The Best Road Trips in Victoria to Inspire Your Wanderlust

With its breathtaking landscapes, Victoria is home to some of the best road trips you can embark on. Just a few hours from Melbourne, you can explore everything from world-class wineries to stunning coastlines and relaxing hot springs. Whether you’re craving a thrilling adventure to the far corners of the state or a leisurely day trip close to home, Victoria has it all.

Picture cruising along winding roads, discovering historic towns, and indulging in delicious local cuisine. The state’s compact size allows you to easily journey from the heights of the mountains to the rugged southern coastline and back in a single day.

So, gather your friends or family, hop in the car, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on the best road trips in Victoria. Whether you follow a set route or create your own adventure, each journey promises natural beauty and delightful surprises along the way.

Great Ocean Road

Arguably one of Victoria’s most iconic road trips, the Great Ocean Road offers an enchanting journey along stunning coastal cliffs and lush rainforests. Beginning just 90 minutes from Melbourne in Torquay, this 243-kilometre route winds through picturesque towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, where you can indulge in local cafés and vibrant art galleries.

The crowning glory of this drive is undoubtedly the 12 Apostles—towering limestone stacks that create a breathtaking spectacle, especially at sunset when the golden light dances on their surfaces.

Along the way, explore the historic Loch Ard Gorge, a site steeped in shipwreck lore, or visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse for sweeping ocean vistas. For a deeper experience, consider hiking portions of the Great Ocean Walk, or treat yourself to local seafood and wine at nearby gourmet eateries. This drive seamlessly combines natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must for any traveller.

Macedon Ranges

Embark on a weekend adventure through the enchanting Macedon Ranges, where every moment is crafted for your enjoyment. Start your journey along the stunning Honour Avenue, particularly breathtaking in autumn, before stopping for invigorating coffee at Mr Macedon. Next, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Forest Glade Gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Indulge your palate with exquisite wines and gourmet fare at Mount Towrong Vineyard, then lace up your hiking boots for invigorating trails in Macedon Regional Park, offering breathtaking views. After a day of exploration, unwind at Crofters Fold, a boutique farmstay where you can relax and perhaps craft a delightful dinner featuring local produce.

On your second day, venture to the iconic Hanging Rock for a serene picnic before discovering the charming boutiques and culinary delights in Kyneton. 

Conclude your getaway at the majestic Malmsbury Viaduct, a perfect ending to a weekend filled with nature and culture.

Phillip Island Touring Route

A traverse along the Phillip Island touring route is undeniably one of the best road trips in Victoria, blending stunning coastal scenery with an abundance of wildlife and culinary delights. As you cruise from Melbourne to this picturesque island, you'll encounter breathtaking views of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. The drive is dotted with charming stops, such as the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, where you can indulge in fresh fish and chips while pelicans gather for their daily feed​. 

Once on the island, explore iconic spots like the Nobbies, known for their dramatic coastal views and playful seals, and take a leisurely stroll along Cowes' beautiful beaches. 

Mornington Peninsula

Get ready for an unforgettable journey along the stunning coastal roads of the Mornington Peninsula, just a stone's throw from Melbourne. This picturesque region boasts diverse landscapes, from lush vineyards to rugged cliffs, perfect for an epic road trip adventure.

Begin your excursion by following the coastal road from Melbourne, winding through charming towns like Mount Martha, Sorrento, and Portsea. Don’t miss a stop at Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views that will leave you in awe.

Despite its compact size, the Mornington Peninsula overflows with attractions. Explore quaint villages, award-winning wineries, and pristine beaches, ensuring there’s something for every traveller to enjoy.

Sitchu Tip: Indulge in a delightful lunch at Bistro Elba, renowned for its French-inspired seafood dishes, or find delicious pasta dishes at the mod-retro charm of Mr Vincenzo's. 

Black Spur Drive

Hello, tranquil journey alert! Hit the road along Black Spur Drive, a stunning 30-kilometre stretch through the enchanting Yarra Ranges. This scenic route immerses you in a vibrant tapestry of towering mountain ash trees and lush fern-filled valleys, making it a feast for the senses.

The drive itself is a serene experience, where the dense foliage creates a natural canopy overhead, allowing dappled sunlight to dance on the winding road below. As you navigate the twists and turns, be prepared to encounter breathtaking vistas of cascading waterfalls and hidden gullies, each stop offering a moment of reflection amid nature’s beauty.

For driving enthusiasts, Black Spur Drive is a thrill-seeker's paradise, boasting smooth, well-maintained roads and challenging bends perfect for testing your driving skills.

Sitchu Tip: Beyond its scenic charm, this route serves as a gateway to Victoria’s iconic attractions, such as the charming town of Healesville, known for the renowned Healesville Sanctuary, and the majestic peaks of the Cathedral Range. 

Great Alpine Road

The Great Alpine Road is a captivating 339-kilometre drive from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, offering one of the best road trip experiences in Victoria. As you wind through the Australian Alps, prepare to be amazed by the diverse landscapes that range from lush forests to breathtaking mountain peaks. The journey takes you through charming towns like Bright, known for its stunning autumn foliage, and Beechworth, where you can delve into Australia’s gold rush history.

Adventure seekers will find plenty of outdoor activities, with skiing and snowboarding at Mt Hotham in winter and hiking trails during the warmer months. Along the way, indulge in local wines and gourmet produce in the King Valley, a culinary hotspot.

Each twist and turn of this scenic route reveals natural beauty and cultural richness, making the Great Alpine Road a journey to remember. 

Turtons Track

Turtons Track is a delightful scenic loop drive that showcases the stunning landscapes of the Otway Ranges. Beginning in Beech Forest, just two and a half hours from Melbourne, this picturesque 18-kilometre route takes you through lush rainforests, where towering messmate and beech trees create a tranquil canopy overhead. As you wind your way toward Apollo Bay, you can stop to enjoy breathtaking views and perhaps take a refreshing swim at one of the nearby beaches.

The drive features unsealed roads, adding an adventurous touch to your journey. Consider combining this route with a visit to local attractions like the Maits Rest Walk or the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse for a truly memorable experience.

Turtons Track perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Victoria’s landscapes while offering a unique mini road trip within a road trip experience.

The Murray

The Murray River road trip is a journey that demands commitment, spanning 659 kilometres from Albury-Wodonga in the east to Mildura in the west. This scenic drive offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it one of the best road trips in Victoria. As you navigate from the towering peaks of the Great Dividing Range to the expansive desert plains, you'll encounter stunning vistas at every turn.

Along the way, indulge in the region's famed wineries, sampling local varietals while enjoying fresh produce from charming roadside stalls. Each stop is steeped in history, with opportunities to discover the rich Aboriginal and pioneer narratives that shaped this area. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic towns of Rutherglen and Echuca, where you can enjoy unique river experiences, including paddle steamer cruises.

This road trip is best enjoyed over several days, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. More than a holiday, it's a pilgrimage. 

Grand Ridge Road

Driving along Grand Ridge Road is like stepping into a postcard, where every curve reveals a new layer of Victoria's stunning landscape. Just 1.5 hours southeast of Melbourne, this 132-kilometre route winds gracefully through the picturesque Strzelecki Ranges, inviting you to soak in rolling farmlands, dense forests, and panoramic mountaintops.

As you travel, take a moment to stop at Tarra Bulga National Park, where ancient mountain ash trees tower above, and lush ferns create a serene oasis. The park features captivating lookouts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys that are perfect for snapping memorable photos.

Be sure to explore the trails at Mount Tassie, which provide excellent opportunities for hiking and immersing yourself in nature. Grand Ridge Road isn’t simply one of the best road trips in Victoria; it’s a beautiful journey that allows you to connect with rich natural beauty and the peacefulness of an undulating, pristine countryside.

Murray Sunset National Park

Found at the edge of Murray Sunset National Park, the Pink Lakes are a breathtaking natural wonder. Renowned as Victoria’s own outback, this pristine landscape offers an oasis of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle. The lakes’ vibrant pink hues, influenced by salt-loving algae and varying salinity levels, shift beautifully with the changing light, often revealing their most striking shades on cloudy days.

The region is teeming with diverse flora and fauna; you might spot red kangaroos or marvel at the delicate Murray Lily. For birdwatchers, the area is a treasure trove of colourful and elusive species.

Walking trails, like those around Lake Hardy and Lake Becking, are especially enchanting in spring when wildflowers burst into bloom. As night falls, the park transforms into a stargazing haven, making it a perfect destination for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Grampians 

Is there a more breathtaking road trip in Victoria than one to the Grampians, where nature’s artistry unfolds at every turn? Begin your journey at Halls Gap, the heart of Grampians National Park, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, lush valleys, and diverse wildlife. Explore iconic trails like the Pinnacle Walk, leading you to spectacular views of the rugged landscape. Visit MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria's largest waterfalls, cascading dramatically into a serene pool, where the sound of rushing water harmonises with the chirping of birds.

Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture at the Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre, and savour local produce at charming cafes and farm gates. The scenic beauty continues as you meander through quaint towns like Dunkeld, renowned for its culinary delights at the acclaimed Royal Mail Hotel.

Whether hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings, the Grampians promises an unforgettable escape into nature.

Silo Art Trail

The Silo Art Trail is a captivating journey that showcases the transformative power of art in regional Victoria. This unique road trip stretches approximately 200 kilometres, connecting the towns of Murtoa, Rupanyup, and Brim, each adorned with stunning murals painted on towering silos.

Begin your adventure in Brim, where a colossal artwork by renowned artist Guido van Helten depicts local farmers, blending seamlessly with the rural landscape. As you travel along the trail, you'll encounter vibrant pieces that celebrate the history and culture of the region, including the emotional depiction of a local woman at Rupanyup.

Each stop along the way invites you to explore charming towns that offer delicious local produce and a taste of the warm hospitality that defines rural Victoria. This artistic odyssey not only enriches the visual landscape but also fosters a sense of community, making the Silo Art Trail one of the most enchanting road trips on this list.

Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula

A journey from Geelong to the Bellarine Peninsula offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and vibrant culture. Start your adventure in Geelong, where you can stroll along the picturesque waterfront and admire the iconic Geelong Carousel. The city's burgeoning food scene is a must-try, with a variety of eateries showcasing local produce and fresh seafood.

As you head towards the Bellarine Peninsula, take the scenic route along the coast, where the azure waters meet dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Make a stop at Point Lonsdale to soak in the stunning views from the lighthouse and enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach.

Continue your exploration to the charming town of Queenscliff, rich in maritime history. Here, indulge in artisanal delights at local markets or take a ferry ride to Sorrento for further adventures.

With its breathtaking landscapes, culinary experiences, and coastal charm, the Geelong to Bellarine Peninsula drive is a perfect getaway for those seeking a hearty dose of both relaxation and exploration.

These are our favourite Victorian road trips which are just outside of Melbourne, making them an easy day-trip or weekend getaway. But, keep on driving further afield because there are so many national parks, stunning coastlines and regional centres to discover throughout the state.  For more inspo, check out our pick of the best romantic getaways.