distance from CBD 138km
    Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, the small town of Nagambie can be found at the southern end of the Goulburn Valley. The town itself boasts the picturesque Lake Nagambie River, which hosts the famous ‘Head of the River’ Regatta. A canoe or boat trip down the river is a great way to connect with the region, as is taking in some of the fine food and wine on offer from the plentiful cafés, restaurants and cellar doors in the area – including the historic Tahbilk Winery, established in 1860.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Nagambie
    Hire a canoe - River Country Adventours - www.adventours.com.au
    Water skiing and jet skiing on the river
    River Cruises
    Tahbilk Cafe & Cellar Door - www.tahbilk.com.au
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Goulburn River High Country Rail Trail, Tallarook
    Ned Kelly Trail, Avenel - www.nedkellytouringroute.com.au

     

  • Portsea

    Show Directions

    Portsea: Mornington Peninsula – Distance from CBD 109km
    A thin strip of land just two kilometres wide, located an hour out of Melbourne, plays host to Portsea - a quaint resort town with a Mediterranean vibe. The calm waters of Port Phillip Bay contrast with the wild surf of Bass Strait, together providing the perfect mix of prime surfing, scuba diving and beach locations all in one area.
    Check out the westernmost point of the Mornington Peninsula, the historic Point Nepean, or simply take a deep breath, relax, and discover the true meaning of the word ‘get-away’.
     
    Things to do in Portsea
    Point Nepean National Park - parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/point-nepean-national-park
    Mornington Peninsula National Park - parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/mornington-peninsula-national-park
    Kayaking, scuba diving, horse riding, surfing, swimming with dolphins - www.bayplay.com.au
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Dromana Drive In - www.drivein.net.au
    Peninsula Hot Springs, Rye - www.peninsulahotsprings.com
    Red Hill wineries
    3D Indoor Maze, Enchanted Maze, Arthurs Seat - www.enchantedmaze.com.au
    Continental Hotel, Sorrento

  • Venus Bay

    Show Directions

    Venus Bay: Gippsland – Distance from CBD 172km
    Venus Bay, located on the south east coast of Victoria, is another popular holiday retreat for Melburnians. The land is bordered by Anderson’s Inlet on one side, and Bass Strait on the other, as a result providing five beaches and plenty of hot spots for fishing and surfing. Visitors are often drawn not only to the stunning beaches of Venus Bay, but also to the scenic walking tracks of the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park and slightly further afield, tourist destinations such as Phillip Island and Wilson’s Promontory.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Venus Bay
    Venus Bay No.1 Beach - fishing and surfing
    Cape Liptrap Coastal Park, walking tracks - www.parkweb.vic.gov.au
    Walkerville South Lime Kilns, Walkerville
    River kayaking, Tarwin Lower - www.outthere.net.au
    Wilsons Promontory National Park - http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park/
     
     
    Things to see and do along the way
    Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, Korumburra - www.coalcreekvillage.com.au
    Meeniyan Art Gallery, Meeniyan 
    Koonwarra Day Spa, Koonwarra - www.koonwarraspa.com.au
    Djinta Djinta Winery Estate, Kardella - www.djintadjinta.com.au
    State Coal Mine Underground Tours, Wonthaggi - www.statecoalmine.com.au
     

  • Warburton

    Show Directions

    Warburton: Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges – Distance from CBD 78km

    The small town of Warburton, located in the Yarra Valley, is not only the home of fine restaurants, cáfes and cellar doors, as you would expect from a town in the region. It also provides some of the most beautiful mountain views in Victoria and is just 20 minutes drive from Mount Donna Buang, which is snow-covered in the winter. Whether it’s a trip to the snow or a stroll along the banks of the Yarra River, which runs through town, or just a return to the simple life away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Warburton will not disappoint.
     
    Things to see and do in and around Warburton

    Warburton Walking Trails - www.warburtoninfo.com
    Upper Yarra Museum, Yarra Junction  
    Blue Lotus Water Garden, Yarra Junction - www.bluelotusfarm.com.au
    The Warburton Bakery 
    Donna Buang Rainforest Gallery and Skywalk, Warburton

    Things to see and do along the way

    Healesville Sanctuary, Healesville - www.zoo.org.au
    Rochford Wines, Coldstream - www.rochfordwines.com.au
    Rayners Stonefruit Orchard, Woori Yallock - www.raynerstonefruit.com.au  
    Warratinal Lavender Farm, Wandin Yallock - www.warratinalavender.com.au

Points of Interest

Melbourne Tramway Museum
The Tramway Museum Society of Victoria preserves cable trams, electric trams from across Australia, buses and work trucks from Melbourne.
http://www.tramway.org.au/museum.php

Beeac Windmill Park
Beeac is about 20 km north east of Colac and the Windmill Park is of special heritage, celebrating this important piece of rural equipment.
http://www.lismore.vic.au/tourism/beeac-windmill-park

National Wool Museum
The story of Australian wool along with contemporary exhibitions can be found at the National Wool Museum in Geelong's waterside district.
http://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/nwm

Tahbilk Cafe & Cellar Door

A beautiful and historic family owned winery, located in the central region of Victoria with some 200 hectares under vine.
http://www.tahbilk.com.au

Coal Creek Community Park & Museum
Coal Creek Community Park and Museum offers fun for the whole family with bush tramway rides, old fashioned general store, animals and ghost tours.
http://www.coalcreekvillage.com.au

Blue Lotus Water Garden
The Blue Lotus Water Garden includes many attractions, enclosures of rare plants, lotus and waterlilies, a retail nursery, cafe, gift shop and picnic facilities in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
http://www.bluelotusfarm.com.au

Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary offers visitors interaction with native Australian wildlife in a beautiful bushland setting.
http://www.zoo.org.au

Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk
The Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk pays tribute to the 60,000 men and women who served in Australia’s longest war, the Vietnam War.
http://www.vvaavic.org.au/mitchell.asp

State Coal Mine Underground Tours
The State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi offers underground tours, interactive fun and a journey back in time for the whole family both above and below ground.
http://www.statecoalmine.com.au

Hepburn Boathouse and Spa

The Mineral Springs Bathhouse within the Daylesford-Hepburn Springs spa region offers a range of hydrotherapies including spa and relaxation pools, spa couches, aroma steam room and salt therapy pool.
http://www.hepburnbathhouse.com/

Werribee Open Range Zoo
Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a unique opportunity to experience an African adventure closer to home.
http://www.zoo.org.au/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo

Bayplay Adventure Tours & Accommodation
Based on the Mornington Peninsula, Bayplay offer adventure activities, marine and outdoor educational programs & PADI dive courses.
http://www.bayplay.com.au

Buda Historic Home And Garden
An authentic house and garden in Castlemaine and home to the Leviny family for 118 years.
http://www.budacastlemaine.org

Avenel Maze

The Avenel Maze, located in the Strathbogie Ranges, offers families hours of fun while exploring the Hedge Maze, Mini golf, Rock labyrinth, Goal Break Maze, and Ned Kelly's Knot Maze.
http://www.avenelmaze.com.au

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
Lavandula grows lavender, olives and grapes around its golden stone farm buildings and provides a relaxed garden cafe setting.
http://www.lavandula.com.au

Blazing Saddles Horse Trail Rides
Horse trail rides on the Surf Coast and Great Ocean Road.
http://www.blazingsaddlestrailrides.com

Peninsula Hot Springs
Peninsula Hot Springs is the first natural hot springs and day spa centre, located in Rye.
http://www.peninsulahotsprings.com

Wilsons Promontory National Park

At the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, the Prom offers scenery of granite mountains, open forest, rainforest, beaches and coastlines.
http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park/

Rochford Wines
Experience food, wine, the arts and much more at Rochford Winery, less than an hour's drive from Melbourne, in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
http://www.rochfordwines.com.au

Tuki Trout Farm
Trout fishing, alfresco dining and panoramic views are just some of the experiences at Tuki, a fun day out with the family.
http://www.tuki.com.au/

Gumbuya Leisure Park
Gumbuya Park is family orientated theme park with amazing natural bushland, native animals and a large variety of birds nset on 430 acres.
http://www.gumbuya.com.au

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park
Touring the Diggings allows the visitor an opportunity to step back in time and see the remnants of a goldrush and times that shaped Australia's history.
http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/castlemaine-diggings-national-heritage-park

Mornington Peninsula National Park
Wonderful natural scenery and interesting historic features.
http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/mornington-peninsula-national-park

Lorne Hotel
Take in the views of Lorne beach while you dine and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at the Lorne Hotel.
http://www.lornehotel.com.au

Euroa Butter Factory
The Euroa Butter Factory has been transformed into modern warehouse-style accommodation and function spaces with Store Cafe and giftware.
http://www.euroabutterfactory.com.au

Steam Trains For Kids Weekends

All ages can enjoy this event with something to interest young and old.
http://www.vgr.com.au/

Otway Fly Treetop Walk
A special attraction enabling visitors to walk through beautiful cool temperate rainforest.
http://www.otwayfly.com

Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Discover Churchill island and enjoy the water views, meet the farm animals and walk amongst heritage buildings and lovely gardens.
http://www.penguins.org.au

RAAC Memorial and Army Tank Museum
With more than 70 Armoured Fighting Vehicles on display, the RAACC Memorial and Army Tank Museum in Puckapunyal is the home of Australian Armour.
http://www.armytankmuseum.com.au

Phillip Island Circuit

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is the home to motoring events and leisure activities include go karts, guided circuit tours and a history of motor sport display.
http://www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au