Ready for a Victorian adventure that’s slightly off the beaten track? Alright, these aren’t completely hidden gems, however we think they represent a few areas in Victoria which don’t get the love they deserve. We have enjoyed our trips to these over the past few years and recommend you check them out for a day, long weekend, or short getaway!
Wilsons Promontory:
Have you heard us rave about Wilsons Promontory yet? You will have likely seen a few pictures on our gram (@2cupsoftravel), or possible read our little review of Wilsons Promontory. This national park offers great opportunities for families, solo travellers, couples or friends. You can relax, hike, or do a mix of both. There’s beaches, out of this world sand dunes (see below), hikes of differing levels and lots of stunning views!
The Big Drift:
The Big Drift are huge natural sand dunes that provide big desert vibes. Located at the entrance of Wilsons Promontory, it’s a must-do when visiting Wilsons Prom and a little “off the radar” for most tourists to the park! Read more about The Big Drift here, including tips of how to find it.
If you’re in the area, don’t also forget about the less popular but also beautiful Little Drift (see more here).
Trentham:
I love a country town, particularly if said country town has a good bakery. There’s something special about a country bakery pie after a road trip. Trentham has the Red Beard Bakery.
If you follow my personal gram (@kywynne) or @2cupsoftravel, you’ll probably figure out I also love a waterfall (or 10). Trentham has the beautiful Trentham Falls located just outside of the town. Trentham is situated nearby Dalesford, and just over an hour out of Melbourne. It’s within touching distance of the Melbourne CBD and thus is ideal for a day trip. See the complete Trentham guide here!
Apollo Bay:
Apollo Bay is down the great ocean road on Victoria’s west coast. The secluded bay is perfect for a family or couple’s getaway to relax and unwind. There’s a few restaurants, pubs and cafes, but largely the town is quite small, however you are within close proximity to the great ocean road, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge (read more about Loch Ard Gorge here), the Otways and more.
The photos below are some from our Apollo Bay road trip!
The Otways:
Situated inland from the Great Ocean Road and nearby some of the other “gems” on this post, Loch Ard Gorge and Apollo Bay, The Otways are wonderful to visit! The Great Otway National Park has so many great places to visit and sights to see. Think flowing waterfalls that you can swim under, challenging but beautiful hikes (you can do multi-day hikes for those adventure-loving types), stunning forrests and much more. Add it to your list! Read more about the Otways Redwood Forest here.
Loch Ard Gorge:
Mentioned in the above section when discussing Great Ocean Road destinations, Loch Ard Gorge is the lesser known and more beautiful (in our opinion) destination to see (instead of or as well as the 12 Apostles. Read more of our guide about Loch Ard Gorge here!
Mt Martha Beach South:
A shallow bay beach, clear water, colourful beach boxes, and within day-trip distance to the city? Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! Mt Martha Beach was once an untapped gem for locals, but the word got out and now everyone else is clamouring to have a visit in the wamer months. Want to know more? Check out our guide on Mt Martha South Beach here!
Redwood Forest – Warburton:
The redwood forest in Melbourne’s eastern subburb of Waburton has jumped onto the radar over the past few years. The forrest was planted over 90 years ago, and has an eiree beauty about it. Key tip: be early, the parking is chaos and the forrest is not as beautiful when it gets busy. Read more about the Warburton Redwood Forest here.
Bushrangers Bay – Cape Schank:
The beautiful walk to Bushrangers Bay is one of our favourite things to do on the Mornington Peninsula. Until recently, it was a ‘local secret’ that others are slowly finding out about. A secluded bay, lots of great views, rock pools at low tide.. it’s a great adventure! Take a look at our guide including how to get there and safety tips!
Read more about Bushrangers Bay and how to get there!
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