The Iglu Guide | Blog
5 of the best day trips from Melbourne
Keen to make a break from the inner-city? Whether you’re after relaxation, heritage, wildlife or beaches, Melbourne’s day trips have everything and more. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Daylesford
There’s no better place to relax than in the heart of Australia’s famous mineral waters. Long considered a place of healing and restoration, Daylesford is a haven for replenishing your body and mind. Slow down, unwind and find your internal balance as you plunge into the natural springs, kayak on Jubilee Lake, or hike to the top of Wombat Hill and picnic with a view. Enjoy the abundance of native wildlife before you stroll around the township or lose yourself in the local art gallery. At just over an hour out of the city smoke, it’s an easy trip to make in a day.
2. Hanging Rock
Just 70km north of city and an easy drive, Hanging Rock is a rare volcanic formation that dates back about 6 million years. Evidence demonstrates aboriginal use and occupation dating back at least 10,000 years and it is a culturally significant place for three different aboriginal owner groups. As a result of weather and natural erosion, it is now a distinctive geological formation that attracts tourists and locals alike – not least because of its murky past. Immortalised in print and film, Hanging Rock has been made famous by a group of boarding-school girls who disappeared after an innocent picnic back in 1900. An unresolved mystery, it has been an attraction ever since. Try the 1.5km walk to the summit and admire the spectacular views as you go.
3. Phillip Island
Close enough to visit in a day, but far enough to feel like you’ve been on holiday, Phillip Island has a little of something for everyone. The island is well known for its Little Penguin parade that occurs every night of the year as they jointly decide to waddle back to their burrows from the ocean. Alternatively, jump on a cruise and get up close and personal with Australia’s largest fur seal colony, or explore the mangrove wetlands of Rhyll Inlet. From wildlife and surfing to jetboats and more, there’s a perfect mix for everyone to enjoy. A pleasant coastal drive just 1.5 hours from the city, Phillip Island is a holiday away from home.
4. Yarra Valley
Less than one hour out of town, the Yarra Valley is a mecca of rolling hills and countryside charm with a delightful side order of cool-climate wines on offer. The region’s first grapevines were planted way back in 1838. Since then, wineries have cropped up all over the area with over 80 vineyards now populating the region. Handily located close to the city, this spectacular area has become a popular day trippers’ delight with plenty to amuse along the way. And when it’s not all about the cellar doors, you can get up close and personal to Australia’s native wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, or check out some contemporary Australian art at Tarrawarra before heading home for the day.
5. Ballarat
Jump on the VLine and get to this historic Gold Rush town in under 1.5 hours. Renowned for its Victorian architectural heritage, Ballarat was the first of only two Australian cities to be registered as a member of the International League of Historical Cities. Once dismissed as ‘old, cold and gold’, in 2019 it was crowned a Unesco Creative City and it’s not hard to see why. Think artisan goods, creatives, breweries and artists. Add an infusion of new bars and restaurants in converted warehouses and it’s clear this city still has a shine. Don’t miss Sovereign Hill, a uniquely Australian experience that brings the 1850s gold rush to life.
Image from www.visitballarat.com.au
