12. Great Ocean Road
This is without doubt one of Australia's most scenic drives which takes close to four hours to complete. Stretching from Torquay through to Warrnambool, you will see cliff faces, ocean rock formations, rainforests and stretches of coast that can not be described. The road close to the Port Campbell National Park offers incredible scenery, and there are plenty of camping spots and accommodation offered along the way if you want to spend more time here. With waterfalls and walking trails inland and the best drives in the world along the coast, you need to experience this incredible Victorian hot spot on your vacation.
13. Philip Island
Known for its penguins and incredible sunsets, the remoteness and natural beauty of this island captures the heart of everyone who visits. Located south of Melbourne, the main town is Cowes which also has great beaches. There are plenty of walking tracks, and wildlife to see. The Philip Island Wildlife Park has to be seen, as well as the Koala Conservation Centre. The Penguin parade is by far the drawcard to this island, the best time being dusk as they return from a day out fishing.
14. Yarra Valley
Known for its wines, the Yarra Valley has a country appeal and also a great place to bushwalk, cycle and drive. One of the prettiest towns is Marysville, with amazing waterfalls and walks nearby. This area is perfect for a getaway day trip or overnight stay, with plenty of camping spots and accommodation to choose from. There are a number of national parks in the Valley, including the King Lake and Yarra Ranges National Parks. You will leave feeling relaxed and invigorated after your stay here.
15. Dandenong Ranges National Park
The Dandenong Ranges are made up of forest parks and beautiful gardens. A popular way to see the ranges is from the Puffing Billy steam train that takes you through scenic areas you normally would never see. Ferntree Gully National Park is a must with plenty of walking tracks and superb scenery. Located under an hour from Melbourne, it is a great day trip alternative with plenty to see and do. The Sherwood Forest and Thousand Steps are some of the natural attractions that draw plenty of locals and tourists to this incredible part of the world. The view from the Mount Dandenong Observatory also well worth the viist.
16. Apollo Bay
Located at the base of the Otway Ranges, and one of the most well known towns of the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is the perfect place to relax and enjoy incredible ocean views. It is the ideal base to enjoy all this area has to offer, and you can do as much or little as you like. The harbour is a great place to picnic and watch the fishing fleets, or you can take a day trip to one of the waterfalls in the hinterland. You won't want to leave.
17. Bairnsdale
This is an ideal base to visit the lakes and wilderness area of East Gippsland, and is very pretty with the Mitchell River close by. It has everything you would expect in a city yet it is more a country town, and there is such unique wilderness on its doorstep that it can't be missed. There are a number of fascinating museums in town, but the best attractions are further out, with Raymond Island, Fairy Dell, Colquhoun Forest and Lakes Entrance all less than an hour away.
18. Mount Beauty
The name says it all. With scenic beauty in every direction, and easily accessible at the foot of the highest mountain in Victoria (Mount Bogong), Mount Beauty boasts incredible views and is close to plenty of amazing attractions. The popular Falls Creek is not far away and skiers often use this town as a base, as well as in the summer months to visit the Bogong plains. The drive here can be steep in some areas, but there are a number of picturesque lookouts, such as View Point, which will make the drive worthwhile.
19. Mornington Peninsula
This is one of the most ever changing scenic destinations in Victoria. With natural bushland, rugged coast lines, vineyards, orchards and farms dotting the countryside, the Mornington Peninsula is a relaxing and inspiring place to visit. Known for its superb wines, especially the Pinot Noir and Cardonnay, there are plenty of vineyards to stop in to wine and dine. With bed and breakfasts and a number of good camping grounds it is great to visit for a day trip or overnight stay.
20. Milawa
This is a very pretty little town set in the King Valley wine producing region, located in Victoria's high country. It is a great base for touring the area to visit the local produce including cheese, nuts, berries, honey, olives and of course, wine. Known for the famous Brown Brothers label, your palate will be satisfied as you enjoy a day trip to this hidden but incredibly picturesque region. Visit the Milawa Cheese Café and the Old Emu Inn. The Alpine National Park and Wabonga Plateau feature many walking trails with some sensational lookouts. There are plenty of festivals throughout the year, and the entire region is a top place to visit.
21. Halls Gap
Located in the Grampians National Park, just over 250 kilometres north west from Melbourne, Halls Gap can be found at the foot of the Mount William ranges and is the perfect base to visit the Grampians. There are plenty of bushwalking tracks, lookouts and waterfalls which will take more than a few days to explore. Abseiling, fishing and canoeing are popular, but for the less adventurous the Wildlife park and Zoo feature plenty of Australian wildlife. Some of the best inland fishing can also be found here. For all types of travellers, this is a une and relaxi
Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Car Hire Australia
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