The charm of Melbourne isn’t lost on anyone who visits. After all, it’s apparently one of the world’s most liveable cities. It is cosmopolitan and artsy and boasts world-class dining, galleries, fun festivals, and a ton of cafes. While you might be tempted to stay, a weekend away in a beautiful country cottage sampling delicious food and wine might just be what you need to feel rejuvenated. This is our list of the best weekend getaway locations from Melbourne.
Daylesford & Hepburn Springs
Style: Country Rest & Relaxation
Distance: 90 Minutes from Melbourne CBD
Attractions: Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, Lake Daylesford, Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, Convent Gallery
For those seeking the ultimate in relaxation, look no further than Daylesford and Hepburn Springs – Victoria’s Spa Country. Choose from more than one hundred natural spa treatments guaranteed to leave you totally rejuvenated, or simply enjoy the benefits of immersing yourself in the healing waters of the naturally occurring mineral springs.
The Dandenongs
Style: Restful Mountain Retreat
Distance: 60 Minutes from Melbourne
Attractions: Sassafras, Olinda, Sky High Mount Dandenong, Puffing Billy, National Rhododendron Gardens
It’s only an hour from Melbourne, yet The Dandenongs feel like a world away. Lush foliage, forests of tall ash trees, verdant gardens, and quaint towns are the complete antithesis of Melbourne’s concrete jungle. And there’s more to do than just marvelling at the greenness of it all. You can enjoy a ride through ferns and gullies on the historic Puffing Billy, sample delicious fare in a country farm or village cafe, or hike up the 1000 steps up the Kokoda Walk. Don’t forget to stop by the region’s most famous establishment, Miss Marple’s Tea Room, for delicious scones and tea.
Yarra Valley
Style: Epicurean Escape
Distance: 60 Minutes from Melbourne
Attractions: Healesville Sanctuary, Yarra River, Day Spas, TarraWarra Museum of Art, Wineries, Restaurants
If there ever was a real foodie heaven in Victoria, the Yarra Valley is it. Renowned for its world-class wineries and cellar doors, fine dining restaurants, and beautiful accommodation, Yarra Valley is a favourite weekend destination for Melbourne’s residents and visitors. Marvel at the rolling vineyards of the valley via hot air balloon, and get up close and personal with Australian wildlife such as dingoes, platypuses, wombats, and kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary. In between activities, savour some exquisite meals matched with the region’s best red and white wines for the ultimate gourmet experience.
Mornington Peninsula
Style: Country Beach Chic
Distance: 60-90 Minutes from Melbourne CBD
Attractions: Port Phillip Bay, Arthurs Seat Eagle, Fort Nepean, Hot Springs, Mazes, Gardens & Wineries
The Mornington Peninsula is just over an hour from Melbourne but feels like a world away. Scattered along the coast you’ll find quintessentially Victorian seaside towns, beautiful sheltered beaches, fantastic wineries and local markets to explore. Spend your days relaxing by the beach in the delightful Sorrento or Portsea, or tasting local wines and gourmet cheese in Red Hill. This picturesque region has it all.
The Bellarine Peninsula
Style: Seaside Sojourn
Distance: 90 Minutes from Melbourne CBD
Attractions: Port Phillip Bay, Point Lonsdale, Geelong Waterfront, Queenscliff Harbour, Wineries
Situated just over an hour from Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula offer a host of beautiful places for you to relax and unwind. Enjoy a historical seaside experience that the whole family will enjoy, with beautiful sandy beaches, stunning waterfront precincts and all kinds of entertainment at your fingertips. If you’re feeling active, hit the surf, ride the many cycle trails to take in the picturesque coastal scenery or explore the areas craft breweries and wineries for a taste of the good life.
High Country
Style: All-season Outdoor Adventure
Distance: 90 Minutes from Melbourne
Attractions: Bright, Milawa, Rutherglen, Great Alpine Road, Lake Eildon, Mansfield, Mount Buller, Falls Creek
Breathe in the fresh alpine air and take in the majestic snowy peaks, rolling countryside, charming heritage towns, and exquisite wineries. In Victoria’s High Country, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Savour creative cuisines in Beechworth and Milawa, then spend an afternoon sampling wines in Rutherglen. Take in the amazing scenery by horse riding or biking the mountain trails. Come winter, ski or snowboard down the powdery slopes of Mount Buller, Mount Hotham, or Falls Creek.
Melbourne & Surrounds
Style: City Staycation
Distance: 0-30 Minutes from Melbourne CBD
Attractions: Southbank, Federation Square, MCG, Crown Casino, Dining, Theatre & Entertainment
Sometimes you don’t have the time to spare to travel to and from another destination for your weekend getaway, so why not consider a stay-cation in your very own backyard? Hailed as one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne offers a host of thrilling sporting and cultural activities throughout the year that cater to just about everyone. What’s more, you can find exceptional boutique hotels and luxury accommodation that promise to deliver a true urban retreat experience.
Need Assistance?
If you need any help planning your perfect getaway, get in touch with our team of Getaway Specialists.
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