Victoria might be Australia’s second smallest state, but it packs a mighty punch – and a road trip is a prime way to get to know its best parts a little better. On the Great Southern Touring Route, unforgettable landscapes unfold day after day, with this mighty loop showcasing the diversity and the drama that Victoria has to offer.
Start with a stunning citybreak
Soak in the panoramic view over Melbourne while enjoying diverse dishes at vibrant Eureka 89
(Visit Victoria)
Start this epic adventure in the great city of Melbourne. This cultural, creative and coffee capital of Australia is a city that’s easy to immerse yourself in and hard to leave. With a captivating culinary scene, an infectious sporting vibe, cultural diversity and history dating back to ancient times and a beach scene that complements its urban centre, it’s a joy to lose yourself in the vibrancy of the state capital.
Make time for sky high restaurants such as Eureka 89 or Fable or go for fish and chips on the beach at St Kilda or Brighton Beach. Check out the world-class museums – the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre at the Melbourne Museum is a highlight – or indulge in locally grown street food delights at markets such as the Queen Victoria, watch live music at The Curtin or Northcote Studio. If you’re into sports, take a tour of the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Formula 1 track or check out a game of AFL (Australian Football League).
Enjoy cultural and culinary treats
When you’re ready to tear yourself away, hit the road west, stopping to admire the vibrant street art scene along Minns Lane, James Street and Dennys Place in the state’s second largest city Geelong – before indulging in a wood-fired pizza lunch and hop-driven ale at Little Creatures Brewery. Further south, the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre denotes the powerful local history between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people through storytelling, art and education programs.
From here, head east through the pretty Bellarine Peninsula to Queenscliff where you can drive or cycle the 25 km-long historic Rail Trail. Passing family-run vineyards, organic farms and homegrown produce stores selling local delights from beer and cider to olives and fresh seafood, this is the part of the voyage dedicated to rural beauty and it comes by the bucketload.
Back on the Surf Coast Highway, a road name as evocative as the views it offers, wild seascapes plummet you into nature. Whether you want to check out the…
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