Beyond Melbourne, Victoria

Jump down to find what to do and where to stay Beyond Melbourne

Driving in any direction from Melbourne will take you to properties that are perfect for a short getaway from the city. To the southeast is the Mornington Peninsula, with its vineyard and cosmopolitan markets, and Phillip Island.

Phillip Island hosts the Koala Conservation Centre where you can walk amongst the treetops and see a protected koala colony. Continue via Swan Lake to a rugged headland from which you can enjoy spectacular views over the Mornington Peninsula. Finally arrive at the beach in time to view the fascinating spectacle of the Penguin Parade. Every evening Little Penguins make their way ashore at dusk, waddling across the beach and up to their nests amongst the dunes.

Head northeast to the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s (and the world’s) great wine regions and the Dandenong ranges which dominate Melbourne’s eastern horizon to see picturesque forests, cool fern gullies and charming villages. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and Port Phillip Bay from the Dandenongs Look out. Immerse yourself in Sherbrooke’s ancient forest, hand-feed native birds, walk among the giant mountain ash forests and listen for kookaburras, rosellas and parrots.

Also within a short drive, north, is Daylesford for some pampering and Walhalla, where you can learn about the great gold mining era.

Head southwest from Melbourne where the spectacular coastal scenery, deserted beaches and lush surrounding forests of the Great Ocean Road are to be found along with the instantly recognisable Twelve Apostles. Carry on towards Adelaide, or head back inland through the Grampians National Park back to Melbourne.

What to do and where to stay in Beyond Melbourne

Where to stay Yarra Valley - 4star Chateau Yering Listing	Chateau Yering Historic House is a beautiful country house hotel that has been restored to reflect its heritage with period fittings throughout, offering high-quality accommodation, service and dining...
Where to stay Apollo Bay - 4star Captain's at the Bay Listing	Intimate escape. A contemporary hotel, this is the perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic getaway and ideal for explorers searching for a base for touring...
Where to stay Hepburn Springs - 4star+ Peppers Springs Retreat Listing	This is a truly luxurious hideaway and the Spa is award winning. The grand 1930’s guesthouse is surrounded by lush gardens and the Peppers Springs Retreat & Spa has contemporary, stylish rooms with sensational views of the neighbouring grounds...
Where to stay Lorne Hotel - 4star Domain Cumberland Lorne Listing	Cumberland Lorne Resort has become one of the region’s most well-known and popular resorts.With top-quality, spacious accommodation, a spectacular seaside location and comprehensive leisure facilities this resort is also perfect for families...
Where to stay Grampians Hotel - 4star Meringa Springs Listing	The exclusive Meringa Springs Small Luxury Lodge is located in the heart of the beautiful Wartook Valley adjacent to the Grampians National Park, and provides the highest standard of service and cuisine for the discerning traveller...
Where to stay Phillip Island Hotel - 5star Glen Isla House Listing	Set in the established heritage gardens of the historic Glen Isla homestead and now fully restored, this award-winning, small luxury B&B style retreat offers discerning travellers the very finest surroundings in a beachside location...